Opal Creek Expeditions offers guided backpacking, rafting, and paddle trips for youth, focusing on backcountry skills, confidence, and environmental stewardship.
Summer youth expeditions are available for ages 10-17, with both 4-day and 7-day options in Oregon’s wilderness, and include all group gear and meals.
Programs launch from Salem with shuttle service from Portland, and expeditions take place in various Oregon backcountry locations including the Ochoco, Strawberry, and Elkhorn mountains.
Join us this summer for a one-week section hike on the Pacific Crest Trail through the stunning Willamette National Forest! Hike past rugged volcanic rock, ancient old-growth forests, and sparkling alpine lakes while taking in some of the most scenic views of the Central Cascades. Designed for high schoolers with previous backpacking experience, this program teaches the skills needed for extended trips and thru-hikes, including packing, navigating tough terrain, managing food drops, filtering and treating water, and practicing Leave No Trace ethics. This is the perfect adventure for enthusiastic hikers ready to challenge themselves, build leadership skills, make lasting friendships, and fully embrace their Opal Creek experience!
Ages
14-18 yrs
Days
Tue - Mon
Start Time
9:00 AM
Early drop off 7:15 AM
End Time
3:00 PM
Start Date
Aug 18, 2026
End Date
Aug 24, 2026
Ages: 10-14 yrs
Dates: Jul 07, 2026 - Jul 10, 2026
Times: 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Now open
$895
Ages: 11-18 yrs
Dates: Jul 21, 2026 - Jul 24, 2026
Times: 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Now open
$895
Ages: 14-18 yrs
Dates: Jul 21, 2026 - Jul 27, 2026
Times: 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Now open
$1,495
Ages: 11-14 yrs
Dates: Jul 28, 2026 - Aug 03, 2026
Times: 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Now open
$1,495
Ages: 8-18 yrs
Date: Apr 10, 2026
Times: 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Now open
$99
Ages: 5-17 yrs
Date: Apr 10, 2026
Times: 09:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Now open
$65
Ages: 7-14 yrs
Date: Apr 10, 2026
Times: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
$50
Ages: 4-18 yrs
Date: Apr 10, 2026
Times: 12:00 PM - 02:30 PM
$30