Get Started:

Thanks for your interest in going on a 2023 Wild Grief Teen Backpack! Please read through this document thoroughtly so you know what to expect during the application process. Space on our trips is limited; we usually have more applicants than we have space for. Turning in an application does not guarantee a spot on the trip, but getting your application in early helps your chances.

Trip Dates:

  • Trip 1: Thursday, April 6th-Sunday, April 9th

  • Trip 2: Thursday, July 20th-Sunday, July 23rd

  • Trip 3: Thursday, July 27th-Sunday, July 30th

  • Trip 4: Thursday, August 10th-Sunday, August 13th

Pre-trip Orientation in Olympia:

  • Trip 1: Sunday, March 26th

  • Trip 2: Saturday, July 8th

Application deadline:

  • Priority deadline for Trip 1: Sunday, February 19th.

  • Priority deadline for Trip 2-4: Sunday, April 16th

We know there are a lot of steps in this application process, and want to make it as easy as possible. We are ready to answer any questions and help with the application if needed. Here are the steps and what to expect:

  1. Review the information on this web site, the FAQ’s for the hike, and the Essential Eligibility Criteria (EEC). Also, watch the video. Then the parent/guardian and teen should take a little time to discuss the trip. If the Teen does not meet the EEC for one of our backpacking trips at this moment, we encourage them to sign up for a Teen Day Hike instead.

  2. If the teen meets the EEC, and wants to participate in a Wild Grief Backpacking Trip after reviewing the above information, the next step is to submit the following forms:

    For the parent to fill out: Parent/Guardian Application, Medical/Emergency Form, Essential Eligibility Criteria

    For the teen to fill out: Teen Application

    We must have all of the above materials to begin the review proess

  3. Within 2-3 weeks of receiving the above forms, we will contact the parent/guardian for a brief phone conference to answer any questions you may have and talk about the next steps.

  4. We will then schedule a Zoom info session for a group of parents/guardians and teens together to share more about the hike and gear and answer any questions you may have.

  5. The same day as the info session, we will schedule a 10-15 minute Zoom call between the teen and 1-2 Wild Grief guides & staff members.

  6. After these meetings, we will reach out to all applicants to let you know if you have a spot on a trip this year or not.

  7. We will all join together (hikers, leaders, parents/guardians, and other Wild Grief volunteers) for an orientation in Olympia. Trust us, this is fun. There you will get a feel for the hike, get any last questions answered, and learn some backpacking skills.

  8. We meet the morning of the hike at 7:00 in Olympia, hand out backpacking gear, help you pack, give you more backpack training, and travel by van to the trailhead and start our backpack adventure.

Questions: Call or text 360 358-3213 or email info@wildgrief.org