Challenger Sierra

Explore and expand your limits . . .

Are you ready for a physical, mental and emotional challenge? Are you ready to share time and thoughts with fellow Christian brothers and sisters as we take a look at the issues that we all face through a biblical lens and consider how to apply the lessons learned to your spiritual life?

The Emigrant Wilderness is a beautiful part of God's creation just north of Yosemite. It is a backpacker's paradise complete with majestic views of exposed granite, mountain lakes, streams, forests and meadows, and the perfect setting for a Challenger program.

Every day brings a unique challenge and a unique reward. The elevation changes, dynamic trail conditions and a great conversation keep the hike interesting and the amazing views of pristine lakes, bubbling streams and granite faces provide the perfect backdrop for meaningful discussions.

This immersive experience will engage each participant with opportunities to serve, learn and grow.

Each morning and evening will feature biblically based discussions. The discussions will take us through a journey of the issues that God's young adults face to develop perspective gained by viewing them through a biblical perspective. The day will consist of hiking and enjoying the landscape, the trail and our fellow hikers. Early mornings and evenings could include fishing in the pristine lakes and streams for some wild trout.

It will be important to prepare physically prior to the hike. The physical preparation protocol will help get the legs and core in shape for the physical demands of the hike. Preparation will require a minimum of 2-3 hours per week. All accepted applicants will receive a recommended training routine that will build fitness progressively. Each applicant will certify that they have completed the minimum amount of training to ensure that they enjoy the experience and are able to contribute to the enjoyment of their fellow hikers.

Apply if you are ready to build relationships with peers and mentors as you learn more about yourself and stretch your limitations! There is no growth in the comfort zone and no comfort in the growth zone!

The dates will be July 31-Aug. 6 and the cost per attendee will be $150. Each attendee will need to provide much of their own equipment. Once accepted, a list will be provided.

 
Dates:     July 31-Aug. 6, 2024
Location:  Emigrant Wilderness (North of Yosemite, East of Sacramento)
Ages:       18-32 (must be a high-school graduate)
 
Activities: Backpacking, camping, swimming and fishing. Exploring God's word and aligning with Him and our fellow participants.  
 
Tuition:     $150 
Application Deadline:  May 9, 2024
 
Contact:   Scott McKeon
27029 N. 44th Street 
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
Phone:  480.229.2306
E-mail: scott_mckeon@ucg.org
 
 
 
What’s Next?
 
Please contact Director Scott McKeon if you would like the Application and Health form, if you have any questions or would simply like to discuss the program. Then “take the next step” and apply! 
 
Hiking the Emigrant Wilderness and Northern Yosemite, California | Sierra Club Outings