Overview

Backpacking through beautiful mountain scenery...cruising along on a bike...a refreshing swim in a lake at the end of an exhilarating day...climbing past the tree line to a breath taking view from a mountain peak...canoeing through wild and scenic waterways...these are just a few of the opportunities that are possible as a Trailblazer.

Trailblazer programs offer older campers (ages 14-17) the opportunity to experience challenges and adventure in some of the most beautiful and spectacular natural areas of the United States. Each Trailblazer trip will provide the individual camper with the opportunity to get to know themselves and realize their potential. Each trip starts at YMCA Camp Greenville, where campers will learn and demonstrate their knowledge of the "basics" necessary for each trip. By teaching and using minimum impact camping techniques in the Trailblazer programs, Camp Greenville continues its commitment to better understanding the natural environment and our relationship to it.

Each Trailblazer group will participate in a series of group building exercises in order to help them form a stronger team foundation for the journey ahead. Campers learn how to work together to achieve a common goal and gain a better understanding about themselves and their capabilities in the process. The journey evolves into a "hands on" learning experience.

Campers take an active role in charting the course, preparing for each segment of the journey, maintaining and staying within budget guidelines, sticking to a schedule, and much more. It's more than just a "trip" - it's the opportunity to make new friends, develop new skills, establish a spirit of cooperation, build self- reliance, take an active role in leadership, and learn the true value of service to others. Each evening the group will have the opportunity to reflect on the days events - giving them a chance to share feelings, thoughts and concerns about their experience. Leadership Trips are lead by specially trained staff, selected for their experience, aptitude for working with teens, mature judgment, and safety considerations. They possess both a sincere interest in teens and an ability to share their knowledge, enthusiasm and understanding with them.  

Trailblazer Trips

Monk’s Ultimate Adventure - 2 Weeks

Ages:  14-17 years old

Overview:  Travelers on this trip will experience a wide sampling of the best adventures available around the south east, including backpacking, rock climbing, mountain biking, white water rafting, service opportunities, and cultural activities.  The Monk’s Ultimate Group will travel by camp bus, camp in tents, and preparing most of their own meals using portable stoves and camp fires.

Experience:  Should be in good physical condition, confident swimmer, and able to carry a 30-40 lbs backpack for the short backpacking section of the trip.

Appalachian Trail (AT) Hiker - 2 Weeks

Ages:  14-17 years old

Overview:  Travelers on this trip will continue hiking north on the Appalachian Trail where last year’s crew left off – in Maryland and then on into Pennsylvania.  All in all, the hike will be about 80 miles. The 10 day experience will be closed out with an exciting day of whitewater rafting. While on the trip, campers will experience an amazing group bonding experience as they learn self sufficiency, perseverance through difficult challenges, simple living, and backcountry skills.  

 The hiking team will be transported to and from the trail by camp bus, and will be led by skilled employees experienced in backcountry travel, wilderness medicine, and group management.  

Experience:  No backpacking experience necessary, should be in good physical condition, and able to carry a full 40-50 lbs backpack for multiple days over rough terrain.