USA
HIGH SIERRA ADVENTURE
For Middle School Students
Raft down rivers, scale granite cliffs, soak in thermal hot springs and camp under starry skies on an approachable High Sierra adventure built for young explorers!
Program Overview
Get ready for an epic, approachable 9-day summer expedition designed specifically for middle school students looking to step into the great outdoors! On this High Sierra adventure across California and Nevada, you’ll discover the magic of the American West through fun and empowering outdoor exploration. From rafting down the scenic Truckee River and swimming in Lake Tahoe’s emerald waters to rock climbing granite cliffs, soaking in natural hot springs and casting a line at Topaz Lake, every day brings a fresh adventure.
Along the way, you’ll build personal independence and self-management skills in a supportive, beginner-friendly setting. Learn how to pitch tents, help prepare delicious campfire meals and set up camp under vibrant night skies on public lands. With an emphasis on fun, skill-building, teamwork and outdoor comfort, this program provides middle schoolers with the perfect gateway to lifelong outdoor leadership and confidence.
On GLA’s USA: High Sierra Adventure For Middle School Students program you will:
- Raft down the scenic and wild Truckee River
- Swim in Lake Tahoe’s keyhole inlet at Emerald Bay
- Learn beginner tent setup, campsite management and outdoor camp cooking under starry mountain skies
- Try top-rope rock climbing on granite cliffs at Dinosaur Rock in Carson City
- Hike scenic forest trails and unwind with a relaxing soak in Grover Hot Springs State Park
- Summit Leviathan Peak at 8,960 feet for panoramic views across the Sierra Nevada mountain range
- Cast a fishing line for trout at Topaz Lake
Program Menu
USA
HIGH SIERRA ADVENTURE
Sample Itinerary Coming Soon!
USA
HIGH SIERRA ADVENTURE
Program Details
Dates & Tuition
2027 Session Dates
July 19 – July 27, 2027
What's Included in Tuition
In-country transportation
Lodging
3 meals per day
Professional full-time staff and experts
24/7 parent support hotline during program
Secondary medical and evacuation insurance
Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
Pre-departure materials and support
Educational materials
to hold your spot on-program.
Program at a Glance
Every GLA Program is Backed by our 5-Point Safety System™
GLA HOME BASE:
SAFE & SECURE LODGING
CARING SUPERVISION &
EXPERT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
SAFE
TRANSPORTATION
HEALTHY FOOD
& PURE WATER
24/7 SUPPORT &
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Recommended by Students and Parents
Jax R. | 2025 Alumni Student
“This trip was inspirational, I learned that not only do I want to do marine conservation but I want to get involved in cultural projects. Patience matter, kindness matters, community matters. You will learn so much about yourself, I would do this 100% over and over again!”
The Program Experience
Outdoor Adventure
Discover the excitement of the High Sierra on an outdoor program crafted intentionally for middle school students! Built to be approachable, supportive and fun, this experience combines active outdoor pursuits with foundational skill-building in self-management and team outdoor living. Take on beginner-friendly rock climbing at Dinosaur Rock under expert guidance, hike scenic forest trails, summit Leviathan Peak at 8,960 feet, raft down the Truckee River and swim in Lake Tahoe’s Emerald Bay. Throughout your journey, take your first steps in outdoor leadership as you learn how to pitch tents, manage gear, cast a line for trout at Topaz Lake and assist counselors with camp stove cooking—building independence, resilience and teamwork in nature’s ultimate playground.
Exploratory Travel
Experience the breathtaking landscapes, crisp mountain air and rich Western heritage of California and Nevada’s Sierra Nevada region. Explore high alpine peaks, clear mountain lakes and historic mining trails as you discover the unique natural history and ecosystems of the High Sierra. Gather around campfires under dark, open skies for stargazing sessions, learn about local conservation in national forest lands and experience the timeless appeal of the American West through hands-on exploration.
Country Spotlight
Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty, pine-scented forests and open landscapes of the High Sierra tailored specifically for young travelers.
Lodging: Enjoy a balanced mix of structured outdoor camping and comfortable hotel lodging designed for middle schoolers! Camp basecamps feature dedicated sites on National Forest land and state parks—such as Grover Hot Springs State Park, complete with access to flush toilets and showers—alongside managed dispersed camping near Carson City. Students sleep in gender-segregated tents with roommates while learning basic camp setups. The final nights transition to an enclosed, comfortable hotel block near Reno for trip debriefs, packing, and celebration.
Meals: Camp dining is an interactive, hands-on daily activity! Meals feature fresh, wholesome camp cookouts including hearty pasta dishes, grilled favorites, taco nights, fresh fruit and evening campfire treats. Students take turns supporting staff with kitchen prep and cleanup, learning practical self-reliance and group life skills.
USA
HIGH SIERRA ADVENTURE
Photo Gallery
USA
HIGH SIERRA ADVENTURE
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