How to Become a Wilderness to Wake Leader
Outdoor Pursuits hires Expedition & Base Camp Leaders to run our first-year pre-orientation program, Wilderness to Wake. Leaders must be available during the program and pre-training, typically mid-August to the Wednesday prior to classes starting.
Expedition, Assistant Trip Leaders
Expedition Leaders run our backpacking trips in various locations on the A.T. Those interested in leading Wilderness to Wake as an Expedition Assistant Trip Leader should pursue becoming an Assistant Trip Leader in backpacking. OP hires W2W Leaders in February/March alongside Trip Leaders for the following summer.
Base Camp Leaders
Base Camp Leaders run day trips from our program location in western North Carolina. Our requirements for becoming a Basecamp are different from our normal OP Trip Leader. The requirements are:
- Trip Leading 101 & 102
- Be available to complete Wilderness First Aid Training during Wilderness to Wake training. This cost is not covered by OP.
- Have participated in at least 3 OP trips.
- Be available for Leadership Trip
Note: After Wilderness to Wake, Basecamp Leaders may be asked to stay on staff to lead non-technical trips for OP including hiking, paddle boarding, and horseback riding, as needed. Preference is given to applicants who are working toward, or interested in, becoming an Assistant Trip Leader.