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What is PĒC?
Peak Eco-Challenge (PĒC) is an interactive summer wildlife expedition program for high school (14-18 years-old) and college students (over 18) interested in wildlife science.
hike the PCT
while learning
Hike the Pacific Crest Trail while learning real wildlife biology skills. PĒC isn’t just a guided backpacking trip or an educational hike – we combine education, active learning, and wilderness adventure in a way that is unlike any other program.
participate in the science
You get the rare opportunity to work alongside professional wildlife biologists who are passionate about mentoring students through hands-on experiences.
Individual Attention
We keep our groups intentionally small so you get the attention, support, and guidance you deserve. Because of that, spots are limited and tend to fill quickly.
conduct wildlife biology
Conduct surveys for birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and mammals along the Pacific Crest Trail.
do research
With PĒC, you don’t just pretend to do science – you actually get to do science in a real on-going scientific study.
$500 OFF FOR A LIMITED TIME
Bring a Friend and get an additional 5% off each!
Why Choose Us
Real-World Science
Students engage in actual scientific research, gaining practical skills and knowledge in wildlife biology, conservation, and environmental science.
Mentorship
By shadowing wildlife biologists and working alongside experts in the field, students receive valuable guidance and inspiration for their future careers.
The challenging and immersive nature of the program helps students build resilience, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Real-World Science
"Unplug" and connect with nature
Backpacking along the Pacific Crest Trail offers a unique opportunity to “unplug from tech”, connect deeply with nature, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the environment.
College and Career Direction
The experience can have a profound impact on students’ academic and career goals, providing clarity and motivation for their future paths.
10-Day Wildlife Explorer Program
Experience life in the wild as you backpack the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and collaborate with professional wildlife biologists on groundbreaking research. Assess the health of wildlife communities and master the techniques for surveying birds, reptiles, mammals, and amphibians.
We have separate groups for High School students (ages 14-18) and College students (over 18).
Four Dates to Choose From:
June 9-June 18, 2025*
June 23-July 2, 2025*
July 7 – July 16, 2025*
July 21 – July 30, 2025*
*Space limited. Contact for availability
Each 10-day adventure includes:
12 days total including 2 travel days and 10 days on the program
Travel from the Sacramento, CA area
2 days of training at Base Camp
Personal training and mentoring in wildlife science
In depth training in wildlife skills
Backpacking equipment, all FOOD, and supplies – we feed our student researchers well and are able to accommodate most food restrictions.
8 days of guided backpacking and wildlife science on the PCT
Making new friends and having fun!
This year our students will be hiking through Sequoia-King’s Canyon National Park and summitting Mt. Whitney (the tallest mountain in the lower 48 states) along the world class Pacific Crest and John Muir Trails
Don’t have time for a quick call, but want a question answered? Check out our FAQs or jump here to ask a question.
From Our Founder
“Perhaps our most important goal is to provide our students a truly formative and enriching experience that affects the whole person, impacting not only their career goals, but their life trajectory. We provide our students an opportunity to come alongside mentors and collaborating scientists to engage in actual research and to experience a holistic program while on the PCT – the mind, the body, the soul…academics, research, intellectual growth, physical challenges. Our students also become researchers and contribute to an ongoing study of biodiversity patterns along the Pacific Cordillera.”
Professor McGrann, Program Director
Don’t have time for a quick call, but want a question answered? Check out our FAQs or jump here to ask a question.
Student Testimonials
$500 OFF FOR A LIMITED TIME
Bring a Friend and get an additional 5% off each!
Don’t have time for a quick call, but want a question answered? Check out our FAQs or jump here to ask a question.
How Are We Different?
The combination of wilderness backpacking and hands-on, real science sets Peak Eco-Challenge apart from other programs. Our unique approach ensures that students leave the program with a profound understanding of wildlife field biology and conservation, as well as unforgettable memories and experiences.
Integrated Experience
By blending outdoor adventure with scientific research, students get the best of both worlds.
Direct Mentorship
Students have the opportunity to not only observe but also collaborate closely with wildlife biologists and environmental scientists, gaining valuable insights and experience.
Holistic Development
The program fosters both personal growth and academic development, helping students build practical skills, character, and a clear sense of direction for their future.
Immersive Learning
The hands-on aspect allows students to actively participate in scientific studies, making the learning experience much more engaging and memorable.
Impactful Adventures
The breathtaking Pacific Crest Trail serves as both a classroom and an inspiration, nurturing a deep connection with nature and a commitment to conservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost?
Our 10-Day Program is $3680. Only $3180 for a limited time with our $500 off discount. This includes 12 days total (2 travel days and 10 days of the program). We provide all food, supplies, travel from the Sacramento, California area, eating out while traveling, backpacking equipment, and lodging.
Isn't that a lot for a backpacking trip?
With Peak Eco-Challenge, you get way more than a backpacking trip! With us, you get hands-on wildlife science, and research experience while backpacking through the Pacific Crest and John Muir Trails. This experience is competitive for college/grad school/job applications.
There are no other programs like us in existence. The closest programs to us include backpacking wilderness trips or educational science travel camps/programs.
Most similar programs out there are significantly more expensive than we are. This type of thing is not inexpensive. We are able to come in at a lower price point because we specialize in only this project along the PCT.
How do I apply?
Schedule an information call to talk to us about the programs we offer. That way we can get to know you and you can get to know us. We can answer any questions you may have and talk to you about the application process. After the call, we will email you the application materials. If your application is accepted, you will then need to pay a $500 deposit to save your spot. Our programs are small, so spots are limited.
What will I get out of it?
Peak Eco-Challenge gives our students a leg up in the competitive world of college and graduate school applications and job opportunities. Colleges and employers see that our students are not just interested in science, but have actually had experience in the field, actively participating in research. This gives our students an advantage over their peers.
We hear from college students that it is really hard to find opportunities to get hands-on experience in the field, yet internships and jobs require that they have experience. We provide that opportunity to our students.
We have even had students from other degree programs participate in the past (pre-med, kinesiology, etc.) and they have used the research experience to help with their graduate school applications.
Do you have longer programs?
Yes! We run our longer 7-Week and 15-Week Expedition Programs every other year. Our next expedition starts in Spring 2026. Check out our longer programs here.
$500 OFF FOR A LIMITED TIME
Bring a Friend and get an additional 5% off each!
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Institute for Biodiversity and the Environment: A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization | Copyright 2025