“It is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves”
– Sir Edmund Hillary
Our backpacking and day hiking programs are one-of-a-kind experiences that reward participants with the best that the backcountry offers. Our hikes will take you from low valleys to high peaks and everywhere. Get out and enjoy all of the beautiful flora and fauna that Washington has to offer.
Backpacking 101
Are you or a family member interested in backpacking? In this hands-on class, you’ll practice some basic skills and learn what gear you need to get started. We’ll cover planning resources, safety, and equipment, practice setting up tents, stoves, and water filters, learn how to pack a backpack, what to bring, and much more.
Our trip leaders are trained, safety-oriented professionals with medical certification for Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or Wilderness First Aid (WFA). To best enjoy each experience, participants should appropriately match their ability level to each trip’s unique physical and environmental challenges. Group size ranges from 4-10 participants.
Trip pricing includes guides, van transportation, outdoor gear, camping permits, and park entrance fees. Food is included on backpacking trips only. Participants must have taken Backpacking 101 to join backpacking trips or have trip leader approval.
I learned a lot – look forward to trying to spend a night “out there”.
Meet Our Wilderness Trip Staff
Ranger Sciacca
Wilderness Trip Coordinator
Ranger Sciacca, the Wilderness Trip Coordinator for the Park District, is a true nature enthusiast with a lifelong connection to the Pacific Northwest. Raised on Bainbridge Island, he’s been navigating the wilderness of the Olympics and Cascades since childhood. His passion for the outdoors led him to become a Junior Ranger at the tender age of 6, a commitment that drove him to officially adopt the name “Ranger.” Armed with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Whitman College, earned in 2009, Ranger Sciacca pairs his academic background with an extensive list of certifications, including Wilderness First Responder and Adult & Child CPR & Airway Management. When not sharing his love for the great outdoors, he finds musical harmony as the manager and performer of his Gypsy Jazz band, “Ranger and the Re-Arrangers.” Ranger’s favorite aspect of his role is introducing newcomers to the wonders of Washington’s natural beauty and witnessing their awe. He cherishes rainy days in the rainforest and has a sweet tooth for gummy candy, an essential energy source for conquering those challenging wilderness trails. One of his most cherished memories involves a memorable rainy backpacking adventure through the Quinault Rainforest, finding refuge under the shelter of an ancient maple tree and bonding with fellow adventurers by a cozy campfire. With over a decade of experience, Ranger Sciacca continues to inspire and guide both novice and experienced explorers through the breathtaking landscapes of the Pacific Northwest.
Gave me more confidence to go camp.
The Outdoor Gear Bank
Don’t let a lack of gear stop you! The use of our gear is free when you’re participating in our Wilderness Activities. Our Outdoor Gear Bank has backpacks, tents, sleeping pads, trekking poles, and much more to borrow for free! Click here to check it out!
Questions?
Contact Ranger Sciacca
Wilderness Programs Coordinator
rsciacca@biparks.org