How To Become a Backpack Leader

How to become a Backpack Leader for the Seattle Branch

IMG_1701.jpgThank you for your interest in becoming a Backpack Leader! The demand for backpacking trips always exceeds the supply, so we are always looking for new trip leaders. 

Expectations

We assume you already know how to plan and execute your own backpacking trips. To become a Seattle Backpack Leader, we will ask you to demonstrate both the mastery of those outdoor skills and the leadership skills necessary to safely and enjoyably lead groups of people on multi-day, backcountry trips.

Requirements

The steps below describe the "standard process" for becoming a Backpack Leader assuming you have backpacking experience but no previous experience as a Mountaineers trip leader. 

  1. Complete the backpack leader application online.  Please specify the Seattle branch and your interest in backpacking.  
  2. Hold an active First Aid Course badge. 
    1. Wilderness First Aid (WFA), Wilderness First Responder (WFR), or MOFA are all acceptable. 
    2.  If you've taken WFA or WFR elsewhere, you may provide a copy of your certificate to obtain equivalency.
  3. Hold an active Wilderness  Navigation badge.
  4. Demonstrate backpacking skills experience OR have the Basic Backpacking Skills badge. 
  5. Demonstrate the ability to plan backpacking trips OR have the (retired) Advanced Backpacking Skills badge.
  6. Successfully complete at least three Mountaineers hiking, scrambling, or backpacking trips within the past three years, two of which should be backpack trips.  
  7. Attend a New Backpack Leader Seminar.  This is a 2.5 hour evening seminar that goes over policies, processes, and scenarios associated with group dynamics on backpack trips.
  8. Complete a mentored backpacking trip.  A mentored trip is one that you plan, organize, and lead yourself with the supervision and support of an experienced Mountaineers leader.  A list of possible mentors and expectations of mentors and mentees will be provided. 
  9. Receive approval from the Backpacking Committee.

Note: If you are already a trip leader for another activity or a backpacking leader in another branch, some of these steps will not apply to you. So, please fill out the application, and we will reach out to you.