Areas of Exploration
We learn through the experience and adventure of new things. Your instructors at Coyote Trails are trained in the art of living in the wilderness. Together you will learn a greater appreciation of the world around us and attain higher levels of self-reliance and confidence in the outdoors.
Nature Observation: You 'll be shown how
to observe nature on a deeper level and learn the basic
philosophy behind a positive outlook in any situation.
Skills will include silent movement, understanding bird
language, the means of camouflage, and the methods to
become one with your surroundings. You will learn how to
immerse yourself in the natural world.
Tracking: You will learn the basics of
tracking, including track identification
and analysis, track dynamics, animal markings and chews, sign
tracking, scat
identification, the proper use of field guides for
identification, and how to follow a trail.
Wilderness Living: The following
wilderness skills will be covered:
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Shelter: techniques for constructing the debris hut, wicki-up, thatching, mud hut, cave dwelling, and pit dwelling.
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Water: finding water using a solar still, sink hole, plants, and various other water gathering methods.
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Fire: making a fire using primitive methods including the bow drill, hand drill, as well as how to build a proper fire.
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Food: finding food from both plants and animals found in North America ranging from the high desert to mountainous terrain. Collecting, preparation, and cooking will be covered, though in the interest of conservation only a small sampling will be prepared.
Tools: making stone tools, cordage, bow
drills, spears, digging sticks, cooking utensils, bowls, and
many more.
Trapping: trapping animals using primitive snares and deadfalls. No animals will be harmed or trapped during the course, but participants will understand how to build and set traps and will practice non-lethal methods for a better understanding of the techniques.
Tanning: the primitive ways of tanning a
deer hide; brain tanning, the making of rawhide, as well
as many useful items that can be made with a hide. Due to
safety concerns, no brain will be used in the tanning of hides.
Students will gain the knowledge and experience through
alternative methods of tanning.
Wilderness Ethics: The peace found through wilderness and the caretaker approach to living in balance is the underlying philosophy surrounding these skills.
