What makes the California Explorer trip special?
Two whitewater rafting, hiking among redwoods, sea kayaking among marine wildlife, and overnight hiking in Yosemite provide a perfect introduction to California’s wilderness for 6th graders.
Will we have a chance to explore San Francisco?
Though the majority of our time will be spent enjoying the natural wonders of Northern California, we will also have a chance to see the sights of one of America’s most beautiful cities – San Francisco. We’ll spend a day at the end of our trip touring the city with our leaders, including riding the cable cars and touring Alcatraz. At the end of the day, we’ll enjoy our traditional end of summer banquet, sharing our memories and enjoying the friends we’ve made.
Isn’t Yosemite crowded in the summer?
Yosemite is one of our most beautiful National Parks; unfortunately it is often among the most crowded. Our overnight hiking trip will take us away from the congested roads and scenic pull-offs, allowing us to enjoy some of the most pristine, beautiful wilderness the west has to offer. We’ll hike past towering peaks and camp near emerald lakes, gaining a new appreciation for wilderness.
Where do we sleep while camping?
On all of our domestic trips we sleep in lightweight tents. You will be assigned a tent partner and together you will be responsible for your tent over the summer.
Do I need experience in the outdoors to come on the California Explorer trip?
Absolutely not! This trip is perfect for students who have little or no experience in the outdoors. Your leaders will teach you the necessary skills to be successful hiking, whitewater rafting, sea kayaking, and surfing.
Will I be able to call home during the trip?
Yes. Upon arrival, at the start of your trip, you will be asked by your leaders to call home and let your parents know you have arrived safely. You will also have the opportunity to send home as many letters as you want and your parents will be able to follow your trip through a series of updates that your leaders will write during the summer.
What will my group be like?
Your group will be the most important and memorable part of your Wilderness Ventures experience. Your group will have 13 students with two leaders, one male and one female. Our groups are co-ed and made up of students from all over the country and internationally as well. The other students in your group will be just as excited as you are about the California Explorer trip and the activities you’ll be doing.
What kind of food will I eat this summer?
Your fellow trip participants, with help from your leaders, will create the menus for your trip. Everyone will be involved in this process to ensure a wide variety of food choices that provide a balanced diet to fuel our bodies. We shop in regular grocery stores and teach you how to plan for and obtain great food for backcountry travels. The food is delicious, healthy, and there will be plenty of it.
How will I get to know more about my leaders before the summer starts?
Before the summer starts your leaders will be sending you a letter introducing themselves. They will include information about their background as well as some details about the group you will be traveling with this summer.
