Youth Leadership Adventures

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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.

APPLY FOR YLA 2024!

¡Aplicar para YLA 2024!

Application deadline is May 2, 2024. If you apply, 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

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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

APPLY FOR YLA 2024!

¡Aplicar para YLA 2024!