Backpacking Courses
Please note that registration for summer backpacking courses begins January 5, 2009 at 8 a.m. mountain time for members, January 12 for non-members.

If you are a physically fit adult, consider experiencing the Yellowstone wilderness in a small group. Two experts lead all backpacking courses. The backpacking instructor will teach the group about wilderness travel, including minimum-impact camping and bear safety. A content instructor will teach about a specific subject (for example, wolves or history) related to Yellowstone.

Every course begins with a front country day where the morning is spent on orientation to the course topic, the Yellowstone backcountry, the route and itinerary, Leave No Trace principles, and the group expectations and goals. Both instructors will present important information to prepare the group for their backpacking seminar. After lunch as a group, the backpacking instructor will cover the logistical details of backcountry travel, including reviewing food and gear requirements, pack packing techniques and helpful hints, bear safety, and other backpacking information. You’ll be able to make last minute purchases at this time. (Stores in nearby communities and in the park carry some backpacking supplies.) The afternoon session is required for all participants new to Yellowstone Association Institute backpacking courses. Returning students who have taken a YA backpacking course within the last year may be eligible to skip the afternoon session and use the time to pack on their own, purchase supplies, or relax in Yellowstone. This should be discussed with the instructor the first morning.