Teen Backpack

On our Wild Grief backpacking trips, we combine daily practices in navigating grief with the daily rhythms of living in the wild.

Our Teen Backpack is about engaging with grief, moment-to-moment, with peers who have also experienced a significant loss. The simple acts that take place during a multi-day trek—walking beneath the trees, putting up a tent, cooking over a fire, observing the way a leaf is unfurling—have a way of grounding us. A steady focus on each moment helps us heal.

Our talented counselors and wilderness leaders are experienced in working with youth, grief, and living outdoors. We design hikes that are challenging but manageable for healthy teens.

In the wild, we have permission to grieve however we need to grieve. We encourage you to share as much or as little of your grief experience as you wish. Whether you express your grief aloud or not, you will share the trail with peers who are navigating a similar journey. You are not alone.

For more information, read our FAQs.

Who: 13-18 year olds who have lost someone significant. Due to our funding we prioritize teens living in Washington State, but do accept teens from out of state when possible.
When: Spring & Summer.
What: Multi-day backpacking trip.