Why Trek
From 1856 to 1860, about 3,000 Latter-day Saints pulled handcarts across the American plains to gather in the Salt Lake Valley. These pioneers trekked more than a thousand miles through heat and cold; through mud, sand, and sometimes snow; and through rivers and over mountains. They faced trials that required great faith and perseverance.
Our pioneer trek provides an opportunity for the youth of our ward to appreciate and learn from the experiences of the handcart pioneers as well as their own ancestors. It provides a powerful opportunity to strengthen testimonies, build unity, do family history, and learn core gospel principles. Treks can also help youth learn about who they are and what they may become.
Who Can Attend
All youth between the ages of 11-18 that are currently in Young Men quorums or Young Women classes are invited to attend, including high school seniors who have recently graduated.
What is the Location of Trek
Martin’s Cove, Wyoming
What is the Cost
Cost of the trek and transportation will be covered by the ward. Each individual will be responsible for providing their own packed lunch on the first day and money for lunch on the way home the last day.
What Can I Expect a Day of Trek to be Like
Youth will be organized into families of around 6-7 “brothers and sisters”, comprised of individuals from various quorums and classes, with a married couple serving as their Ma and Pa. Each family will have their own handcart to pull together. Tuesday we will be trekking approximately 6 miles. Trekking will be interspersed with breaks and activities that will help us feel connected to our pioneer heritage, to Heavenly Father and to each other. In the evenings, there will be games, family bonding time and discussions, as well as cooking and eating together.
What Will the Bathroom Situation Be Like
Vault toilets will be available along the trail at break times throughout the day, as well as at the campsite.
What are Sleeping Arrangements
Participants will be sleeping in tents. Tent assignments will be made based on quorums and classes.
What Will We Be Eating
Meals will consist of modern food that you are familiar with eating on a regular basis, and no one will need to worry about not having enough to eat. We want you to be well fed, and have plenty of energy for the day’s activities!
Chris & Kelly Ward, Derick & Maria Horrocks, Mike & Erin DeLuna are the food committee members. They are working to make arrangements for those with dietary restrictions. Please contact them if you have specific dietary needs or concerns that you would like to discuss.
What Will Transportation Be Like
TBD