If you’re a parent of a tween or teen, check out The YMCA’s BOLD & GOLD excursion program. BOLD & GOLD takes kids on a journey of self discovery and empowerment that teaches teaches them how to take on challenges on the trail and in all areas of life.

Using wilderness spaces in the Midwest as a classroom, small groups of youth (8-10 participants) build community and develop leadership, collaboration, and communication skills as they work together to successfully navigate the challenges of multi-day backcountry trips. Youth return from our BOLD & GOLD trips knowing the confidence, strength and friendships they developed will help them meet any challenge on the trail, in the classroom or at home in their communities.

Each camp excursion ranges from $400 to $760 per person and covers expenses for a 4 day trip. The YMCA provides all group camping gear (tents, cooking equipment, etc). A packing list is provided to each participant to ensure they are prepared for the adventure.

Indiana Dunes: July 10th – 13th AGES 12 to 16

The Indiana Dunes trip is an introductory trip for youth that desire more camping experience before taking on the challenge of one of our 5-day backpacking expeditions, or who simply want to enjoy all that Lake Michigan has to offer. This 4-day trip takes place in Indiana Dunes National Park, where youth will camp at an established group campground and spend their days hiking dunes and taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. This adventure gives youth the chance to build confidence, step out of their comfort zone, and explore the natural wonders of wilderness spaces, while giving campers a chance to disconnect from technology and connect with those around them. (Cost: $400)

North Manitou: July 10th – 14th AGES 14 to 17

Explore the shorelines of Lake Michigan during a 5-day backpacking adventure to North Manitou Island within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Youth spend the first night on the mainland of Sleeping Bear Dunes, then embark on a 1.5 hour ferry ride across Lake Michigan, spend the remaining nights sleeping in tents underneath stars and their days exploring trails along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. This adventure gives youth the chance to build confidence, step out of their comfort zone, and explore the natural wonders of Michigan, while giving campers a chance to disconnect from technology and connect with those around them. (Cost: $760)

Pictured Rocks: July 17th – 21st AGES 14 to 17

Experience the beauty of Lake Superior during a 5-day backpacking adventure at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Youth will spend their days hiking between 2-8 miles each day along Lake Superior’s shoreline and their nights sleeping in tents underneath stars and forest canopies. This adventure gives youth the chance to build confidence, step out of their comfort zone, and explore the natural wonders of the UP, as well as to disconnect from technology and connect with those around them. (Cost: $650)

Au Sable River Canoe: July 31st – August 4th AGES 14 to 17

Experience the beauty of the Au Sable river on this 5-day, 4-night canoing adventure. After meeting in Detroit and packing gear, youth will spend the first night at YMCA Camp Nissokone. The following morning youth depart from camp and spend 4 days paddling along the Au Sable river, visiting scenic sights along the way, camping at campsites along the river’s edge. This adventure gives youth the chance to build confidence, step out of their comfort zone, and explore the natural wonders of Michigan, while giving campers a chance to disconnect from technology and connect with those around them. (Cost: $640)

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