Why go on a YWE adventure?

YWE is a great way to disconnect from the world and re-connect with God! If you love the outdoors and have a desire to grow spiritually then YWE is the trip for you. We will spend the trip experiencing some of God’s most beautiful creations. Throughout the adventure we will create lifelong friendships with the other participants as well as with our counselors.

Who can participate in a YWE trip?

If you are a teenager that wants to come on an Adventure and Connect with God then we would love to have you join us at YWE. Each trip has different age requirements. Although our trip leaders are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints you do not need to be a member to participate. Having said that, YWE trips are not for those that are struggling with behavioral problems. Parents should not send their kids in hope to rehabilitate their child. YWE adventures are meant for youth that can agree to follow the rules of the program.

Is the trip safe?

Anytime you enter into a wilderness area there is inherent risk. Safety is our top priority. In order to mitigate that risk, we hire trained professionals to take us on all of our adventures. These trained professionals are trained and will foresee the safety of the group while on the adventures. Next we select great trip leaders who are CPR/first aid certified before the trip. These trip leaders are in charge of making sure the group is safe both physically, spiritually and socially. Their main responsibilities are to keep the group safe and to help the youth connect with God and other participants.  There will be a satellite phone on the trip in case of emergency. In case of emergency the guides have been trained to ensure group safety. YWE will contact families to update them about any problems that arise.

Is YWE part of BYU’s EFY program?

While especially for youth (EFY) and Youth Wilderness Experiences (YWE) have very similar goals, YWE is not part of EFY. YWE is not affiliated with EFY, BYU or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. YWE strives to help its participants gain and/or strengthen their testimonies of God, Jesus Christ and His restored Gospel.

How old do I have to be to participate in YWE?

Participants are 15-19 years old for trips inside the USA (our big rock candy mountain trip allows 14 year olds). Most International trips are 16-19 years old. We also offer two trips during the school year for adults.

Can I come with my son or daughter?

There will be a possibility of ONE father and ONE mother on each international trip. Registration will be first come first served. After the Parent positions are filled other parents will NOT be able to attend. Parents are not able to attend trips inside the USA.

How many participants are there on a YWE trip?

Each Trip has a different amount of participants that can attend. Most of our trips we like to keep to groups of 20 or smaller. In trips that are over 20 participants we will break them into smaller groups.

What is provided?

Food is provided and some technical gear depending on the trip (for example rappelling gear). See the gear list for gear you will need to bring on your own.

Are the trips co-ed?

Yes. YWE tries to organize the trip with a balance of boys and girls. One of our goals is to foster an environment where healthy relationships can be formed with both girls and boys. Each participant will agree to follow strict rules that will not allow pairing off and/or kissing. If a participant breaks these rules they will be sent home. YWE arranges for separate sleeping areas for young men and young women.

Can I go on a trip without a friend or family member?

Yes. Many of the participants will be coming by themselves.

Will I be able to call home during the expedition?

There will be a satellite phone on the trip however it will only be used in emergency situations. Do not expect to contact your parents during the trip.

Will I be able to contact my youth during the trip?

There will be a satellite phone with the counselors and the director. However it is only to be used in case of emergency. Do no expect to have contact with your youth during the trip.

What's the cancellation policy?

Deposit is non refundable (including taxes).  100% non refundable after March 1st