Trip length: 8 days
Ages: 14 - 17
(see Enrollment page for current dates and tuition)

"I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived." -- Henry David Thoreau

The Camp Chrysalis backpacking session offers young adults the chance to learn how the wilderness can challenge and inspire. Days away from the cars, TVs and hurry of the frontcountry, we explore some of the most rugged and pristine wilderness in California. Our attention is focused as much on ourselves and our group as it is on the land hosting us. With space for individual reflection (including a lengthy solo), open and responsive community dynamics, and strategically timed group activities led by staff and campers alike, campers develop their understanding of the land, living in a group, and of themselves.

We hike for seven days, covering 20 to 40 miles as we develop our skills traveling safely through the wilderness. Along the way we learn fundamental backcountry skills: cross-country navigation and survival sense, basic first aid, how to bear-proof our camp, operation and maintenance of backcountry equipment (such as stoves and water filters), and how to not shower for 8 days!

Each day on the trail includes a mix of structured activities, games, and discussions. While some are led by our staff, each group brings together a unique cluster of experiences, and we encourage camper-led activities -- many have become Camp Chrysalis backpacking traditions.

In addition to hiking most days, the backpacking session includes a peak-ascent expedition. We rise early one morning, without frame packs, and navigate our way to the top of the highest accessible peak in the area (see photos from Camiaca Peak ascent in 2004).

For many campers, simply being away from their busy urban lives is change enough. Those who head to backcountry look to leave even more behind: the Camp Chrysalis backpacking session includes a carefully planned solo time (without people, books or other distractions). We also learn from each other in discussions about environmental and wilderness ethics.

Though we generally head for the central Sierra Nevada, trailhead selection varies from year to year, based on weather, mosquitoes, permit availability, group size, and other factors. Past destinations have included:

o Big Sur (Sykes Canyon)
o Sequoia National Park (Pear Lake and Rae Lakes Loop)
o Yosemite National Park (Hetch-Hetchy and Tiltil Valley)
o Emigrant Wilderness (Crabtree Cabin to Buck Lakes)
o The Lost Coast
o Hoover Wilderness (Virginia Lakes to Green Creek)
o Ansel Adams Wilderness (Silver Lake to Ediza Lake)