The Mountaineers
The Mountaineers are offering a variety of backpacking courses designed to kick start your spring and summer adventures. In addition to general courses, we have special-focus seminars as well as leadership opportunities. Classes are offered at a variety of locations and you’re welcome at any branch.
Introduction to Backpacking – Tacoma | Apr 4 – May 20
If you are new to backpacking or perhaps a returning backpacker who has not been out for some time, this course will prepare you to safely and confidently enjoy overnight or multiple day routes.
Beginning Backpacking - Seattle | Apr 9
This course is for those who are interested in backpacking, but haven't tried it, or for those who've tried it a couple of times and are looking to improve their knowledge.
CONDITIONING FOR HIKING AND BACKPACKING – SEATTLE PROGRAM CENTER | APR 18
Learn exercises to strengthen major muscles used during hikes and backpacks. Gain mobility, stability, and strength to hike with ease and help prevent unnecessary falls and injuries.
BACKPACKING WITH CHILDREN: START THEM OUT WILD! - TACOMA | APR 29
This seminar is for parents with none or some backpacking experience who want to take their children (little ones to teenagers) backpacking. Learn more about planning, on the trail, gear, tips and tricks, etc.
Essentials of Backpacking – Olympia | May 16 – 20
The Essentials of Backpacking is a hands-on course designed to help hikers go further, stay longer and enjoy the backcountry more.
Backpacking with Kids – Foothills | May 23 - Jul 23
This course is for parents with some backpacking experience who want to take their children (little ones to teenagers) backpacking. Learn more about planning, on the trail, gear, tips and tricks, etc.
Tips and Tricks for Women Hikers and Backpackers - Seattle | May 25
Join adventurer and 2015 Pacific Crest Trail thru hiker Sarah "Sweetums" McCroy for this discussion of women-specific tips for gear, hygiene, and traveling safely / responsibly.
Conditioning for Hiking and Backpacking Level II - Seattle Program Center | May 30
This course builds on Conditioning for Hiking and Backpacking Level I, further strengthening major muscles used during hiking and backpacking. The goal of this course is to gain mobility, stability, and the strength needed to hike and backpack with ease while helping to prevent injuries.
Become a Hike-Backpack Leader
Backpacking Building Blocks Leader Orientation - Foothills | Mar 23
This casual get-together is for backpack leaders considering leading for the B3 course, to re-connect, share learnings and get information about the upcoming B3 course season.
New Hike-Backpack Leader Seminar – Foothills | Apr 3
This 2.5 hour evening seminar provides experienced hikers or backpackers information to help them become an effective hike or backpack leader for the Mountaineers.
