Wilderness Tripping Leader
Kat
Experience Information
Employer: Camp Manito-wish YMCA
Job Title: Outpost Trip Leader
Major: Sport Management
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Camp Manito-wish YMCA Outpost Program provides wilderness trips to high school students that range from Lake Superior and Canada to the Rockies and Alaska over three disciplines including kayaking, canoeing and backpacking.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
I was responsible for planning and leading a 14 day backpacking trip to Isle Royale National Park in the waters of Lake Superior. I planned a program for my participants that was focused around self and group awareness growth goals. I maintained the health and safety of the group during the trip and provided a foundation that fostered self-sufficiency among the participants. Off trail, I completed property maintenance, gear repair and various community tasks as needed.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Because of my time in the Outpost Program, I was able to receive my Wilderness First Responder certification. The medical protocols and preventative measures for serious injury and illness in the backcountry are now well established skills of mine. I learned how to think on my feet, advanced my technical backpacking skills, studied the science behind planning a menu and developed my confidence and judgement as a leader. Most importantly, my experiences reinforced my beliefs behind the importance of wilderness tripping for adolescence.
Favorite Part of the Experience
Reaching the half-way point on our trip walking into our resupply location in Windigo was a very proud moment for myself and the group. We cheered and shared a moment of shear joy knowing we were more than capable of taking on the next 7 days as a team.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
It strengthened my interest in outdoor pursuits and provided me with hands on experience to continue to lead in the future.