Why is this trip unique?
The Yellowstone Teton Explorer trip is designed specifically for students completing the 6th grade. It is a fun trip that provides participants with a taste of outdoor adventure. They will be given a broad introduction to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park, and participate in various activities, giving them a better understanding of their own likes and dislikes. Participants on this trip will also always have access to bathrooms and have the opportunity to shower daily. It is the hope that participants completing this trip will discover a love for the natural world that they will want to continue developing by visiting other wilderness areas and pushing themselves further beyond their comfort zones in the future.
What will we see while we are kayaking in Yellowstone?
Kayaking in Yellowstone National Park is such a unique experience. Paddling close to the shore will allow you to see moose, elk, swans, eagles, trout, and white pelicans. We’ll also get to see bubbling geysers that the general public doesn’t have access to.
What’s the weather like in Jackson Hole?
Jackson Hole is beautiful in the summertime. Daytime temperatures are in the 80’s and nighttime temperatures fall into the 50’s. The humidity is very low, thus creating the perfect atmosphere for being outside.
What is the student to staff ration on this trip?
There will be twelve students and three staff on this trip. However, when we are learning to kayak, we bring in specialized kayak instructors to help us polish our new skills. Guides will also accompany us on our white water rafting trips, our scenic float trip, and our visit to the Lamar Valley.
I’ve never been white water rafting before; do I need experience?
Absolutely not! You will raft the thrilling waters of both the Yellowstone and Snake Rivers in safe, multi-person paddle rafts. You will be with professional guides who will teach you and your peers how to raft these Class II and III rapids as a team. It will be a fun-filled day, bonding with your group.
What kind of food will we eat?
Your fellow trip participants, with the help of your leaders, will create the menu 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 and shop for great food for camping expeditions. The food is delicious, healthy, and there will be plenty of it!
What are things I can do before the trip to physically prepare myself?
Any reasonably fit and active 6th grader will be successful on this trip. This trip is filled with many fun activities, and energy and an upbeat attitude will ensure a memorable time!
Will I get to call home during the trip?
Yes. Upon your arrival, 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 and post on the web.
Isn’t Yellowstone crowded in the summer?
Yellowstone is very crowded during the summer months, however, because we have been operating in this region for over 30 years, we know all the secret places to take you, along with the major tourist attractions. There will be plenty of opportunities to get “off the beaten path” and explore areas few visitors ever see.
