Free Presentations & Open Discussion

Join Luke, the owner and guide of Bitteroot Backpacking for a presentation on one of these backpacking-related topics!

Make sure you prepare for a short hike if the meeting location is at a trailhead!

Questions and Suggestions:
[email protected]
732-272-6878

Outsmarting the Elements with Science
Wednesday, March 19th, 2025
Missoula Public Library, Cooper Space A
6:00 - 7:30 pm

Presentation & Discussion Highlights:
- Learn the scientific concepts of "heat transfer" and how to use them for your benefit.
- Learn about body heat management strategies
- Learn how to plan around the elements
- Discuss what clothes are best for what conditions

Storing Food Responsibly While You're in the Backcountry
Thursday, April 3nd, 2025
Thursday, April 10th, 2025
Blue Mountain Recreation Main Trailhead, Missoula
6:00 - 7:00 pm

Join us for a hike and discussion that covers:
- Learn how to hang a bear bag and do it yourself before the day is over!
- Other forms of approved bear-resistant storage
- What items need to go in a bear bag?
- How to camp to reduce the likelihood of bear encounters

Navigating the Wilderness: Orienteering + Map + Compass Reading 
April 24th 2025
Crazy Canyon Trailhead, Missoula
6:00 - 7:30 pm

Join us for a hike and discussion that covers:
- Methods of digital mapping
- Basics of orienteering and navigation
- Basics of map and compass use

- How do we apply all of this to other situations?

Leave No Trace
May 2nd 2025
Bass Creek Trailhead
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Presentation & Discussion Highlights:
- The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace (LNT)
- Learn about updates to LNT in recent years

- How do we apply all of this to outdoor recreation in Montana?

How to Prepare for a Backpacking Trip
May 8th 2025
Location TBD
6:00 - 7:30 pm

Presentation & Discussion Highlights:
- Basics of backpacking and tent camping
- How to start a fire
- How to find and purify water
- How to navigate the backcountry

- How to Leave No Trace
- What to do if you encounter wildlife
- Tips and tricks to help you prepare for any trip!

Outsmarting the Elements with Science
May 2025 TBD
Missoula Public Library, Cooper Space A
6:00 - 7:30 pm

Presentation & Discussion Highlights:
- Learn the scientific concepts of "heat transfer" and how to use them for your benefit.
- Learn about body heat management strategies
- Learn how to plan around the elements
- Discuss what clothes are best for what conditions

Navigating the Wilderness: Orienteering + Map + Compass Reading 
June 2025 TBD
Crazy Canyon Trailhead, Missoula
6:00 - 7:30 pm

Join us for a hike and discussion that covers:
- Methods of digital mapping
- Basics of orienteering and navigation
- Basics of map and compass use

- How do we apply all of this to other situations?

Leave No Trace
June 2025 TBD
Bass Creek Trailhead
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Presentation & Discussion Highlights:
- The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace (LNT)
- Learn about updates to LNT in recent years

- How do we apply all of this to outdoor recreation in Montana?

How to Prepare for a Backpacking Trip
June 2025
Location TBD
6:00 - 7:30 pm

Presentation & Discussion Highlights:
- Basics of backpacking and tent camping
- How to start a fire
- How to find and purify water
- How to navigate the backcountry

- How to Leave No Trace
- What to do if you encounter wildlife
- Tips and tricks to help you prepare for any trip!

Email us with your questions!

[email protected]