Youth Leadership Adventures
The priority application deadline was May 2, 2024. However, you can still add yourself to the waitlist! Many students each year get placed on a trip from the waitlist, so if you are interested you should still apply.
Add yourself to the waitlist for 2024 YLA trips:
If you applied, you will hear back from us by May 10th whether you have a confirmed spot or you have been placed on the waitlist.
Program Details
Youth Leadership Adventures are for high school students who want to explore the outdoors, build a fun and inclusive community with peers, discover leadership strengths, and envision a hopeful and sustainable future.
READ A TRIP REPORT FROM 2022 YOUTH LEADERSHIP ADVENTURES HIKING PARK BUTTE TO MAZAMA CAMP
Our 5 and 8 day backcountry trips connect 9th-12th grade students to the natural world while engaging in conversation about climate change and climate solutions. In partnership with North Cascades National Park and Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, groups of participants canoe, backpack, camp and complete stewardship projects in the North Cascades.
Trips are designed for students who have no prior outdoor experience; all gear, food, and transportation from Skagit and Whatcom counties are provided. No experience is necessary and scholarships are available!
2024 Program Dates
YLA 1: June 26 - 30 (5-day canoe and hiking trip)
YLA 2: June 30 - July 7 (8-day canoe trip)
YLA 3: July 7 - 14 (8-day canoe trip)
YLA 4: July 14 - 21 (8-day canoe trip)
YLA 5: July 21 - 25 (5-day canoe trip)
YLA 6: July 31 - August 4 (5-day backpack trip)
YLA 7: August 4 - 11 (8-day canoe & backpack trip)
YLA 8: August 11 - 18 (8-day backpack trip)
YLA 9: August 18 - 25 (8-day backpack trip)
Why participate?
- Canoe and backpack in the North Cascades
- Meet new people and have fun
- Swim in beautiful lakes and stargaze at clear night skies
- Learn about the plants, animals and people in the North Cascades ecosystem
- Normalize conversations about climate change and environmental justice, building visions of a hopeful, just and sustainable future
- Earn community service hours and enhance your resume and college application
- Build community and leadership skills
Following the trip, alums have the opportunity to sign up for the Youth for the Environment and People (YEP!) fall after-school program, attend alum events, receive year-round mentorship, and engage in local stewardship opportunities.
