YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh
Y Adventurers Program Y Adventurers Program

YMCA Adventurers, including Y Guides, Y Princesses, Trailblazers and Questors, is a program of the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh. Programs run by other organizations are not affiliated with the YMCA.

GRADES K-5

Y Guides

Y Guides, fathers and sons, grades K-5: One-on-one adventures in the outdoors, away from everyday distractions. Join a community of dads and sons and build traditions you'll remember.

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Y Princesses

Y Princesses, fathers and daughters, grades K-5: Exciting adventures and shared experiences that build trust, communication and cherished memories.

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GRADES 6-12

Y Trailblazers

Trailblazers, fathers and sons, grades 6-12: Deeper adventures, leadership development and shared challenges. New to the program? You're welcome to join, whether or not you were a Y Guide.

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Y Questors

Questors, fathers and daughters, grades 6-12: Outdoor adventures, group activities and one-on-one time that carry your journey into the teen years.

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Another caring adult who would like to take part with your child? Contact the program team. 

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Achievement

ACHIEVEMENT: Discover the thrill of adventure. Adventurers is about learning, growing and setting goals in a supportive environment. From archery and climbing to a zip line, children and their dads gain confidence and resilience outdoors.

Belonging

BELONGING: Find your crew. You'll meet other families, join group activities and build traditions that feel like family. Around a campfire or in the lodge on a weekend campout, the sense of belonging is hard to forget.

Character

CHARACTER: Building leaders for tomorrow. The program teaches leadership, teamwork and respect for nature, for others and for yourself. Shared challenges and outdoor experiences help children develop character and values that last.

What is the YMCA Adventurers program?

Adventurers 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.

Adventurers 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 Adventurers, 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.

Adventurers 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! Adventurers 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?

GuidesPittsburgh

Ready to Start Your Family’s Next Great Adventure?

Join the YMCA Adventurers and experience the joy of exploring, learning, and growing—together. Program registration is now open

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