Wilderness Leadership

This expedition includes:

• Canyon backpacking
• Canyoneering
• Cross-Cultural service project*
• Mountain backpacking
• Peak ascents
• Expedition leadership training

While all of Deer Hill’s summer expeditions blend fun, challenge, and beauty, Wilderness Leadership gives participants the opportunity to learn the hard skills to guide others through the backcountry. For those interested in learning orienteering in the rugged canyons and mountains of the southwest, this expedition is designed to give each participant the opportunity to develop his or her own style of leadership in wilderness conditions.

“I never expected to learn so much in a summer. I’ve grown so much as a person.” – Macala, participant

Mountain Backpacking

Days 3-17

After beginning at Basecamp, the group will transition into an extended backpacking expedition in the San Juan Mountains. As they move deeper into the wilderness, students will take on increasing responsibility for navigation, decision-making, and group leadership while traveling through rugged alpine terrain. Along the way, they will learn to travel independently in the backcountry, practice Leave No Trace principles, navigate snowfields and high mountain passes, and make summit attempts on 13,000- and 14,000-foot peaks. The expedition culminates in a wilderness solo experience, giving each student time alone in the backcountry to reflect, build self-reliance, and put their leadership skills into practice.

Service in Zuni Pueblo

Days 18-24
Participants live and work with their Zuni hosts on a number of projects that serve the community. This often includes building and repairing traditional Zuni bread ovens–outdoor ovens made from brick and mud–and then baking bread in them to prepare for community ceremonies. Additionally, community members teach participants about traditional agriculture in the Zuni garden, and often take the group to a lookout point on the mesa, Dowa Yalanne, a site of historical and mythological significance.