Hike, Climb, Paddle

entering grades 8 – 11

Nothing is virtual about this camp, it is a real-world adventure in all its stunning and gritty glory, far from reliable wi-fi and cell signals, and a prime opportunity to evaluate outlooks and priorities for the high-school aged camper.

Starting at Greenbrier State Park, we will meet our group and begin with expectations for the week. After we get acquainted with our backpacking gear, our instructors will walk us through how to properly pack for the expedition. We’ll hike to our first campsite and spend the evening getting to know each other as we develop routines. From there, we will take on ~20 miles of the Appalachian Trail, stopping by Annapolis Rocks to practice rock climbing skills along the way. Here, a range of climbs will be set up to ensure an appropriate skill level is met for all.  We’ll learn to belay, climb, and rappel in a supportive environment while making time to discuss comfort zones and personal goal setting. In this way, we can use this experience as a tool for successfully facing personal challenges and fears.

As we continue down the trail, each day of backpacking will be accentuated by fun lessons and activities structured around backcountry survival, forest ecology, and group team building. At the end of the week, we’ll get off the trail and head to the river for one final paddling adventure on the river. Current conditions will dictate the exact route and type of boat used, options include canoes, rafts, or duckies.

This camp will work to more deeply develop campers’ basic adventure and wilderness survival skills as well as fostering relationships with each other, and awareness of group dynamics. Our mindfulness and reflection exercises will help each camper identify their strengths, weaknesses, and preferences and the supportive environment will help them develop confidence in the value and importance of their unique offerings.