The success of our program rests on our staff and guides! The Sonlight leadership team is committed to hiring guides skilled in backcountry and wilderness skills, as well as group leadership. Lead guides have been through Sonlight staff training, which covers hard skills (navigation, safety, equipment, cooking) and soft skills (group dynamics, communication). Lead Guides have lots of trail miles, documented wilderness leadership as well as a minimum of Wilderness First Responder and CPR training.
Many of our first time campers and participants have not been on a wilderness trip before, no prior experience needed. Our guides welcome the opportunity to explore peaks and trials with first time backpackers.
Sonlight healthcare staff will review all dietary allergies and intolerances before the trip. We do our best to accommodate participants with allergies - food and otherwise. Depending on the situation, families may be requested to supplement food during the program to best meet the needs of the participant.
Sonlight is technology free! Separating participants from their devices allows them to grow in the skills needed for the 21st century: critical thinking and problem-solving, creativity and innovation, and communication and collaboration. Not worry, our trip leaders will carry Garmin InReach communication devices. The group will share a CampSnap which is a screen free digital camera. Participants are welcome to bring a camera or GoPro!
Excellent gear is provided to all participants, backpacks, sleeping bags, tents, cooking and eating utensils. You may bring your own gear, the guides will determine if it is appropriate for the trip.