Girls Only Backpacking Washington (US)

We will leave school on Sunday and spend the week backpacking in Washigton State along the Lake Chelan Shore Trail near Stehekin, WA returning Friday evening. The girls will spend time learning all of the skills that go into backpacking. They will also have opportunities to practice different leadership skills. Girls will be carrying backpacks containing their equipment as well as group food and supplies, camping in the backcountry, practicing “Leave No Trace” principles, and participating as equal members of a group.

Educational Objectives:

Students will become more self-sufficient while hiking and camping in learning how to set up camp, cook, read maps and tide tables, use compasses, and filter water. They will also learn how to travel safely and efficiently through fragile terrain using “Leave No Trace” principles. Students will be expected to do pre-trip reading on local terrain, tides, plants, animals (including bear safety), and leadership. They will then present the information and participate in nightly activities associated with what they learned. Students will be asked to give and receive feedback about their contributions to the group, and they will be asked to set goals and reflect on those goals after the trip. Students must participate in all activities including, but not limited to, cooking, cleaning, hiking, carrying a backpack (between 20-45lbs), group activities, asking for help, and making camp. Students will also be exposed to the thought process necessary for moving through the outdoors safely. They will need to participate in decision-making as it relates to proper self-care and consideration of the needs of the group.