Join us for a weekend of camaraderie and fun outdoor experiences to help you gain confidence in the outdoors and be safe on your backpacking adventures!
This program is for experienced day hikers who want to venture into backpacking.
Participants should be physically and mentally prepared to hike up to 8 miles with moderate elevation changes carrying a 30lb backpack.
We will provide education and hands-on practice with how to safely backpack in Montana, including:
Getting yourself organized/what to bring
Bear safety
Basic first aid
Basic orienteering
Getting help in emergencies
Treating/filtering water
Leave-No-Trace principles
Inspiration, fun, adventure!
MORE DETAILS
The cost is $200/participant. The registration fee covers, food, gear, and instruction.
The program will get started and wrap up at the Preserve’s Outdoor Education Center and all hiking and overnight camping will be on Jack Creek Preserve.
Only 10 spots available!
Meals will be provided but participants will help carry all food and necessary equipment.
Participants are expected to bring their own 35L or larger backpack and equipment will be distributed among participants.
The following gear will be provided:
Tents (2 participants per tent)
Sleeping bags
Sleeping pads
Jet boil camp stoves and fuel
Water filters
Cooking/eating utensils
Rope for bear bags
Food
We are very grateful to our sponsors that make it possible to keep registration fees lower and provide important equipment.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS:
Jillian Acosta, MPH, RN
Jill is a Registered Nurse who has worked in emergency medicine for over 15 years, in places as diverse as post-Katrina New Orleans, Sub-Saharan Africa, and rural Montana. She is currently working as a Flight Nurse for Life Flight Network and as an instructor for the American Heart Association. She loves to travel and spend time outdoors, no matter the season, and is passionate about helping women feel comfortable adventuring in the wilderness.
Dr. Maura Davenport, MD
Maura is a Family Medicine Physician who has been working in medicine for over 20 years in a variety of capacities including EMS and search and rescue. She is currently working at Madison Valley Medical Center as a full spectrum family medicine doctor, chief of staff and medical director for the Madison Valley Ambulance Service. Her love of wilderness medicine combines her passion for medicine and love of the outdoors. Maura’s goal is to share her knowledge and skills with as many people as possible to ensure that people are safe and confident as they venture into the great outdoors.
You can learn more about JCPF staff HERE.
