Backpacking allows you to experience nature and the great outdoors. However, with the outdoors' diversity, a safe and successful backpacker needs a set of essential skills. Backpacking skill-evaluation procedures may be used during outdoor classes, outdoor guide training or as a general test of your nature knowledge.
Progression
Similar to any learning process, backpacking skill evaluations follow a specific progression. Initially, backpackers must have a general knowledge of hiking and backpacking terms. During the evaluations, you must participate in activities and tests while progressing from basic, intermediate and advanced evaluations. The gradual progression helps to maximize overall knowledge and awareness in accord with the backpacker's ability level.
Basics
Basic evaluations cover a range of topics -- each essential for overall backpacking and outdoor enjoyment. Topics include basic wilderness skills like meal preparation, building tents and shelters, equipment selection and Leave No Trace practices. Within each topic, skill-evaluation procedures will ensure you can fulfill each topic in any environmental condition, ranging from freezing temperatures to heavy winds.
Advanced
Advanced skill evaluations are designed for outdoor guides or experienced backpackers who want to attempt difficult climbs or hikes. Advanced evaluations focus on backcountry first aid and medical response procedures along with advanced navigation and map reading. Leadership skills for guides are also covered and include plant and animal identification, group-cooking techniques and overall group management. Additional advanced topics include geology, weather and environmental issues.
Result
Completing various backpacking skill-evaluation procedures makes you a well-rounded backpacker and prepares you for nature's surprises. Most evaluations and courses last about one month and occur at or near a campsite or backpacking location. After the evaluation, you can use the skills, techniques and knowledge for becoming a safe and successful wilderness traveler or you can become an outdoor guide who helps others enjoy nature.
References
- National Outdoor Leadership School: Alaska Backpacking
- National Outdoor Leadership School: Course Description -- Alaska Backpacking
- Career-Change-Mentor.com: Career Skill Assessment
- International Wilderness Leadership School: 24-Day Utah Backpacking and Canyoneering Leadership and Guide Training Course
Member Comments