College Outdoors
Intro to Backpacking at Mt St Helens
- Learning to start a campfire
Learn the basics of backpacking on this fun weekend escape! Explore the trails of the Northwest’s most active volcano and observe close-up the aftermath and natural recovery since the 1980 eruption that blew the top off this iconic mountain. Discover great views, ripe huckleberries, and stunning scenery at this national monument, known to Native Americans as “Loowit.” We’ll start our hike on Friday evening by headlamp, carrying everything we need for the weekend on our backs. Each day we’ll hike through islands of old growth forests and sleep in tents at night. In case of inclement weather, the trip location may change. If you have never been backpacking before, or you want to learn more outdoor skills, this is the place to start!
How to Register
Registration Opens:
on Wednesday, Aug. 26th
*Trip Fee: $65 / $32*
Trip Type
BackpackingPhysical Demands
No experience necessary! The hiking pace and rigor will be tailored to the group and weather conditions, and we’ll teach you everything you need to know.
Participants should be prepared to hike up to 4 miles per day on uneven trails, carrying 50-60lbs in backpacks. You’ll sleep outdoors on foam pads.
Accessibility accommodations are available, contact outdoors@lclark.edu
What to Expect
- ☐ Sleeping indoors
- ☑ Sleeping outdoors
- ☐ Electricity
- ☐ Wifi
- ☐ Cell phone service
- ☐ Heating
- ☐ Beds
- ☐ Bathrooms
- ☐ Gender-inclusive bathrooms
- ☐ Showers
- ☐ Wheelchair accessible
- ☑ Food for any Dietary Restrictions