Are you an outdoor leader looking to further develop your skills? If so, the AMC's Mountain Leadership School (MLS) might be  what you're looking for.

I took this class several years ago and I often refer back to the information and materials that were part of the program. I enjoyed it so much I return every summer to be a field instructor. If you have any questions send me an email or click here for more information from the AMC web page.

MLS is offered two times during the summer. The June program is intended for people who will lead backpacking trips (click here for more about this program) while the August program focuses on day trips.

While you can use this event listing to get together with other randomites who are going so you can car pool, you need to officially register for this program with the AMC (see information below).

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Program Summary

AMC's Mountain Leadership School (MLS) is a five-day wilderness leadership training program designed to help you lead groups with minimal impact in the backcountry. Now in its 6th decade, this program is staffed by senior AMC volunteers who have a wide variety of backcountry knowledge and experience.

The day hike excursions range from 5-12 miles per day and cover challenging terrain in the White Mountains. Each evening the group returns to the comfort of the Shapleigh Bunk House at the Highland Center in Crawford Notch to enjoy a hearty dinner at the Highland Center. The program continues into the evening to cover leadership topics and debrief the day's key events.

MLS offers a rigorous opportunity to learn about and practice wilderness leadership, so participants must be in good physical condition (see our "How to Prepare" tab). The program includes a four-day backpacking adventure — traveling long miles with heavy packs over some of the roughest terrain in the East.

You will discover and develop your own leadership style and learn new skills and ideas in areas such as:

• Group dynamics and management
• Trip planning
• Accident prevention and emergency scene management
• Emergency bivouac skills
• Time management
• Low-impact camp-craft and backcountry travel
• Clothing and equipment
• Navigation Trip planning

Intensive participation and interaction with the group are expected of every student. You will take turns leading your group through the mountains in a series of adventures and scenarios designed to develop and test your leadership skills. In the process, you are likely to develop life-long friendships.

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Program Dates and Costs

Mountain Leadership School (for Day Hikers)

• August 7 - 11 ... AMC Member $448 / Non-Member $506

Space is limited so if you are interested you should act quickly.

To register call[masked]-2727.