Hiking and Trip Leader
Overview
Hiking is a major component of our program, as each camper will hike once a week. We are located in the beautiful White Mountains and we take full advantage of our geography. On our hikes and overnight traverses, our goal is for our campers to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while challenging themselves to live without their normal comforts. Our older campers have the opportunity to go on three-to-five-day overnight backpacking trips, as well as overnight canoe and bicycle trips. Applicants for these positions must have extensive hiking and camping experience, experience working with children, and a tremendous enthusiasm that they can happily convey to groups they are leading. This is a position of great responsibility, and keeping our campers safe is our number one priority.
Laura Mills has spent four years as a hiking specialist, and two years as head of hiking and camping. Seeing campers push themselves to the edge of their comfort zone — in a safe and controlled environment — while spending beautiful days in the woods is one of the most rewarding parts of being a hiking and trip leader specialist. “It’s incredible to see what they can accomplish and to share in their excitement when they make it to the top of a mountain,” she said.
There’s a professional payoff to the role, too, she says: “The opportunity to learn and develop personally and professionally from some of the best people working in the outdoor industry.”
Job Details
Requirements
- Prior experience with overnight tent camping
- Ability to lead hikes while carrying a 35 lb frame pack
- Wilderness First Aid certified or ability to pass a Wilderness First
- Aid course during staff training
- Prior experience working with children
- College age or older
- Strong references
- A great attitude