Trailblazers is built for adventurous youth ready to take on a real backcountry challenge. This program blends teamwork, mountain travel, and hands-on outdoor skills with the fun and freedom of exploring Colorado’s high alpine wilderness.
The week begins with a prep day focused on icebreakers, team-building games, meal planning, and both individual and group gear checks. Once everyone is packed and feeling confident, we’ll hit the trail for a two-night backpacking trip into the stunning high country surrounding Telluride. Campers can look forward to wildflower-filled meadows, big mountain views, and the excitement of hiking and camping in remote alpine terrain.
Throughout the trip, campers learn the core skills of backcountry travel—map reading, route finding, stove use, camp setup, Leave No Trace practices, and weather awareness. Evenings at camp offer a chance to unwind, explore nearby terrain, play games, and enjoy the simple magic of being in the wilderness with friends.
Trailblazers is a confidence-building adventure designed to help 10–12 year olds grow as teammates, strengthen their outdoor backpacking skills, and discover the rewards of carrying everything they need on their backs.
Note: All participants in need will receive Telluride Academy backpacks, sleeping bags and sleeping pads while participating in this program! Gear will be used by instructors to teach proper packing techniques on the first day and will go home with students the night before their overnight backpacking trips. We ask that you bring an empty duffel bag on the morning of your overnights so your child’s gear can be taken home easily at the end of the program.
Please click here to read our overnight policy.
A detailed daily itinerary will be provided to you on the Monday morning of the program.
Schedule:
Monday, July 6th – Thursday, July 9th
9:00 am – 4:45 pm
Overnights on Tuesday and Wednesday (Double Overnight). Pick-up on Thursday at 4:45 pm.
