Call to Adventure I

The first step on the Hero's Journey, this program inspires and excites boys and girls to explore the outside world.

Joseph Campbell described the beginning of the Hero's Journey as a Call to Adventure -- a calls that beckons each of us toward an experience that extends us beyond our level of comfort and current understanding. Our Call to Adventure program, designed for boys and girls ages 10-12, is a fun, exciting, and significant first step on their own Hero’s journey.

The adventure begins with hiking through the woods in the beautiful Olympic National Park, where environmental stewardship is a focus of learning. Participants will also take part in wilderness cooking, trail safety and experience the joy of sleeping under the open sky. Camping and hiking on the peninsula’s beaches is another feature of this journey; where participants will explore tide pools, play in the surf and share stories around the campfire. 

Under the guidance and encouragement of our experienced mentors, participants learn to cultivate a variety of interpersonal and wilderness skills in a challenging, yet supportive environment.

Leadership, responsibility, communication—these are just some of the skills that are called forth and developed to bring a sense of community into the practical tasks, in the sharing circles around the fire, and in the fun and joy of playing together.

Groups experience a sense of accomplishment in answering the Call to Adventure. As a result, young people will come away with resources that will aid them in their day to day lives as they enter the mysteries of adolescence.

Adventurers take a break during a day hike to enjoy a small waterfall.

Outcomes of the Call to Adventure Working Cooperatively Creative Self Expression Wilderness Living and Hiking Skills Natural History of the Olympic Peninsula Physical Strength and Determination Healthy Communication and Problem Solving with a Group Self-Reflection Skills Improved Self-Confidence Leadership Skills

Sample Itinerary Days One to Three: Participants will meet at our basecamp in preparation for their trip -- they will say goodbye to their families and learn how to pack their bags one final time before heading to the Olympic Peninsula. Traveling to the peninsula includes a short ferry ride and a stop at the National Park headquarters. Then it is to the trail! Participants embark on a backpacking adventure along the Washington Coast, setting up camps as they go. During this time they will learn backpacking and wilderness skills, community skills, get comfortable in the great outdoors, and have a lot of fun playing games and hanging out around the campfire.

Participants play a blind-folded awareness sensory game.

Days Four to Seven: Participants will continue their explorations, deepen their connections to the natural world, spend time alone in nature, and participate in spontaneous art projects and talking circles. Participants will return to basecamp with plenty of fun stories to share with their families.

Financial aid may be available. Please visit our Scholarships page for more information.