Our four-day backpacking camp designed for ages 10 to 13. There are guy and girl camps scheduled throughout the summer. Each Sourdough group has 10 to 16 campers. The kids take the bus from Auke Bay to the Point Bridget Trailhead where a pair of counselors will lead them on their first hike to base camp on the other side of Cowee Creek.

They are allowed to carry their backpacks, but any extra luggage will be brought out for them.

With hiking distances of no more than a couple of miles, it should be suitable for most kids. The director of the wilderness program, Ray Fish, provides the group with all their meals and supplies during the four days. Sourdough camps are meant to be fun and less dependent on schedules than the summer camps.

Who doesn't like sleeping in and waking up to orange juice, hot chocolate and pancakes cooked over the fire? (scroll down to bottom of the page for packing list)

Kids learn proper paddling techniques, water safety and what to do should their kayaks flip over. They will learn about bear safety and how to set up and take down a campsite without leaving a trace. At least two counselors go along on the trip. Both have completed kayak training and are certified in first aid and CPR. Also included in their gear is a two-way radio in case of emergency. We want to make this a fun and safe experience for campers of all skill levels. This is an awesome opportunity to experience Southeast at its finest.

The campers spend half their time at the Sourdough base camp and hiking the Point Bridget Trail. The next few days are spent on the water kayaking in Berners Bay. In addition, campers learn outdoor survival skills such as how to light a fire with one match and how to use a compass.

Survival skills help to enlighten their experience with Echo Ranch and prepare them for future adventures. For those who are interested in variety, this could be the outdoor camp of choice.