Day Hike
We will depart in the morning and set out for a day of exploration and exercise at a local state park. While on our hike we may break into teams and have a scavenger hunt or just explore local natural features, such as a cave, a river, or a canyon. We may even visit the nature center and get up close and personal with some snakes! Participants will learn to identify different trees, plants, and animals, native to Indiana. Students should dress for the weather, bring a day pack with water bottle, sack lunch and shoes they can get wet. Transportation is included.
Overnight Camping
Similar to the Wilderness Day Hike, we will set out for a local state park. This two-day/one-night trip will include the hiking and scavenger hunt of the day trip. Students will also learn nutrition and menu planning and prepare their own meals. The group will camp out overnight in tents and cook over an open fire. Talk about adventure! When darkness falls, an optional night hike will allow the group to learn how the animals of the night are equipped to survive. All equipment, transportation and food are provided. For those looking for a weekend retreat, or trying to create stronger group unity, this is program is a great fit.
Day Canoe
In this one-day canoe program we will review the basic skills of canoeing and water safety. We will then paddle 5.5 miles down the White River taking note of the river ecosystems in our very own backyard. Students will learn the value of communication and working together as they make their way down the river. This is a gentle stretch of river that requires paddling and teamwork. All equipment is included. Students should dress for the weather; bring a sack lunch, water and shoes that they can get wet. Equipment is provided. The group should meet us at the launch site for this trip. Transportation can be arranged if necessary.
High Adventure
This five-day/four-night adventure is for students seeking adventure and an introduction to backpacking, camping, or wilderness experience. We will leave in the morning and drive to the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area in Tennessee, the Appalachian Trail in Virginia, or other wilderness destination. Students will be immersed in their outdoor experience on day one and have the chance to put their pre-trip training skills into service. Each student will have the opportunity to lead, practice giving feedback, demonstrate trust, and work as a team. Equipment, food, and transportation are included along with an experienced staff guide.
Expedition
This seven to ten day program is for students who are looking for a greater challenge and are able to hit the ground hiking. This might include a 30-40 mile backpacking and camping trip in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan or along the Appalachian Trial in Virginia or a 50-mile canoe trip in the Minnesota boundary waters. As a group, the students will plan all phases of their adventure. Each student will have the opportunity to lead during the trip. All equipment and transportation is included. Equipment, food, and transportation are included along with an experienced staff guide.
Pathfinders
This program is designed for youth who may have already begun down the wrong path or are about to embark in the wrong direction. Participants can include youth 12 to 15 years of age who are first time offenders, status offenders, or Children in Need of Services (CHINS). The program is similar to the High Adventures above, however has more of a mentoring emphasis. Groups are limited to six youth and can include two to four adult mentors. In addition to the pre-trip training above, additional teaching components such as choices & consequences and personal responsibility are included. All equipment and transportation is included. Students need to provide their own food and personal clothing. Equipment, food, and transportation are included along with an experienced staff guide.
Camp, Camping, youth, outdoors
