Ascend Wilderness Experience’s Teen Internship Programs offers meaningful, hands-on opportunities for youth ready to step into leadership, service, and career exploration in the outdoors. Designed for motivated teens, these immersive experiences combine hard work, skill-building, and deep connection to the wild landscapes of the Klamath Mountains.
Our Trail Crew & Stewardship Internships provide valuable résumé-building experience while accomplishing essential backcountry projects under the guidance of Forest Service personnel and Ascend Wilderness Guides. Interns participate in real-world land and trail restoration work such as brush removal, trail retreading, logouts, drainage improvement, and post-fire restoration. These trips require teamwork, resilience, and a positive attitude, as days are dedicated to meaningful stewardship in remote wilderness settings. Participants receive a stipend in recognition of their commitment and contributions, while gaining practical skills for careers in outdoor recreation, conservation, and land management.
Ascend also offers a Field Science Internship for teens interested in environmental science pathways. Interns work alongside professional biologists, restoration specialists, entomologists, and botanists to study the plants and wildlife of the region. Youth gain hands-on field research experience while learning about ecosystem restoration and species recovery.
Stewardship is at the heart of every internship. Due to group size limitations, we ask participants to fully commit, communicate with staff, and engage wholeheartedly in the work and the group experience. These internships build confidence, responsibility, and a strong foundation for future leadership in caring for our public lands.