Northwest Explorer

3 weeks

open to grades 7-9

Overview

Offering exciting hikes, spectacular sea kayaking and stunning alpine scenery, the great Northwest is the perfect setting for an Overland program. We’ll discover Washington by foot, kayak and raft as we spend three weeks together in a small, supportive Overland group.

Our trip begins with day hikes in Olympic National Park, where we will venture through inland forests, hike past waterfalls and explore tide pools, all while getting to know the members of our group. We’ll then head to the San Juan Islands where we’ll join with professional guides for three days of kayaking. Paddling through calm waters and stopping to explore remote islands by foot, we’ll keep our eyes open for seals, whales and eagles.

Next, we’ll head to the North Cascades, where we’ll learn the basics of backcountry camping while spending five days backpacking. We’ll hike through forests and along lakes as we hone our skills and enjoy backcountry life. Then we’ll head south to the Wenatchee River, one of Washington’s most famous rivers, to enjoy a day paddling through calm water and some exciting rapids. At trip’s end, we’ll head back to Seattle to reminisce about our fun-filled three weeks together exploring the beauty of the Northwest.

"Overland brings out the best in the child; Jessica always returns confident, independent and more mature." Mary Cary, Highland Park, Illinois

Highlights

Camp, hike & explore Olympic National Park
Sea kayak & hike the San Juan Islands
Hike & backpack the North Cascades
Raft the Wenatchee River

Grade

For students who will finish grades 7-9 in June 2010. Each group is limited to 10 students.

Call us (800.458.0588) to check on current availability.

Challenge Level

5 (1-10, 1 is easiest)

Start and End Location

Starts and ends in Seattle, Washington.

Dates and Fees

3 Weeks

Sunday, June 27 to Friday, July 16
Sunday, July 18 to Friday, August 6

$4095
(airfare not included)

“It was a life-changing experience." Ryan Mayzell, Memphis, Tennessee

Itinerary

Trip Start

We'll meet in Seattle and then head to our campground on the Olympic Peninsula. We'll spend our first afternoon checking over our gear and getting to know one another before we start hiking.

Day Hikes in Olympic National Park

We'll spend the first three days of our trip on a series of day hikes in Olympic National Park. Olympic National Park is a unique national park because of its varied topography. While in the park, we'll hike along a beautiful mountain lake, through a rain forest and on a ridge with views of glaciers in the distance. Just outside of the park, we'll spend an afternoon at the beach, where we'll hike along the rocky shore and explore tide pools.

Sea Kayaking in the San Juan Islands

The next leg of our adventure will take us by ferry to San Juan Island, where we'll meet our kayaking guides. We'll spend three days on an introductory sea kayaking trip, where we'll learn the basics of sea kayaking and see some marine wildlife during our time on the water. We'll carry all of our gear in kayaks to a beautiful island where we'll set up camp for two nights. On our second day, we'll head out to explore the area by kayak, and we'll also have some time off the water to explore the island by foot. After kayaking, we will head to Orcas Island, where we'll spend a day hiking to the summit of Mt. Constitution, the highest peak in the San Juan Islands at just over 2,000 feet.

Backcountry Hike in the North Cascades

We'll ferry back to the mainland and head east into the stunning North Cascades. Although not as well known, the North Cascades are as rugged and as beautiful as the Rockies or the Sierras. We'll head out on a five-day backcountry hike that will take us through beautiful valleys and past remote mountain lakes. We will have a chance to learn basic backcountry skills such as Leave No Trace and come together as a group as we adjust to life in the backcountry.

Rafting

After our backcountry hike, we will head south to the Wenatchee River, where we'll finish off our three weeks together with a return to the water. We'll spend a day on the river with our experienced rafting guides, as we paddle through calm flat water and exciting whitewater and enjoy the impressive mountain scenery.

Trip End

At trip's end we'll head back to the Seattle area, where we'll have a chance to look back on three spectacular weeks of exploration, adventure and fun.

“I had such a great time in Washington with my friends and great leaders. I look forward to being a part of Overland next summer." Hannah Osborn, Wayland, Massachusetts

Trip Details

Northwest Explorer serves as a great introduction to the outdoors. With a variety of activities, from day hikes to kayaking, backcountry hiking and rafting, it allows students to try new things in a safe, wholesome and supportive environment. Northwest Explorer is slightly longer and a bit more challenging than some of Overland's other introductory trips, but we still expect that many of our students will not have a lot of outdoor experience and that's ok. The progression of this trip is perfect for first timers as well as for those with some hiking and camping experience. We start with day hikes as we adjust to camping and sleeping in tents as well as the challenges of living together in a group. Kayaking is a bit more difficult than day hiking, and it allows us to spend two nights camping on an island which offers an introduction to backcountry life before we head out on our multi-day hike. Although more challenging than day hiking, our backcountry trip is still designed as an introductory hike, and our leaders will teach students the basics of backcountry travel. Rafting is a bit more relaxing, as well as an exciting way to end our three weeks together. Come join us as we spend three weeks exploring the beautiful northwest.

“The trip was amazing! The leaders and other students were awesome." Drew Gerber, Highland Park, Illinois

Photos

Click thumbnails below to enlarge

Print View

Enrollment Forms

Admission Material 2010

Northwest Explorer Release Form 2010 - NWXA*

Northwest Explorer Release Form 2010 - NWXB*

*Please contact Overland to check if you need the A or B release forms.

Prepare & Pack

Packing List 2010 as a PDF

Packing List for: High Sierra Explorer | Northwest Explorer | Rocky Mountain Explorer | Yellowstone Teton Explorer

Our packing list is designed to keep you safe and comfortable while hiking and camping this summer. The warm clothing and layers listed may seem unnecessary now, but we guarantee that you'll appreciate them this summer, especially at night or when you’re at high elevations. Keep in mind that there are a wide range of products available in terms of clothing and equipment. Overland programs are relatively short, and although you want your clothing and equipment to be durable, this does not mean it has to be top of the line. Oftentimes more basic and less expensive options perform just as well.

The most important part of preparing and packing for a hiking trip is breaking in your boots. We cannot emphasize enough how essential this is for a successful trip. Starting a month before your trip begins, wear your boots at home and go on several long walks or hikes in them. You should go on at least one 5-mile hike in your boots with a backpack with some weight in it. Students have had to leave trips early because of blisters so please, please, please break in your boots. You’ll be glad you did and it will make your trip much more enjoyable!

Label the following items with your name, address and phone number.
Bring only what you need and pack everything in your backpack or daypack.
If you are flying to your trip start, you should wear your hiking boots on the plane and carry your sleeping bag and sleeping pad on the plane with you in case your checked luggage fails to arrive on time. Please do not wear an extra set of clothes for the flight.
You will have the chance to do laundry periodically and you will be able to leave some extra items in our van while we are on the trail, so please stick to the packing list and bring only the clothes and items listed below.
Overland will rent or provide any specialized gear for any of our non-hiking activities (for example, rock climbing, rafting, mountaineering, or kayaking) and that gear is included in your trip fee.
Please do not bring any type of knife or multi-tool like a Swiss Army knife or Leatherman tool.
If you have any questions, please contact our office at 800.458.0588.

Clothing

Fleece Jacket and Fleece Pants
The fleece should be medium to heavyweight and reasonably compact. Please don't bring jeans or sweatpants.

Synthetic Long Underwear Long-Sleeve Shirt and Pants
One or two tops and one bottom.

Winter Hat and Gloves/Mittens
*High Sierra Explorer students should bring a second pair of warm waterproof gloves for their Shasta climb.

Waterproof Rain Jacket and Rain Pants
Your rain gear must be waterproof (not just water resistant). Gore-Tex is one of the better-known waterproof, breathable fabric brands, but there are many to choose from. Ponchos are not acceptable.

Insulated Vest
One insulated fleece or down vest. Make sure it’s compactable.

Shorts
Two pairs of synthetic shorts. Athletic shorts or hiking shorts work well.

T-Shirts
Three synthetic t-shirts are recommended but cotton shirts are acceptable.

Underwear
Five.

Socks
Three pairs of thick wool or synthetic blend socks made for hiking. Sock liners are optional.

Sport Sandals
These must have a heel strap for kayaking, swimming and around camp. Flip-flops or Crocs are not acceptable for water activities such as rafting or kayaking. If you do not have sport sandals, your sneakers will work fine.

Sneakers or Tennis Shoes
A comfortable and lightweight alternative to your hiking boots. To be used on short day hikes and when in camp.

Bathing Suit
Optional.

Pajamas
Optional.

Hiking & Camping Equipment

Hiking Boots
Waterproof backpacking boots (recommended price range $125 to $175). Choose a comfortable boot that is designed for hiking with a medium weight pack. Your boots should have a durable leather upper that can be treated with waterproofing wax or liquid, or have a waterproof fabric and leather combination.

Backpack
The backpack should be 4000-5000 cubic inches. Before you purchase a backpack, find your backpack size by measuring your torso length and your hips. We recommend getting fitted at a store where you can try on a number of different packs.
*Rocky Mountain Explorer students only need a pack that is 1800-3000 cubic inches.

Sleeping Bag and Stuff Sack
We recommend a lightweight, compact sleeping bag (synthetic or down) that is rated to 25 Fahrenheit or less. Your sleeping bag should compress into a stuff sack which can then be cinched down to 12-20” in length.

Sleeping Pad
A full or ¾ length mattress pad that is inflatable or made of closed-cell foam. It should be compact enough to either fit in your pack or be strapped to the outside.

Day Pack
Your day pack can be used as a carry-on and will be used for day hikes. This can be a very basic backpack but it should have two shoulder straps (not a satchel or messenger bag) and should big enough to hold your lunch, two water bottles, some food, and some extra clothes.

Water Bottle
One 1-liter Nalgene (or similar) water bottle. Overland will provide you with a second water bottle on arrival. A Camelbak or similar water bladder is acceptable.
*High Sierra Explorer students should know that water bladders are not recommend for the Shasta climb.

Headlamp & Extra Batteries
A small flashlight is OK but headlamps are great because your hands are freed up for other tasks.
*Rocky Mountain Explorer and High Sierra Explorer students must have headlamps for their summit climbs.

Waterproof Pack Cover
If your backpack does not come with a cover, choose one that fits your pack well.

Bowl, Mug & Utensils
For meals you will need a 6-8” plastic dish or bowl with a lid. The bowl can be a rigid Tupperware-like material or collapsible. A spoon is all you need but you can bring a spork or a set of lightweight silverware if you’d like. We also recommend a plastic insulated mug to be used for hot drinks.

Mosquito Head Net
*High Sierra Explorer and Yellowstone Teton Explorer students are strongly advised to bring mosquito head nets. They are extremely useful in the backcountry when the bugs are bad at night or in low marshy areas.

Small Safety Whistle
Needed for safety reasons in case a student is separated from the group.

Sunscreen (SPF 15+) & Chapstick (with SPF protection)
Please bring lots and lots of sunscreen; it’s especially useful when on the water and at high elevations.

Insect Repellent
Please bring ample amounts of bug spray or cream.

Moleskin
For blister prevention and care.

Gaiters
Optional.

Miscellaneous

Toiletries
All items should be travel size. If necessary, you will be able to restock en route.

Plastic Bags
Ten large 1-gallon ziplock bags and two large trash bags. The ziplock bags are used to organize and waterproof your gear and small items. The trash bags are used to line your pack and to wrap your sleeping bag and pad.

Sunglasses & Hat with Visor
*High Sierra Explorer students should have sunglasses that wrap around to protect from the sun reflecting off of the snow on the Shasta climb and descent.

Digital Camera & Extra Batteries
Great for documenting the trip. Make sure you bring a large enough memory card (1 to 4 GB).

Towel
Medium size cotton towel or synthetic camping towel.

Spending Money
$25/week in cash or with a debit or ATM card.

Personal Journal or Book
Optional.

Travel Information

Families are responsible for making travel arrangements to and from Seattle, Washington. Overland’s leaders will be on hand at the airport to provide supervision and assistance at trip start and end.

Flight Arrival: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) between 10am and 12pm Sunday, 6/27 and 7/18.
Flight Departure: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) between 8am and 12pm Friday, 7/16 and 8/6.

Drop Off: Baggage Claim #1 at 12pm.
Pick Up: Continental Check-in at 11am.

Any other special cases: please call the Overland office to coordinate, if you have not done so already.

Flight & Travel Information 2010

Program Start & End Information 2010

Mail Stops

During the trip, students may receive mail sent to the below addresses.

Mail Notes:

1) On the lower left corner of the envelope, please write: "Please hold for Overland."
2) Mail sent to General Delivery addresses can only be sent via the USPS.

Northwest Explorer 1A

Mail Stop #1 - must arrive before July 2nd

Student's Name, Overland/NWX 1A
c/o San Juan Outfitters
PO Box 325
Friday Harbor, WA 98250

Mail Stop #2 - must arrive before July 11th

Overland/NWX 1A
Student's Name
General Delivery
Leavenworth, WA 98826

Northwest Explorer 1B

Mail Stop #1 - must arrive before July 6th

Overland/NWX 1B
Student's Name
General Delivery
Leavenworth, WA 98826

Mail Stop #2 - must arrive before July 11th

Student's Name, Overland/NWX 1B
c/o Outdoor Odysseys
83 Cedar St.
Friday Harbor, WA 98250

Northwest Explorer 2A

Mail Stop #1 - must arrive before July 23rd

Student's Name, Overland/NWX 2A
c/o San Juan Outfitters
PO Box 325
Friday Harbor, WA 98250

Mail Stop #2 - must arrive before August 1st

Overland/NWX 2A
Student's Name
General Delivery
Leavenworth, WA 98826

Helpful Reminders

Checklist and Reminders 2010

Apply Now

We welcome your interest in joining Overland this summer!

To apply, please complete and sign the application on page 47 of the Overland catalog or download an application. (You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to download the application).

Please refer to page 46 of our catalog for important information you should know before signing the application.

Send your application and $795 deposit to:

Overland
P.O. Box 31
Williamstown, MA 01267

For overnight mail via UPS or FedEx, please use our street address:

Overland
63 Spring Street
Williamstown, MA 01267

Sorry, we are unable to accept applications by fax, and we do not take credit cards. Applications are reviewed in the order in which they arrive at our office and we cannot hold spots over the phone.

To learn about our admissions process, please click here.

Catherine Klem

Hometown: Lincoln, Massachusetts
School: Middlebury College
More about Catherine »

See More Overland Leaders