The moment students enter high school, the pressure to start “preparing for college” is on. Between AP classes, SAT prep, extracurriculars, and summer programs, teenagers are often overwhelmed by how much they’re supposed to do just to compete in today’s crowded admissions landscape.
So how can students rise above the noise?
By showing up as their authentic, passionate, and resilient selves.
What colleges are really looking for
We’ve spoken with high school counselors, college advisors, and even admissions officers, and the message is clear and consistent: Colleges want to see more than grades and test scores. They want to understand who students are as people—what drives them, how they handle challenges, and what makes them thrive.
In a conversation with one college advisor, we learned that:
Admissions officers want students who are consistent, committed, and real. It’s not about cramming your resume with random activities—it’s about showing passion, perseverance, and growth.
Authenticity matters most in essays and interviews, where students can reflect on meaningful experiences. Demonstrating long-term engagement (i.e., consistency) matters, whether it’s through a part-time job, volunteering at the same local food pantry, or returning to a favorite summer program year after year.
How Adventure Treks fits into the college prep picture
Authenticity is where Adventure Treks alumni shine. Our students build strong, authentic communities while engaging in fun outdoor challenges. Every summer, they:
- Collaborate and problem-solve in groups
- Take on leadership roles and support their peers
- Persevere through tough hikes, inclement weather, and new physical and social environments
- Reflect on personal growth and a real sense of belonging
And they love it. Their newfound passions—combined with meaningful growth—translate powerfully on college applications.
Real skills and real stories
Whether it’s summiting Mount Shastina or St. Helens, navigating a Norwegian fjord by sea kayak, or cooking dinner for a group after two days of climbing at Oregon’s famous Smith Rock, AT students dig deep and develop independence, an optimistic mindset, and resilience. They learn to adapt, support others, and keep going even when things get tough—exactly the traits colleges want. And exactly the traits young people need in order to succeed later in life.
Their stories often become the foundation of remarkable college essays. Their essays don’t get lost in the noise because that authenticity of meaningful, real-life experience shines through.
What the experts say
Daniella Friedman, a college advisor and Adventure Treks alumni parent, shared this insight:
“Adventure Treks is a worthy experience in and of itself. Students learn grit, teamwork, and leadership, all while having fun and making lifelong friendships in the great outdoors. At the same time, participating in Adventure Treks can strengthen a student’s college applications in many ways, including enhancing their activity list and college resume, giving them something to write about in their personal statement and supplemental college essays, and obtaining a strong letter of recommendation from an AT instructor.”
She adds:
“Outdoor experiences like Adventure Treks demonstrate to a college that a student is down-to-earth, adventurous, and willing to embrace challenge. But colleges also like to see that students have “stick-to-it-iveness” and real passion. So while one summer spent backpacking with Adventure Treks looks good, several summers spent backpacking with Adventure Treks looks even better.”
View more of Daniella’s advice here and here.
Bottom line
Adventure Treks helps students become the kind of young people colleges want to admit:
- Confident in who they are
- Resilient in the face of challenge
- Grounded in real experiences and communities, not just resume padding
- Authentic in how they express their values and passions
For students wondering how to stand out in a sea of applicants, the answer may be less about adding more activities—and more about going deeper in the ones that really matter to you!
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!