Santa Fe Backpacking & Snowshoeing Adventure

Challenge yourself this winter break to backpack with snowshoes in New Mexico! We will spend five days backpacking approximately 25 miles and camping along Santa Fe National Forest, viewing wildlife, pinion pines, sagebrush, and enjoying winter time. At the end of the trip, soak in the Hot Springs in Pagosa Springs, Colorado to reward yourself from a hard-weeks work. 

Cost: $475.00

Cost Includes: Transportation in 12 passenger van to and from WSU, all large equipment needs, meals on trail, Trip Leaders, Guide from Step Outdoors, LLC, campsite fees, permit fees, post trip hotel, and hot springs entrance fee

Activity Level: Intermediate/Strenuous. Participants do not need prior backpacking or snowshoeing experience. Participants should be able to carry up to a 40lbs backpack for up to 8 miles a day. *Must pass our fitness test of completing two miles with a 40 lb on an inclined treadmill in one hour*

Registration Closes: November 22, 2019 or when full. This trip is first come. Register here

Tentative Itinerary:

Jan 4-5: Travel days to Echo Amphitheater Campground in Carson National Forest, NM

Jan 5: Acclimate to new elevation (6,600ft), sort gear, meet local guide, review route

Jan 6: First day and night on trail. Backpack 5-7 miles, camp in backcountry

Jan 7: backpack 5-7miles, set up a backcountry basecamp

Jan 8: Basecamp, play in snow (build a snow shelter, practice navigation skills)

Jan 9: Backpack 5-7miles, camp in backcountry

Jan 10: Hike to trailhead, off trail by 1pm. Head to the hot springs for a shower and a much-needed soak. Head out to dinner.

Jan 11: Travel back to WSU

Jan 12: Arrive at WSU by noon