Summer Backpacking Trips For Teens

Since 1983 Fieldguides has been bringing youth outside to promote a stronger sense of self, community, and connection to nature. Now more than ever, over a year into the pandemic, finding connections to the outside world proves critical to both our physical and mental health. In response Fieldguides is working hard to simultaneously provide access to meaningful outdoor experiences and to keep people and communities safe. We are pleased to offer backpacking programs this summer in the Trinity Alps, Russian, and Marble Wilderness and help youth reconnect with their peers and natural world. 

The Trips

The trips are 14 days in length and for youth between the ages of 13 and 17. Hikes begin at Carter Meadows Summit in the Klamath National Forest, travel 4-7 miles a day, and end at one of several nearby trailheads. Easy access to the Pacific Crest Trail provides an ideal entry into the area's pristine high-altitude lakes, unique limestone pinnacles and caves, and rich conifer forests, home to a number of endemic species. Trips in these unique wilderness areas with our experienced guides encourage participants to challenge themselves, build long lasting friendships, and create connections with the outdoors that will help them gain a stronger sense of self and a better understanding of the world they live in.
Hike Dates
Trip Details
June 26th -
​July 10th
Wilderness Leadership Training (CIT)
June 27th - 
​July 11th
Intermediate
4-7 miles/day
July 26th -
August 4th
Unavailable
Hike Dates
Trip Details
July 17th -
July 31st
Intermediate
4-7 miles/day
July 18th -
​August 1st
Intermediate
4-7 miles/day
August 7th -
​August 16th
Unavailable
Trip pricing: $2,000*
*Families may fill out a scholarship application and receive financial support.

What's provided and what you need

Fieldguides will provide all food and group gear needed for the hikes. We also have a limited supply of personal gear to loan to participants who need it. If there are items on our equipment list that you don't have please let us know and we will do our best to assist you. All loaned gear is cleaned and sanitized before being given to participants. There is no cost to use our gear. Families are responsible for getting their participant(s) to and from the trailheads located in Siskiyou County, California. If transportation is a limiting factor for your family please let us know and we will work to help you secure transportation. All participants must take a PCR COVID test if available and complete a 14 day at home pre-trip health screening prior to attending the program. 

Our Staff

Like with many things in life, it's all about the people. What sets Fieldguides apart is its amazing team of hike leaders. All our staff are well trained in wilderness living and backcountry skills, with knowledge of the local terrain, and have exceptional skills working with youth in the outdoors. Each hike will have a certified lifeguard and all staff are CPR and Wilderness First Aid certified, or higher. Equally important, they are engaging, caring, and fun individuals who take great joy in the work they do. Their enthusiasm sets the tone for all Fieldguides adventures. To learn a little bit more about them check out the link below.  
To learn about how FIELDGUIDES is managing the risks of operating trips for youth during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to view our policies, plans, and guidance from organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Camp Association, visit our FIELDGUIDES AND COVID page.
Questions? Contact us: FIELDGUIDES INC. (650)969-6325 info@fieldguides.org
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