Backpacking / Hiking for Beginners

Master essential backpacking gear, from an internal-frame pack and waterproof boots to a sleeping bag, tent, water filter, clothing, and safety items like a knife, headlamp, and rope.

Practice leave-no-trace camping by choosing higher ground away from water, using established sites when possible, storing food in a bear bag away from your tent, and planning before sunset.

Master the ten essentials of survival and assemble a compact survival kit with hydration, emergency shelter, sun protection, compass, illumination, first aid, fire starter, tools, repair kit, and extra clothing.

Master the pyramid fire-building method using tinder, pine needles, dryer lint, and Vaseline-dipped cotton balls, and learn to space sticks for airflow and effective light.

Learn to use and orient a compass, align the red needle in the shed, and set headings like 130 or 60 degrees to navigate with landmarks for a straight path.

Learn to read maps and orient north with a compass, then navigate toward towns like Kalispell, using road and topographic maps, legends, and terrain cues.

Learn essential backpacking and hiking tips for safety, planning, and trail etiquette. Discover how to pace, pack, hydrate, and practice leave no trace on designated trails.

Backpacking builds physical and mental stamina, a sense of adventure, perseverance, and happiness, while active hiking supports weight management, better sleep, and opportunities to meet new people and join groups.

Develop self-reliance by relying on your abilities and perseverance through obstacles on backpacking adventures. Rely on skills to survive storms and keep moving forward toward the summit, embracing the journey.