Expeditions

Alaska Backpacking - 18 and over

Go on an unforgettable adventure in the Alaskan wilderness with a group of new friends ages 18 and over

Duration

30 days

Age

18+

Group of adults backpacking up a rocky incline with snow capped mountains in the background

Overview

About this course

Backpack Alaska’s tundra and mountains

Dive into an unforgettable adventure in the northern wilderness with a group of new friends age 18 and over. Backpack through Alaska’s famed mountain ranges and lush green valleys. Work your way up rugged peaks, pausing to admire sweeping views at the summit. Enjoy the long daylight hours of a northern summer as you hike across the tundra and cross braided streams. As you travel, keep your eye out for Dall sheep, moose, caribou, and wolves.

Whether this is your first time backpacking or you’re an experienced outdoorsperson, expect to learn something new each day. Start with the basics, like pitching a tent, cooking on a campstove, and navigating off trail. As you gain confidence, take on more responsibility for route finding and decision making.

Along the way, expand your leadership skills. Practice effective communication and risk management as you work with your team to cross a glacier-fed river. Learn to lead in uncertainty as you encounter new challenges, like navigating a boulder field or finding your way up a steep slope. Return from the Land of the Midnight Sun ready to lead outdoors, in your community, and beyond.

Resources

Resources & downloads

Questions

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Free course guide

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  • Detailed daily objectives and skills progression

  • Sample outline from last year's course

  • Pre-course preparation guide

TBA

Tuition varies by location. Financial aid available.

Duration

30 days

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Equipment Deposit

450

Academic Credit

6 College Credits

  • 2 Skills Practicum
  • 2 Leadership Techniques
  • 2 Environmental Studies

1.5 High School Credits

  • 0.5 Leadership
  • 1 Physical Education

Start/End

Palmer, Alaska

Fly In/Out

Anchorage, Alaska

Course Session Dates

No Course Sessions enrolling.

Financial aid & Scholarships

NOLS supports a variety of outside financial aid options:

  • AmeriCorps
  • 529 College Savings Plans
  • Veteran's Benefits (only for courses fully in the state of Wyoming)

Questions?

Still have questions?

Talk to an admissions advisor, or request a free catalog to learn more about which course is right for you.