Set out on an unforgettable 10-day adventure through the rugged beauty of Alaska's Talkeetna Mountains. This unique course combines packrafting and backpacking, offering an immersive wilderness experience that will challenge you physically and mentally. Perfect for adventurers looking to push their limits, learn new outdoor skills, and experience the untamed beauty of Alaska’s wild landscapes, this course offers much more than just outdoor recreation—it's an opportunity for personal growth, leadership development, and lasting memories.
Photo credit: Tim Kelly
This course is more than just an adventure—it's a transformative journey that will shape you into a stronger, more confident leader. As you navigate glacial rivers by packraft and trek across rugged mountain terrain, you'll learn to face challenges head-on and develop resilience in the face of the unknown. Whether you're leading your team through challenging weather or making critical decisions on the water, this course will give you the tools to succeed in unpredictable environments and in your personal and professional life.
With expert NOLS instructors by your side, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the wilderness and yourself. You’ll leave with not only new technical outdoor skills but also enhanced leadership capabilities, improved decision-making, and a sense of confidence from mastering Alaska's wilds.
The Talkeetna Mountains, located in the heart of Alaska, offer some of the world's most pristine and remote landscapes. This course will take you through pristine alpine lakes, crystal-clear rivers, and breathtaking glacial valleys, far from the crowds and modern distractions. You’ll packraft across serene waters and trek through challenging mountain terrain, encountering spectacular views at every turn.
Along the way, you may have the rare opportunity to see iconic Alaskan wildlife, including Dall sheep scaling cliffs, moose grazing in meadows, and caribou navigating the rugged wilderness. You might even spot bears or wolves in their natural habitat if you're lucky.
Each day will bring new challenges and moments of awe as you immerse yourself in the wild landscapes that have captivated explorers for centuries.
This 10-day adventure will equip you with the practical outdoor skills and leadership techniques necessary for tackling wilderness expeditions. The course combines technical and interpersonal skills, giving you a well-rounded experience that extends far beyond the duration of the course.
Core Skills Include:
Packrafting Techniques: Master the essentials of packrafting, including how to navigate rivers, manage gear, and stay safe on the water.
Backpacking and Wilderness Navigation: Learn to navigate remote terrain, set up camp, and understand topographic maps to ensure you can find your way, even in the most rugged environments.
Risk Management and Safety: Develop your ability to assess and manage risks in dynamic, challenging situations, ensuring your team's safety and that of yourself.
Camping and Cooking: Master the basics of backcountry camping, including shelter building, campfire cooking, and Leave No Trace principles.
Leadership and Team Dynamics: Build confidence as a leader by working closely with your group, navigating group dynamics, and fostering collaboration under challenging conditions.
Photo credit: Tim Kelly
The course is designed to provide a balanced blend of outdoor skills training, hands-on experience, and leadership development. Here’s a breakdown of your 10-day journey:
Day 1: Arrive at the NOLS Alaska base, meet your instructors and fellow participants, and prepare your gear for the upcoming adventure.
Days 2–4: Begin your journey into the Talkeetna Mountains. Learn essential packrafting techniques and practice navigating the rugged wilderness, all while establishing your base camp.
Days 5–7: Explore remote lakes and glacial rivers by packraft. Spend your nights camping under the stars as you travel across some of the most stunning wilderness on Earth.
Days 8–9: Trek through challenging mountain terrain, improving your navigation and survival skills while working together as a team to overcome obstacles.
Day 10: Complete your adventure and return to base for a debrief session, where you’ll reflect on the experience and discuss how the skills learned can be applied to everyday life and future endeavors.
The Alaska Packrafting Adventure will test your limits—physically, mentally, and emotionally—but overcoming these challenges will lead to a deep sense of achievement.
Challenges to Expect:
Alaskan Weather: The weather in Alaska can change quickly and unpredictably, with cold winds, rain, and occasional snow. Learning to adapt to changing conditions is a key part of the experience.
Physical Endurance: You'll trek through difficult terrain for hours each day, carrying heavy packs and paddling across challenging waters. The experience will build both your physical stamina and mental fortitude.
Leadership and Teamwork: Working as part of a small team, you’ll practice leadership and decision-making skills, balancing individual initiative with group cooperation.
The Rewards:
Self-Discovery: You’ll leave this course with a deeper understanding of your strengths and capabilities. The challenges you face in the wild will help you discover the resilience and leadership skills that reside within you.
Building Lifelong Relationships: The friendships you form during this expedition will last long after the course ends. You'll be part of a supportive community of adventurers who share a passion for the outdoors and personal growth.
Personal and Professional Growth: The skills you develop during this course—from wilderness survival to leadership in challenging environments—will benefit you in any career or personal pursuit.
Photo credit: Stephane Terrier
This course is designed for individuals ready to push their physical and mental boundaries and immerse themselves in one of the most remote wildernesses in the world. Whether you’re looking to develop new skills for a career in outdoor education or simply seeking a transformative adventure, this course is for anyone with a passion for adventure and personal growth. No prior packrafting experience is required, but participants should be comfortable with physical activity and hiking in rugged terrain.
By completing the Alaska Packrafting Adventure, you'll join the global network of NOLS alumni—individuals who have honed their leadership skills and applied their wilderness experiences to achieve success in business, exploration, and beyond. This course will equip you with the skills and mindset to tackle any challenge that comes your way, both in the wilderness and in life.
Are you ready to take the leap? Join us on this transformative journey and discover the leader, adventurer, and resilient individual within you.
