Our Backpacking Trips cater to a range of fitness levels, from beginners to experienced hikers. While some trips may be more physically challenging than others, our instructors are skilled at adapting the pace and difficulty to ensure everyone has a positive experience. It's important to have a basic level of fitness and be prepared for moderate physical exertion.

We provide a detailed gear list for each Backpacking Trip, which includes essential items such as a backpack, sleeping bag, tent, cooking equipment, and clothing appropriate for the anticipated weather conditions. Our experienced staff is available to guide you in selecting the right gear and answer any questions you may have.

Preparing for a Backpacking Trip involves a combination of physical training, mental preparation, and acquiring the necessary skills. We recommend gradually increasing your fitness level through activities such as hiking, walking, and cardio exercises. Familiarize yourself with basic outdoor skills and consider taking a wilderness first aid course. Additionally, our pre-course materials provide valuable information to help you prepare for your adventure.

Absolutely! Many participants join our Backpacking Trips as solo travelers, seeking to connect with like-minded individuals and embrace the spirit of adventure. These trips offer a unique opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and form new friendships with fellow backpackers. You'll be amazed at how quickly a group of strangers can become a supportive and tight-knit community.

NOLS has been a leader in outdoor education for over 50 years, and our Backpacking Trips are designed with a focus on managing risk experiential learning, and environmental stewardship. Our instructors are experienced professionals who provide expert guidance and support throughout the journey. We emphasize the development of leadership skills, resilience, and self-confidence, empowering our participants to become capable and responsible outdoor enthusiasts.

The distance covered during NOLS backpacking expeditions varies depending on factors such as the specific course and terrain. On average, participants can expect to hike anywhere from 8 to 15 miles per day. However, it's important to note that the focus of NOLS expeditions is not solely on mileage, but also on skill-building, learning, and immersion in the wilderness.

NOLS offers a wide range of backpacking expeditions in the US, each offering a unique and exceptional experience. The best expedition for you depends on your preferences and what you hope to gain from the trip. NOLS has highly regarded programs in iconic locations such as the Wind River Range, the Rocky Mountains, Olymic National Park in the pacific northwest, and Alaska. These expeditions provide opportunities for skill development, leadership growth, and immersion in breathtaking wilderness settings.