Backcountry Expeditions 1 & 2

Camp Wojtyla’s 9-day Backpacking Excursions

Features

• Duration: 9 days, typically 6 days in the backcountry and 3 days in the frontcountry

• Approximate route length: 25-30 miles in either the Indian Peaks Wilderness or the Sangre de Cristo Mountains*

• Group size: 9-12 campers* / 3 highly-trained instructors

• Elevation range: 7,500 to 14,500 ft

• Single-sex groups of rising juniors through graduating seniors

• Learn how to pack a hiking backpack, set up a tent, prepare meals on a camping stove, filter water and more

• Experience the beauty of Mass, Confession and personal prayer in the backcountry

• Taste the thrill of reaching places that are only accessible by your own two feet

• Enjoy a day of whitewater rafting on the world-class Arkansas River

  *For campers entering11th - 12th grade and freshman year of college.

description

During this expedition, campers learn the basics of outdoor living, from tent setup and cooking to navigation and packing a backpack. As the group travels and becomes accustomed to life in the mountains, campers have opportunities to form friendships, while learning faith-based, outdoor, and leadership skills from their instructors. This trip is designed for a range of physically fit campers: from individuals who have never gone camping before to individuals who have backpacking experience. By the end of this excursion, campers will gain a greater love and understanding of God, themselves, and others and be more excited to spend time outside in creation!

*The Indian Peaks Wilderness makes up over 120 square miles in the Front Range of Colorado. The Continental Divide crests a number of the peaks along this range. Rich in Native American History and home to a wealth of plants, animals, and geological features, this area is a true American gem and sets the stage for learning, challenges, and simply soaking in beauty. Therefore, days spent traveling through this landscape are marked by stunning views and glimpses of unique wildlife while traveling as an expedition group.

Literally meaning “The Blood of Christ,” the Sangre de Cristo Mountains received their name from the reddish hues they take on during sunrise and sunset. This geologically unique area is one of the longest ranges of mountains on the continent and boasts over 10 of the state's 14,000 foot peaks and more than 2 dozen peaks over 13,000 ft. The Sangres’ steep and narrow beauty stands in stark contrast to the surrounding valleys and is a hot spot for outdoor enthusiasts due to the wide range of world-class recreation offerings.

Backpacking Challenges

Physical Requirements

It is necessary that campers are in shape and prepared mentally, physically, and emotionally to undertake such an experience. While it is not necessary for participants to be star athletes, they should come with a solid baseline fitness for a person of their age and size. Individuals should be able to carry packs weighing up to 50 lbs or 40% of their bodyweight for up to 10 miles on uneven mountain terrain. They should also have the fortitude of mind and emotional health to be able to continue when challenging circumstances arise. Please note that there are fewer resources for support on our backpacking trips than at our basecamp. Participants and parents must review the Essential Eligibility Criteria and ensure the participant meets the standards. A suggested training and preparation plan will be provided with the packing list.

Remoteness

The Indian Peaks Wilderness and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains are places of great beauty, but these locations are often difficult to reach.  While each group is staffed with experienced instructors who are Wilderness First Responders, trained in wilderness first aid and emergency response, the areas the groups visit are remote, and may be many miles and hours from medical facilities.

Wildlife

While wildlife is an amazing sight to see, groups may encounter animals which are dangerous. Groups travel through black bear, moose, mountain lion, and rattlesnake habitat. The instructors will implement proper risk management practices and teach campers how to properly travel and camp to avoid encounters with such species. Groups travel with bear-deterrent pepper spray as a precaution, and always store food in bear-resistant canisters.

Weather and Climate

These trips encounter a wide range of weather and temperatures. In the Rocky Mountains, bright and sunny mornings are frequently followed by passing thunderstorms in the afternoons. Lightning, rain, hail, and even snow are possible. Wind conditions vary as groups travel throughout the day at various elevations. The Colorado sun is strong and the average June temperatures reach over 80℉ during the day, while dropping down below 40℉ at night. Snow may still cover some areas at higher elevations.

Terrain

Groups will encounter varied terrain.  They may be on a smooth and straight-forward trail one day, and then bushwhacking off-trail through thick vegetation or scrambling over boulders the next. They may have to traverse slopes of loose rock and carry a heavy backpack over steep passes. They may have to cross small rivers managed by the instructor team.