The Town of Banff is offering a new program this summer to get youth into the backcountry to connect with nature.
Called Go Backcountry, it’s a four-night, 56-kilometre backcountry trip to Mount Assiniboine for youth entering Grades 7-10.
Jessica Price, children and youth program coordinator for the Town of Banff, said the intent is to provide these teens with a once-in-a-lifetime backcountry experience, hoping it’s a start to getting them outdoors more and more.
“We’ve never run a program like this before so we’re pretty excited about it,” said Price.
“Many youth will never be introduced to the backcountry because it can be challenging for families to trip plan, meal plan and get gear to be able to be comfortable in the backcountry, so this was a priority for us.”
The camp runs Aug. 8-12, with the first day spent learning about the backcountry, reviewing how to use gear and how to pack their backpacks. They’ll review safety procedures and make meal and travel plans for their adventure.
The next day they’ll head out from the Mount Shark trailhead and hike to Assiniboine Provincial Park. They’ll eventually head back through Banff National Park and return through Sunshine Meadows.
Price said the hope is to get teens connected to nature and the outdoors, and away from TVs and computers.
“We want to take advantage of where we live and really connect to the environment. Hopefully by giving them this backcountry experience, they’ll grow a passion for the outdoors,” she said.
“There’s this huge increase in the use of technology in children and youth, in the classroom and at home and, because of that there is a decrease in the time they’re spending outdoors, which has huge impacts on overall health.”
Registration is open. People can register in person at Town Hall or by phoning 403-762-1251.
