Alaska Adult Backpacking - 8 days
Explore glaciated mountains and lush valleys in the Land of the Midnight Sun. Build community with a small group of adults (23+) as you hike across sweeping expanses of tundra.
Duration
8 days
Age
23+
Overview
About this course
Find adventure in Alaska’s mountains
Explore glaciated mountains and lush valleys in the Land of the Midnight Sun. Build community with a small group of adults (23+) as you hike across sweeping expanses of tundra. Summit rugged peaks and cross braided streams fed by glaciers. Along the way, learn about local ecology and keep an eye out for Arctic wildlife like caribou, moose, and wolves.
Designed to fit into your busy schedule, this weeklong expedition starts out with a bush plane flight into the wilderness. As you trace the route back on foot, build your outdoor skills and develop your personal leadership style. You’ll start with the basics of backcountry living: pitching a tent, reading a map, and cooking tasty meals on a campstove. Later, move on to more advanced topics like off-trail navigation, wilderness first aid, and risk management.
Rather than guide every step of the process, your instructors will support you as you build the experience and confidence to lead the group. Practice good communication and teamwork as you navigate a river crossing or steep slope. Learn to take on different leadership roles to best serve your team. Form lasting relationships and return with the skills to lead in your community, in the outdoors, and beyond.
NOLS adult courses are designed for both beginners and experienced individuals. Everyone is welcome to join, regardless of skill level!
Resources
Resources & downloads
Schedule
Questions? Let's Connect
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Detailed daily objectives and skills progression
Complete packing & equipment checklist
Sample student journal from Unaweep Canyon
Pre-course preparation guide
Course Session Dates
No Course Sessions enrolling.
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)
Ready
Ready to get certified?
Find a WFR course near you, talk to an admissions advisor, or request a free catalog to learn more about NOLS Wilderness Medicine.

