Venture into the heart of the Great Smoky Mountain backcountry, spending 10 days and 9 nights among a community of teenage outdoor enthusiasts like yourself! Grow as a leader among your generation in understanding outdoor living ethics, and learn firsthand about the animals and plants that call these mountains home. 

Over the course of seven days backpacking, you’ll become accustomed to the peace and pace where the sound of cars and civilization don’t intrude – where you can fall asleep to the sound of a wild mountain stream. At the trail’s end, there’s a hot shower waiting as well as a day of paddling on the river or nearby lake.

This empowering experience will not only give you the skills you need for planning and enjoying a safe, successful backpacking excursion, but will also provide the confidence you need for tackling big challenges and adventures in the future.

Before you register, we suggest checking out this background information so you know what to expect from the experience.

Ages: 13–17

Cost: $1,450
Registration includes meals, camping supplies, and instruction inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park.