Please note: Because each course is different and will experience different combinations of weather patterns, student abilities, and ground conditions; phases may be adjusted before or during a course.
| Phase | Description |
| Orientation Welcome | gear review and purchase. |
| Impact | A fast-moving, minimal-equipment hike through the desert. No food and water except what you find. No blankets or ponchos until Group Ex. |
| Group Expedition & Survival Week | A time for on-the-trail instruction, as our staff teach you the skills you need to comfortably survive in the desert. |
| Independent Hike | A mid-course challenge to test your resolve. |
| Solo | Placed in your own Solo site, you will put your skills to the test and enjoy some solitude. |
| Student Expedition | You and your course mates are divided into small bands to travel on your own to a specific destination. |
| Final Challenge | Just when you think it's over, it isn't.... |
| Celebration / Graduation | You've earned it! |
