What's so special about this Wilderness Ventures trip?
This program offers great variety with four wonderful experiences and very little travel time. Because of our wilderness permits, we can offer an itinerary with minimal travel time. That means you’re spending your summer adventuring in the wilderness, not viewing it from the window of a van. This trip is simply the best overview of the Rocky Mountain wilderness available for young adults and has been conducted by us every year since 1976.
What will the backpacking be like?
This trip takes you backpacking in the stunning Washakie Wiilderness of Montana. For six days, we’ll hike 4-8 miles along the Continental Divide. We’ll teach you everything you need to know about carrying your home on your back. For example, you’ll learn how to choose a campsite, where to get your water from, how to leave a minimal amount of impact, and how to cook great food in the backcountry. We’ll also teach you how to pack your backpack, so that it rests comfortably on your waist.
What will we see while we are kayaking in Yellowstone?
Kayaking in Yellowstone National Park is such a unique experience. Paddling close to the shore will allow you to see moose, elk, swans, eagles, trout, and white pelicans. Each night we’ll recap the day’s events around a fire, toasting marshmallows, laughing about the water fights we had, and planning the next day.
I've never whitewater kayaked before. Does this matter?
No. Our river kayaking section is very introductory and no experience is required. We’ll start out with the very basics on a lake and in a swimming pool before we move onto the river. You will always have the option to use either the hard shell kayaks, or sit atop kayaks.
I’ve never rock climbed before. Do I need experience?
No. We will spend two days learning all the necessary techniques we’ll need to climb the Grand Teton, from knots, to belaying, signaling, rappelling, and safety techniques. Then, we’ll embark on a two-day climb up the 13,771 foot peak. Since 1973, more than 3,000 students have climbed the Grand Teton with us and we have never experienced a broken bone—our safety record is impeccable.
Do I need have my own rock climbing gear?
No. All gear for climbing (harnesses, shoes, ropes, belay devices, helmets) is provided by Wilderness Ventures.
What’s the weather like in the Jackson Hole area?
Jackson Hole is beautiful in the summertime. Daytime temperatures are in the 80’s and nighttime temps fall into the 50’s. The humidity is very low, thus creating the perfect atmosphere for being outside.
How often will we get to shower?
You will have the opportunity to shower every 4-5 days. After we’ve completed an activity, we will take showers, do laundry and prepare for our next adventure!
What kind of food will we eat?
Your fellow trip participants, with the help of your leaders, will create the menu for your trip. Everyone will be involved in this process to ensure a wide variety of food choices that provide a balanced diet to fuel our bodies. We shop in regular grocery stores and teach you how to plan and shop for great food for camping expeditions. The food is delicious, healthy, and there will be plenty of it!
Will I get to call home during the trip?
Yes. Upon your arrival into Jackson Hole you will be asked by your leaders to call home and let your parents know you have arrived safely. You will also have the opportunity to send home as many letters as you want, and your parents will be able to follow your trip through a series of updates that your leaders will write during the summer and post on the web.
What are things I can do before the to physically prepare myself?
Any reasonably fit and active teen grader will be successful on this trip. If you are playing a sport this spring, that will provide you with the preparation you need. At least four weeks before your trip, you should begin to break in your boots. Start out with small walks around your neighborhood and work your way up to three-hour hikes. Your Great Divide experience will be significantly more enjoyable if you have a basic level of fitness and well-broken in boots.
