Backpack in the North Cascades, known as the American Alps, on this classic two week mountain adventure for younger teens.  

Youth Courses

We know that younger teens represent a diverse group. For some students, Outward Bound is their first time away from home; others are veteran travelers who have attended Outward Bound before. We plan Youth courses to set students up for success no matter where they are starting on the spectrum of wilderness experience. The mental social and physical challenges they will encounter are very real and meeting them is a very real accomplishment. Depending on the course area and activity that may mean base camp time to acclimatize, or a highly structured environment with clear expectations and a daily routine like chore rotations or Leader of the Day.

The Pasayten Wilderness, North Cascades, Washington is nicknamed the "American Alps," for the open cliff faces and deep glacially carved valleys that are characteristic of the European Alpine environment. This is the perfect setting for multi-day ridge traverses that capture alpine glow sunsets and sunrises over hundreds of unnamed peaks. The area is also known for its high mountain meadows peppered with abundant wild flowers: Lupines, Avalanche Lily, Alpine Thistle, Indian Paint Brush, Monks Hoods, Daisies, Asters, Foxgloves, Fire weed, and Columbines. Climbing in this same area is well known for a few of the "50 classic climbs" in North America reside here. The area is a remote region with very dramatic & rugged terrain, high exposure, and intense alpine views. Moderate daytime temperatures and cool nights characterize the climate during the summer.

Most backpacking sections include the opportunity for a peak attempt. Peak attempts are day-long enterprises often entailing pre-dawn starts. Peaks range in height from 11,000 to 12,000 feet. Peak attempts on this course do not typically require the use of technical gear. A one- or two-night solo provides an important break from the rigors of the expedition. You will not travel during this time and your instructors will check on you occasionally, but you will be mostly alone for the duration of your solo. Near the end of course, if you and your group have demonstrated the necessary leadership, team problem solving and wilderness living skills, you may be given the opportunity to travel without your instructors participating directly in decision-making. During your course, you may have the opportunity to participate in a trail work or other service project and we typically end our courses with a Final Challenge Event—an individual final physical push.