Summer backpacking expeditions for middle and high school students with CWC Lander and Alpine Science Institute

This summer, Central Wyoming College Lander and Alpine Science Institute will lead two backpacking expeditions for middle and high school students as part of their community education and recreation courses. 

The Power Up Expedition is a 6-day backpacking trip in the Wind River Mountains for students entering 9th – 12th grades. This expedition, which takes place June 15 – 20, will encourage students to step outside their comfort zones while strengthening both their physical and emotional confidence. Through collaborative activities, they will cultivate teamwork skills and embrace genuine leadership experiences. Immersed in hands-on learning, participants will develop independence and break free from their daily routines.   Students will take on challenges such as trail cooking, tent setup, fishing, and map-reading, while also gaining valuable skills like plant and animal identification, basic first aid, and Leave No Trace ethics. These experiences will spark a passion for continued growth, adventure, and new challenges!  

Camp Popo Agie is a week-long camp for students entering the 6th – 8th grades.  The camp will take place June 22 – 28 at the CWC Alpine Science Institute.  Campers will take on outdoor rock climbing, mountain biking, canoeing, fly-fishing, painting on canvas, and archery. The camp will conclude with a three-night backpacking adventure in the Wind River Range, where campers will learn to set up a camp, cook for themselves, develop map skills and Leave No Trace© practices. This camp provides a taste of many outdoor activities and an immersive experience that will make a deep imprint on campers, leaving them with lasting skills and confidence they can transfer to all aspects of their lives. 

The cost for each expedition includes meals, lodging, and group equipment.

Both courses will be led by CWC Outdoor Education and Leadership Adjunct Instructor and Senior NOLS Instructor, Stacy Wells. Stacy has over 20 years of experience teaching and leading students in the outdoors. 

To see the full summer schedule or to register for these or any other summer offerings, please visit: https://www.cwc.edu/landercommunityed.

Scholarships are available for both courses for Lander residents!  Please contact CWC Lander at 307-332-3394 or landercenter@cwc.edu for more information.