Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dates for the trek? July 11-13, 2011

Who can go on the trek? All youth, ages 12-18, those graduating from High School in 2011 and working toward the requirements of the "Enduring in Faith" award, and those who will be 12 years old by December 31, 2011. Adult leaders serving in the Young Men’s/Scouting and Young Women’s programs will be invited to participate and assist. We apologize, but there are no exceptions to the age limits as there have been a limited number of permits issued. This will be an incredible experience and we would love to be able to take everyone in the ward, but since this is our Youth Conference, we are focusing on them and ask for your understanding in this matter. Please note, however, that this is an opportunity that is available to individual families at any time. If you would like more information regarding this, we'd be happy to assist.

Will there be requirements to go on the trek? Although it is not a requirement, it is highly recommended that all participants earn the “Enduring in Faith” award. This will help to prepare you mentally, physically and spiritually for the best experience possible. Requirements are listed under the posting: 'Enduring in Faith Award' and the awards will be presented the morning of our departure. When you have completed the requirements, return to your leader and your name will be posted on this blog on the right hand side. Congratulations to those who have earned this award!

Can I bring my cell phone so that my parents can contact me? There will be no electronic devices (no cell phones, i-pods, mp3 players, electronic gaming devices, etc.) allowed on Trek. We will have a couple of phone numbers of leaders made available for parents to contact their children in case of emergency.

How much walking will we do? We will walk and pull handcarts from 5 to 14 miles each day. It will be incredibly important to be in shape and to have sturdy boots/shoes. Start now to exercise and to break in your shoes. You will be glad you did!

What should I be doing now to prepare for the trek? The best thing you can do is to work on the requirements for the “Enduring in Faith” award. Some of them will take longer than others. Hopefully, you have already started to read a pioneer book. Exercising several times a week will also help. Remember that your trek experience will depend on how well you prepare.

What should I wear for the Trek? The pioneer clothing that we are asking you to wear will help put us in a proper mindset, gain further appreciation for our ancestors and create an unforgettable experience for all.

Girl’s are asked to wear a pioneer dress or skirt with a blouse, pantaloons, (can easily be made with hospital scrubs or pajama bottoms cut to just below the knee with elastic added) and a bonnet or straw hat. An apron or pinafore is also appropriate and helpful.

Boy’s are asked to wear loose fitting, cotton pants, (such as khaki’s or similar) a long-sleeve cotton shirt (plain color is appropriate or plaid is acceptable) and a pioneer or cowboy style hat. Please, no baseball caps.

It is very important that everyone have sturdy, comfortable walking shoes. It is suggested that two pair of socks are worn (a very lightweight, knee-hi nylon style worn under a regular pair) as this will help to prevent blisters and keep your feet happy!

When will I be assigned to a trek family? You will receive your Family Assignment the morning of our departure.

Can I wear contacts? The use of contacts is discouraged. The wind never stops blowing in Wyoming and the handcarts make a lot of dust. Plan now to have a pair of glasses you can use.

When do I need to return my Permission/Medical form? Please complete and return these forms to your youth leader or a member of the bishopric by June 20, 2011. These forms are required if you wish to participate. They will be distributed after our pre-trek hike in April or can be obtained from your youth leader or a member of the bishopric.

What will we be doing each day of the trek?
Monday: Travel to WY, spend time at Martin’s Cove, trek 3-4 miles, camp at Sage Camp.
Tuesday: National Historic Trail, Rocky Ridge, trek approximately 14 miles, testimony meeting, camp at Rock Creek Hollow.
Wednesday: Trek 6 miles near the Willie Center, travel home.

When do I need to have all of my personal equipment together? Your bucket (which will be provided and given to you at an activity in the near future) should be packed (weighing no more than 17 pounds – a packing list will be provided and made available on this site) and delivered to Bishop Excell’s home on Saturday, July 9, 2011. Your sleeping bag should be packed in a large garbage sack and delivered at that time also.