Leadership Experience in Adventure Programming (LEAP) is a 90 hour hands-on outdoor leadership course. The natural environment of the Northeast is our classroom to develop your skills in group leaderships, camping, teamwork, navigation, communication and critical thinking. LEAP is a gateway to becoming a TREK leader and leading other paid opportunities through Outdoor Programs.

We encourage anyone keen to engage in outdoor leadership here at UVM to sign up for LEAP, regardless of previous experience, identity, or background. No expereince (or personal outdoor equipment) required! You can learn more about our three different LEAP opportunities throughout the year below. 

Apply to Participate!

Applications for Spring LEAP 2024 are now open! 

Apply Now

Application Deadline: 1/31/2024
Offers Sent: 2/9/2024

Fall 2023 LEAP

Fall LEAP takes place one evening per week and over three full weekends out in the woods over the course of the semester and focus' on general backcountry living skills through backpacking and canoe camping.

INFO SESSION:CLASS SESSIONS:FIELD SESSIONS:
9/7/2023 in Benedict AuditoriumThursdays 5:30-8:00pm, 9/21/23 - 11/16/239/23-24, 10/13-15, 11/4-5

 

Winter 2024 LEAP

Winter LEAP takes place over three evening sessions and one full week long expedition during Spring Break and focuses on Winter Camping and mountaineering skills

CLASS SESSIONS:FIELD SESSIONS:
Tuesdays 5:30 -8:00pm  2/20/24 - 3/7/2024March 9 – 17, 2024

 

Spring 2024 LEAP

Spring LEAP takes place over the course of three evening sessions and one week long expedition between the end of Finals week and Undergraduate Commencement. Like Fall LEAP, the focus is on general backcountry living skills through backpacking and canoe camping.

CLASS SESSIONS:FIELD SESSIONS:
Thursdays 4/15/24 - 5/15/24May 11-18, 2024

 

WORK WITH US: LEAP Interns!

Help make LEAP a reality in one of our paid student intern positions! Applications for 2023 close 9/8/2023.

Co-Lead three 2-3-day expeditions with one other LEAP Instructor and/or Outdoor Programs Staff throughout the fall semester

  • Assist with all logistics to send out expedition and pack back in (which may include a time commitment outside of the advertised course sessions)
  • Assist with weekday class sessions beginning 9/21/23 . Some session will require direct input and instruction from the intern, while others only require active participation by the intern.
  • Teach wilderness living skills, and expedition behavior
  • Providing an environment in which students are supported in both physical and emotional needs.
  • Effectively manage physical, emotional and social risks specific to a backcountry environment.
  • Maintain the confidentiality of course participants private information disclosed on their medical history forms.