Expedition Multi-Sport San Juan Mountains - 7th to 8th Grade - Expedition Camp

Campers of all levels will take to area crags to learn the in’s and outs of skillful scaling, including climbing techniques, equipment use and safety precautions.

Campers will get familiar with the equipment they need for backpacking—from compact cooking, cleaning and sleeping gear to camping basics like bear protocols and water treatment systems—learning how to set it all up, break it all down and pack it efficiently. They’ll spend each day’s hike with group equipment, food, and personal gear on their backs, experiencing the empowerment that comes with carrying everything they need for the week on their own. Campers should expect to carry an additional 10 – 25 lbs of food or group gear in addition to their personal equipment weight.

Campers will build core strength and good balance atop paddleboards as they play fun games, work on team building, learn proper paddle strokes, practice rescue techniques and maneuver their boards through area lakes.

Campers will learn to maintain a campsite, setting up and breaking down their equipment, keeping their space tidy and cooking their own meals in the backcountry which fosters independence and valuable skills they will use throughout their lives. They’ll play games during downtime and swap stories around the campfire, building deep, lasting friendships with their fellow expedition-mates.

As they explore and adventure, campers will practice important interpersonal skills like communication, problem solving and teamwork. They’ll gain experience leading as they guide the rest of their group on a hike, and may spend some time alone reflecting during a brief, structured “solo” experience (varies based on trip). They will also gain valuable skills using a map and compass. Coupled with their other adventures, these experiences push their comfort zones, build their confidence and give them a sense of independence that lasts well beyond the camp week.

Throughout the week, campers will practice important interpersonal skills like communication, problem solving and teamwork. Through games during downtime, stories around the campfire and time alone reflecting, they’ll build confidence and comfort within the group and as an individual.