An Inside Look at Frost Valley’s Adirondack High Peaks Adventure Trip

03/28/2019

In order to give campers and parents an inside look at Frost Valley’s Adirondack High Peaks Adventure Trip, Adventure Director Zach Eigenbrodt answered some questions parents and campers might have about the trip.

1. Can you describe the campers this trip would be well suited for?

“The trip is for high schoolers entering the ninth through twelfth grade. The Adirondack High Peaks Adventure trip is a great opportunity for campers who are looking to take the next step in becoming an outdoor leader because they will each take turns being responsible for everyone in the group while out in the woods. It’s ideal for campers who are extremely passionate about being in nature and have a willingness to rough it in the wilderness. Campers should also have a high level of endurance for hiking peaks and covering rough terrain.”

2. What prior experience or approval is necessary to register for this trip?

“Some prior experience is recommended for this trip either on another Frost Valley Adventure Trip or a similar experience. Campers should also have a strong desire to be in the wilderness and have a primitive camping experience. If you are unsure if this trip is a good fit for your camper, please email Zach at zeigenbrodt@frostvalley.org to set up a time to talk about it.”

3. Who will lead the trip? Can you speak about their qualifications/experience?

“There will be two returning Frost Valley trip leaders who have years of prior experience with our Adventure Trip Program. Our Frost Valley staff members have Wilderness First Responder certification, which is the premiere emergency medical training for leaders in remote areas. They also undergo a rigorous two-week training process at Frost Valley prior to leaving for the trip.”

4. Which trails will the campers will be on?

“Campers will hike and explore the Adirondack High Peaks Region of the High Peaks Wilderness Area. They will potentially hike Mount Marcy, which is the highest point in New York, with an elevation of 5,343 feet and Algonquin Peak, the second highest mountain in New York.”

5. What skills will they learn during the program?

“Campers will learn how to use a map and compass, how to pack a backpack, and back-country camping skills. They will also develop the self-confidence to hike over half of the Adirondack High Peaks, and valuable leadership skills. Each camper will have the opportunity to be the leader of the day, during which they are responsible for waking up the other campers, and making the majority of the decisions for the group with assistance from the trip leaders.”

6. Which Leave No Trace Seven Principles© will they learn?

“In order to create as little environmental impact as possible while on the trip or camping out, campers will learn the Leave No Trace Seven Principles© including: Plan Ahead and Prepare, Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces, Dispose of Waste Properly, Leave What You Find, Minimize Campfire Impacts, Respect Wildlife, and Be Considerate of Other Visitors.”

7. What kind of meals will the campers have during the trip?

“The campers will have breakfasts that include things like oatmeal, granola, and cereals. The campers will do a lot of snacking during the day to keep their energy up. They’ll have things like tortillas with soy nut butter and granola bars. Dinner will include hot meals that include pasta and other grains, vegetables, bean burritos, and soups.”

8. What other activities will the campers participate in outside of hiking?

“Campers will enjoy beautiful vistas and learn all about alpine vegetation from Summit Stewards from the Adirondack Mountain Club. The tip will be full of opportunities to develop interpersonal skills as the campers learn to rely on each other and work as a team. There will be journaling and time for self-reflection in this serene and majestic environment.”

9. Is there anything you’d like campers to know about the Adirondack High Peaks Adventure Trip?

“This trip will give campers a once in a lifetime opportunity to discover the pristine beauty of the Adirondacks and hike some of the tallest peaks in New York. They will see spectacular views, learn about the Adirondacks, and form a strong bond with both nature and their fellow campers. Campers will be challenged to step out of their comfort zones, which will allow them discover their strength and resilience. It will grow their confidence at a critical time in their teen years, which could have a positive impact on their lives for years to come.

10. If a camper doesn’t meet the age or experience requirements for the Adirondack High Peaks Adventure Trip, what other trips would you recommend?

“If a camper didn’t meet the age requirements or is a new adventurer, I would recommend the Adirondack Hike and Climb Adventure Trip, the Adirondack Paddler Adventure Trip, or the new All-Female Leadership Trips.

Visit our Advanced Adventure Trips page to view the Adirondack High Peaks trip itinerary and packing list. Call 845-985-2291 for more information or register online.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Frost Valley YMCA

Frost Valley YMCA is a 5,500-acre, year-round camp - There's something for everyone here in the Valley. From group and family retreats to overnight camps to horse camps to teambuilding, we've got you covered. School groups love taking a three-night field trip to explore the natural world and learn about the environment and their classmates. Family weekends are the perfect getaway for the young and the young at heart. Teambuilding retreats afford corporate, collegiate, religious, and other groups the opportunity to challenge themselves and effectively work toward common goals. In the summertime we're where kids and teens gain independence, explore the world, and make lifelong friends through various camps such as traditional sleepaway camp, farm camp, horse camp, adventure trips, survival camp, and day camp. Call (845)985-2291 or email info@frostvalley.org to learn more today!