The Mountaineers
The backpacking season in western Washington can be short - but boy is it sweet! With warmer weather on the horizon, many of our members are starting to think about spending long days on the trails, with campsites in the high country.
The Mountaineers offer a variety of backpacking courses to kick start your spring and summer adventures. These classes are offered at a variety of locations, and members are welcome to take courses with any branch!
Browse all Backpacking Courses
Upcoming Courses for spring 2018
Beginning Backpacking
Apr 7 | Seattle Program Center
This one day clinic 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.
Lightweight Hiking & Backpacking Gear Seminar
Apr 9 & Apr 16 | Redmond Public LIbrary
Learn how to carve 10%-50% from your pack weight in an affordable and safe fashion during this evening clinic.
Tips and Tricks for Women Hikers and Backpackers
Apr 13 | Seattle Program Center
Calling all ladies! Spend an evening with other female adventurers to discuss trip planning, as well as women-specific tips for gear, hygiene, and traveling both safely and responsibly. Women of all athletic backgrounds and abilities are welcome!
"Staying Found" Basic Navigation for Hikers and Backpackers
Apr 14 & May 5 | Tradition Lake Interpretive Shelter
This hands-on field training day focuses on learning and practicing the skills to confidently read a topographic map against the features of the terrain around you, get important information from a compass and altimeter, and maintain a steady awareness of where you are - as well as how to find yourself if you get temporarily misplaced.
Introduction to Backpacking
Apr 16 - Oct 15 | Tacoma Program Center & Other
If you are new to backpacking, or are a returning backpacker who has not been out for some time, this multi-day course will prepare you to safely and confidently enjoy overnight or multiple day routes. This hands-on course consists of two classroom lectures, a demonstration day, and a field trip.
Conditioning for Hiking and Backpacking Level II
April 17 | Seattle Program Center
This evening clinic builds on Conditioning for Hiking and Backpacking Level I. Learn strategies and exercises to build your own successful strengthening and conditioning program for hiking, backpacking, scrambling and more! Gain mobility, stability, and strength to move with ease and avoid unnecessary falls and injuries this season. Experienced members may attend Level II without Level I, but it is recommended that you do both in sequence.
Backpacking with Kids
May 18 - Sep 1 | Seattle Program Center & Tolt Macdonald Park
This multi-day course is for parents with some backpacking experience who want to take their children (little ones to teenagers) out backpacking. Learn more about planning, time on the trail, gear, and more! Parents must be Mountaineers members and they must participate with their kids on the field trips.
Interested in becoming a backpack leader?
Start by completing the Hike or Backpack Leader Application and attending one of our upcoming seminars!
New Hike/Backpack Leader Seminar (Foothills)
April 17 | Eastside Fire & Rescue Headquarters
Ready to sign-up for a trip?
If you already have the skills to go backpacking, there are no prerequisites to sign up for a backpacking trip with The Mountaineers. Please note that many of our leaders do require "Leader Permission" to register.
