Alaska Leadership
Ice Climbing, Multi-Day Backcountry Hike, Wildlife Encounters & Marine Life Exploration
Embark on a three-week Alaska wilderness adventure that builds outdoor skills, resilience, confidence, and leadership through glacier climbing, river rafting, and backcountry trekking.
Set out on a three-week odyssey through Alaska’s untamed wilderness, where every moment is a blend of adventure and personal growth. This immersive program is crafted to push student comfort zones and sharpen their wilderness expertise while navigating the awe-inspiring landscapes of the “Wild North.” From tackling the icy glaciers with crampons and an ice axe, navigating the thrilling rapids of Alaskan rivers, or trekking through the expansive Denali backcountry, each experience is a stepping stone to building resilience and confidence. Alongside mastering essential outdoor skills, students engage in dynamic leadership exercises that prepare them to face challenges head-on, both in the wild and beyond. This journey is discovering personal strengths and forging a deeper bond with the natural world. In the “Land of the Midnight Sun,” adventure and self-discovery await at every turn.
Length
21 DAYS
Want to Know More?
Curious what a Bold Earth Alaska trip looks like? Reach out to the office to get a feel for the types of activities, destinations, and experiences your adventure may include. Every trip is a little different — that’s part of the magic — but we can give you a great sense of what’s in store!
What You'll
experience
Everything You Need for Adventure
Preparing for your child’s adventure is an exciting journey! We’ve compiled all the essential information you need to ensure a smooth experience. From paperwork to packing tips, we’re here to help every step of the way.
What's Included & Not Included
Included:
- All meals and accommodations (20 nights)
- Professional instruction for all activities
- Technical gear and equipment
- Transportation during the trip
- Experienced Bold Earth trip leaders
- Entry fees to all parks and attractions
Not Included:
- Travel to/from Alaska (flights not included)
- Any personal souvenirs
What to Bring
- Personal clothing and toiletries
- Sleeping bag and personal camping gear
Accommodations
This is an entirely camping-based program. The group will camp in National Parks, State Parks, National Forest Service land, and private campsites. The majority of our campgrounds are “front-country,” meaning you will be close to the group’s van while camping. While at these front-country campgrounds you will have restroom facilities and water for drinking, cooking, and washing hands. Many of the campgrounds will also have showers on-site.
As a part of the adventure, you will also set out on a 5-day/4-night backpack in the Alaskan wilderness. For this section you will be carrying your personal gear (clothes, sleeping bag and pad) as well as all group gear (tents, cooking gear) needed for this component. These campsites will be “wilderness sites” and may not have running water or bathroom facilities.
Trip Preparation
Getting ready for your adventure is part of the excitement! Join a Bold Earth summer director in the spring for a webinar about preparing for our domestic trips. Your Trip Leader will call you two days prior to departure to help you feel confident and prepared for your Bold Earth experience.
You’ll receive a comprehensive preparation information that includes:
- Detailed packing lists specific to Alaska varied climates
- Physical preparation recommendations to get the most out of your adventure
- Travel information and arrival/departure logistics
- What to expect on your first day and throughout the trip
- Tips for going tech-free and making the most of your unplugged experience
Our goal is to make sure you feel excited and ready to dive into 21 days of epic Alaska adventure with your new Bold Earth crew!
...What Past Adventurers Say
What Past Adventurers Say
FAQS
Find answers to your questions about our adventure programs and get ready for an amazing experience!
Is the cost of airfare separate from program tuition?
All food, lodging, transportation, and activities are paid for with your trip tuition. Families are responsible for booking flights or arranging transportation for students to meet their leaders and other group members at the program’s arrival airport.
Where do we sleep?
This is an entirely camping-based program. The group will camp in National Parks, State Parks, National Forest Service land, and private campsites. The majority of our campgrounds are “front-country,” meaning you will be close to the group’s van while camping. While at these front-country campgrounds you will have restroom facilities and water for drinking, cooking, and washing hands. Many of the campgrounds will also have showers on-site.
As a part of the adventure, you will also set out on a 5-day/4-night backpack in the Alaskan wilderness. For this section you will be carrying your personal gear (clothes, sleeping bag and pad) as well as all group gear (tents, cooking gear) needed for this component. These campsites will be “wilderness sites” and may not have running water or bathroom facilities.
What kind of food do we eat?
Students are generally pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food on a Bold Earth program. The group will work together to create each unique menu and prepare the delicious meals throughout the duration of this trip, with occasional meals out at local restaurants. Vegetarian and other dietary needs (i.e., allergies, food preferences) are easily catered for. Students should inform Bold Earth of any dietary needs before the start of the program.
Do I need some sort of ID to travel?
If you are traveling from somewhere in the United States and are under the age of 18, airlines do not require photo identification. It is a good idea to travel with a picture I.D. if possible, but it is not necessary to bring a passport. A school identification card with your photo on it is best, but a library card or credit card with your name on it is also helpful. If you are traveling to Alaska from somewhere outside of the United States, you will need to bring your valid passport.
Explore More Adventures
Looking for longer or gap programs? Check out our sister program, ARCC Programs
time to be bold
Your Alaska Adventure Awaits
We are committed to providing unique and life-changing experiences that resonate deep within our students. Through cultural immersion, impactful volunteer projects, and shared experiences, Bold Earth students engage in intimate authentic encounters with the people, the cultures and the lands they visit.
Have questions? Speak to one of our Program Directors, give them a call at (828) 435-3971, they love talking about their trips!
