What is PĒC?
Peak Eco-Challenge (PĒC) is a summer wildlife expedition program for high school and college students interested in wildlife science.
- Hike the Pacific Crest Trail while learning real wildlife biology skills.
- Shadow professional wildlife biologists who are passionate about guiding students through hands-on experiences.
- Small group sizes allow for individualized attention and support. Your team becomes like family.
- Conduct surveys for birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and mammals along the PCT.
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.
Character Development
The challenging and immersive nature of the program helps students build resilience, teamwork, and leadership skills.
"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.
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*
*Contact for availability
Each 10-day adventure includes:
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, food, and supplies
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
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
Student Testimonials
“You’re going to have really, really hard moments, where you want to quit. Make sure you’re enjoying every moment of it. Every beautiful tree. Every little flower you pass as you walk along.”
“I’ve been really enjoying this trip. I think that it really pushed me to my limits and tested my perseverance.”
“It is a culmination of so many things that I care about, like academics and ecology. That was a huge component of this journey that helped me deal with all the challenges. I just learned so much about nature and also myself."
“It will change your life. This is an amazing project. An ambitious project. You will not be the same person that you were when you come off.”
“There were many challenging components that made this experience difficult and allowed me. to push myself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, but having completed this program, I feel stronger in those areas. It has also given me a hands-on taste of fieldwork and clarified for me that this is something. I hope to be doing in the future.”
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.
Immersive Learning
The hands-on aspect allows students to actively participate in scientific studies, making the learning experience much more engaging and memorable.
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.
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.
