Soul Trak Outdoors
soul trak outdoors
Soul Trak is an experiential learning program that targets communities of color with the intention of creating a representative community in the outdoors, increasing community engagement, and expanding knowledge around outdoor advocacy, environmental science, skill-building, physical fitness, and stewardship.
Age Range:
Rising Juniors
Location:
Greater D.C. Area
Trip Duration:
1 week
Dates:
July 27 - August 2, 2025
ID Needed:
NY REAL ID
participation requirements
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Once you have submitted your application, Soul Trak will review it and send a follow up email with additional information and next steps.
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Required enrollment paperwork for this program includes:
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There are no required orientations or workshops prior to attending this Summer Experience. Just make sure to attend your Goodbye Group to receive your equipment and travel itinerary, and to meet the other Summer Searchers who will be traveling with the same program!
About the Program
Youth Backpacking Trip
This one-week session is a week-long immersive adventure where you will challenge yourself by backpacking a 40-mile section of the iconic Appalachian trail.
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Over seven days, you will develop foundational backpacking skills, including shelter setup, food management, hiking, and Leave No Trace principles. You will learn about the history, ecology, and conservation efforts that sustain the Appalachian Trail while enhancing your emotional and social competencies.
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Transportation to this program will be by plane. Summer Search staff will meet you at the airport and accompany you to security. When you have arrived in D.C., program staff will meet you at the airport and chaperone you to the program site.
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This is a camping trip — you will be sleeping in tents, and you will not have access to a bathroom. Don’t worry! Summer Search will provide any equipment you’ll need (including biodegradable soap) and the program staff will teach you how to feel at home in the outdoors.
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This program will be NYC Summer Searchers only. It’s a great opportunity for you to meet and get to know other students in our program!
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You will not be able to use your phones or any electronic device that connects to the internet once you arrive at Basecamp with program leaders. However, limited communication with family/friends back home is available.
Parents and Guardians are always able and welcome to call Summer Search if necessary — leaders always have working cell phones and service, and we can reach out on your behalf in case of emergency.
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No spending money is necessary for this program, but you may keep cash or credit cards on you if you’d like — you may want to buy snacks along the way!
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Click here to view the Soul Trak packing list. DO NOT worry about buying any additional items. In May, Summer Search will provide you with any equipment on this list that you are not likely to have already. See this guide to see what equipment we will provide. This is also available on our FAQs + Resources page, along with other helpful links and info — check it out!
“There’s so many reasons why it’s important for youth to have access to the outdoors — not only for their physical and mental health, but also just to know that this world is for them.”
Summer Search provides a variety of resources to support you in preparing for your Summer Experience. From travel tips to what to expect from outdoor activities to live events, we got you!
Remember that your mentor is always your best resource! Reach out if you have any questions or need help with your application.
Need to schedule office hours with the Summer Team? Create a Calendly appointment here!
Summer Experience Support Resources
