AO members represented here include Adventure Treks, Nantahala Outdoor Center, Northwest Rafting, Canyons Rafting, Western Rivers Expeditions, Cascade Raft & Kayak, Triangle X Ranch, Upper Canyon Outfitters, Idaho Outfitters and Guide Association, Ober Mountain, Grand Canyon Rafting Outfitters Association, Hatch River Expeditions, French Broad Adventures, Wilderness Voyageurs
By Dave “Dmac” McGlashan
On Monday, February 24, I went to Washington, DC, for an annual lobbying event hosted by the America Outdoors Association, which is the largest national guide and outfitter association in the United States. I am honored to serve as the president of the board and have been going to “Camp Washington” to lobby on behalf of the outdoors for the last eight years. With everything happening at the National Parks Service and National Forest Service, we at AO knew this would be one of our most important visits in recent years.
Our group, consisting of AO board members and outdoor recreation company owners, gathered for a dinner and strategy session on the night of the 24th. There, we were greeted with some good news: The NPS had received the green light to go ahead and hire their seasonal staff! By Tuesday morning, several hundred jobs were live, with almost 2,000 more preparing to launch. This helped alleviate some fears around operating in national parks this summer.
Dmac with Washington representative Dan Newhouse
The biggest event of Tuesday morning was a meeting with the recently installed Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. Though we were originally told that he would only be able to give us 10 minutes of his time, what unfolded was an hour-long meeting with approximately 25 business owners from our association. We pressed upon Secretary Burgum the importance of fully staffing the NPS, from their seasonal workers to those who had recently been laid off. Before the meeting was over, the secretary ensured us that he would meet with the current administration officials because, as he said, “The parks are the envy of most countries and one of our most prized posessions.” I couldn’t agree more.
Now, you can’t always believe a politician will follow through on their promises. However, I left this meeting with some faith that the secretary would try his best to support not only the National Park Service, but also those of us who operate in the outdoors, as many of our livelihoods rely on being able to run trips in the parks. Fortunately, Secretary Burgum is an avid outdoorsman and expressed his desire to keep the NPS running at the highest level possible.
The rest of Tuesday and all day Wednesday, America Outdoors held meetings with members of Congress from more than 30 states—on both sides of the aisle. We spoke with the offices of Patty Murray, Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, John Barrasso, Cynthia Lummis, Mark Kelly, Ruben Gallego, Mike Crapo, James Risch, Dan Newhouse, Virginia Foxx, Chuck Edwards, Thom Tillis, Lindsey Graham, Ted Budd, Michael Bennett, Brittany Petterson, Shelley Moore Capito, and many more from West Virginia, Georgia, Tennessee, Maine, Utah, Indiana, Montana, and Oregon.
Overall, the mood (as it related to the outdoor recreation industry) in DC was better than expected. By the end of the week, we received word that the NPS was able to hire back employees they’d had to terminate. The great thing about the outdoors is that it tends to bring people together, regardless of their political beliefs or backgrounds. I flew out of DCA feeling more positive than I anticipated.
Your question might be, how does this impact Adventure Treks?
I believe in our ability to operate as expected this summer. Just like any other year, there will be issues we’ll have to face. We operated through a government shutdown in 2013. In 2016, high snowpack in California led us to lower elevation hikes. In 2017, we had to switch our itineraries around in British Columbia due to wildfires, and then in 2022, we got creative with our backpacking routes with provincial park flooding. In 2020, we had COVID. In 2021, fires in California led us to raft instead on the Rogue River in southern Oregon, where we still operate today because it’s so fun! In 2022, severe flooding closed northern Yellowstone temporarily.
All this is to say that Adventure Treks can and will creatively problem-solve when the need arises, and we will always keep our students’ safety as our top priority, while still having lots of fun.
If you’d like to chat more about our involvement with legislative affairs in the outdoors, give us a ring at 828-698-0399!
How often do you get the chance to truly connect as a family—free from screens, packed schedules, and the hustle of everyday life? Nature offers a refreshing escape from modern distractions, creating space to reconnect, strengthen relationships, and build lasting memories. At Adventure Treks, we’ve seen firsthand how shared outdoor experiences can transform relationships. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce our family and adult adventure programs, designed to help families enjoy these unforgettable moments together.
Create unforgettable shared memories
Shared outdoor adventures have a unique way of bringing families closer together. Whether it’s hiking to a scenic viewpoint, laughing around a campfire, or working as a team to set up camp, these experiences foster a sense of bonding for families. These moments away from daily distractions allow families to engage in meaningful conversations, experience new challenges together, and enjoy quality time without interruptions.
“I still tell people I was the happiest I’ve ever been on those trips. Being in the backcountry with a group of amazing leaders and friends was life-changing.” – Ally Krause, student from 2014–2016
The same transformative magic that shaped her experience as a teen is equally impactful for families venturing into the outdoors together, providing the chance to deepen connections with loved ones while surrounded by some incredible landscapes.
Build confidence and resilience as a family
Challenges in the wilderness—like navigating a steep trail, adapting to unexpected weather, or managing camp tasks—provide valuable lessons in resilience, problem-solving, and trust. These lessons aren’t just for individuals—they strengthen family dynamics, too, as kids and parents work together to overcome obstacles, celebrate achievements, and learn from setbacks.
Plus, outdoor trips help family members take on different responsibilities. Whether it’s setting up camp, cooking meals, or planning the next group activity, everyone plays a role in ensuring the success of the trip. Parents often see their children rise to the occasion, sometimes even taking on leadership roles or caring for the safety and well-being of others in the group. These moments of responsibility help develop a stronger sense of teamwork and give children opportunities to practice decision-making with the whole group in mind—and they’re skills that kids can take home and apply to everyday lives. We often hear from parents about how their teens become more involved in household chores (of their own accord) after an Adventure Treks trip!
“It’s hard to express how much I value the experiences I had on my Adventure Treks trips as a teenager. I look back on them so often and am just so grateful I had AT in my life. Not only did it help me develop a lifelong love of the outdoors and outdoor activities, but it gave me so much more confidence in myself at that point in my life. AT was the first time I felt truly comfortable and accepted away from my home community.” – Issy Schwartz, student from 2017–2020
Imagine the impact of building that confidence and resilience together as a family unit, while learning how to be responsible for the group and the environment.
Encourage curiosity, creativity, and imagination
Time outdoors goes beyond physical activity—it’s a chance to spark curiosity, creative thinking, and a deeper connection to the natural world. Adventure Treks’ programs are designed to inspire families to explore, imagine, and learn together. Studies compiled by the Children and Nature Network show that time in nature encourages critical thinking and problem-solving in children—skills that are vital for lifelong learning and success.
Simple activities like identifying plants on a hike or creating stories about the shapes of clouds can inspire imagination, helping parents see the world through their kids’ eyes and vice versa. It’s an incredible opportunity to grow and learn together in nature’s classroom.
Better physical and mental well-being
The mental health benefits of spending time outdoors are well-documented. According to Connections Academy, outdoor play reduces stress, improves mood, and builds deeper bonds. Families who spend time together outside report feeling more connected, happier, and recharged.
Outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and backpacking are not only excellent ways to keep the whole family physically active, but they also promote better sleep. Unlike structured gym routines, these adventures feel more like play, making exercise fun and accessible for all ages and fitness levels. Physical activity in nature also encourages better sleep patterns by allowing families to unwind after a day of outdoor exploration.
Our family trips are designed to meet families where they are, providing activities that challenge and inspire without overwhelming or intimidating. Whether you’re new to outdoor adventures or seasoned explorers, our trips help everyone stay active while having fun together—and enjoy the added benefit of deeper, more restful sleep at night.
Increased collaboration, communication, and social skills
Outdoor adventures provide a natural environment for families to practice teamwork and communication. From sharing responsibilities like cooking meals to solving problems together on the trail, these activities help family members hone their social skills in a supportive, fun atmosphere.
“Adventure Treks had a profound impact on my life by building my confidence and reshaping the way I see myself and the world around me. It was with AT that I learned the basics of conservation and fell even more in love with nature. This exposure not only broadened my worldview but also strengthened my ability to connect with others on a more authentic level.” – Jessica Zied, student from 2014–2016
Whether it’s planning the day’s activities, navigating a challenge, or ensuring everyone’s needs are met, outdoor recreation provides plenty of opportunities for families to develop important communication skills that last long after the adventure ends.
Incorporating outdoor time into your family’s routine
Adventure Treks family and adult programs
For families seeking a more immersive experience, Adventure Treks offers transformative trips tailored to families and adults. Our family program in the Pacific Northwest provides the perfect backdrop for bonding and adventure, while our adult trip in Peru offers a chance to explore breathtaking landscapes and build lifelong connections. These programs are designed to create shared experiences that deepen relationships and create lasting memories.
Simple ways to get outside year-round
Simple ways to get outside year-roundNot ready for a multi-day adventure? There are plenty of ways to incorporate outdoor time into your family’s routine:
- Take evening walks around your neighborhood or local park.
- Plan weekend camping trips to explore nearby nature reserves.
- Try a new outdoor hobby, like birdwatching or gardening.
- Create a backyard scavenger hunt or stargazing night for the whole family.
Even small steps can help your family enjoy the benefits of time spent outdoors.
A call to adventure
Outdoor spaces hold something transformative for every member of your family. These experiences not only create lasting memories, but they also instill values that stay with you for a lifetime. This year, we invite you to embark on a journey where the challenges faced together can be just as meaningful as the milestones achieved. It’s more than just a trip; it’s an opportunity to discover new strengths and experience the world through fresh eyes. Whether you join us for Adventure Treks’family program in the Pacific Northwest or explore our adult trip in Peru, you’ll find the perfect setting for a life-changing adventure.
“I consider my AT experiences fundamental to my growth as a human. For the first time, I felt truly comfortable and vulnerable with others and like I could be myself. I was proud of my accomplishments, in awe of the world, and so so so happy. In my adult life, I strive to be the kind of person I was at AT. It rekindled a love for the outdoors and a genuine faith in the good of other people.” – Hunter James, student from 2013
Adventure Treks is SO EXCITED to announce new programming for 2025: A hiking and rafting adventure to Peru for adults, and a family camp in Olympic National Park in Washington!
Why adult and family trips?
After hearing “Do you run trips for adults?” for more than 30 years, Dmac and I have decided to turn that dream into a reality. We’ve created an incredible seven-day itinerary in Peru’s Sacred Valley, including a hike to Machu Picchu—a destination and achievement on so many bucket lists—with the professional guides at Apumayo Expeditions, who specialize in adult luxury travel (and who are celebrating their 30th year!). Dmac and I have scoured the planet on outdoor trips, climbing, biking, paddling, and hiking in stunning locations… and our adventure in Peru with Apumayo guides remains one of the most exceptional experiences we’ve ever had. It was so remarkable that it was an easy decision to launch this as our first adult trip.
We also want to bring the magic of Adventure Treks to the whole family and offer parents the opportunity to bond with their kids on a uniquely special experience that you can’t find in your everyday life—and all without the distractions of busy schedules, phones, homework, and work. Just like our adult and teen trips, no experience is necessary as professional Adventure Treks instructors will make fun outdoor activities accessible to all of our guests. These six days in the Olymipcs will give your family the chance to:
- Build stronger connections by sharing new challenges and adventures
- Discover new interests and passions together
- Take full advantage of nature’s opportunity to relax and have a ton of fun
- And create lasting memories together
Peru’s Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu itinerary
During your seven days in Peru, you will:
- Stay in three- and four-star luxury hotels and lodges
- Eat delightful Peruvian cuisine, prepared by the trip’s chef
- Whitewater raft the Urubamba River
- Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Spend a day touring Machu Picchu’s fortress itself
- Tour ancient ruins and archelogical sites all over the Sacred Valley
- Descend into the world-famous Maras salt mines and attend a textiles workshop in Chinchero
- And explore Cusco City’s markets, temples, and more at the end of the trip
Bonus: Parents of students enrolled on the Peru Expedition can fly into Cusco with them, drop off their kids, and head off on their own unforgettable adventure!
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Family Camp: Discover the Olympics itinerary
During your six days in the Olympics, you’ll:
- Stay in cozy campgrounds and lodges with hot springs and lake views
- Enjoy delicious meals and snacks organized by Adventure Treks instructors
- Day hike to waterfalls and to Hurricane Ridge, where you can find some of the most scenic views in the entire Pacific Northwest
- Hike and spend a night camping on the Olympic Peninsula (a long-time AT haunt and one of our students’ favorite spots)
- And experience the fun and memorable Adventure Treks traditions you’ve heard so much about from your kids
***Optional add-ons include sea kayaking in Port Angeles and canoeing and kayaking on Lake Quinault
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We are beyond thrilled to extend the incredible benefits of adventure travel to the entire family and beyond, and we can’t wait to embark on these new adventures with you!