Joey’s Adventure Treks experience was truly transformative. As a shy and introverted teen who often doesn’t get the opportunity to show leadership but yearns for challenges that push him out of his comfort zone, Adventure Treks was the perfect fit for him. From the moment we enrolled, the exceptional communication and support from the Adventure Treks team reassured us that Joey was in good hands. Despite his initial nervousness and anxiety about keeping up with his group or lacking the strength and endurance for the activities, Joey embraced the adventure wholeheartedly. The highly skilled instructors provided a safe, fun, and nurturing environment, enabling Joey to try new things and be challenged in ways he hadn’t anticipated. They brought a sense of playfulness and joy to every activity, which made Joey feel like he could always succeed. He formed deep connections with his peers and returned home with newfound confidence, self-sufficiency, and optimism—and asking to do it again! The program’s focus on resilience, leadership, and community fostered remarkable personal growth. Joey’s experience at Adventure Treks exceeded our expectations in every way, and we wholeheartedly recommend it to any parent looking for a life-changing experience for their child.

We sent our son on a 13-day trip with Adventure Treks. Our son canoed, backpacked, hiked and whitewater rafted. He’s always liked these kinds of activities with us, but the experience was made so much more special by the AT instructors and the other kids on his trip. He gained real confidence. And most important to me, he gained an appreciation for having a positive mental outlook. This is an experience he will always remember.

Adventure Treks is the absolute best outdoor program, where a kid can learn, be challenged, grow as a community member, and even become a leader. I know the program well; the organization and programming are great but most of all the instructors are the best!

This is the kind of experience I wish every child could have—being outside without technology and learning to be responsible for oneself and for the well-being of the community, with the kind and patient support of instructors who are knowledgeable and fun-loving. In Zev’s own words: “I learned that I can just be myself and that there are people out there who will like me for who I am.” Since coming home, Zev is more willing to take responsibility for himself and for other things that need to be done in the house. He is better at self-regulation. He is more willing to help with household chores. He is more aware that he is part of a community (a family) and needs to pitch in. Zev had the time of his life. He made terrific friends, loved being outside and away from technology (which is saying something for a kid like Zev who is REALLY into tech), and just got a chance to have fun and be silly.