Challenger Sierra

Are you ready for a physical, mental and emotional challenge? Are you ready to share time and thoughts with your Christian brothers and sisters? Let’s take a look at the issues we all face through a biblical lens and consider how to apply the lessons to your spiritual life. A beautiful part of God’s creation just north of Yosemite, the Emigrant Wilderness is a backpacker’s paradise—complete with majestic views of exposed granite, mountain lakes, streams, forests and meadows. This makes for the perfect setting for a challenger program.  

Every day brings unique challenges and rewards. The elevation changes, dynamic trail conditions and 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 discussions about the issues that young adults in God’s Church face, with the goal of developing valuable perspective by viewing them through a biblical lens. 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 Aug. 3-9 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: Aug. 3-9 
Location: Emigrant Wilderness, California 
Camper age range: 18-35+ 
Camper tuition: $150 
Director: Scott McKeon 
Email: scott_mckeon@ucg.org 
Phone: (480) 229-2306