Coming of Age for Girls

This journey of self-discovery builds confidence and clarity for emerging young women. 

"My daughter's Journey changed her in so many positive ways. She still talks of her Journey even after months have passed. She learned that it's okay to accept help from others and that she works well with other team members. She learned to value herself.” Program Parent

The Coming of Age Journey for Girls is a unique opportunity to celebrate and honor the changes of this time in a girl's life. Like thousands of women before her, she will be welcomed into the larger community with a fuller understanding of the creative and visionary power inherent in her gifts as a woman.

Developed over forty years of work with hundreds of individuals, this program helps young women enter adolescence with strength and self-confidence. Girls speak their truth and believe in their worth based on talents, skills and interests rather than on appearance, popularity or sexuality. Participants are physically, emotionally and spiritually stretched as they set out on a multi-day backpacking trip and 24-hour solo vigil. The journey gives young women an extraordinary opportunity to challenge themselves as they move beyond self-imposed limitations, take on greater responsibility, and work cooperatively with others.

Set in the forests, mountains, and waterways of Western Washington, this program is designed to empower participants to recognize and walk in the truth of their own spirit. Laughter, sweat, creativity, reflection, and new friendships all come together for those who are willing to discover more about themselves and their unique contributions to the world.

Family Participation

The initiate’s family plays an important role in The Coming of Age Journey. At the conclusion of each 3-week adventure, parents and guardians take part in a program of incorporation. During this weekend event, parents and young people alike will have the opportunity to see one another with new eyes. Together in this way, they breathe new life into existing relationships, and explore the possibilities of what it means to be a family in the 21st century, with a new family member who is no longer a girl, but a young woman. 

Outcomes of Coming of Age for Girls Improved self-confidence Group communication and problem solving skills Understanding and taking responsibility Ability to listen to intuition Creative self-expression Leadership and teamwork skills Improved physical strength and personal resolve Knowledge of natural history of Northwest terrain Low-impact camping techniques Understanding of a healthy and appropriate path to womanhood Completion of a transformative rite of passage

Example Itinerary Week 1: Coming of Age for Girls participants, their families (no younger siblings please!) and our staff participate in a send-off ceremony at the Journeys basecamp -- this happens concurrently with the Coming of Age for Boys send-off. This ceremony is followed, for participants, by intentional community building activities, a Ropes challenge course, and a 5- to 6-day backpacking trip in the Olympic National Park during which wilderness, leadership and teamwork skills will be taught and practiced.

Coming of Age for Girls participants at Sacred Groves.

Week 2: Participants will transfer to the Washington Coast in preparation for their 24-hour solo vigil after hiking in to a chosen beach and setting up camp. During this segment participants will be involved in expressive art projects, journaling and ceremony. After the 24-hour solo vigil is completed participants will hike back to the vehicles and transfer to Sacred Groves. 

Week 3: At Sacred Groves participants will celebrate their incredible Journey and the beginning of Young Womanhood. Everyone, including mentors and volunteers, will participate in Sweatlodge and Moonlodge Ceremonies. This section of the trip is focused on relaxation, art, conversations around becoming young women and celebration. Participants will then return to the Journeys basecamp for the two-day reincorporation weekend with their parents. 

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

Please help us spread the word about our fabulous adventures for youth! Download a flier about this program to share with your community. Post a copy in your favorite coffee shop, community center, grocery store, etc. Or email a copy to someone you know who may be interested in our programs.