Sorry, this program is FULL. Please email [email protected] to be added to the waitlist.

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 your understanding of outdoor living ethics, and learn firsthand about the animals and plants that call these mountains home. 

Over the course of seven days of 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 needed 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
Price: $1,917

Registration includes food and lodging inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 

Need financial assistance? Money, or lack of it, should never stand in the way of a life-changing summer experience. Learn more about financial aid.

Already registered? Check out the welcome document for a packing list and other essential details for this experience.