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Wilderness
Trek
Experience Alaska by spending four days surrounded by the vast and
pristine tundra bordering Denali National Park. AMS offers treks
which explore the foot hills of Denali and the neighboring Talkeetna
Mountains. From these areas, the views of Mt. McKinley and the Alaska
Range are hard to describe. In addition to views, AMS instructors
introduce you to the unique tundra ecosystem under foot and the
variety of wildflowers and bird life. Moose, caribou, Dall sheep,
wolves, porcupines, and eagles are often seen, but proper bear camping
and travel techniques make it unlikely to see a Grizzly up close.
AMS instructors teach you all the basic wilderness skills to allow
you to be safe and comfortable in a backcountry setting. Alaska’s
wilderness is one of the wonders of the world and taking a trek
will make your visit here an unforgettable experience. No prior
experience is necessary; participants are expected to be healthy
and of average physical fitness.
Treks are educational and fun and explore the wilderness areas of
Alaska’s alpine tundra ecosystems. Photographers and outdoor
enthusiasts are rewarded with stunning views and incredible landscapes.
Those with little or no backpacking and camping experience benefit
from the instruction on: hiking techniques, camping skills, and
map use. Natural history enthusiasts enjoy discussions on the plant
identification, animal sightings, and human history of the region.
There is something for everyone who enjoys being in the mountains
and appreciates true wilderness and un-tamed beauty.
Features
of This Trek
- Hiking route approximately 20 miles
- Elevations 3,000 to 6,500 feet
- Natural history: geology and alpine ecology
- Non-technical peak ascents
- Excellent opportunities to view wildlife: eagles, caribou, moose,
sheep, wolf, and brown bear
- Classes on safe and environmentally sound back country travel
and camping techniques
- 1:4 instructor/student ratio, total group size 6 to 8
Remoteness
Wilderness treks visit remote wilderness areas where there are no
physical amenities. AMS teaches camping techniques to keep you warm,
dry, and properly nourished. We live in the outdoors and camp in
tents for the duration of the trek. We gather water from alpine
lakes and streams and always treat the water using filters, iodine,
or boiling before drinking. We dig cat holes in the earth to bury
our human waste. Safety is our number one priority and while prevention
is always the best strategy, treks are equipped with first aid and
drug kits, and emergency radios in case of an accident.
Environment
Wilderness treks drive to a trail head in the Talkeetna Mountains
or Peter’s Hills, both spectacular areas east of the boundary
of Denali National Park and Preserve. Each of these areas are unique
and beautiful and are well known by AMS to ensure the best possible
experience.
Where
To Meet
We meet at 8:00 am at AMS’ office at the end of 3rd street
in Talkeetna. Muffins, juice, tea, and coffee are served. After
an orientation\, your instructors conduct an equipment check and
issue you any items you may need to ensure you are properly outfitted.
After packs are packed and any personal luggage and valuables are
stored, we pack box lunches and drive in the AMS van to our trail
head.
Course Objectives
Wilderness courses varies in route, group dynamics, and environmental
conditions. Working with these variables, it is our intent to strive
for the following goals for each person:
Safety & Judgment
AMS teaches back country skills which promote the health and safety of all expedition members. Each graduate is expected to:
- demonstrate knowledge of the hazards in a mountain environment
- participate in making sound decisions affecting the health and safety of the expedition
- display knowledge of personal limitations, and the judgment to stay within them
Leadership & Teamwork
Students are exposed to theory and practice of outdoor leadership, teamwork and expedition behavior. Each graduate is expected to:
- work effectively as a team member
- demonstrate sound expedition behavior: commitment to the group, a positive attitude, and cooperation to
achieve group goals
- effectively communicate ideas and concerns with individuals and within a group
- use decision-making and planning skills to participate fully in a safe, environmentally sound expedition
Environmental Ethics
An integral part of every course is to raise students' understanding of the natural ecosystem in which they are traveling. Each graduate is expected to:
- consistently perform minimum impact living and traveling skills
- show an understanding, appreciation, and respect for the local natural history
- develop natural history and interpretive skills
Outdoor Living Skills: Camping & Traveling
AMS courses focus on learning and practicing back country skills which are safe for the individual and environment. Each graduate is expected to:
- live comfortably and efficiently in a mountain environment,
learning to camp, cook, and dress for a variety of conditions
- travel competently using appropriate map and compass skills,
off-trail navigation, route-finding techniques
- consistently use appropriate bear camping and travel techniques
- take responsibility for the organization, maintenance and
repair of group and personal equipment
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