Olympia Explorers Ages 10–12

Youth aged 10–12 are invited to join a community of other outdoor enthusiasts. No experience or skills needed to join; we will teach all the skills necessary to participate in activities. The group meets once a month in Olympia to learn skills, and again for a weekend outing each month.

YOUTH-DRIVEN, ADULT-GUIDED

Explorers is a year-round outdoor adventure program for youth aged 10-12 looking to learn new outdoor skills and make lasting friendships with fellow adventurers. This program will allow youth to develop skills in a variety of setting as activities rotate with the seasons and include outings for all interests. Activities include hiking, rock climbing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow caving, camping, and exploring in just about any capacity! This is a great opportunity for you to get outside with your child!

Trips, Skills, and Meetings

TRIPS:

Trips are planned and led by Mountaineers staff, leader volunteers, and parents and typically happen one weekend per month from October to June. These trips range from single-day trips like hikes, snowshoes, and climbs, to backpacking and car camping trips. Some trips have a maximum capacity, while others are open to as many youth and adults as want to attend. Parents are welcomed on trips (we'd like a minimum of 2 parent chaperones), but not required.

MEETINGS:

Students meet on a weeknight monthly in Olympia to learn about various outdoor topics ranging from Leave No Trace to navigation to conservation and more. These meetings are also used for trip planning and Q&A.

SKILLS:

Students are offered the opportunity to learn and build on their skills, teaching them climbing skills such as belaying and rappelling, to first aid, conservation, and avalanche awareness.

View Calendar

GEAR

Outdoor equipment can almost always be borrowed from The Mountaineers when given enough notice (usually 1–2 weeks prior to trip). If you need gear, please contact the trip leader once you are aware of this need and we will do our best to get you geared up.

MEMBERSHIP FEE

Explorers membership is $550 in total for the year. This membership fee covers: staff time, transportation costs, gear, camping fees and permits, and food for longer trips. In return, members gain a community of outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy spending time learning skills and getting outside together. As families grow through our programs, lifelong friendships are built. When graduates of our teen program come home from college, they meet up with other Mountaineers friends to go hiking, backpacking, and climbing. This program is just the beginning.

BECOME INVOLVED

SIGN UP FOR A FAMILY MEMBERSHIP

To get involved, you'll need to sign up for a Family Membership with us. Once you have created your new account, add your kids to your account by clicking on the "Membership" tab and adding a family member. Here is an FAQ on that process.

ENROLL IN explorers

In order to build a cohesive community, registration is available in September and again in January (if space is available)

For questions, email beckyn@mountaineers.org

We looking forward to a great season!