Registration for the 2026 school opens March 1, 2026. A link to the 2026 registration page will be posted here by February 15, 2026.
Every summer, we help hikers of all levels gear up and gain confidence for life on the trail. You’ll dive into hands-on lessons on gear, trip planning, food, pack weight, navigation, weather, layering, and more. After the classroom sessions and field day, you’ll be eligible to hit the trail for three guided trips to put your new skills to the test.
And here’s the best part—it’s seriously fun. You’ll make trail buddies (and maybe even lifelong friends) while prepping for a lifetime of backpacking in Colorado, whether with the CMC or on your own.
Adventure starts here.
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.
Backpacking School Details:
- One session each year, running from June to August (dates vary)
- Lectures occur in person at CMC Basecamp in Golden on weeknights (usually Wednesdays in June). We are not able to guarantee recordings of lectures.
- Students provide their own gear, but we will help you figure out what to buy and where as part of class. Backpacking gear is an investment; if you're starting from scratch, keep this in mind.
- Field days and optional trips are provided for hands-on learning, gear testing, and packing refinement
- The class is structured as follows: Lectures with the whole school; small groups for personalized coaching, support, trips, and community building. You will be with the same small group throughout; people cite the bonds made in these groups as one of the highlights of the school.
The BKPS instructors are passionate and experienced hikers who love the outdoors, enjoy sharing their knowledge, and deeply know their gear and skills.
Badges:
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of fitness should I have?
Members should have sufficient fitness to hike at least two miles with moderate elevation gain and carrying an overnight pack. Packs for beginners usually weigh 28 to 40 pounds.
Does the school provide gear?
No. Backpacking gear such as tents, backpacks, stoves and sleeping bags are not provided. Gear expenses can often be minimized by renting, sharing, borrowing or improvising. Methods of reducing expenses will be covered in classes and material provided online.
