BASIC BACKPACKING COURSE 2025
This class is for hikers that want to have fun and go further!
• This class is for hikers who want to know about the gear to safely hike longer days in challenging conditions.
• This class is for hikers that want the skills to start backpacking,
• This class is for backpackers who want the navigation and trip planning skills for multi-day trips.
• This class is for hikers who want to make new friends and increase their appreciation of our beautiful natural environment.
This course includes six weeknight classroom sessions and four outings.
Outings will be on trail and moderately strenuous (5-7 miles in length). A habit of regular exercise and hiking is recommended to most enjoy the course. Students will provide their own equipment for the course.
The number of students is limited so that a more personalized experience can be provided. The volunteer leaders will be sharing what they have learned from years of hiking and leading outdoor education. Our goal is to prepare participants to lead their own trips in the local mountains and the California Sierras with comfort and confidence.
Tuition is $200 for Sierra Club Members, $235 for non-Members. A basic medical information form and a Liability Waiver are a required part of registration. The Sierra Club and this course are equal opportunity providers. This course is sponsored by the Santa Barbara-Ventura Chapter of the Sierra Club and we operate under a special use permit with the Los Padres National Forest.
Register Here
Schedule
Thursday February 20
Classroom in Ventura, CA
● Physical Conditioning
● Footwear
● 10 Essentials
Saturday February 22
Day Hike in Local Mountains
Thursday February 27
● Outdoor Clothing
● Backpacks
Saturday-Sunday March 1-2
Car Camp in Los Padres National Forest
● Campsite Practices
● Navigation
Thursday March 6
● Leave No Trace
● Water Treatment
● Sleep Systems
● Shelters
Thursday March 13
● Food Planning
Saturday-Sunday March 15-16 Backpack #1
● Los Padres National Forest
Thursday March 20
● Outdoor Hazards
● Electronics and Communication
Thursday March 27
● Trip Planning Workshop
Saturday-Sunday March 29-30 Backpack #2
● Los Padres National Forest