Joshua Tree Desert Backpacking

This is a one week expedition into the distinctive landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park. Desert travel means dry weather, huge vistas and dramatic sunsets. This course is ideal for those interested in being in a beautiful unique environment and learning the art of desert travel.

A surreal and alien landscape is an apt description for Joshua Tree National Park. The federal government protected this unique region in 1936. Two distinctly different deserts, the Sonoran and Mojave merge at a transition zone where one can see different species indicative of each desert ecosystem. Canyons, small mountains, and broad valleys are the canvas that nature has used to create this intricate and subtle landscape. Doctor Seuss-like plants and a multitude of rock formations rise out of this magical topography. The best way to explore the park is to put a pack on your back and start walking. Desert trekking expeditions are an excellent introduction to the art of desert wilderness travel

The Outward Bound Difference
This course may be the hardest thing you have ever done. Outward Bound philosophy maintains that by facing the challenges the course will offer you, you will emerge physically and mentally stronger, with an increased mastery of expedition skills as well as a better understanding of your own capabilities. We think that the payoff is well worth the work, but you should be aware of what you’re getting into and excited about tackling the challenges.

Course Description
Your course will begin with lessons in basic travel and camping techniques. As the course progresses you will gain more knowledge of "leave no trace", map and compass navigation, knots and rope handling, camp craft, as well as, the human and natural history of the area. Pushing your limits and working as a team is all part of your Outward Bound experience. Along the way you will be able to identify some of the 200 species of birds in the park, along with the unique animals and plants as you travel through boulder-filled canyons and navigate across valleys. The course will involve climbing and rappelling on a few of the many rock formations. There will be group discussions in order to touch base, share information, and review the day.

To enroll in this course click the enroll button next to the course dates that work for you. To shop comparatively on line visit our Advanced Course Finder or better yet call one of our expert Admission Advisers at 866-467-7651. Course tuitions listed below do not include our Application Fee or Transportation Fee.

Region: California

Activities: Desert backpacking, rock climbing, solo, service

Additional Information:
Application Fee
Transportation Fee

Dates	Days	Age	Location	Tuition	Course	Enroll
10/19/08 to 10/25/08	7	23+	California	$1195.00	JJP823
11/16/08 to 11/22/08	7	23+	California	$1195.00	JJP827
12/28/08 to 01/03/09	7	18+	California - Joshua Tree	$1195.00	JJO922
01/11/09 to 01/17/09	7	30+	California - Joshua Tree	$1195.00	JJT924
03/01/09 to 03/07/09	7	30+	California - Joshua Tree	$1195.00	JJT925
03/15/09 to 03/21/09	7	18+	California - Joshua Tree	$1195.00	JJO923
03/29/09 to 04/04/09	7	30+	California - Joshua Tree	$1195.00	JJT926