July 13-19, 2025
Have you ever wanted to just toss on some sneakers, fill up a water bottle, and spend a few hours exploring the outdoors, but were stopped by a voice in your head saying, “You don’t know how to do that”? Beginners Guide to the Great Outdoors will change that!
Through guided hikes and practical lessons, participants will build confidence in their ability to engage with the natural world and learn essential skills for exploring nature safely and responsibly. By the end of the week, participants will feel empowered to embark on new adventures with the knowledge and tools they have acquired.
What to Expect
This experience is designed to build confidence, foster familiarity with nature, and inspire a love for the outdoors. From the moment you arrive, you'll likely notice a profound shift in your surroundings. We’ll be staying in basic cabins on Mount Maurice at an elevation of 6,800 feet, offering stunning views. While the cabins are simple and require a short walk to shared bathroom facilities, this camp serves as a great first step in our journey.
Throughout the week, you will learn essential skills such as preparation, navigation, and safe outdoor practices, all tailored for beginners. Each day will feature a combination of instruction, hiking, easy exploration, and nature journaling to help participants gain a fresh perspective on the outdoors. The program fosters a supportive environment, ensuring that participants leave feeling equipped with the knowledge and confidence to explore natural spaces independently.
Equipment
Packing List If you would like recommendations on any of the needed items, feel free to reach out to info(at)elevationscience.org! If you buy new boots, please break them in before your program.
Difficulty Level:
Easy-Moderate. Hiking difficulties will get more difficult as the week goes on, but we won’t cover more than 5 miles per day, with less than 500 feet of elevation change.
Recommended Reading:
The Comfort of Crows: A Backyard Year by Margaret Renkl
Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer
A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson
Rocky Mountain Field Guide by Daniel Mathews
2025 Beginners’ Guide to the Great Outdoors Availability
UPDATED: October 8, 2024
NUMBER OF SPOTS AVAILABLE
10 of 10 spots available
