A structured, staff-led 6-day backpacking program for 11–13 year-olds that moves from Lake Crescent’s campground to coastal wilderness campsites such as Chilean Memorial, Norwegian Memorial and Cape Alava. It combines skill-building with daily miles on forest trails and beach traverses.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out where forest meets water: cedars lean over a glassy Lake Crescent while guides tighten packs and a cool salt breeze is already pulling at the camp tarp. Over six days, a group of 11–13 year-olds move between alpine lakes, mossy meadows, and stretches of open beach — each day the landscape shifts and the terrain invites a different kind of attention.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 days (approx. 6–8 hours of activity per day including breaks)
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness: comfortable walking several miles with a light daypack and able to handle stairs and uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
The Olympic Peninsula is home to Coast Salish tribes and contains coastal memorials to shipwrecks; camps named Chilean and Norwegian recall maritime incidents along these shores.
Conservation
This program emphasizes Leave No Trace practices; coastal tidepools and fragile dune grasses are particularly sensitive so camps limit impact and campers are taught sustainable habits.
Reserve your spot on the 6-Day Young Adventurers Summer Camp in Olympic National Park today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Check tide tables before beach days
Many coastal sections are only safe at certain tides — guides schedule hiking around low tides, but parents should understand timing implications for pick-up.
Bring broken-in waterproof boots
Trails range from wet roots to packed sand; footwear that grips and dries quickly prevents blisters and cold feet.
Pack layers and a waterproof shell
Summer can still bring rain and wind on the peninsula; synthetic mid-layers and a rain jacket are indispensable.
Hydrate and carry snacks
Daily miles and salt air increase fatigue — regular sipping and calorie-dense snacks keep energy steady.
Daypack (20–35L)
Carries water, snacks, rain layer and personal items for daily hikes.
summer
Waterproof hiking boots
Stable, grippy footwear for roots, rocky beaches and wet conditions.
summer
Lightweight rain jacket
Protects against Pacific drizzle and wind on exposed coastal sections.
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Headlamp with extra batteries
Useful for early starts, night activities at camp, and evening chores.
summer