Canyon Country CME

OVERVIEW

Learn Wilderness Medicine and Desert Skills in the Spectacular Canyon Country of the Southwest.

Explore slot canyons, discover hidden arches, and climb desert towers on this classic introduction to Southern Utah’s amazing canyon lands. Learn and practice hands-on and field-based wilderness medicine skills, with an emphasis on self-care and small group leadership.  Become skilled in desert camping, travel, and survival techniques and learn basic canyoneering skills.  Perhaps encounter the secreted signs of the mysterious Ancient Ones – the Anasazi Indians who predated the Hopi and Navajo. Revel in and truly experience the spectacular beauty of this iconic landscape.  All meals, tours, and adventures covered.  Limited to 12 participants to allow for optimal small group learning, authentic wilderness experiences, and efficient travel.

• Food, supplies, and group camping gear for 7 days in the field
• Motel lodging for two nights
• Final celebratory dinner

• Camping and permit fees
• Ground transportation from St. George, UT
• Up to 20 CMEs

This week long expedition will focus on wilderness medical and survival issues, especially those experienced in arid and desert areas.  This include hypothermia, hyperthermia, trauma, musculoskeletal soft tissue issues, dislocations/fractures, toxic animals, and lost persons.

The program will be start and end in St. George, UT with hotel stays at both ends.  It will begin with car camping and work up to a three day backpack before going back to car camping.  The program will be held in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, and Bryce Canyon and Zion national parks.  Activities include day hiking, backpacking, slot canyon explorations, and a possible peak scramble.  On the expedition, in addition to classes, participants will experience a number of real world wilderness medicine scenarios.  Participants will sleep in and practice wilderness living (navigation, cooking, tent camping, etc.).  The program will also include a short service or research project.  The program will conclude with the final banquet in St. George, UT.

All food, group camping gear, and ground transportation from Las Vegas will be provided.  Participants will be responsible for their own clothing, eating utensils, and sleeping bag/pad.  Enrollment is limited to 12 participants to allow for optimal small group learning, authentic wilderness experiences, and efficient travel and logistics.

Previous day hiking experience recommend.  Appropriate for those in good health, capable of carrying a 15-20 kilogram pack over rough distances for up to 10 kms.