NRTA Program:

Backpacking Class and Syllabus

 

The NRTA Program consists of pre-trip instruction covering the basics of backpacking and safe backcountry travel as set forth in more detail below. After basic instruction, participants head out for a backpacking or camping trip to a destination in Upper Michigan or Southeastern Wisconsin. Ross Sharkey is the instructor and wilderness guide for each trip.

Trips will run throughout the Spring and Fall seasons each year. Visit our Program page for more details.

All necessary travel arrangements, equipment, meals, and outerwear (other than appropriate footwear) as well as required National and State Park permits will be provided.

SIGN UP IS NOW OPEN FOR ALL 2024 TRIPS!

Any level of experience is welcome. Space is limited! Don’t miss out on adventures happening this Spring & Fall.

Pre-trip Instruction covers the following topics:

 

Introductions and Overview of Class and Trip

  • Introductions

  • Purpose

  • Goals

  • Commitment and Expectations

  • Physical Requirements and Training Tips

  • Theories and processes of Backpacking

  • Weight/safety and comfort balance

  • Leave No Trace (“LNT”) principles

Equipment and Clothing List and Basic Navigation

  • Provide checklist of clothing and individual gear

  • Discussion of group gear

  • Review of actual equipment and clothing

  • Navigation

    • Maps and compass

    • GPS

    • Mobile apps

    • Satellite based communications and PLBs

Shelter and Sleep Systems

  • Tents and tarps (including pitching and set-up practice)

  • Sleeping pad use

  • Sleeping bag

  • How to sleep warm in the backcountry

 

Clothing Systems and How to Pack a Backpack

  • Basics of layering as a clothing system

  • Elements of the clothing system

  • Packing a backpack

  • Proper fitting of backpack

  • Use of trekking poles

Food, Water and Backcountry Personal Hygiene

  • Group decision on meals for trip, create checklist

  • Backcountry cooking basics (boiling water or more?)

  • Water

    • Filtration/purification

    • Management

    • Transportation

    • Storage, Acquisition, Treatment

  • Hygiene and cross contamination of food/water

  • General hygiene needs and toiletries pack

    • Pooping in the woods

Backpacking Trip

Trip dates will be provided the first day of class. A detailed travel itinerary will be provided in the weeks leading up to the trip.