What's so special about this Wilderness Ventures trip?
If you only have 22 days, why spend it in a van? Because of our permits in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks as well as in all the surrounding wilderness areas, this wonderful trip for students finishing the seventh and eighth grades offers a great variety of activities with very little travel. When you get off the plane in Jackson Hole, you are within eyesight of all the places where you’ll be adventuring. No other program for young adults can make this claim in this fabulous Teton –Yellowstone country and we’ve been conducting this trip every year since 1985.
Will I be the only one who’s never backpacked or climbed before?
No. The Jackson Hole trip is a perfect introductory program for those interested in learning about the outdoors. There are four different activities on the 22-day expedition and within each you will find challenges, whether you are a beginner or an experienced outdoors person.
Do I need to have my own rock climbing gear?
No. All gear for climbing (harnesses, shoes, ropes, belay devices, helmets) is provided by Wilderness Ventures.
What will the backpacking be like?
This trip takes you backpacking in some of the most gorgeous places in Wyoming and Idaho. We’ll spend time in Grand Teton National Park, the Teton Wilderness, and the Jedediah Smith Wilderness. We’ll hike below towering peaks, along alpine lakes, through wildflower filled meadows, and through forests of aspen and pine. Because this is an introductory program, we’ll be hiking 4-6 miles a day, for 3-5 days at a time. We’ll also teach you how to pack your backpack, so that it rests comfortably on your waist. The sense of accomplishment you’ll experience by carrying your home on your back will fill you with confidence to last you a lifetime.
What’s the weather like in Jackson Hole?
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 3 to 4 days. After we’ve completed an activity, we will take showers, do laundry and prepare for our next adventure!
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.
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 7th or 8th 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 Jackson Hole experience will be significantly more enjoyable if you have a basic level of fitness and well-broken in boots.
