Outfit Expedition

Our Outfit Expeditions invite 10-12 year olds into the outdoors. For those younger trekkers seeking an
introduction to camping, a connection with nature, and a meaningful place within their community, Outfit
offers a “foundation of firsts.” We invite trekkers who are interested in learning more about themselves and
the world around them.

• Self-Discovery: Outfit trekkers are experiencing their first Gulch-supported camping experience,
  spending significant time away from home and truly learning about who they are and who they may
  want to become.
• Willingness to Try: Outfit trekkers are willing to try. Whether new activities, new places or new
  foods, they are excited to participate in a community that encourages them to be their authentic
  selves and show up for each other.

Outfit spends ~ 2 weeks divided up between Basecamp and the road. This is the first age group that the
Gulch takes out on a road loop, initiating that spark of wonder that comes with visiting and caring for new
places.

• Basecamp: Outfit spends ~ 10 days at our Basecamp. This time is dedicated to strengthening a
  trekker’s relationship with our Basecamp, Cibola National Forest and the Zuni Mountains. When
  there is a strong place-based relationship and a deeper understanding of how to be mindful in the
  outdoors, trekkers can be better prepared to venture forth into any community, wild or urban.
• On the Road: Outfit spends ~ 5 days on the road, learning camping skills, visiting Gulch community
  members and developing a connection to the areas around Basecamp including the Malpais, Mt.
  Taylor, and the surrounding Zuni Mountains.

The Outfit Expedition offers 10-12 year olds the opportunity to spend concentrated time at Basecamp, out
on the road, and with each other. 2 weeks away from home allow Outfit trekkers to discover those sparks of
independence, accountability within a community and growth as they transition to a more mindful
adolescence. Outfit asks “What do I want to discover? What new skills do I want to learn?” and the Gulch
provides a supported space to find those answers.

• Technical Skills Development:
  • Frontcountry skills: Trekkers will learn to camp on a Gulch-supported road loop. They will
    grow to feel comfortable sleeping in tents, setting up/taking down camp, working on
    “details” while on the road and practicing Leave No Trace principles.
  • Basecamp: Outfit trekkers will develop a deep understanding of Basecamp’s inner workings.
    They will master Basecamp’s “details,” know what is required to pack a daypack, and feel
    comfortable navigating throughout the property.
• Planting Seeds of Curiosity and Self-Discovery: 
  • Com assisted 1-night Backpack: Trekkers will experience a taste of backpacking, with a
    supported overnight in the field. This would be a fully supported experience with gear
    available via a com and staff guidance and leadership.
  • Rock climbing day: Trekkers will experience a rock climbing day trip with the Climbing
    Specialist and Wild Country Trek- challenging their personal comfort zones and learning
    from older trekkers and experts.
  • Cottonwoods programming: Outfitters will attend Cottonwoods regularly, learning about a
    variety of topics from our Basecamp Specialists, including ecology, visual arts, forestry,
    poetry, woodworking etc.