Trail Adventures for High/Middle Schoolers
When I was 15, I flew to Salt Lake City to go to a trail running camp led by two professional marathoners. At the time, I didn’t really know what I was getting into. I just knew I was good at running, and this seemed like it would take me to the next level. We ran roads and also trails around Park City. It opened my eyes to making training challenging and fun. Here from the two professional runners exposed me to physiology, training theory, and identity. That week ended up changing how I saw the sport and myself. For the first time, I wanted to be “a runner.”
I think about that week a lot now. Last summer, I helped lead our first High Cascades Youth Trail Running Camp. A trail running camp for 13-18 year olds. And this year, I’m coming back for round two.
From July 6–10, we’re running it again in the Cascades in partnership with Max King Trail Running camps.
What this camp actually is
At a basic level, it’s a week in the mountains for middle and high school runners: wild places, great training, new friends, and good food. More importantly, it’s an introduction to a different way of moving through the world.
Track and Cross Country are the heart of youth running, but trail running offers a fresh perspective and challenge. You’re dealing with uneven terrain, longer efforts, and constant small decisions. How hard should I push this uphill? How much longer do I have to go? How can I avoid falling on my face?
Trail running takes the focus off performance. Trails build strong legs and determination. There are no shortcuts to the top of a mountain! A lot of what we do during the week is creating space for that learning to happen – Daily runs/adventures, guidance from professional runners, and time on trail without an eye on the watch.
What I’ve seen with youth runners
I lead the PNW Youth Trail Project up in Seattle, and one thing comes up over and over: A lot of kids have never tried trail running before.
It’s hard to get to trailheads, and, for some, it’s intimidating. Will I fall off a mountain? Could there be bears? How do I even find runnable trails? But it doesn’t take long for that to shift.
I’ve found youth runners to be much more capable than they expect. Trails make them stronger, both physically and mentally. Incorporating trails into running allows for more miles and training time translating into stronger fitness. The uphills are great for developing a strong engine while the downhills makes the legs strong and resilient. All this happens while staying healthy and having fun!
What stood out last year
Last year, there were a lot of firsts for these kids: fueling mid-run, running (let’s be honest, there’s a lot of hiking) up a mountain, creating their own trail route, and using a compass.
One day, we were out on a ridgeline with Mount Rainier in the background (camp photos here!). It was one of those clear days where everything just lines up. Everyone had settled in at that point, moving well, relaxed, taking it all in. There were a lot of smiles.
It’s a simple moment, but it felt like a good snapshot of the week. Everyone was a little outside their comfort zone, but fully in it at the same time.
Also, the food was unexpectedly a highlight. Chef Derek absolutely carried the week. At one point, he made a Thai chicken salad that, after a long day out running, was one of the highlights of my week. It’s a small detail, but those things matter more than you expect when you’re out there all day.
What we’ll cover
The experience is all-inclusive. We will provide food, snacks, drinks, camp leaders, transportation to/from trailheads, and accommodation. We also may be able to provide transportation to and from camp from Bend or Seattle.
We also have an education focus during the camp. Topics include:
- Trail running technique (especially technical terrain and descending)
- Fueling and hydration
- Basic navigation
- Safety and decision making in the mountains
- Trail stewardship (we spend a day doing trail work)
- And more
We’ll run somewhere in the 30–50 mile range over the week, depending on the group.
The camp is located in the Cascades in Washington. Good trail systems, plenty of variety, and terrain that naturally teaches you how to move if you pay attention. We will be staying at a clean and spacious Airbnb with rooming separated by gender.
Expect limited or no cell service. We settle in pretty well when there’s nothing to check.
Who this is for
This is for runners ages 13–18. We do allow younger runners, but it’s best to check with myself or Max to make sure they are a good fit for the camp.
Most have a cross country or track background, but it’s not required. As I stated earlier, you don’t need trail experience. A good trail runner is someone who is willing and excited to tackle something new. If someone is even a little curious about trail running, that’s usually enough.
That being said, a fitness pre-requiite is to be able to run 4-5 miles without stopping.
If you’re interested
If this sounds like something you (or someone you know) would be into, you can find more info and registration here:
https://www.maxkingtrc.com/
I’d be happy to jump on a call or answer questions if you’re interested in participating.
Runners can sign up with a $250 deposit to lock in a spot. Let’s go!
