What's so special about this Wilderness Ventures trip?
If you have only two weeks, why spend it in a van? When we designed this program and our other two-week offerings, it was our highest priority to minimize time-consuming travel. With only two weeks, we want our students to maximize their time adventuring. Because of our extensive permits in the greater Teton-Yellowstone area, we can offer great variety with very little vehicle travel. No other program can offer so much with so little travel in the spectacular Teton-Yellowstone ecosystem.
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.
What will we see while we are sea 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 rock climbed before. Do I need experience?
No. We will spend two days learning all the necessary techniques we’ll need to climb Cube Point, from knots, to belaying, signaling, rappelling, and safety techniques. We’ll work with world famous Exum Mountain guides who will ensure a fun and safe experience!
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 is the student to staff ratio on this trip?
This trip has two leaders and thirteen students. However, when we are learning to whitewater kayak and climb,this ratio increases to one leader for three to four students, because we bring in specialized instructors to help us polish our new skills.
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 3-4 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.
