2026 Youth Program Application

Applicant Name

First NameLast Name

APPLICATIONS DUE BY MAY 15TH

For more than 20 years, Ascend Wilderness Experience has fully funded our youth backpacking trips (ages 6–14), ensuring that cost was never a barrier to participation. These trips introduce young people to the wilderness while fostering confidence, resilience, outdoor skills, and a lasting connection to the natural world.

Due to current funding challenges, we are not able to fully fund youth trips this year as we have in the past. To continue offering these experiences, we are introducing program fees for the first time.

We are actively pursuing grant funding and expect to have a clearer picture of available support by early June. Any funding we receive will go directly toward reducing costs for families through subsidies.

Please see the Trip Fees section below for more details.

2026 Youth Backpacking Trips

July 9-13 - (Ages 10-12): A 5-day introductory backpacking trip in the Russian Wilderness/Marble Mountain Wilderness, Klamath Mountains, with 12 youth participants. exact location TBD. Designed for youth who are just dipping their toes into independent outdoor adventures. Hiking distances are age-appropriate, and destinations will include vistas, alpine lakes, and solitude. (NOTE: MANDATORY PACK MEETING, Ascend Office, Wednesday July 8th @ 5:30pm)July 20-24 - (Ages 12-14): This group will spend a full 5 days immersed in the backcountry of the Russian Wilderness/Marble Mountain Wilderness in the Klamath Mountains. The exact location of this trip is TBD, but it is sure to offer amazing vistas, alpine lakes, and solitude, with plenty of day hikes, swimming, and fun! (NOTE: MANDATORY PACK MEETING, Ascend Office, Sunday July 19th @ 3:00pm)

Please select all trips that you'd like to attend. If you pick both trips, please put your first preference here.

Orientation Meeting Attending 1 of these dates is mandatory if this is the participant's first time with Ascend. If you have previously been on a trip with Ascend, then attending 1 orientation meeting is encouraged but not mandatory.

Applicants may be put on a waitlist. Families will be notified as changes to waitlist occur. Ascend receives more applicants than can be accomodated. Acceptance is not guaranteed.

Applications are not first come, first served. Applications received between April 1- May 15 will be given equal consideration. Participants will receive notification of their placement towards the end of May. Applications are still accepted after May 15, but will be put on a waitlist.

Age

Birthdate

Preferred Pronoun(s)

School Name

Guardian/Parent Name #1

Best Contact Number for Guardian/Parent #1

Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.

Do you receive texts?

Guardian/Parent Name #2

Best Contact Number for Guardian/Parent #2

Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.

Do you receive texts?

Mailing Address

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityState / Province

Postal / Zip Code

Email

example@example.com

Is Email A Good Way To Reach You?

Ascend uses email as it's primary method of communicating. Expect to receive multiple emails from information.ascend@gmail.com. Please indicate the best method of communication for you (email, phone, text, all of the above). *NOTE Inability to connect, lack of email responses, etc., will result in a participant being moved to the waitlist*

Would You Like To Join Our Email News?

How Did You Hear About Ascend? (If someone referred you, you're welcome to share their name.)

Emergency Contacts (We consider the youth's guardian the primary contact. Please list other contacts besides the guardian below)

*Emergency Contact Person #1 (Name, Address, Phone Number, Relationship)

*Emergency Contact Person #2 (Name, Address, Phone Number, Relationship)

*In case of an emergency, Ascend will take participant to the nearest ER and contact Emergency Contacts. If there are further directions you'd like to give Ascend for emergencies, please include below:

*Permission for Medical Treatment: Administrative procedures vary among medical personnel and medical facilities with regard to provision of medical care. The exact procedure required by physician or hospital to be used in emergencies should be verified in advance. All participants should have health insurance; if you are injured on the project, you are responsible for all medical and evacuation expenses. In case of an accident or an emergency, I authorize a staff member or contractor of Ascend Wilderness Experience to take participant to the nearest emergency hospital for such emergency treatment and measures as are deemed necessary for participant's safety and protection, at guardian's expense. ***Guardian Signature***

Youth Backpacking/Hiking Experience:

Have You Ever Been Backpacking Before?

If Yes, How Far Did You Hike (Miles or Hours)?

How Many Nights?

With Ascend?

Have You Ever Been On A Day Hike?

If Yes, How Many?

How Far In One Day?

With Ascend?

Have you applied for an Ascend trip before, but not been chosen to participate?

If Yes, Please list year(s) you applied

Youth Application Questions

1-4 To be completed by youth. Ascend trips are designed for all levels, including beginners. You do not need to have experience to attend, but it helps us plan trips appropriately.

1. Please write a short description of relevant experiences you've had along with hobbies, sports, or activities that you participate in that have prepared you for the physical and mental challenges of a Wilderness Trip.

2. Backpacking is a physically demanding task. Are you willing and able to participate in the physical challenge?

3. Can you maintain a good attitude even if you get tired or homesick?

4. Please also share any concerns that you might have about the physical and mental challenges of a Wilderness Trip you've signed up for.

Parents and Guardians: Is there anything else you would like to share about the applicant? For example, “My child is on the mature side of 11” or “my child is nervous about outdoor activities.”

REFERENCES TO BE PROVIDED FOR OVERNIGHT TRIPS: Please provide two names and phone numbers of adults who know the youth and who would recommend the youth for participation in a backpack/internship trip. The adult should not be related to the youth. An appropriate reference would be a teacher, coach, troop leader, youth group leader, etc.

Reference 1 (Name, Contact Number, Relationship to Youth)

Reference 2 (Name, Contact Number, Relationship to Youth)

PERSONAL DISCLOSURES, MEDICAL INFORMATION and MEDICAL RELEASE

(All medical information is confidential)

1. Are you under treatment for any illness or conditions? If yes, please describe.

2. Are you currently taking any medications? If yes, please describe.

3. List any specific activities that the participant SHOULD NOT take part in.

4. Do you have any allergies to medications, foods, or insects. If yes, please describe. Other dietary restrictions?

5. Do you have any pre-existing medical conditions that may affect your ability to participate in wilderness activities? Examples include, but are not limited to: heart disease, previous heart-attack or stroke, seizures, respiratory problems, or any other condition that limits your ability to participate in strenuous exercise. If yes, please describe.

I have answered the above questions accurately and completely. I hereby grant permission for the performance of any emergency medical treatment that may be required in the case of an accident wherein the participant is rendered unconscious or unable to approve the required medical treatment. In the event that the participant becomes the victim of an accident I will hold Ascend Wilderness Experience harmless from liability or negligent actions which may arise in connections with the rescue, stabilization, evacuation, transportation, and emergency care the participant receives while secondary aid resources are being sought. ***Guardian Signature***

PRIVATE DRIVE PERMISSION

I give my permission for a driver that has been screened and determined by Ascend Wilderness Experience to be an Acceptable Driver, to transport First Name* Last Name* (name of child) to, from, and, as needed, during the Ascend Wilderness Experience Trip. I understand that the driver will drive a privately owned vehicle and that in the event of an accident or incident, the insurance coverage for the privately owned vehicle will bear primary responsibility for any losses or claims of damage.

***Guardian Signature***

PERMISSION TO SWIM

I understand that NO CERTIFIED LIFE GUARD WILL BE ON DUTY during the Ascend Wilderness Experience trip. Knowing the risks and dangers involved, including but not limited to hypothermia, drowning, physical injury and possibly death.

Type a question

***Guardian Signature***

RELEASE WAIVER OF LIABILITY, INDEMNITY AGREEMENT

I am aware that during the Ascend Wilderness Experience activity in which I am enrolling, I will be exposed to certain risks and hazards which could result in property damage, personal injury, or death.

In consideration of being permitted to enroll in and participate in the outing, class instruction, or other activity, I agree to the following:

1. I hereby release, waive, discharge and covenant not to sue the Ascend Wilderness Experience, their directors, officers, employees, contractors, associated coalition agencies and agents(hereinafter, referred to as "Releasees")from all liability to me, my personal representatives, assigns, heirs, and next of kin for any loss or damage in any claim or demands therefore, on account of property damage, personal injury, or death, whether caused by the negligence of the Releasees or otherwise, arising out of the outing, trip, class instruction, or other activity.

2. I agree to indemnify, save and hold harmless the Releasees and each of them from any loss, liability damage or cost that they may incur due to my enrollment or participation in the outing, trip, class, instruction or other activity whether caused by the negligence of the Releasees or otherwise.

3. I hereby assume full responsibility and risk bodily injury, death, or property damage due to the negligence of Releasees or otherwise arising out of the outing, trip, class instruction, or other activity. I understand that there are certain risks and dangers that may occur, including but not limited to: exposure of personal injury, rigorous physical activity; such as running, tumbling, and climbing, accident or illness in remote places without medical facilities, forces of nature, and travel by automobile or other conveyances.

4. I further expressly agree that the foregoing Release, Waiver and Indemnity Agreement is intended to be as broad and is inclusive as permitted by the laws of the State of California and that if any portion thereof is held invalid, it is agreed that the balance shall continue in full legal force and effect.

5. I have read and voluntarily signed the Release, Waiver, and Indemnity Agreement and further agree that no oral representations, statements, or inducements not contained in this document have been made.

6. I agree that while participating in this activity, I agree to conform to all policies of Ascend Wilderness Experience, and to abide by all state and federal laws. I also agree to accept and follow the directions of the outing or activity leader(s) or instructor(s) and to act in a mature and responsible manner. I further agree to follow all facility regulations and adhere to any lodging or camping requirement or precepts. I agree not to leave the group unless first notifying the outing or activity leader. I understand that upon leaving the group, I waive all rights as an outing or activity participant.

By signing here I acknowledge that I have read and understood the Release, Waiver and Indemnity Agreement and acknowledge the risk and agree to all of the above. ***Guardian Signature***

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS OF RISK AGREEMENT

I recognize the element of risk in any adventure sport or activity associated with the outdoors. I am fully aware of the risks and dangers inherent in backpacking, hiking, swimming, rock climbing, river rafting/kayaking, including but not limited to:

*Exposure to cold water and extreme environmental conditions, becoming lost, and physically injured.

Knowing the risks and dangers, I understand the possible consequences of participating in such activities are as
follows:

*Hypothermia, illness, serious physical injuries, and possibly death.

I certify that I have, or my child has, the necessary skills and abilities to participate in the said activities and assume full responsibility for myself, or my child, for bodily injury, death and loss of personal property and expenses thereof as a result of my, or my child’s negligence in participating in said activities except to the extent such damage or injury may be due to the negligence of Ascend Wilderness Experience.

I also agree that my child, or I will abide by the rules or instructions given to us, either orally or in writing by Ascend Wilderness Experience. I further understand that Ascend Wilderness Experience reserves the right to refuse to allow any person to participate who is judged by Ascend Wilderness Experience to be incapable of meeting the rigors and requirements of participating in the said activities.

By signing here I have read, understand, and accept the terms and conditions stated herein and acknowledge that this agreement shall be effective and binding upon me, or my child, during the entire period of participation in the said activities. ***Guardian Signature***

CANCELLATION AND NO SHOW POLICY

Although Ascend offers our trips at no cost to participants, cancellations and no-shows always come at a cost to the organization. We understand life throws curve balls and plans change. If this happens and you need to cancel, we need to know as soon as possible so that we can offer the trip to another applicant who is on the waiting list.

If you cannot attend a trip you've been confirmed for, there is no fee if you inform us at least two weeks prior to your departure date. If you cancel within the 14-day window of your trip, Ascend will charge you $200 for an overnight trip and $50 for a day hike. This is to cover the costs of non-refundable supplies such as food and administrative time. Once confirmed for a trip, we will ask for credit card information to only be used in the instance of having to charge for a no-show. We hope you understand and that this does not deter you from applying!

Exceptions to the fee will be considered on a case-by-case basis should a last-minute, unavoidable circumstance lead to last minute cancellation. Just give us a call.

By signing here I understand, have read, and accept the terms and conditions of the cancellation and no show policy stated herein and acknowledge and agree to all of the above. ***Guardian Signature***

PROMOTIONAL RELEASE

In an effort to promote the Ascend Wilderness Experience’s community programs, photographs and videos may be taken of participants. These are mostly used in grant reports in order to continue receiving outside funds and may be published in a variety of promotional materials such as newspapers, brochures, or on the AWE website. We do not use names when using photos. Please check the applicable box below.

Can Ascend use your photo for promotional purposes?

By signing here I understand, have read, and accept the terms and conditions of the Promotional Release policy stated herein and acknowledge and agree to all of the above. ***Guardian Signature***

PROGRAM COSTS & FINANCIAL SUPPORT

We remain committed to making our youth backpacking programs accessible to all families.

This year, due to funding changes, we are introducing program fees for the first time. We are actively pursuing grant funding and expect to have a clearer picture of available financial support by early June. Any funding we receive will go directly toward reducing costs for families through scholarships and subsidies.

The cost to run these programs is approximately $300 per day per participant, or $1,500 for a 5-day backpacking trip. This reflects the cost of providing a safe, high-quality experience and includes guides, food, transportation, gear, and hiking boots if needed.

We encourage all families to apply, regardless of ability to pay.

The questions below are intended to help us understand your family’s needs and any financial barriers. This information allows us to prioritize scholarships and advocate for additional funding.

Your responses will not affect a participant’s selection for the program.

Which of the following best describes your situation?

Optional: Additional contribution amount

If requesting financial assistance, what level of contribution feels possible for you?

If we're unable to offer financial assistance, would your child still be able to participate?

Is there anything you’d like us to know about your family’s situation that may help us better understand your needs or any barriers to participation? (Optional)

***DISCLAIMER***

Ascend DOES NOT request payment for trips until your child is confirmed for a trip. By signing here, you understand that financial assistance is not guaranteed and will depend on available funding, and that you will be notified of any awarded subsidy before being asked to make a final payment commitment.

***Guardian Signature***

WHAT TO EXPECT ONCE YOU SUBMIT

You should receive an email confirmation.
Reach out to us if you did NOT receive confirmation of your application submission. Otherwise we will reach out to chosen participants by the end of May.
Applications are not first come first serve, we wait until May 15 to review all applicants.
We use email as our primary mode of contact. If you do not check your email regularly, please tell us the best way to contact you in the section provided above.
Being Waitlisted is ok! If you don't make our first round of participants, please keep in mind our waitlisted participants have a great chance to still attend a trip.

Questions or Concerns?

Please contact us anytime and we will reach back out ASAP.

General Inquiries

Phone: (530)-739-1177

email:information.ascend@gmail.com

Ascend Office

420 Main St., PO Box 3263 Weaverville, CA 96093

Program Director-Andrew Nelson

Phone: (530)-739-1177 ext. 0

email:andrewn.ascend@gmail.com