Frequently Asked Questions about the WLT.....

Q. Who is eligible to participate in the Outdoor Leadership Training (WLT)?

A. Youth workers, teachers, and others working consistently with youth. The minimum age for participation is 18. (This workshop is open to the general public as well, but the cost is more, and this person is placed on a wait list until 2 weeks before the course, at which time they would be asked to join the course if there is space available.)

Q: I’ve never been hiking before, is previous experienced required?

A: No previous outdoor experience is necessary. If you are in reasonably good shape and have the desire and enthusiasm to learn, you will do fine. A large percentage of participants do not have any previous experience. We never hike more than 5 miles/day.

Q: What will the food be like?

A: BAWT provides all food from Wednesday night’s dinner through Sunday lunch. The food is hearty and delicious. There will be plenty and enough for second helpings. Please note any special dietary restrictions/allergies on your medical form. We bring tasty ingredients and encourage youth workers to do the same on their trips with kids.

Q: I understand that cotton is not allowed, but is cotton underwear okay?

A: Yes, cotton underwear is acceptable because of the minimal body space it covers. But remember cotton does not dry quickly. Wet cotton often stays wet for the rest of a trip.

Q: I am a smoker, is smoking allowed on the trip?

A: Smoking is allowed but expect to discuss safety concerns and group issues. The WLT is not the time to try to quit smoking. There will be plenty to think about without stressing about a new routine or withdrawal. Please be aware that there will be more opportune times than others to light up, and you will be expected to carry out all cigarette butts!

Q: What do I do with my car while on the WLT?

A: The best idea is to be dropped off and picked up at the Bay Area Wilderness Training office in San Francisco. If there is no way you can be driven by someone else, we will try our best to help you find parking in a nearby neighborhood in the city. In some cases we will have people bring their cars to help us carry supplies. There are no exceptions to meeting us at our office on Wednesday morning, or Sunday afternoon. Important: We will update an outgoing message from the road on Sunday with any changes to our scheduled arrival time of 6PM. Please have your ride call 415 788-3666 x125 after 3:30 PM to get an update!

Q. What topics does the WLT cover?

A. The training will cover topics such as equipment use, navigation, time-management strategies, group dynamics, and environmental ethics. After successfully completing the WLT, youth workers may participate in advanced skills workshops covering specific topics, such as Map and Compass, Wilderness First Aid and Wilderness First Responder.

Q. If I can't make the WLT pre-trip meeting but can make the trip, can I still attend the training?

A. There is a substantial amount of information that will be covered at the pre-trip meeting. Also, your basic equipment will be checked at this time. It is for these reasons that the pre-trip meeting is mandatory for all those wishing to take part in the WLT.

Q. Are scholarships available?

A. Yes! If financial constraints are prohibiting you from signing up for the WLT, there are two kinds of scholarships available for the WLT. please either consider applying for the full tuition Amy Chamberlain Scholarship Fund or email BAWT Program Manager for more information on how to apply for partial scholarships. You may reach the Program Manager at 415-788-3666, ext. 122, or by email.