Trailblazers

In our Trailblazers program, students 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. 

Trailblazers will hike a route through the stunning Pioneer Mountain range. We’ll set camp at remote lakes, follow trails along meandering snowmelt creeks, and pass 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 this trip, 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:

Trip 1: JULY 22-26, 2024 (Backpacking July 23-26)

Trip 2: AUGUST 12-16, 2024 (Backpacking August 13-16)

PREREQUISITES:

  • 12 - 16 years old

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


What is provided:

●      AMGA certified guide

●      Guides will be carrying a first aid kit, navigation equipment, inReach satellite device, repair kit, and survival supplies

●     Maps, compasses, and a free trial for CalTopo mapping app

●     Tents, backpacking stoves, sleeping bags

●     Food for the entire trip


What you need:

See EQUIPMENT LIST

 

Typical Meeting Times and Place:

Day 1 8:30AM-4:30PM for trip planning day
Meet at the SV Guides HQ

Pricing:

 $1,375/PERSON             

*Guide to Guest ratio is 5:1 depending on group goals
**Sales Tax and Forest Service fees not included
***Guide gratuity not included. As part of the service industry, it is customary to tip your guide(s) if you are happy with their service and should reflect a level of excellence in the service. If you choose to tip, 10-20% of the total trip fee is standard, and cash/Venmo is the preferred method.

RENTALS (BACKPACKS, SLEEPING BAGS, SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENT, ETC.):

Sturtevants Rental & Cycle Haus (mention you are going out with Sun Valley Guides to receive a discount)
340 N Main St, Ketchum, ID 83340 
(208) 726-4501
Rental Link

Backwoods Mountain Sports
711 N Main St, Ketchum, ID 83340
(208) 726-8818

Elephant’s Perch
280 N East Ave, Ketchum, ID 83340
(208) 726-3497