What's so special about this Wilderness Ventures trip?
This program offers the opportunity to experience many activities in two different states. After arriving in Portland, we’ll travel to eastern Oregon and Idaho, gradually make our way back to Portland over the course of 22 days. 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.
What will the backpacking be like?
On this trip, you’ll have the opportunity to backpack two wilderness areas: the Eagle Cap wilderness and the Three Sisters wilderness in Oregon. You’ll get to explore a variety of environments few are ever lucky enough to experience. We’ll hike 4-7 miles each day for 4 days at a time. Each night, perched in a new and stunning campsite, you’ll learn low impact camping techniques. You’ll also learn how to pack your backpack, so that it rests comfortably on your waist each day. 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 white water rafting like?
Rafting on the Salmon River is great. The views are wonderful, the wildlife unique, and the rapids exciting. We’ll teach you how to read the river, navigate the boats, and swim through the currents, giving you the option of both going in multi-person paddle rafts or in inflatable kayaks. Each night we’ll sleep on the shores, falling asleep to the song of the flowing river.
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 weather be like?
Most people think of the Pacific Northwest and think that it rains every day all year long. This is not true at all. While the winter months are wet and rainy in the area, we take advantage of the three months in the year when the weather is at its best. June, July and August are typically beautiful with sunny days and cool nights, perfect for our adventures in the surrounding areas that make the Northwest such a beautiful place.
How often will we get to shower?
You will have the opportunity to shower every 4 to 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 Portland 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 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 Oregon experience will be significantly more enjoyable if you have a basic level of fitness and well-broken in boots.
