Into the Wild is an immersive educational program within the Adventure Club, designed to provide experiential learning in a wilderness setting. It explores the history, forest ecology, and culture of the Appalachian Trail (AT), a 2,190-mile footpath spanning 14 states from Georgia to Maine.
Learn about the trail’s founding in the early 20th century, its significance as a cultural and environmental landmark. Study the AT’s geography, plants, animals, and weather patterns as well as the trail legends and hiker lingo that have shaped its history.
Adventurers of all ages will be equipped with practical skills for hiking, including backpacking basics, trail nutrition, navigation, and wilderness first aid tips, fostering resilience, care for God’s creation, and a deep connection to nature. Whether preparing for a thru-hike, section hike, or a day hiking trip with your family, this program seeks to inspire new generations to become part of American history and the spirit of discovery.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the historical and cultural significance of the Application Trail, including its creation and impact.
- Identify key ecological features of the AT, including its geography, plants, animals, and weather patterns.
- Apply principles of conservation and stewardship of creation to preserve natural spaces.
- Develop practical hiking and survival skills, including navigation, packing, and safety preparedness for wilderness exploration.
Subjects studied: History, Geography, Ecology and Field Biology, Nature Journaling, Conservation, Physical Fitness, First Aid, Survival Skills.
Join Our Adventure Club Guided Hiking Trip!
Experience the Appalachian Trail with our Adventure Club guided group trips, offering immersive learning along select sections of the AT’s iconic routes.
The program includes a 3-day, 2-night immersive mountain experience at Amicalola Falls State Park and the Len Foote Hike Inn Outside School Program outside of Atlanta, Georgia. We will have our own private nature school by local naturalists with educational sessions on local ecology, sustainable practices, and trail history.
Limited spots are available on the following dates:
March 11-13, 2026: Spring hike in Georgia
Beautiful Spring hike with the first blooms of the year!
REGISTRATION FULL
June 12-14, 2026: Summer hike in Georgia
Vibrant summer hike with flowers and fireflies!
October, 6-8, 2026: Fall hike in Georgia
Autumn colors in the forest!
Questions? Fill out the interest form below!
Activity Level and Terrain
The program’s guided trip involves a moderate hike covering approximately 10 to 20 miles depending on options chosen. Participants should be prepared and have basic physical fitness. A fitness guide prepared by a certified personal trainer will be provided to assist in preparing for this hike.
The trail features:
- Steep inclines with significant elevation gain
- Natural and constructed steps, requiring balance and stamina
- Rocky terrain and uneven surfaces, demanding careful footing
- No outside bathroom facilities during the hiking portions of the program
Unfortunately, there are no accommodations for those with physical limitations that would prohibit hiking.
Age Range
This program is designed to welcome participants of all ages 5 and up with appropriate physical capability and preparation.
Trip Inclusions
Includes:
- Guidebook and curriculum kit for program
- Mountain program for three days including Outside School, breakfast, dinner, and accommodations
Does not include:
- Optional boxed lunches at $12.00 each
- Snacks and water for hiking
- Souvenirs
- Travel expenses
- Lodging before or after program
Tuition and Fees Schedule:
Student: Ages 5-18 – $475
Adult: $375
(Payment plans available)
Dual Enrollment Option
Introduction to Biological Diversity and Lab
