Trailside Discovery Camp 2024 Summer Programs Guide
scholarships available! trailsidediscovery.org 907-274-5437 (KIDS)
Dear Trailside Families, Trailside Discovery Camp runs programming across Dena’ina, Supiaq, Ahtna, Koyukon, Upper Kuskokwim, and Tanana lands. We are grateful for the thousands of years of stewardship by Indigenous peoples, past, present, and future. We value and thank them for their current and historic commitment to protecting this land that allows our campers and staff to enjoy Alaska’s beautiful lands, water, and wildlife. We also acknowledge the historical impact of camps like ours and the broader conservation movement, which at times has been marred by a troubling history of erasure and whitewashing. We are committed to learning from this history and actively working towards fostering a more inclusive and just outdoor experience by being advocates and assisting, in partnership, in the environmental caretaking of these lands through education and outdoor curriculum. I am so excited for the summer ahead and all the adventures that are sure to follow. As a mom with children ranging from 5 to 16, I know firsthand the difference that camp makes in the lives of our youth. I also understand the expectations of parents for the people they entrust with caring for our children. Developing positive and healthy relationships that prioritize the safety and well-being of our campers is my top priority. I look forward to meeting each of your campers and continuing to develop more access to the outdoors for all children, foster excitement for outdoor adventures, and develop an active, healthy lifestyle and stewardship values they will carry into adulthood. What to expect at camp in 2024: • • • • • •
Age-appropriate activities tailored to each session, from nature walks to arts and crafts and lively camp songs. Full-day activities for all campers, including hands-on learning about the environment and world around them through outdoor exploration Campers aged 4-5 will enjoy walks to nearby activities and will not be transported in TDC vehicles. At least one or more field trips per week for campers aged 8-10 and 10+, and occasional opportunities for 6-7 year olds (parents must provide booster seats). High adventure programs featuring canoeing, fishing, archery, and more, depending on the session, will occur 2-3 times a week. While some activities may be weather-dependent or subject to unforeseen events, rest assured that our adaptable camp program will pivot to provide alternative activities, ensuring your child enjoys the outdoors each day.
Tuition Increases: This year, you may notice an increase in tuition costs. We understand that this may pose challenges for some families, and we want to explain the reasons behind this decision transparently. Our commitment to fair and equitable pay for our staff remains unwavering. In response to the evolving work climate, we have adjusted our staff wages to be competitive in the market, with a minimum hourly rate of $16. This ensures we can attract and retain the best staff to deliver an exceptional experience for your campers. As operational costs rise and the world around us changes, this increase in tuition is necessary to maintain the quality of our program and uphold our commitment to access, inclusion, and equity. Despite these changes, we are dedicated to offering week-long scholarships for campers who require financial assistance. If you have any questions about the tuition increases or our scholarship program, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I am so looking forward to another summer with our TDC families, inspiring a love for the outdoors. We are eagerly looking forward to a summer filled with laughter, learning, and outdoor adventures. If you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me via email at trailside@akcenter.org or (907) 313 -9224. Thank you for entrusting us with the opportunity to be a part of your child’s journey. See you on the trail, Cindy Tapia Ruiz Camp Director Trailside Discovery Camp Alaska Center Education Fund
NEW PROGRAMS!!!!
NEW this year! Pre-Camp Pop-Up! We will be offering a pop-up camp May 23 - 24th for all ages. Daily sign-up with limited spaces available. Kinder Camp! We will be offering a camp for campers ages 4-6, August 15 - 21, offering more fun and adventures in the week leading up to the Kindergarten school start date. Check out the rest of the brochure for more info! Don’t forget to check out our year-round offerings on our website! AkcenterEdFund.org/year-round-programs
Pop Up Camp Description: These programs run May 23 & May 24. Drop-off starts at 7:30 am, and pick-up concludes at 5:30 pm. (The main session runs between 9:30 am and 3:30 pm.) $80 per day. Ages 4-14 After school lets out, we will get the summer kicked off with our Pop-Up Salmon Run Camp—an exciting environmental education day camp that brings the magic of the salmon run to life! With a mix of educational games, nature walks, and immersive experiences, the Pop-Up Salmon Run Camp promises a unique and memorable opportunity for young minds to connect with the natural world.
2024 Trailside Discovery Camp; Pop-Up Camp! Kincaid Park, Dena'ina Lands - Day Camps are $86/Day
Ages
May 23, 2024
Theme
May 24, 2024
Salmon Run
Ages 4-5
Pinks
Ages 6-7
Coho
Coho
Ages 8-10
Sockeye
Sockeye
Chinook
Chinook
Ages 10-14
Pinks
Ruth Arcand Park, Dena'ina Lands - Day Camps are $86/Day
Salmon Run: • Learn about the salmon life cycle • Create salmon-inspired art • Explore river habitats
Ages
May 23, 2024
Theme
KinderCamp
May 24, 2024
Salmon Run
Ages 4-5
Pinks
Ages 6-7
Coho
Pinks Coho
Ages 8-10
Sockeye
Sockeye
Ages 10-14
Chinook
Chinook
Description: These programs run August 15, 16, 19, 20, & 21. Drop-off starts at 7:30 am, and pick-up concludes at 5:30 pm. (The main session runs between 9:30 am and 3:30 pm.) $80 per day. Ages 4-6 After our school-aged campers head back to the classroom, Trailside KinderCamp will offer a unique blend of fun and environmental education specifically designed for our preschool-aged campers. KinderCamp provides a safe and nurturing environment for youngsters to explore, play, and learn. Each day will focus on a unique theme of the forest, from animals to ecosystems. Forest Friends: • Spend time in the forest through nature walks & scavenger hunts. • Create forest-themed crafts. • Discover the animals and plants that grow and live in the forest.
2024 Trailside Discovery Camp; KinderCamp! Kincaid Park, Dena'ina Lands - Day Camps are $86/Day Ages
August 15
August 16
August 19
August 20
August 21
Theme
Trees
Animals
Ecosystem
Foraging
Weather
Ages 4-6
Forest Friends
Forest Friends
Forest Friends
Forest Friends
Forest Friends
Ruth Arcand Park, Dena'ina Lands - Day Camps are $80/Day Ages
August 15
August 16
August 19
August 20
August 21
Theme
Trees
Animals
Ecosystem
Foraging
Weather
Ages 4-6
Forest Friends
Forest Friends
Forest Friends
Forest Friends
Forest Friends
Ages 4-5 Environmental Education Programs Description: Join our compassionate and energetic staff to explore the outdoors through a variety of hands-on and sensory activities. Campers ages four to five will learn more about their role in the outdoors while strengthening their social skills! These programs run Monday-Friday; drop-off starts at 7:30 am, and pick-up concludes at 5:30 pm. (The main session runs between 9:30 am and 3:30 pm.) $380 per week or pro-rated for 3 and 4-day weeks. Dino Diggers • Design & paint a rock dino egg. • Create fossils with Playdough. • Become a paleontologist and dig for bones! Raindrops & Lollipops • Become a detective to figure out how puddles are formed, then go jumping in some puddles! • Create your clouds and make them rain in a fun arts and crafts project. • Video record live weather reports throughout the week. Earth Explorers • Learn about recycling and make your own recycled art piece • Read about environmental superheroes and make superhero puppets • Explore the different colors of nature on a walk through the forest Funky Ferns • Take a nature walk and create journey sticks to remember your adventure. • Learn what different trees smell and feel like. • Build your own tree mural for the whole camp to enjoy. Seeds & Leaves • Discover how plants grow from seeds to fruit. • Grow your own plant and decorate its little pot home. • Build your own magical forest with natural objects and playdough. Buzzy Bugs • Play “Pollination Tag” to understand the role of bees in our environment. • Learn about symmetry during a butterfly painting project. • Act out your favorite insects during a guided game of charades. Paws and Claws • Learn about how bears build dens, and build a mini den of your own. • Create tasty teddy bear toast. • Live like a squirrel and play Acorn Hide and Seek. Super Stars • Use Oreos to learn about the sweet side of the moon’s phases. • Build & decorate your own spaceship. • Design a planet walk with chalk and learn about our solar system.
Baby Belugas • Identify and decorate seashells from the Pacific Ocean. • Paint fish that live deep under the sea using glow-inthe-dark paint. • Sing the baby beluga song and learn about Alaskan sea creatures. Scales & Tails • Paint the five types of salmon. • Create a salmon picture book and read it to your friends. • Print fish t-shirts to bring home. Bears & Berries • Forage for edible berries and make a field guide. • Make your own jam from the fruit you forage. • Play “Berries or Bust” and learn about hibernation. Dancing Chickadees • Learn about Alaskan birds & build your own pine cone bird feeder. • Discover why different birds have different beaks. • Listen to bird calls and practice your own!
Ages 6-7 Environmental Education Programs Description: Join our enthusiastic instructors in our day programs focusing on many different environmental concepts. Your camper will take part in hands-on learning, activities, and games that encourage positive interactions with each other and the environment. These programs run Monday-Friday, drop-off starts at 7:30 am, and pick-up concludes at 5:30 pm. (The main session runs between 9:30 am and 3:30 pm.) $380 per week or pro-rated for 3 and 4-day weeks. Mineral Magic • Hunt for treasure and find different rock shapes, colors, and textures. • Grow your own crystals to understand how jewels form in nature. • Eat rocks! Enjoy edible crystal snacks.
Deep Sea Safari • Model your own hydrothermal vent ecosystem. • Make friends with Alvin, a deep-sea scientific robot. • Create your own paper anglerfish and learn how organisms survive without light.
Rain or Shine • Make your own clouds you can share with friends. • Create your own tornado in a bottle. • Build and fly a kite!
Salmon Symphony • Make your own salmon picture book to read to friends. • Dance and sing to “The Salmon Song.” • Paint the five types of salmon.
Planet Protectors • Learn how everyday acts can help save the planet. • Battle trash monsters to clean up the backyard field game! • Create a recycling art project.
Happy Harvest • Gather berries and make your own jam. • Track your snacks on a world map. • Get your legs moving for a “Can it Compost” relay race.
Woodland Wizards • Decorate magic wands and cast spells. • Go on a nature walk and build fairy houses. • Play Plant Bingo and learn about the forest.
Outdoor Detectives • Sleuth around with a magnifying glass for clues about bird habits. • Explore the world of birds and track your findings like a real ornithologist. • Make a birdhouse!
Little Spruce Trees • Print tote bags from your favorite leaves. • Craft a wooden necklace and use the tree rings to determine the age of your jewelry. • Walk through the woods and make a wildflower bouquet. Creative Crawlers • Go on a bug hunt. • Make magic slime and learn about the importance that slimy slugs have in our ecosystem. • Build a bug habitat and track the progress in your own science journal. Moose on the Loose • Make antler headbands and learn how moose survive the winter. • Get your own copy of Moose in May and read it with your herd. • Create an Arctic animal food chain. Out of this World • Journey through the cosmos with a planet chalk art & solar system walk. • Use Oreos to learn about the sweet side of the moon’s phases. • Create constellation artwork.
Ages 8-10 Environmental Education Programs Description: Our knowledgeable and energetic instructors lead day programs focused on a wide range of environmental topics. Campers will take part in hands-on lessons, activities, and games that strengthen the concepts of outdoor stewardship and group cooperation. These programs run Monday-Friday; drop-off starts at 7:30 am, and pick-up concludes at 5:30 pm. (The main session runs between 9:30 am and 3:30 pm.) Starting from $380 per week. Shakes & Quakes • Learn about tectonic plates. • Compare rocks and minerals. • Explode a paper mache volcano! Alaskan Aviators • Discover the role of flight in Alaska’s history at the Aviation Museum. • Learn about different models of planes and design your own for a competition. • Design a kite and test how it flies in the wind.
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Mountain Mindfulness • Make your own stress ball project. • Practice guided meditation and outdoor watercolors. • Hike out for an outdoor picnic.
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Peaks & Creeks • Hike to Thunderbird Falls to learn about the power of waterfalls! • Paint a landscape scene. • Make artwork to express the seasons. Branching Out • Discover different soil types and make soil crayons. • Identify tree species in our area. • Be an “Alien Scientist” and learn about Earth’s biodiversity. Solar Scientists • Build a solar-powered robot. • Create your own sundial and tell time using the sun. • Disinfect water using the power of the sun.
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Fires & Flowers • Create a wildflower arrangement to bring home. • Learn how wildflowers reshape ecosystems after wildfires. • Learn about wildfire management.
Captivating Caterpillars • Demonstrate metamorphosis with a piece of artwork. • Go on a bug hunt to identify different types of insects. • Snap photos of insects in the wild. Ocean Commotion • Test the water quality of nearby bodies of water. • Use nets to discover what lives in an aquatic ecosystem. • Design a microscopic sea critter for a plankton race.
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TDC Junior Chef • Collect blueberries and make jam to bring home. • Practice “Leave No Trace” principles while cooking lunch together on a hike. • Compete in a Chopped-style cooking competition. Arctic Zoo Keepers • Take a field trip to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to learn about conservation. • Play Predator & Prey Tag, and learn about Arctic ecosystems! • Design and build habitats using materials from nature. Birds & Beaks • Sleuth around with a magnifying glass for clues about bird habits. • Explore the world of birds and track your findings like a real ornithologist. • Make a birdhouse!
Ages 8-10 High Adventure Programs Description: Learn, Practice, Explore! Our High Adventure Programs increase your outdoor survival & recreation skills while exploring science, conservation, history, art, and engineering topics. Get to know the lakes and trails of Anchorage through biking, boating, archery, and other outdoor adventures. High Adventure activities generally occur 3 days per week, while the other days are used to build knowledge and skills in the outdoors. These programs run Monday-Friday; drop-off starts at 7:30 am, and pick-up concludes at 5:30 pm. (The main session runs between 9:30 am and 3:30 pm.) Prices start from $425 per week (see Grid)
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Tidal Explorers • Learn how sand dunes are formed and participate in a sand art project. • Identify types of sea shells and create shell necklaces. • Test gravitational forces using water to understand tides.
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Wetland Wonders • Model the importance of wetlands in a hands-on experiment. • Search for migrating birds in a marsh. • Design a wildlife wetland diorama.
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Rockin’ Riders • Identify types of rocks while biking on trails. • Bust open a geode and discover how they form. • Take a biking field trip to Eklutna to understand its unique geology.
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Fire Away Note: Archery practice occurs 3 days of the week. • Learn archery skills and safety at a local archery range. • Learn about the effects of wildfires. • Give it your best shot in an archery competition!
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Backcountry Bikers Note: While prior single-track riding experience is not required, this program is designed for kids who are already confident on a bike and excited to go mountain biking. • Take part in a workshop about bike maintenance and repair. • Explore local single-track mountain biking trails. • Learn about how single tracks are built and maintained.
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Aquatic Anglers • Use sieves to identify macroinvertebrates in the mud. • Take a trip to a local fish hatchery. • Learn about fishing methods and go lake fishing!
Treetop Trekkers • • •
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Compete in a forest succession board game. Learn how to navigate with a compass during an obstacle course. Take a trek in the Chugach Mountains.
Ages 10+ Environmental Education Programs Description: Our knowledgeable staff is excited to lead campers through a variety of programs that will connect them to their natural environment through creative activities, team-building games, and hands-on lessons. Our goal is to encourage a deeper connection to the Alaskan environment and lifelong learning. These programs run Monday-Friday; drop-off starts at 7:30 am, and pick-up concludes at 5:30 pm. (The main session runs between 9:30 am and 3:30 pm.) Prices start from $380 per week (see Grid)
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Geode Geniuses • Grow crystal structures by making sugar candy. • Make your own seismograph and test it by simulating an earthquake. • Go on a hiking field trip to see silt in a river. Extraordinary Engineers • Wire your own moving robot. • Create energy using the power of water currents. • Compete in a marble roller coaster competition. Teacher Naturalists in Training (12+) • Discuss the work naturalists do and gain skills to become one. • Take part in hands-on activities to understand the natural world. • Teach lessons and activities to younger campers. Meteorology Magic • Create clouds in a jar. • Learn about the ozone layer and UV light while testing your sunglasses. • Play meteor shower dodgeball.
AK Survival • Learn how to forage and cook wild foods safely. • Take part in a wilderness first aid workshop. • Practice your teamwork skills while building a shelter. Waterways & Woodland Days • Play a tag game that explains how trees survive the winter. • Test the water quality of lakes surrounding the camp. • Use nets to discover what lives in an aquatic ecosystem.
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TDC Master Chef • Collect blueberries and make jam to bring home. • Practice “Leave No Trace” principles while cooking lunch together on a hike. • Compete in a Chopped-style cooking competition.
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Trailblazers • Take on a challenging hike. • Compete in team-building competitions. • Lead younger campers in a hands-on “Leave No Trace” principles lesson.
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Arctic Artists • Create a splatter painting inspired by fungal networks in the tundra. • Sketch your surroundings, then make your art come to life on canvas. • Go on a nature walk and snap pictures of wildlife!
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Youth Leaders in Action 12+ • Learn about Alaska Youth for Environmental Action (AYEA), practice your leadership development skills, and get the opportunity to apply for AYEA’s yearly Youth Organizer Summit! • Work with AYEA teens to design & complete an environmental stewardship project. • Identify local wild plants while learning about food access in different regions of Alaska.
Ages 10+ High Adventure Programs
Description: Learn, Practice, Explore! Our High Adventure Programs increase your outdoor survival & recreation skills. Get to know the lakes and trails of Anchorage through biking, boating, archery, and other outdoor adventures while also exploring topics of science, conservation, history, art, and engineering. These programs run Monday-Friday, drop-off starts at 7:30 am, and pick-up concludes at 5:30 pm. (The main session runs between 9:30 am and 3:30 pm.) Prices start from $425 per week (see Grid)
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Hiking Through History • Go on a field trip to Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about Alaska’s rich Indigenous culture- past, present, and future! • Take a hike in Glen Alps & explore Thunderbird Falls. • Create a historical timeline with your group.
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Capture Alaska • Paddle out on the lake to capture reflections on camera. • Learn about slow camera exposure during a field trip. • Decorate a frame for your favorite photo from the week.
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Oceans Alive • Gain skills in paddling and rowing! • Learn about bycatch during a commercial fishing game. • Design a microscopic sea critter for a plankton race.
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Biking for a Better World • Bike around our local parks during a trash clean up. • Design a civic action project to help keep our parks clean. • Go on a scenic biking field trip and take Polaroids.
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Bull’s Eye Note: Archery practice occurs 3 days of the week. • Gain archery and safety skills at a local range. • Learn about subsistence hunting, fishing, and foraging. • Try to hit the bull’s eye in an archery competition!
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Trail Riders Xtreme Note: While prior single-track riding experience is not required, this program is designed for kids who are already confident on a bike and excited to go mountain biking. • Increase your biking skills on single tracks. • Learn how single tracks are built and maintained. • Become a bike mechanic and learn basic maintenance and repair.
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Happy Hikers • Create a 3D art piece about the Alaska Range. • Learn the first aid skills necessary to survive in the backcountry. • Hike out and enjoy a picnic with views on a field trip.
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Fishing Frenzy • Hook, bait, and cast a line while fishing in a local lake. • Visit a fish hatchery to learn how fish in lakes get stocked! • Work together to compete in a game of boating basketball.
Trailside Discovery Camp Summer 2024 Programs - All programs $380 unl Kincaid Park, Dena'ina Lands
Ages Theme
Kincaid Park, Dena'ina Lands
Week 1: May 28 - May 31 Week 2: June 3 Week 3: June 10 *4 day week* - June 7 - June 14
Week 4: June 17 - June 21
Week 5: June 24 - June 28
Week 6: July 1 - July 3 *3 day week*
Forest
Plants
Bugs
Week 8: July 15 - July 19
Mammals
Space
Geology
Weather
Ages 4-5
Dino Diggers $304
Raindrops & Lollipops
Earth Explorers
Funky Ferns
Seeds & Leaves
Buzzy Bugs
Paws & Claws
Super Stars
Ages 6-7
Mineral Magic $304
Rain or Shine
Planet Protectors
Woodland Wizards
Little Spruce Trees
Creative Crawlers $228
Moose on the Loose
Out of this World
Ages 6-7
Mineral Magic 2 $304
Ages 8-10
Shakes & Quakes $304
Alaskan Aviators
$340
Wetland Wonders $425
Fire Away
$340
Meteorology Magic $425
$340
Biking for a Better World $425 Capture Alaska (10-14) $430
Ages 8-10 HA Ages 10-14 EE/Hybrid Ages 10-14 HA/Hybrid 8-10/10-14 HA/Hybrid
Rockin' Riders Geode Geniuses Trail Riders Xtreme Fire Away
Earth
Week 7: July 8 - July 12
Woodland Wizards 2
(8-10) $344
Mountain Mindfulness
Creative Crawlers 2 $228
Fires & Flowers
Branching Out
$450
Aquatic Anglers $430
Wetland Wonders $425
Youth Leaders in Action 12+ $425
Hiking Through History $425
Teacher Naturalists in Training 12+
Oceans Alive $425
Trail Riders Xtreme $425
Capture Alaska $430
Tidal Explorers (8-10) $425
Bull's Eye (10-14) Backcountry Bikers (8-10) $425 $430
Ruth Arcand Park, Dena'ina Lands
Ages Theme
Week 1: May 28 - May 31 Week 2: June 3 Week 3: June 10 *4 day week* - June 7 - June 14
Arctic Zoo Keepers
Backcountry Bikers $255
Tidal Explorers $425
$255
D
Out of this World 2
Captivating Caterpillars $255
Trailblazers
J
Arctic Artists
$425
Trail Riders Xtreme $255
Oceans Alive
$425
Treetop Trekkers (8-10) $255
Fire Away (8-10) $430
Solar Scientists
Oc
Backcountry Bikers $425
T
Extraordinary Engineers Bull's Eye
$430
Fishing Frenzy (10-14) $430
Tr
J
Ruth Arcand Park, Dena'ina Lands Week 4: June 17 - June 21
Week 5: June 24 - June 28
Week 6: July 1 - July 3 *3 day week*
Week 7: July 8 - July 12
Week 8: July 15 - July 19
Forest
Plants
Bugs
Mammals
Space
Geology
Weather
Ages 4-5
Dino Diggers $304
Raindrops & Lollipops
Earth Explorers
Funky Ferns
Seeds & Leaves
Buzzy Bugs $228
Paws & Claws
Super Stars
Ages 6-7
Mineral Magic $304
Rain or Shine
Planet Protectors
Woodland Wizards
Little Spruce Trees
Creative Crawlers $228
Moose on the Loose
Out of this World
D
Rain or Shine 2
Planet Protectors 2
Backcountry Bikers (8-10) $425
Little Spruce Trees (6-7) Group 2
Captivating Caterpillars $255
Moose on the Loose (6-7) Group 2
Backcountry Riders (8-10) $425
D
$340
Alaskan Aviators
Mountain Mindfulness
Fires & Flowers $425
Branching Out
Aquatic Anglers (8-10) $258
Arctic Zoo Keepers
Solar Scientists
O
$340
Meteorology Magic $425
Biking for a Better World $425
Fishing Frenzy $430
AK Survival $425
Trail Riders Xtreme $425
Extraordinary Engineers
6-7 double or 8-10 double Ages 8-10 Ages 10-14
Mineral Magic 2 $304 Rockin' Riders Geode Geniuses
Earth
Russian Jack, Lidia Selkregg Chalet, Dena'ina Lands
Ages Theme
Week 1: May 28 - May 31 Week 2: June 3 Week 3: June 10 *4 day week* - June 7 - June 14
Trailblazers
$255
Russian Jack, Lidia Selkregg Chalet, Dena'ina Lands
Week 4: June 17 - June 21
Week 5: June 24 - June 28
Week 6: July 1 - July 3 *3 day week*
Week 7: July 8 - July 12
Week 8: July 15 - July 19
Forest
Plants
Bugs
Mammals
Space
Geology
Weather
Ages 4-5
Dino Diggers $304
Raindrops & Lollipops
Earth Explorers
Funky Ferns
Seeds & Leaves
Buzzy Bugs $228
Paws & Claws
Super Stars
Ages 6-7
Mineral Magic $304
Rain or Shine
Planet Protectors
Woodland Wizards
Little Spruce Trees
Creative Crawlers $228
Moose on the Loose
Out of this World
D
Rain or Shine 2
Planet Protectors 2
Little Spruce Trees Woodland Wizards 2 2 Creative Crawlers 2 $228 Moose on the Loose 2
Out of this World 2
D
Shakes & Quakes $304
Alaskan Aviators
Mountain Mindfulness Tidal Explorers $425
Backcountry Bikers $425
Capture Alaska $430
Teacher Naturalists in Training 12+
Ages 6- 7 Ages 8-10 Ages 8-10 HA
Rockin' Riders
$340
Wetland Wonders $425
Ages 10-14
Geode Geniuses
$340
Oceans Alive $425
Earth
J
Fires & Flowers $425
Quest Trips: First week, day camp at Russian Jack, second week trip, depart Russian Jack for destination
Arctic Zoo Keepers
Solar Scientists
O
Wetland Wonders $425
Aquatic Anglers
Tidal Explorers $425
Rockin' Riders $425
W
AK Survival $425
Trail Riders Xtreme $255
Capture Alaska $430
Extraordinary Engineers
O
Branching Out
Quest Trips: First week, day camp at Russian Jack, second week trip, depart Russian Jack for destination
Tonsina Point Backpacking (3 nights) $1050
Hidden Lake Kayaking (3 nights) $1200
AQ II 10-11
Halibut Cove Lagoon Sea Kayaking (4 Nights) $1300
AQ III 12-14
Eagle River - Beach Lake Chalet, Dena'ina Lands
Ages Theme
$258
Eklutna Camping (1 night) $525
Manitoba Cabin (1 $525 night)
AQ I 8-9
Captivating Caterpillars $255
Week 1: May 28 - May 31 Week 2: June 3 Week 3: June 10 *4 day week* - June 7 - June 14
Eagle River - Beach Lake Chalet, Dena'ina Lands
Week 4: June 17 - June 21
Week 5: June 24 - June 28
Week 6: July 1 - July 3 *3 day week*
Forest
Plants
Bugs
Earth
Week 7: July 8 - July 12
Week 8: July 15 - July 19
Mammals
Space
J
Geology
Weather
Ages 4-5
Dino Diggers
Raindrops & Lollipops
Earth Explorers
Funky Ferns
Seeds & Leaves
Buzzy Bugs
Paws & Claws
Super Stars
Ages 6-7
Mineral Magic
Rain or Shine
Planet Protectors
Woodland Wizards
Little Spruce Trees
Creative Crawlers
Moose on the Loose
Out of this World
D
Ages 8-10
Alaskan Aviators
Mountain Mindfulness
Wetland Wonders $425
Backcountry Bikers $425
Arctic Zoo Keepers
Tidal Explorers $425
O
Ages 10-14 Hybrid
Meteorology Magic $425
Happy Hikers $425
Capture Alaska $430
B
Oceans Alive $425
AK Survival $425
Trail Riders Xtreme $425
Palmer, Dena'ina, Ahtna Lands Week 2: June 3 June 7
Ages
Week 3: June 10 - June 14
Palmer, Dena'ina, Ahtna Lands
Week 4: June 17 - June 21
Week 5: June 24 - June 28
Week 6: July 1 - July 3 *3 day week*
Week 7: July 8 - July 12
Week 8: July 15 - July 19
J
Theme
Geology
Weather
Earth
Forest
Plants
Bugs
Mammals
Birds
Ages 6-7
Mineral Magic
Rain or Shine
Planet Protectors
Woodland Wizards
Little Spruce Trees
Creative Crawlers
Moose on the Loose
Out of this World
D
Ages 8-10
Wetland Wonders $430
Fires & Flowers $425
Aquatic Anglers $430
Backcountry Bikers $425
Tidal Explorers $425
O
Ages 10-14
Trail Riders Xtreme $425
Oceans Alive $425
AK Survival $425
Fishing Frenzy $430
Extraordinary Engineers
less otherwise noted Week 11: August 5 - August 9
Week 12: August 12 - Aug 14 *3 day week*
Water
Salmon
Harvest
Birds
Baby Belugas
Scales & Tails
Bears & Berries
Dancing Chickadees $228
Deep Sea Safari
Salmon Symphony
Happy Harvest
Outdoor Detectives $228
Happy Harvest 2
Outdoor Dectectives 2 $228
cean Commotion
Peaks & Creeks $425
TDC Junior Chef
$425
Tidal Explorers
Wetland Wonders $425
Rockin' Riders
$425
Waterways & Woodland Days
AK Survival
$425
TDC Master Chef
Birds & Beaks $228 Backcountry Bikers
$425
Capture Alaska
Oceans Alive $425
Biking for a Better World $425
rail Riders Xtreme (10-14)
Aquatic Anglers (8-10) $430
Bull's Eye
(10-14) $430
$255
Trailblazers
$395
Fishing Frenzy
$258
Treetop Trekkers
(8-10) $255
Ruth Arcand Park, Dena'ina Lands
Week 9: July 22 - July 26
Week 10: July 29 - August 2
Week 11: August 5 - August 9
Week 12: August 12 - Aug 14 *3 day week*
Water
Salmon
Harvest
Birds
Baby Belugas
Scales & Tails
Bears & Berries
Dancing Chickadees $228
Deep Sea Safari
Salmon Symphony
Happy Harvest
Duckling Detectives $228
Deep Sea Safari 2
Salmon Symphony 2
Treetop Trekkers $425
Ocean Commotion
Peaks & Creeks $425
TDC Junior Chef
$425
Trail Riders Xtreme $425
Trail Riders Xtreme
$425
Waterways & Woodland Days
(8-10)
Backcountry Bikers
(8-10) $255
Birds & Beaks $228 Hiking Through History
$255
Russian Jack, Lidia Selkregg Chalet, Dena'ina Lands
Week 9: July 22 - July 26
Week 10: July 29 - August 2
Week 11: August 5 - August 9
Week 12: August 12 - Aug 14 *3 day week*
Water
Salmon
Harvest
Birds
Baby Belugas
Scales & Tails
Bears & Berries
Dancing Chickadees $228
Deep Sea Safari
Salmon Symphony
Happy Harvest
Duckling Detectives $228
Deep Sea Safari 2
Ocean Commotion
Peaks & Creeks $425
TDC Junior Chef
$425
Wetland Wonders $425
Tidal Explorers $425
Aquatic Anglers
$430
Arctic Artists
Trail Riders Xtreme
Oceans Alive $425
Birds & Beaks $228
$425
Backcountry Bikers
$255
Fishing Frenzy
$258
Quest Trips: First week, day camp at Russian Jack, second week trip, depart Russian Jack for destination
Reed Lakes Backpacking (4 nights) $1200
s
Week 9: July 22 - July 26
Week 10: July 29 - August 2
Water
Salmon
Baby Belugas
Scales & Tails
Deep Sea Safari
Salmon Symphony
Ocean Commotion
Fire Away
Bull's Eye
$430
$430
Waterways & Woodland Days
s
Legend
Week 9: July 22 - July 26
Week 10: July 29 - August 2
Biking
Week 10: July 29 - August 2
Archery
Fishing
Water
Salmon
Hiking
Photography
Deep Sea Safari
Salmon Symphony
Camping (Overnight)
Cooking
Ocean Commotion Capture Alaska $430
Boating
Program cost varies based on field trip locations and program logistics. 8+ groups include at least 1 fieldtrip a week. Adventure Activities may vary dependent on weather and facility availabilty.
apply at www.trailsidediscovery.org
Week 10: July 29 - August 2
scholarships are available!
Kincaid Park, Dena'ina Lands
Week 9: July 22 - July 26
Alaska Quest Trips: Russian Jack Park Description: Our Alaska Quest Trips are designed for campers who are ready to expand their backcountry camping skills and push themselves in a safe and fun environment. After a week of day camp, team building, gear prep, and skill practice, campers will head out with our trained and skilled staff on an unforgettable adventure in Alaska’s great wilderness! Trips programs will take place at and leave out of our Russian Jack location.
AQI Ages 8-9
Manitoba Cabin: June 3rd to June 7th This week-long program focuses on camping skills, leadership, and outdoor exploration! In this program, campers will work as a team Monday through Wednesday to prepare for their camping trip on a normal day camp schedule. In these first few days, they will gain skills in outdoor cooking, setting up camp, building a campfire, and safety in the outdoors. Then, they will leave Thursday morning to spend one night at Manitoba Cabins. On the trip, campers will go hiking to explore the many trails in the area. They will also put their new camping skills to the test, all while making memories to last a lifetime. The trip will return Friday afternoon to unpack. Difficulty: Beginner - No previous experience necessary. Campers will learn the skills needed but must be able to spend a night away from home without their caretakers. Intro to Camping - Eklutna: June 24th to June 28th This week-long program focuses on camping skills, leadership, and outdoor exploration! In this program, campers will work as a team Monday through Wednesday to prepare for their camping trip on a normal day camp schedule. In these first few days, they will gain skills in outdoor cooking, setting up camp, building a campfire, and safety in the outdoors. Then, campers will leave Thursday morning and head to Eklutna Campground. Thursday night will be spent exploring camp and putting new camp skills to work, all while making new friends and gaining confidence in the outdoors! The trip will return Friday afternoon to unpack. Difficulty: Beginner - No previous camping experience needed. Campers will learn the necessary skills but must be comfortable spending a night away from home without their caretakers. Campers must also be competent hikers in order to learn to hike with crampons on the glacier!
AQII Ages 10-12
Hidden Lake Kayaking: June 3rd-June 14th This is a two-week-long program focused on learning about and exploring one of Alaska’s most famous lake systems!! Campers will spend the program’s first week in Anchorage learning about lake ecology and Alaskan ecosystems. Campers will help create a meal plan, practice their camp cooking skills, pack group gear, and prep for their trip. The program’s second week includes a four-day, three-night backcountry camping trip based out of Skilak Lake to Hidden Island. On the first night, campers will frontcountry camp on Skilak Lake in preparation for their kayak trip. Campers will then kayak from the shores of Skilak Lake out to Hidden Island, where they will set up camp for two nights. Difficulty: Intermediate - While campers should have the maturity and independence to spend 3 nights camping away from home, they do not need to have technical skills or backcountry experience as this will be a frontcountry trip. Tonsina Point Backpacking: July 8th to July 19th This two-week program is designed as an introduction to backpacking, perfect for campers who are excited to grow in their skills and independence! The first week takes place in Anchorage, working on camp skills, such as cooking, gear prep, meal planning, and backpacking essentials. The program’s second week includes a four-day, three-night trip to Seward, Alaska. Spend a night at Miller’s Landing Campground, discovering ocean life and tidal zones before backpacking 2 miles out to Tonsina Point Campground for 2 nights of camping, hiking, exploring, and learning! Difficulty: Intermediate - While campers should have the maturity and independence to spend 3 nights camping away from home, they do not need to have technical skills, as we will teach them the skills they need to enjoy a backpacking trip.
Alaska Quest Trips: Russian Jack Park AQ III Ages 12-14
Halibut Cove Lagoon Sea Kayaking: June 17th - June 28th This is a two-week-long program focused on sea kayaking, camp skills, and ocean ecology. In this program, campers will spend the first week in Anchorage practicing kayaking, water safety, and partner cooperation, as well as creating a meal plan and packing for their adventure. The program’s second week will be a five-day, four-night trip to Halibut Cove Lagoon. On Monday, campers will take a water taxi across the Homer Spit to camp in Kachemak Bay State Park. Tuesday and Wednesday will be spent exploring tidal treasures while kayaking around Halibut Cove Lagoon. A water taxi will pick the group back up on Thursday to camp on the Homer Spit for one night before driving back to Anchorage to be picked up Friday afternoon. This program begins Monday, June 17th, on a normal day camp schedule for the first week. It departs Monday (6/24) and returns on Friday afternoon (6/28) to de-rig & unpack! Difficulty: Advanced - Some previous camping & kayaking experience is required. Campers will have a chance to practice paddling techniques but will need to be able to paddle near the shore in the sea for about 6 miles in order to explore all that Kachemak Bay has to offer.
Reed Lakes Backpacking: July 22nd to August 2nd Join us for a two-week-long program focused on hiking, backpacking, and leadership skills. In this program, you will spend the first week of the program in Anchorage developing hiking skills, as well as creating a meal plan and packing as a group for your adventure. The second week is a five-day, four-night backpacking trip in Hatcher Pass State Park. Explore both the lower and upper Reed Lakes and put your backpacking and leadership skills into action! Difficulty: Advanced - Some previous camping & backpacking experience is required. Campers will have a chance to practice hiking with packs on but will need to be able to hike 5 miles & traverse boulders with a pack on to make it to camp.
Climate Leaders in Action: Alaska Youth for Environmental Action (AYEA) 🛶
Youth Leaders in Action (June 10th to June 14th) Campers and AYEA teens are invited to participate in Trailside Discovery Camp’s Climate Leaders in Action program to bond with peers and get our youth excited about the connection between AYEA’s and Trailside’s mission! This is a weeklong program for campers ages 12+ who will soon be transitioning out of camp and into AYEA. Current AYEA teens are encouraged to sign up to learn about opportunities available through Trailside, including summer employment as an Assistant Instructor for our environmental education or high adventure programs. Participants will reflect on their roles as environmental stewards, learn about environmental topics affecting Alaska, bond with peers while kayaking, and design an action project to carry out over the week. Campers can expect to meet members and mentors from AYEA and learn how to apply for their week-long fall summit, where AYEA teens from all over the state come together to create and implement a statewide campaign of their choosing. AYEA teens can expect to apply their leadership and organizing skills as well as be exposed to opportunities for engagement and resume-building through Trailside.
Volunteer at Trailside Discovery Camp
We are excited to announce that we are opening applications for volunteers at Trailside Discovery Camp! The ideal volunteer candidates are 14-15 year olds with a love of the outdoors. This program is geared towards building teaching skills and environmental science knowledge for youth interested in working as Instructors at Trailside once they are 16 years old. Teens who have completed the Teacher Naturalist in Training program in previous years are encouraged to apply. Those who have participated in the joint TDC and AYEA programs Climate Leaders in Action or Sustainability Stewards are also encouraged to apply. Volunteering at Trailside strengthens leadership skills and interpersonal relationships within our community. This is a great opportunity for teens needing service hours and wanting to get involved at Trailside. Adults who would like to volunteer are also welcome to apply; however, we will not allow parents to volunteer for any session their child attends. The application process is necessary to ensure that volunteers are capable of caring for the social-emotional wellbeing of campers and share our philosophy of experiential learning. We will require a background check for volunteers, as American Camp Association standards require. Trailside will cover the background check fee and will provide environmental education training for those who can attend.
scholarships available! The application window is Nov 1 - December 15th; however, we accept applications until funds have been exhausted. Applications are first come, first serve.
trailsidediscovery.org 907-274-5437 (KIDS)