Alumni Service Trip in Wyoming

August 11-17, 2013

This trip takes NOLS grads, friends and families into Wyoming's Mountains for a week of camping, connection, camaraderie and service. We'll team with the U.S. Forest Service and Student Conservation Association to conduct meaningful and challenging service projects that protect public lands and enhance visitor safety and enjoyment in the backcountry.

The hike into our project site may include a lot of uphill trail—last year’s trail building project was at about 11,000’. Our project may include trail construction, bridge or walkway maintenance, or campsite rehab. Service work is demanding—we’ll routinely use shovels, hammers, buckets, pry-bars and lots of team muscle on most days of the trip.

The trip is not all work. There will be time for photography, socializing and just plain enjoying Wyoming’s high country. Instructors will plan on an optional non-technical peak ascent as well as fly fishing practice and instruction. Angling participants are responsible for purchasing an appropraite Wyoming fishing license (costs vary depending on age and actual days fishing). Evenings often include sipping beverages around a campfire.

Past service trip participants speak passionately about the beauty of the area, the team spirit of the group and the satisfaction of “giving back” to the land through service. The words “fun” and “hard work” are used in equal measure.

This trip, conducted in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and Student Conservation Association, may qualify as service or volunteer hours for academic or other programs.

Here's a quick, 3-minute video overview of this service trip.