JR. MOUNTAINEERS: backpacking

Meet at Sun Valley Guides Headquarters

401 Lewis Street, Ketchum, ID 83340

Session

Full Day

Description

Participants will develop essential life skills as they plan and lead a 4-day backpacking expedition with their peers. We’ll kick off with an expedition planning day, where participants learn to read maps, chart routes, review gear lists, group equipment like tents and water purification systems, practice using backcountry stoves, and pack appropriate food for a wilderness excursion.

Each day, a new set of designated leaders will guide the group in navigating the trail system, setting time estimates to chosen locations, selecting campsites, cooking and preparing meals, and overseeing daily tasks. Participants also learn and practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the environment. 

The group will hike a route through the Pioneer Mountain range, setting up camp in remote areas, following trails along meandering creeks and passing through high alpine meadows. Participants should be able to hike 4-6 miles a day with elevation gains of 1600-3500’. They will carry all of their equipment, along with shared group gear like tents, stoves, and cookware. The Trailblazers experience fosters outdoor leadership capacities and functional backcountry skills, encouraging participants to take initiative, problem-solve, and be self-reliant.

By the end of the week, participants will be able to:

  • Encourage responsible outdoor behavior and promote environmental stewardship

  • Understand how to plan and pack for an extended trip in the outdoors

  • Read a map and use a compass to navigate on/off trail

  • Reference their location on a mapping app (CalTopo)

  • Practice the Leave No Trace (LNT) principles

  • Find a suitable location for setting up camp using LNT

  • Cook meals with backcountry stoves in remote settings

  • Lead a group of peers through the mountains

  • Inspire a passion for outdoor adventure, ensuring participants have fun, forge connections with nature, and bond with fellow group members.

DATES:

June 16-19, 2025

PREREQUISITES:

  • 10 - 13 years old or 14 - 16 years old

  • Can hike 5-7 miles/day with an elevation gain of up to +3,000’ wearing a backpack (30-40lbs)

PRICING

4 DAYS / NIGHTS

$875/PERSON

*Guide to Guest ratio is 5:1 depending on group goals

**Sales Tax and Forest Service fees not included

Frequently Asked Questions

  • A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your reservation, with the remaining balance due before the start of the program. Cancellations made more than two weeks in advance will receive a refund for half of the total program fee. Cancellations made less than two weeks prior to your scheduled trip are 100% non-refundable.

    We understand that plans can change, and we want to work with you to ensure your jr. mountaineer experiences Idaho’s beautiful backcountry. While your deposit is non-refundable, it may be partially transferable, depending on the circumstances. 

  • Yes. Sun Valley Guides is committed to providing safe and enjoyable adventures in the backcountry. All legal guardians of minors participating in Jr. Mountaineers programs must read and sign a Release of Liability and Waiver of Claims Agreement on behalf of the participant.

    Be sure to read and sign the waiver prior to the start of your program. You can find your waiver in your reservation confirmation. 

  • In order to secure your Jr. Mountaineer's spot in the camp, we require a deposit totalling 50% of the registration fee at time of enrollment. The remainder of the payment is due on or prior to June 1.

    If you need to cancel your registration, please refer to our cancellation policy. 

  • Sun Valley Guides issues refunds for Jr. Mountaineers programs based on the following schedule: 

    • Before April 1st – 80% refund for cancellations

    • After April 1st – 50% refund for sessions canceled at least 4 weeks before the start date

    • Within 4 weeks of the session start date – No refunds issued

    We understand that plans can change, and we want to work with you to ensure your Jr. Mountaineer experiences Idaho’s beautiful backcountry. While your deposit is non-refundable, it may be partially transferable, depending on the circumstances.