Our instructors are experienced outdoor educators with an extensive background working in the outdoors. All instructors are also trained in wilderness medicine. Each instructor team consists of at least one wilderness first responder with the supporting instructors holding certifications in wilderness first aid.

Participants must be age 8 or older. Anyone under 18 must attend with an adult.

There are 10 participants max on each program with 2 instructors.

Having the right gear for your adventure will make your experience more enjoyable. Packing lists will be provided in advance, and the Y will provide all technical and group gear. Your instructors will help check all your gear at the start of the program. They may ask you not to bring something that you’ve packed or provide you with an alternative to what you have brought. This is done for efficiency and to ensure you have the appropriate gear. If you have questions about gear, please contact our outdoor team at (206) 382-5009 or campinfo@seattleymca.org.

Single-day outdoor activities are introductory and are appropriate for participants who have never been on this type of adventure before. Participants new to this type of adventure can be successful if they are very motivated, open to learning new skills, willing to work closely as a team, and are able to demonstrate leadership skills. You do not need to have any outdoor experience to participate, and you do not need to be an athlete. Being in shape and physically active before you arrive is helpful but is not required on introductory experiences. Come prepared to meet new people, try new things, have fun, and challenge yourself.

The YMCA of Greater Seattle is a permit holder for a range of public lands, including local, state, and national parks. Each adventure travels to a different location, depending on the activity. Examples include the Mercer Slough Nature Park, Olallie State Park, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, and more! All groups must operate within the rules of the permits.

Outdoor adventures start and end at local YMCA facilities, which will have restrooms available. Many trailheads will also have restroom facilities that can be used before embarking on the adventure. During the trip, participants will be instructed on the art of “Leave No Trace” outdoor bathroom etiquette in the backcountry. All instructors are trained in “Leave No Trace” and will have the necessary supplies to support participants.

This refers to a set of outdoor ethics promoting conservation in the outdoors. It is built on seven principles:

•    Plan ahead and prepare
•    Travel and camp on durable surfaces
•    Dispose of waste properly
•    Leave what you find
•    Minimize campfire impacts
•    Respect wildlife
•    Be considerate of other visitors 

While on a Y adventure, we expect every participant to uphold and practice the "Leave No Trace" principles.
 

Yes, please pack a non-perishable lunch and snacks, and bring water.

The safety of our participants is our top priority. Travel in the outdoors always involves risk. The most important thing we do to mitigate risk in our programs is to be certain our instructors follow our safety policies and practices. Trip protocols have been reviewed by our Risk Management Advisory Board, which includes Y staff and industry leaders. In the event there is an emergency, we have developed an extensive Emergency Action Plan (EAP) that includes communication with Land Managers, such as the National Park Service, and provides support for all of our groups out in the field. All office staff and instructors have been trained in the EAP. Instructors are all certified in CPR and Wilderness First Aid, and some have additional Wilderness First Responder training. Instructors are the first to provide emergency care and will provide initial medical care to the level of their training. Our office has medical staff on-call to provide further assistance when necessary.

Lost & Found
The YMCA of Greater Seattle is not responsible for any lost, damaged, or stolen items. Please label all belongings. We will attempt to reunite lost items with owners if items are labeled.

Questions?
Contact our Camping & Outdoor Leadership admissions team at campinfo@seattleymca.org or call (206) 382-5009.