MOUNTAINS TO SEA TRIP

WHY:

Our teen years are inundated with messages about who and how we’re supposed to be. It becomes hard, sometimes near impossible, to hear our inner voice or to know where to turn to for good life advice.

Nothing clears the mind and connects us with our hearts like the natural world.

Earth is our most honest friend, and if we slow down enough to listen to the lessons that surround us, we have everything we need to hear to be strong, authentic, compassionate people.

And at a time when teens are seeking to grow in their independence, responsibility, and abilities, nothing quite helps us stand so tall as spending a week taking care of all your needs just with the pack on your back, the world around you, and your own two hands. Our sense of empowerment and ability can grow leaps and bounds.

WHAT:

This 6-day, 5-night backpacking trip starts at Big Basin Headquarters and follows rivers, redwoods and sandstone formations for 12 miles *mostly* downhill, all the way to the sea! On the 5th day we play at the beach before heading to Bloom Farm in Pescadero, CA where we’ll enjoy a final night of camping before a welcome ceremony for the caregivers on the morning of day 6.

WHO:

For teens who identify as female, trans, and gender-nonconforming and are entering grades 7-10

These trips are for teens who are ready to step out, grow your comfort zone, meet new like-minded friends, seek out new experiences, discover new parts of yourself and experience the magic of the natural world that is always waiting for you. *Includes (cis, trans, AFAB gender expansive)