Backpacking School

The Denver Backpacking course includes in-person lectures at CMC Basecamp in Golden, CO, as well as overnight trips in wilderness locations. We are not able to provide virtual lectures.

Spots are limited and have sold out in previous years. Sign up early! 

Dates for the 2026 course:

• Thurs June 4, 6 - 9 pm at CMC Basecamp
• Thurs June 11, 6 - 9 pm at CMC Basecamp
• Saturday June 13, 8 am - 3 pm at CMC Basecamp
• Thurs June 18, 6 - 9 pm at CMC Basecamp
• Sat June 20 – Sun June 21, 2026, Trip 1 (wilderness location)
• Sat July 11 – Sun July 12, 2026, Trip 2 (wilderness location)

Who is this course good for?

• Hikers who want to integrate overnight, backcountry camping into their hikes safely and sustainably.
• Hikers who can hike 2-5 miles in the mountains comfortably. 
• People who have never backpacked or camped before
• People who haven't backpacked in a long time
• Recent transplants who have backpacked in other regions, but want to learn about the particulars of Colorado backpacking and high-altitude backpacking. 
• Self-taught backpackers who want to hone their skills and gear.
• Hikers who want to meet likeminded folks and build community
• Intrepid folks who don't mind weather, discomfort, and getting a little dirty!

What is backpacking? 

Backpacking is the art and science of hiking with an overnight pack, in which you carry everything you need for days in the wilderness. On school hikes, we only hike 2-5 miles each day, but you might do much more than that on your own! Once you reach your planned campsite, you make camp, filter water, cook and eat food, and enjoy nature before going to bed in your tent. Wake up the next day, and do it all over again. 

The Denver Backpacking Course topics include:

• Gear and clothing
• Camp craft and skills
• Cooking, nutrition and stoves
• Organizing your: trip, pack, tent and camp
• Navigation
• Basic first aid
• Staying warm
• Leave No Trace principles
• Packing and packing lighter
• Avoiding problems with animals and weather

The Backpacking instructors are passionate and experienced hikers who love the outdoors, enjoy sharing their knowledge, and deeply know their gear and skills.