Summer Camp - Teen Backpacking

Necklace valley is a hidden gem of cool alpine lakes to reward the hearty hikers who make the trek! No prior backpacking experience is required, but campers should be comfortable with the physical demands of the mileage listed below. This camp is open to campers ages 14 to 17 and includes transportation, food, and group gear. Campers are expected to carry their personal gear and some of the group gear. 

DAY ONE: 4.5 MILES, 600FT ELEVATION

Campers will arrive at the Seattle Program Center on Thursday morning at 9am. After introductions, a gear check, and a group meeting, we will load the cars and hit the road! We will hike just under 5 miles to our first camp on the East Fork Foss River. We'll spend the evening making dinner, playing games, and hanging out at camp.

DAY TWO: 3.5 MILES, 2,500FT ELEVATION

After eating breakfast and breaking camp, we will climb from the river up into the Necklace Valley alpine zone. The views will make our efforts worthwhile! We'll make our camp at the sparkling Jade and Emerald Lakes. 

DAY THREE: DAY HIKE

We'll swap our heavy packs for light day packs and spend the day exploring this granite wonderland. Options abound for various lakes to take a dip in and rocks to scramble across. When the group has had enough exploring for the day, we'll head back to our camp at Jade and Emerald lakes and relax. The field staff will use their discretion, and the input from the group, to plan this day.

DAY FOUR: 8 MILES, 600FT ELEVATION

On our last day, we will say goodbye to our alpine home and make the descent out to the trailhead. We will arrive back at the Seattle Program Center by 3:30pm.

LOGISTICS:

• Hike Totals: 16+ miles, 3,700+ ft elevation
• Registration opens February 1st
• Drop off: 9am on Tuesday
• Pick up: 3:30pm on Friday
• Detailed packing list will be sent out prior to camp
• Trip location and itinerary subject to change

ANY QUESTIONS?

Contact Devon Schoos at devons@mountaineers.org.