Wilderness Expedition

$555 (Members) / $595 (Non-members)
* Scholarships available

2025 Dates TBA
5 days / 4 nights
Ages 11-17
Location: Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

This introductory backpacking expedition is led by our exceptional naturalists and wilderness guides and is the perfect opportunity for hands-on exploration. From learning about and identifying the flora and fauna found in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, lessons in astronomy, and developing backcountry skills such as orienteering and Leave No Trace principles, this camp is the epitome of an aspiring young naturalist’s dream! Scales, a spectacular spot in the heart of the high country and Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, is the perfect backdrop for discovery!

Learn new backcountry skills including meal preparation, orienteering, and fire building! On the trail, you’ll observe and document the wildlife we encounter along the way, including unique birds, trees, plants, insects, mushrooms, salamanders, and many others. Join our expert naturalists and wilderness guides on this journey of discovery through the highest mountains of the Blue Ridge. Experience moss-laden spruce fir forests, shrub balds, amazing vistas, and all that make these mountains a special place. (Tents, packs, and sleeping pads provided.)

Highlight Activities: Day packing (7-10 mile day hikes), back packing (1 night outside of base camp), birding, astronomy, owl prowl, mountain ecology (Forest and Stream), orienteering, camp cooking, Leave No Trace principles, butterfly identification, and journaling.

* Scholarships are a key part of this camp and are given for both MERIT and NEED. If your kid has a drive to attend this camp, we encourage you to fill out the Scholarship Application.

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*Payment can be made online through the sign-up button above or through the mail. Please make checks payable to Blue Ridge Discovery Center, 6402 Whitetop Rd, Troutdale, VA 24378

**To complete registration please download and complete the Camp Registration Form and mail to: Blue Ridge Discovery Center, 6402 Whitetop Rd, Troutdale, VA 24378