5-day Backpacking Trip (Ages 14-18)

This 5-day backpacking excursion will take place in the Trinity Alps Wilderness. Everything necessary will be provided by Ascend including pack mule support to help carry equipment and some camping gear. Teens will receive a stipend for this work experience.

• Teen Internship Field Science Trip – Ascend’s Field Science Trip with our Internship Program, is an opportunity for teens to be in the field with professors from Cal Poly Humboldt University, learning how to properly take samples of important ecological areas to be used to analyze a history of watershed contaminates and climate change. Youth will also work with botanists to learn how to collect and study plant specimens, which will be used in the Cal Poly Humboldt labs to evaluate the regional biodiversity, and build a greater understanding about fire resiliency. Youth will also work with Cal Poly Humboldt geologists at Emerald Lake taking lake core sediment samples in order for scientists to analyze watershed contaminates and effects of climate change.
• Teen Wilderness Career Trip – The Ascend Wilderness Experience’s Teen Wilderness Career Pathway trip is an immersive 5-day adventure designed to help teens explore and pursue careers in wilderness and outdoor education. This hands-on program combines outdoor skills training with career exploration, providing participants with the opportunity to learn from experienced guides, environmental professionals, and outdoor educators. Teens will engage in activities like leadership development, environmental stewardship, and team-building exercises, all while gaining insight into various career paths in the outdoor industry. By the end of the trip, participants will not only have enhanced their personal skills but also have a clearer understanding of the diverse opportunities available in wilderness and environmental careers. This program is perfect for teens who have a passion for the outdoors and are considering a future in the field of wilderness education, outdoor leadership, or environmental sciences.

7-day Backpacking Trips (Ages 14-18)

This trip is devoted to rehabilitating various trail systems in the Trinity Alps Wilderness. Participants on this trip will learn valuable skills and trail-building techniques, especially if they have an interest in outdoor recreation career paths. Teens leave the experience with a certificate for their efforts, an appreciation stipend for their hard work, and life-long memories of an unforgettable week in one of the most sought-out wilderness areas in the state.

• Teen Stewardship Work Experience Trip – This trip offers valuable resume and skill building work experience and also serves the community and the wilderness by accomplishing important tasks under the leadership of Forest Service personnel and an Ascend Wilderness Guide. Participants should expect to work hard during days devoted to stewardship activities and will receive a stipend for their efforts. Stewardship on the trip will include activities such as removing brush and digging. Participants get to explore alpine terrain, learn about the environment, gain life and work skills using equipment. (rated Moderate-Difficult)

Due to group size limitations in the Trinity Alps, availability is limited per trip. Please be sure to communicate with staff and commit to your trip. It is extremely difficult to fill last minute cancellations. We also offer all-ages trips for families that prefer to hike together.