Christine Kler
Leslie Gobel
For many youth, nature is a realm of endless possibilities. Every summer, Mountaineers Youth Programs embrace the magic of nature with Lodge Camps, a unique outdoor experience for campers ages 9-17 held at one of our three mountain lodges. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, Lodge Camps offer immersive opportunities for adventure, personal growth, and connection to the natural world.
Our lodges are more than just buildings — they’re hubs of activity and community where campers learn new skills and form lasting friendships. At the lodges, campers can step away from screens and modern distractions to make lasting memories in some of the most pristine landscapes available. By reconnecting with the natural world under the guidance of Mountaineers staff and volunteers, campers are empowered to build confidence, develop problem-solving skills, and discover their capabilities.
Let’s take a closer look at our Lodge Camps, how they bring young people closer to nature, and what’s on the horizon for summer 2025.
Campers returning to Stevens Lodge after an afternoon playing games at the Stevens Pass Ski Area. Photo courtesy of Leslie Gobel.
Unbeatable access to outdoor spaces
Lodge Camp participants experience unbeatable access to expansive outdoor spaces. From towering mountain ranges to crystal-clear lakes and rivers, the variety of landscapes offer challenges and rewards for every interest and skill level.
One standout feature of Lodge Camp is its immersive nature. Away from the routine of home, these multi-day experiences allow campers to truly unplug and engage in the natural world. Campers wake up surrounded by towering trees in crisp morning air with forest sounds providing a peaceful yet exhilarating start to each day.
During camp, various activities are planned to safely stretch participants’ abilities and skillsets. Our camp team carefully plans each activity to maximize campers’ engagement with the natural environment, offering both physical challenges and moments of tranquility. This balanced approach is key to helping campers build a sense of connection and respect for the outdoors, while also forging new friendships within our lodge community.
Take Stevens Lodge, for example, where on any given day campers might raft the Skykomish River, hike nearby trails, climb in Index and Leavenworth, or wade in Lake Wenatchee. The thrilling rapids and breathtaking scenery of the Skykomish River teach campers the value of teamwork, communication, and respecting the power of nature. The numerous trails surrounding the lodge provide opportunities to improve physical fitness and resilience. The nearby climbing in Index and Leavenworth, with routes for beginners and experienced climbers, allows campers to test their strength and determination. And the calm waters of Lake Wenatchee provide the perfect spot for campers to cool off and bond with peers.
Campers enjoying a lunch break during a hike to Lake Valhalla. Photo courtesy of Lucy Cowden.
Feedback from campers and instructors
Don’t just take it from us – campers and instructors alike had great experiences in summer 2024.
One high school camper who attended Stevens Lodge Camp told us, with immense enthusiasm, that she had “the best experience” and was happy to have had a safe environment where she could partake in her “personal favorite activities,” which were rafting and afternoon free time with friends in the Stevens Pass Ski Area. Another participant enjoyed finding community and stepping outside their comfort zone, advising the next round of campers to do the same. “Try and make friends to share the experience with,” they said, “and don't be nervous for any of the activities, because I can guarantee that you'll have fun afterward.”
Upon completion of the summer season, we also received positive feedback from our Lodge Camp instructors. One instructor found joy in the variety of activities offered throughout summer, saying “All the activities were great. It's so fun to watch kids try something new... It was fun for me too, to go river rafting as part of my job!” Another instructor enjoyed the lake days, which “were such a hit for all campers,” and had particularly fond memories of a fun day at Lake Wenatchee, recalling “We had all bonded by that point, and the weather turned out so perfect for swimming.”
Register for summer 2025 Lodge Camps
As we look ahead to summer 2025, the excitement around Lodge Camps only grows. This year, our Lodge Camps will be held at Stevens Lodge, with themed activity weeks inspired by the different adventures that Stevens Pass provides. From Water Weeks focused on rafting and swimming to Trails and Rocks Weeks focused on hiking and rock climbing, there’s something for everyone. Campers will also get the chance to learn more about a variety of outdoor topics such as Leave No Trace, navigation, trail etiquette, local plant and animal species, and more. No matter the week of camp, fun-filled days, beautiful views, and new friendships are guaranteed.
Registration for summer 2025 Lodge Camps is now open. Spaces fill quickly, so don’t miss the chance to give your child the adventure of a lifetime.
To secure a spot, visit the Seattle Overnight Camps page on The Mountaineers website, review available camp dates, and complete the online registration form. If you have any questions or need assistance, the camp team is available to help. Email summercamp@mountaineers.org for more information.
Scholarships are available for those in need, so don’t hesitate to apply if finances are a barrier to participation. Learn more about scholarships by visiting mountaineers.org/scholarships.
This article originally appeared in our spring 2025 issue of Mountaineer magazine. To view the original article in magazine form and read more stories from our publication, visit our magazine archive.
