ELEVATE - Environmental Science & Biology

Experiential Learning in the Sierra Nevada Mountains

ELEVATE your high school’s advanced learning in environmental science and biology by moving your classroom to the expansive and ever-teaching Sierra Nevada Mountains on a three-day, two-night backpacking experience led by experienced backcountry guides and educators. High school teachers can collaborate with FPU professors and craft a curricular focus to include geology, hydrology, ecosystems, plant and animal sciences, climate, biodiversity . . . —the possibilities are as endless as the horizon in the Sierras.

All Inclusive

This program makes it possible for the teachers to focus on their students and curriculum. It also makes it possible for any student to participate in the program regardless of experience or gear. We provide everything including tents and sleeping bags! Included in the experience is:

Permits
Backpacks/ALL gear
Food
Transportation
Certified Guides
Custom instructions
Digital cameras
Trail training
*All the student must bring is their own clothing, but we provide rain jackets/shell layers as needed.

Group Size

ELEVATE can have a maximum of 28 participants comprised of any combination of students and teachers/chaperones. This would look like 2 groups with 14 participants per hiking group, each led by an expert guide. We do require a minimum of 20 participants to book a trip, but groups from multiple schools can combine to reach this minimum.

Cost

$350 per participant

General Itinerary

Night before the trip: orientation and packing at FPU (2 hours).
Day One: depart after school and drive to trailhead; short hike, set camp, night lesson.
Day Two: day hikes, exploration, data collection; 3 learning sessions.
Day Three: morning learning session; break camp; data safari hike out by 4pm; drive to high school.