Whether you’re paddling across a lake, hiking a nature trail, horseback riding, or sharing stories around a campfire, every moment is an opportunity to connect, learn, and belong. Adventure Guides helps families strengthen relationships while creating traditions that last a lifetime.
Why Choose YMCA Adventure Guides?
Achievement: Discover the Thrill of Adventure
Adventure Guides is about learning, growing, and setting goals in a fun, supportive environment. From setting up a tent to tackling a zip line, kids and dads gain confidence and resilience while embracing the outdoors.
Belonging: Find Your Crew, Make Lifelong Friendships
Adventure Guides isn’t just about family—it’s about community. Fathers and kids build friendships with peers, join group activities, and create traditions that feel like family. Whether around a bonfire or during a weekend campout, the sense of belonging is unforgettable.
Character: Building Leaders for Tomorrow
The program teaches leadership, teamwork, and respect—for nature, others, and themselves. Shared challenges and outdoor experiences help children develop character and values that will guide them for life.
What to Expect in Adventure Guides
Families can look forward to:
Overnight campouts filled with outdoor adventures
Nature-based activities like hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, and fishing
Family events that bring dads and kids closer together
Team-building games that promote cooperation and fun
A welcoming community of fathers and children sharing the journey
Y Guides – Fathers & Sons (Kindergarten–5th Grade)
The Y Guides program is designed to strengthen the bond between fathers and sons through meaningful, one-on-one experiences. Together, you’ll explore the outdoors, try new adventures, and create lasting memories—without the distractions of everyday life. Join a community of like-minded dads and sons and build traditions that will be remembered for a lifetime.
Y Princesses – Fathers & Daughters (Kindergarten–5th Grade)
The Y Princesses program offers fathers and daughters the chance to connect through exciting adventures and shared experiences. From outdoor exploration to fun group activities, this program fosters trust, communication, and cherished memories. Fathers and daughters will enjoy quality time together while building a strong bond that lasts a lifetime.
Trailblazers – Fathers & Sons (6th–12th Grade)
The Trailblazers program takes the father–son connection to the next level. Open to dads with sons in grades 6–12, Trailblazers focuses on deeper adventures, leadership development, and strengthening relationships through shared challenges. Whether or not you participated in Y Guides, you’re welcome to join and continue building lifelong traditions with your son.
Questors – Fathers & Daughters (6th–12th Grade)
The Questors program is designed for fathers and daughters in grades 6–12 who want to continue their journey of discovery and connection. With fun outdoor adventures, group activities, and meaningful one-on-one time, Questors helps families grow closer while creating lasting traditions. Every adventure is an opportunity to learn, bond, and make lifelong memories.
What is the YMCA Adventure Guides program?
Adventure Guides is a YMCA program designed to strengthen the bond between parents and their children through shared adventures. Families enjoy outdoor activities, campouts, games, and group events that encourage connection, learning, and fun.
Adventure Guides is open to fathers and their children from kindergarten through 12th grade. Programs are divided by age and grade level:
Y Guides – Fathers(Parent) & Sons (K–5th grade)
Y Princesses – Fathers(Parent) & Daughters (K–5th grade)
Trailblazers – Fathers(Parent) & Sons (6th–12th grade)
Questors – Fathers(Parent) & Daughters (6th–12th grade)
YMCA membership is not required to join Adventure Guides, though YMCA members often receive program discounts and additional benefits.
Families can expect a mix of outdoor and community-based activities, including:
Overnight campouts
Canoeing, fishing, and hiking
Horseback riding
Arts, crafts, and group games
Campfires and family events
Each event is designed to strengthen family bonds while helping kids learn new skills and build friendships.
Adventure Guides offers flexibility for busy families. Most groups plan monthly activities or events, along with a few larger weekend campouts throughout the year. Families can participate as their schedules allow.
Pricing varies by program and activity. Families pay a registration fee, and some events (such as campouts) may have additional costs. Check the program page or contact your YMCA branch for details.
Not at all! Adventure Guides is designed for everyone—whether it’s your first camping trip or your hundredth. YMCA staff and volunteer leaders provide guidance, support, and a welcoming community for families of all experience levels.
For a full overview of events, schedules, and program traditions, check out our Compass Guide.
READY TO JOIN US?
Ready to Start Your Family’s Next Great Adventure?
Join the YMCA Adventure Guides and experience the joy of exploring, learning, and growing—together. Program registration is now open