Pathfinders Ages 6–9

Pathfinders is a year round program designed for 6–9 year olds who are interested in spending time outdoors. 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

Pathfinders is a year-round outdoor adventure program for youth aged 6–9 and their parents who are 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, snowshoeing, snow caving, camping, and exploring in just about any capacity! This is a great opportunity for you to get outside with your child!

TYPICAL OUTINGS

TRIPS

Trips are planned and led by Mountaineers staff, leader volunteers, and parents and typically happen one weekend per month from Oct–June. These trips range from single-day trips like hikes, snowshoes, and climbs, 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/guardians are required to chaperone their youth and are responsible for managing them throughout the trip.

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 skill, teaching them climbing skills, first aid, conservation, avalanche awareness, and more.

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

Pathfinders membership is $540 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 Pathfinders

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

We looking forward to a great season!