This new 2021-only trail program is much like our summit to summit programs – except with an EXTRA special twist: each group will get to come into camp for one night only where they will have the whole basin to themselves. They’ll have the chance to take a shower, have some sugar cereal with real milk, and do some basin activities in our beloved Mosquito Lake Basin, before heading back out onto the trail for more in-depth wilderness exploration.
As with other summit to summit hikes, the extended time on the trail means that participants will see more of the spectacular mountain lakes, rugged peaks, tumbling streams, and bejeweled meadows of the Trinity Alps Wilderness.
The setting and extended time together will also provide a unique opportunity for community building and friendship. Sharing a back country challenge builds strong bonds that last well beyond the summer. The group will learn to live cooperatively, working together in harmony with each other and nature. Practicing Leave No Trace wilderness ethics together will provide further opportunity to learn about nature and community.
The nature of each hike will vary depending on the hiking ability, desired trip length and desired activities of campers involved. However, the program will always provide ample time for activities such as: off-trail cross country hiking, orientation skill building, survival skill building, fishing, swimming, star-gazing, solos, music and, of course, a layover day here and there.
This program is perfect for returning Unalayee campers. It will provide the challenge that those who have completed our base camp program are ready for while still giving campers a chance to see their favorite spots at Mosquito Lake and feel a little bit of that basin magic. Summit to Summit EXTRA hikes will be planned to accommodate campers with minimal as well as extensive backpacking experience.