Let's get out there!
Crystalaire Adventures is for any young person ages 8-18 with a sense of adventure and a curiosity about the natural world.
Our camper-led trips challenge participants to get creative, work collaboratively, and step outside their comfort zones.
Here, you'll build deep relationships, uncover your inner strengths, and experience the power of unplugging from your daily routine.
No outdoor experience is necessary--just curiosity and willingness to try new things!
3 guiding principles
Our "3 C's philosophy" ensures everyone gets the most out of their adventure!
1 / Creativity
Our camper-led approach to programming encourages creativity, promotes choice, and invites participants into the decision-making process. Our guides provide the safety framework and skill instruction, then step back to let campers lead the way. Everything from the meals we eat to the the routes we hike are determined by participants! We encourage curiosity, flexible thinking, and confidence so campers learn there’s rarely just one “right” way to do something.
2 / Collaboration
Whether setting up camp, paddling a canoe, or solving trail challenges, campers learn to work together. Guides model teamwork and communication so every participant feels valued and capable. We focus on shared problem-solving, supporting one another, and celebrating group successes along the way.
3 / Community
We're intentional about cultivating inclusive and supportive group dynamics. With the help of guides, each trip group identifies core community principles and guidelines to foster equity and ensure all participants feel heard, supported, and celebrated throughout their trip. Campers learn to share responsibilities, look out for each other, and build friendships grounded in open communication and respect.
We do things a little differently
Our approach to outdoor adventure is different than most--our trips are designed and led by participants through a process we call "consensus decision making." This camper-led approach means that no two Crystalaire Adventures trips are ever exactly alike; each is as unique as the participants themselves!
With the support and guidance of experienced wilderness guides, participants co-plan and co-lead every aspect of their trip--from gear distribution and trail navigation to itinerary changes and meal preparation. These real-life decisions require strong teamwork and communication, fostering a community of inclusion and collaboration.
This model is grounded in the following beliefs:
Everyone is welcome
The outdoors are for everyone. Our programs are gender-inclusive and open to anyone with a thirst for adventure and a desire to learn.
We respect the land
Nature isn't something to be conquered; it is something to experience. We practice ethical land use and honor those who's land we enjoy and leave it as we found it.
Everyone is a leader
Leadership comes in many forms and all are necessary for a healthy community. We give everyone the chance to lead while remaining true to who they are.
We prioritize safety
Adventure comes with inherent risk, so we assess each hazard we encounter and always prioritize the physical and emotional safety of our group.
Everyone contributes
Collaboration is key. Our group succeeds when each individual participant feels heard and valued for their unique ideas, perspectives, and skills.
We create fun
Life in the outdoors can be difficult, so we always find a reason to laugh and play--no matter how daunting the challenge or mundane the task.
