The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation seeks connections with nature for all Montanans and Americans – connections that come from time spent on the lands we all share. We’re working to remove barriers for those that have not traditionally seen themselves as part of the American public lands story, including Black, Indigenous, People of Color and LGBTQ+ communities. Our Wilderness 101 trips are designed for folks who may not have grown up recreating in the outdoors, to help them learn and practice wilderness skills so that they can continue to safely and comfortably access their public lands on their own.
Each Wilderness 101 trip serves an Affinity Group, a.k.a. a group of people linked by a shared identity or unifying characteristic that has been traditionally underrepresented, who may feel isolated from the status quo. The goal of this project is to engage individuals with a shared kinship and passion, to build wilderness skills within an accepting and supportive environment and foster life-long friendships. Every moment spent in an affinity space is a chance to connect with each other and ourselves. Around the campfire, on our mountain trails, and while exploring new landscapes, we build a community where everyone thrives.
This Wilderness experience is designed to be a learning opportunity for those who are wanting to engage with nature, be challenged to learn new things and experience the beauty of wilderness within the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. You will gain the skills and knowledge to become a more confident wilderness user, and find strength and belonging amongst peers who can relate to your lived experience.
In 2023 we have one Wilderness 101 trip available. The application will close on April 30th.
LOCATION
Just south of Glacier National Park, “The Bob” is 1.5 million acres of designated Wilderness. The third largest Wilderness in the lower 48, the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex straddles the Continental Divide and is considered by many to be the “crown jewel” of the American Wilderness system. This area encompasses the homelands of the Blackfeet tribe on the east side of the Divide and the Salish and Kootenai tribes on the west.
GETTING HERE
BMWF can facilitate transportation to and from airports, train stations etc. to the meeting place and trailhead as needed. Participants are usually responsible for covering travel expenses to get to Northwest Montana, although some travel grants may be available – please reach out to us if anyone if your group needs assistance with travel costs.
Plane: The nearest airport Glacier International Airport in Kalispell has daily flights to and from Denver, Portland, Seattle, Minneapolis, and weekly from San Francisco, LA and Chicago.
Train: Amtrak’s Empire Builder has stops in Whitefish and West Glacier, both of which are conveniently located close to Hungry Horse.
PARTNERSHIP DETAILS
In order to create a successful affinity group wilderness experience, we hope to work as a partnership with groups or individuals to create a collaborative program. We envision working with a group leader who is interested in being an active contributor so that trip participants are hearing and learning from someone who identifies as a member of their affinity group.
Wilderness 101 Partners provide:
A group leader who:
Recruits up to 10 participants for the trip
Coordinates with BMWF on planning logistics
Communicates with participants prior to arrival at camp
Has outdoor experience and can lead some of the workshops
Is inspired by nature and wants to share their passion
Can help create a safe and engaging learning experience
Up to 10 participants who:
Have a desire to learn new skills, engage with the outdoors and meet challenges
Have some outdoor experience, or the willingness and desire to learn
Have the physical capability to safely participate in strenuous outdoor activities. (Carrying 35lb backpack for eight miles over varied terrain, hiking uphill and downhill, lifting up to 50lb for short periods of time, can sleep in a tent, etc.)
Are at least 16 years old with an adult companion or over 18 on their own
The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation provides:
Local coordination, planning and leadership
Detailed trip itinerary, packing list and other logistical details
Workshops in:
Leave No Trace
Backcountry camp set-up – tents, kitchen, latrine, water, bear hang, etc.
Wildlife encounters and safety
History of Wilderness
Backcountry travel and basic navigation skills
Wilderness horse and mule packing
Backcountry food, meal prep and cooking
Plus other topics based on group’s requests
All group gear including kitchen gear, water filters, etc.
All food and meal planning while on the trip
Pack support for group gear and food to lighten hiking packs
Personal backpacking/camping gear as needed through our gear lending library
Co-leadership while on the project with 2-3 of the BMWF staff
Questions?
Contact our Education and Partnership Specialist Erynn Castellanos at (406) 387-3808 or erynn@bmwf.org.
We also offer opportunities for Affinity Group Volunteer Partner Projects!
If you’re interested in gathering a group to do some trail work and give back to Wilderness, this is your chance. Learn more.
OTHER HELPFUL INFORMATION
*Not all of this applies to Affinity Group Projects but still has some useful information