Teen Travel Trip, entering grades 7 and 8, June 22 - July 4 and July 27 - August 8

White Water Rafting & Backpacking

This Quest gives teens a unique view into the California high country. Camping in Yosemite offers all great views of peaks like Half Dome and Cloud's Rest, a bird's eye view from above of Yosemite Valley and its waterfalls! On the Eastern Sierra, the treasures of the deserts include natural hotsprings, lava rocks, and Mono Lake, where you can float like you're in the Dead Sea! Then, before heading home it's a thrilling ride on the American River - 2 days of white water rafting!

• Swim in Mono Lake in the Eastern Sierras.
• Backpack in Yosemite National Park.
• Visit Bodie, a real California Gold Rush ghost town.
• Celebrate Shabbat and Havdalah under the stars.

NOTE: This is a sample itinerary.

Sunday

Arrive at the Presidio and meet your new friends. Drive out to Yosemite, make camp and get to know each other around the campfire.

Monday

Take a day hike to one of the stunning views Yosemite has to offer. Don't forget your camera!

Tuesday to Thursday

Up, up, and away! Grab your pack and all the food, clothes, and gear you will need for three days in the wild! On your backpacking adventure you will swim in mountain streams, lookout for wildlife, and see beautiful wildflowers. Sleep under the stars and get back to nature!

Friday

Head over Mono Pass and discover the mysterious beauty of the East Side. Get clean, pick sage, and celebrate Shabbat.

Saturday

Get up close to the famous Mono Lake and its disappearing tufas! Then take a dip or a float in its Dead Sea-like waters.

Sunday

Explore Black Point and play hide and seek in the fissures. Then visit Bodie, one of California's true ghost towns.

Tuesday

Approaching the Mother Lode you'll see where California history was made. Stop by Lake Tahoe for a swim and then watch the rockets red glare for the 4th of July!!

Wednesday to Thursday

Spend two wild days rafting the South Fork of the American River. Learn to paddle in class 2 & 3 rapids with names like "Troublemaker" and "Satan's Cesspool"!

Friday

Return to the Presidio, where it all began. Say goodbye to your new friends and reunite with your family!!