Challenger Sierra

Explore and Expand Your Limits…

Thank you for your interest in Challenger Sierra 2026! This program is for young adults ages 18–32 (must be a high school graduate) and will be held in the Emigrant Wilderness of California. Located just north of Yosemite, this breathtaking wilderness highlights the beauty and wonder of God’s creation. Challenger is a backpacker’s paradise, complete with majestic views of exposed granite, mountain lakes, streams, forests and meadows. It is the perfect setting for a Challenger program.

Below you will find an overview of the application process, requirements and deadlines, followed by the initial application form. Please read this carefully, as it is significantly different from applications for United Youth Camp or other young adult activities.

While we have specific deadlines listed below, we strongly encourage anyone interested in Challenger Sierra 2026 to apply as soon as possible! This is due to the limited number of participants we can accept (12) and the advanced planning required.

You can learn more about the program through this informational video:

UYA Challenger West | Summer 2026

Camp Fee

The camp fee for Challenger Sierra is $150.

What is Provided?

Permit, group gear (water filters, jet boils for hot water, first aid kits, satellite communications), dinners (you pick your favorites), tents, and transportation to and from the airport.

What Do I Need To Bring?

Here are the main items:

Backpack
Sleeping bag and pad
Food for breakfast, lunch, and trail snacks
Cup, bowl, utensils
Hydration bladder, bottles, and any desired electrolytes or hot drinks
Footwear: well broken-in shoes or boots capable of handling rough terrain
Trekking poles: a must!
Sun protective clothing: plan to cover everything from the sun
Physical fitness: commitment to physical preparation is essential

* Here is a helpful, extensive packing list to show you what you will need to bring and what will be provided for you: Challenger Sierra Packing List

How Do I Get There?

Fly into Sacramento Airport (SMF) on Wednesday, July 28th. Arrive before 4:00 p.m.
Fly out after 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4th, or Wednesday, August 5th.
Airbnb address will be made available for those driving.
Transportation will be provided to/from the airport and the trailhead.

*Gear is expensive...please email the director if you are interested in a partial sponsorship.

How Should I Prepare?

Please look over the Challenger Sierra Conditioning Guide to provide you with guidelines and ideas on physical conditioning in preparation for Challenger Sierra.

Application Phases

Application Phase 1:

Items due by May 9, 2026

This Regfox Form constitutes your official application. Everything must be filled out and included.
A photo must be included for the application to be accepted.
Please be aware of the commitment to preparation that will be part of the consideration and acceptance process.

Application Phase 2:

Interviews and acceptance by May 22, 2026

Zoom/Teams call to meet with the director and learn about your interest in the program.
Notification of Acceptances will be sent by June 2, 2026 (or sooner, if possible).
Acceptances will be contingent upon commitment to fulfilling the requirements below.
Download, fill out and email the Participant Waiver form, found on this page.

Application Phase 3:

Items due by June 22, 2026

30-minute run test—how far you can run in 30 minutes, without stopping. Target distance: 2.5–4.0 miles.
Please simply email/text the distance to Scott McKeon.
Complete and send the Challenger Health Form to Scott McKeon.
Affirmation that you will complete the required reading. (Book title will be shared upon acceptance).

All The Documents to Review and/or sign:

You are welcome to contact Scott McKeon at any time with questions via text, call or email.

We look forward to receiving your application! We hope you can join us for Challenger Sierra 2026!

Director | Scott McKeon | 480.229.2306 | scott_mckeon@ucg.org
27029 N. 44th Street, Cave Creek, AZ 85331