Loading Events

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

Spend a week away from parents? Sure! But spend it among black bears, towering trees, rattlesnakes, and barred owls while backpacking on steep mountain trails? Oh, yeah! 

In this multi-day adventure, you’ll experience true wilderness in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Sleep in the woods, swim in a mountain stream, kick back around the campfire, and make new friends to last a lifetime.

As you climb a mountain carrying everything you need to survive for 4 days and 3 nights, you will understand what backpacking is all about. This empowering experience will not only give you the skills you need for planning and enjoying a safe, successful backpacking trip, 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: $750
Registration includes meals, camping supplies, and instruction 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 to complete the camper contract, travel plans, and Mountain Challange waiver, as well as a packing list and other essential details for this experience.

Important Information Regarding Programs During COVID-19

During this prolonged period of pandemic and isolation, our work of connecting people and nature has never felt more essential. We are making safety a top priority for visitors and staff — for the latest details about our COVID-19 response and policies, visit our COVID-19 updates page.

 

Cover photo by Robert Schmidt.

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!