The Program:

In the Masa Expedition, teens will learn about living and surviving in nature and explore Jewish and environmental values that will leave them with a desire to live with a lighter footprint and impact on the world and an intensified love of the outdoors and a desire to share that with others.

Teens Will:

• Gain an appreciation of the natural world
• Explore the power of community and mutual responsibility to achieve goals
• Learn and practice serious outdoor survival skills
• Understand and experience the concept of “leave no trace”
• Learn how to truly disconnect and appreciate the world around them

The Out-Of-Camp Experience: Backpacking

Participants will spend four days and three nights backpacking in Harriman State Park for an intense backcountry trip. Teens will learn new skills, practice survival techniques, take on leadership responsibilities, and challenge themselves in small-group, supportive team settings of 7-10 teens.

Each group will be led by an experienced Teva (nature) Guide who has received additional pre-summer training in wilderness safety and leadership, outdoor Jewish programming, and hold additional Wilderness First Aid and CPR certifications. Each group leader will be joined by an additional staff member, who will be trained and prepared by the Teva Guide prior to the trip in order to help guide the group on the trails.

The group will hike an average of 5-8 miles a day (approximately 6-8 hours a day) and collectively carry all tents, gear and food in their packs.

Sleeping Accommodations:

Camp is set up each night by the group with the guidance of staff at approved camp sites with lean-tos within the park. Participants will sleep in small tents of 2-3 people of the same gender. Participants should not expect to have access to indoor bathroom facilities for the duration of the trip.

Participants should be in good physical health and willing to commit to the physical and mental challenges of this trip.