Alaska Backpacking - 18 to 22 Only
Backpack Alaska’s tundra and mountains
Dive into an unforgettable adventure in the northern wilderness with a group of new friends age 18 to 22. Backpack through Alaska’s famed mountain ranges and lush green valleys. Work your way up rugged peaks, pausing to admire sweeping views at the summit. Enjoy the long daylight hours of a northern summer as you hike across the tundra and cross braided streams. As you travel, keep your eye out for Dall sheep, moose, caribou, and wolves.
Whether this is your first time backpacking or you’re an experienced outdoorsperson, expect to learn something new each day. Start with the basics, like pitching a tent, cooking on a campstove, and navigating off trail. As you gain confidence, take on more responsibility for route finding and decision making.
Along the way, expand your leadership skills. Practice effective communication and risk management as you work with your team to cross a glacier-fed river. Learn to lead in uncertainty as you encounter new challenges, like navigating a boulder field or finding your way up a steep slope. Return from the Land of the Midnight Sun ready to lead outdoors, in your community, and beyond.
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Duration
30 days
Age
18 - 22 yrs
Tuition
$7,880
6 College Credits
- 2 Environmental Studies
- 2 Leadership Techniques
- 2 Skills Practicum
1.5 High School Credits
- 1 Physical Education
- 0.5 Leadership
Equipment Deposit
$450
Start/End
Palmer, Alaska
Fly In/Out
Anchorage, Alaska
Course Session Dates
May 30, 2026 - Jun 28, 2026
Palmer, AK
$7,880 View Session
Jun 2, 2026 - Jul 1, 2026
Palmer, AK
$7,880 View Session
Jun 11, 2026 - Jul 10, 2026
Palmer, AK
$7,880 View Session
Jul 6, 2026 - Aug 4, 2026
Palmer, AK
$7,880 View Session
Jul 11, 2026 - Aug 9, 2026
Palmer, AK
$7,880 View Session
Jul 17, 2026 - Aug 15, 2026
Palmer, AK
$7,880 View Session
Financial aid & Scholarships
NOLS supports a variety of outside financial aid options:
- AmeriCorps
- 529 College Savings Plans
- Veteran's Benefits (only for courses fully in the state of Wyoming)