What Now America

In the first annual girls backpacking trip with WNA, youth experienced fascinating landscapes and challenged themselves, building strength and community. After the trip, the youth were excited to share their stories, and displayed expert knowledge of backpacking skills. In collaboration with Big City Mountaineers, youth from the program were able to visit many natural wonders, including Lillian Lake and the Fernandez Trail.

The backpacking participants described the many differences between the outdoors and their homes, sharing the perks of being immersed in nature, and the survival skills learnt in the wilderness. The dazzling beauty of the night sky in unpolluted air was a highlight, as the youth observed the moon and individual stars. Lillian Lake impressed the youth with clear and sparkling blue waters, showing the natural landscape’s reflection, “like in movies”, as described by one of the trip participants. The hikers also ran across a number of different animals, including marmots, chipmunks, and an impressive young buck. In addition, they showed great resourcefulness in dealing with pests like flies, and adapting to weather conditions.  

Speaking to the youth about the backpacking trip illustrated the many ways this experience will memorable for years to come. Descriptions of delicious-sounding food cooked over camp stoves, singing around the campfire, and team activities like outdoor sports absorbed participants in the conversation about the trip. The trip fostered appreciation of nature, as participants pointed out the variety of trees and plants seen, as well as awe-inspiring views. An image of sleeping under the stars at a campground the last day was shared, illustrating the relaxing, fresh-air environment.  

Along with offering an immersive experience in nature, the trip also gave the youth an opportunity to personally challenge themselves, both by carrying the equipment to camp, and building the skills to camp in a wilderness environment. The youth expressed that carrying the backpack was one of the most difficult parts of the trip, but also emphasized that the task got easier, as each person built their strength. Learning outdoor skills, such as filtering water, and how to set up a clear tent space, was a point of pride for the youth. The trip gave the youth an inspiring opportunity: a personal experience with nature, while receiving guidance and support from each other and the adults.