1. Q: How much experience do I need?
A: None! We will provide all the necessary training, instruction and equipment. Mountain Trail Monitors will demand a moderate level of physical activity. Participants must be able to carry a large backpack of personal gear to campsite. Days frequently involve hiking several miles in a day with plenty of breaks.
2.Q: Who will be leading me?
A. TMI’s professional instructors are dedicated, energetic, and talented leaders experienced in working with youth. All of our instructors are certified as Wilderness First Responders, and have strong backcountry skills. They come from a wide variety of backgrounds and life experiences and are committed to providing youth with a fun and educational excursion in the outdoors while maximizing the safety of all participants.
3. Q. Who signs up for these adventures?
A. Teens like you sign up because they love being outside, challenging themselves in new ways, meeting new friends, and learning interesting things about the places they visit.
4. Q: What clothing should I wear and what gear should I bring?
A: Sturdy boots are an absolute must for this program, leather boots are preferred but any comfortable hiking boot will do. Packing the right clothing is pretty straightforward. Choose clothing based on the idea that synthetics and wools will keep you warm even when wet, while cotton tends to hold moisture and dirt. When wet, cotton jeans, sweatshirts, pants and socks are difficult to dry and rapidly draw body heat away rather than provide insulation. While we realize cotton clothing is comfortable; wool, fleece, pile, and other synthetic and Under Armor-like shirts, pants and pullovers are more functional for our multi-day camping and outdoor activities. Anywhere you read wool in the following list, a synthetic alternative is acceptable.
We highly encourage you to utilize things your already own rather than purchasing new equipment. If you find yourself in need, thrift stores are fantastic resources for inexpensive clothing. Larger chain stores also feature many inexpensive synthetic clothing options.
Backpacks, sleeping bags and tents will be provided. If you have a large external or internal frame backpack, sleeping bag or waterproof tent you wish to bring with feel free to do so.
** See Packing List
5. Q: Can I bring my own tools and gear?
A: Bringing your own tools is not necessary. All participants will be trained on the equipment provided.
Backpacks, sleeping bags and tents will be provided. If you have a large external or internal frame backpack, sleeping bag or waterproof tent you wish to bring with feel free to do so.
6. Q: Do you still work in the rain?
A: Mountain Trail Monitors will continue in rain or shine. Because of this it is very important to bring adequate protection from the elements. The Mountain Institute keeps a limited amount of extra warm clothing and rain gear on hand. Let us know upon arrival what your gear needs are. In case of an emergency situation inclement weather protocol will be followed, and if necessary the group will be evacuated from the field.
7. Q: Can I leave early or arrive late?
A: Ideally no, we would rather each person participate in the program from start to finish. We do understand if this is not possible and may be able to work a specific plan out for you. Let us know your schedule in advance and we will try to work something out.
8. Q: Should I sign up with a friend, group or alone?
A: You are more than welcome to sign up with a friend. If you have interested friends make sure to sign up for the same week as one another. Some participants come without a friend and look forward to making new ones, which happens quickly on our trips. Either way, we strive to create a community of people on each trip where there are no cliques or exclusions. If you and a friend do come, we know that you will both have the chance to integrate with the entire group and partake in the fun of getting to know new people. If you are a member of a youth organization and are able to recruit enough participants to fill a week (10-15 people) we are more than happy to try to accomodate you. Make sure to sign up as soon as possible to lock down a week!
9. Q: What is the latest date I can sign up?
A: Enrollment is on a first come, first served basis. The earlier you reserve a spot the better. Week availability will be updated on the website regularly.
10. Q: I am under 13 years of age, can I still participate?
A: If you are able to recruit enough participants to fill a week (10-15 people) in your age group we may be able to work something out, but ideally we are looking for volunteers between the ages of 13 and 17. Keep in mind, this program will continue for the next few years. If you are under the age of 13 now, try us again in the future!
11. What is expected of participants on the outing?
A. Participants are expected to keep a positive attitude, respect the instructors and other group members, take responsibility for their personal belongings and group equipment, be supportive and inclusive of fellow participants, try new activities and foods, make good decisions about personal safety, and follow the Mountain Trail Monitors policies. Participants are also expected to help out with daily camp chores. On the first day of the trip, instructors cover expectations of participants and participants also have a chance to share what they expect.
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