Overnight Backpacking

This course provides an excellent introduction to overnight backpacking! The emphasis is placed on making sure that everyone will be comfortable planning and leading their own overnight backpacking trip by the end of the course.

Key topics include:

• trip preparation
• navigation
• map & compass use
• camp-craft tips and techniques
• route planning for on and off-trail travel
• hazard awareness for hikers and backpackers
• equipment selection and proper clothing

All skills during the overnight field session are covered in a hands-on, practical approach that will keep you busy and learning while still having fun!

The first planning and logistics session for the Overnight Backpacking course will be held online via a Live Zoom class. Students can participate from a location of their choice

Required for the Zoom session:

• location with the ability to access the internet for 2+ hours
• ideally a location with few distractions or background noise
• device with camera and audio; laptop or desktop computers are preferred, but mobile devices will work as well
• ensure your device is fully charged and/or plugged in
• check audio and video before you join
• If your “screen name” is a nickname or you are using someone else’s computer, please identify yourself to the instructor
• If you are a group of 2 or more people on the same computer, please let your instructor know who is on your call.
• be ready to take some notes
• have any questions prepared and ready to discuss

Overnight Practical Field sessions
The 2-day/1-overnight practical field session is usually conducted in the Sea to Sky region (Squamish/Whistler/Pemberton) region, or E.C Manning Provincial Park. However, the final location will depend on the weather, fire and smoke conditions,  and other factors so the location may vary.

The final decision on a location for the field session will be made with the group, during the evening Live Zoom theory session.

Gear List:
Here is a link to our Gear List for Overnight Backpacking Course (note that the gear list will open as a PDF file in another window)

• Multi-day backpacking Gear List

Pre-Planning:
A pre-trip Live Zoom evening seminar is held one week (or more) in advance of the field sessions, giving participants an opportunity to plan for the weekend with their Instructor; learn about the equipment needed; and, ask questions. For a positive learning experience, your two days in the field stress skill development rather than distance travelled.

Please review the Overnight Backpacking Pre-Planning PDF in advance of the Pre-trip Zoom class session.

The Backpacking Course includes instruction on Mountain Navigation skills, after you register you will be enrolled in our Virtual Classroom “Online Backpacking Course” in order to help prepare for the weekend course.

Maps and compasses are supplied, but if you are interested in getting your own compass here is a link to our online tutorial “Compass Essentials”. This tutorial will help you to choose a compass if you wish to bring your own.

Waiver & Medical Disclosure

Complete the required Waiver and Medical disclosure form in advance of your program. Click on the link and navigate to the specific program and date that you are registered for:
• Canada West Mountain School Waiver and Medical disclosure form

Cancellation & Transfer policy

Review the CWMS cancellation and transfer policy:
• Canada West Mountain School Refund/transfer Policy