Trek 2024
SURE & STEADFAST
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for Trek?
Trek will be held from July 17th to July 20th 2024
Where will we Trek?
The 2024 Trek will take place from the top of Ephraim Canyon on the Skyline trail down to the Manti temple. Click here for an arial flyover of the route we will take.
How much walking (pulling) will we be doing each day?
The goal is to pull handcarts roughly 4 hours each day to leave time for all the other activities we have planned. Click here for a flyover of our route and click here for all the other activities.
What kind of shoes should I wear on Trek?
This is a very important question. Your feet are the MVPs of your Trek experience. You will want to take two pairs of shoes. One pair of closed toe hiking shoes for the majority of your Trek walking, and another pair of water shoes for special (wet and/or muddy) circumstances should they arise. The hiking shoes should be comfortable and well broken in to protect your feet. Your water shoes are just for wet and muddy conditions. You will tie your water shoes to the handle of your bucket for use only when needed. See packing list for additional information.
What are easy options for Trek clothing?
In obtaining or making pioneer clothing, leaders and youth should not spend excessive time or money. Many items can be found in existing wardrobes or at
secondhand stores. For simple clothing patterns, click here. Clothing styles and fabrics need to be appropriate for the anticipated climate and weather conditions to help avoid overheating—or to stay warm. Ideally, young women’s blouses should be lightweight and long-sleeved, and their skirts should reach the midcalf, with bloomers or shorts underneath to prevent chafing. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and comfortable, loose-fitting pants are recommended for the young men. Cotton fabrics are generally recommended.
What age groups are invited to attend Trek?
Youth turning 14 or older in 2024 are eligible to attend. If you graduated high school this year and would like to attend, please see the FAQ about graduating seniors below.
How will Trek 2024 be different from past Treks?
The main difference this year will be an extra day, so we can shorten the daily trekking and have more time for other spiritual activities, games, and fun.
If I am a graduating senior going on Trek, what will Trek be like for me?
Graduating seniors have the option to attend Trek in one of two different capacities. First, you may attend as a youth member of a Trek family and participate in all of the planned activities. Or second, you may choose to participate as a youth leader, helping adult leaders with the execution of the Trek program. This could include providing support to families on the trail, helping to run activities in camp, assisting the food committee, or managing equipment. The choice is all yours, please join us.
What is the daily schedule and itinerary of Trek 2024?
Click here for a daily itinerary.
Can we bring a friend?
Your new Trek family needs you. Leave your school friends and loved ones for a few days and come make some new ones on a grand adventure. The purpose and goals of Trek are to develop relationships. To accomplish this, Trek will be for members of the Highland Utah East Stake Only.
What is the cost to attend Trek?
Attending Trek will be free for all attendees. Time and energy will be your investment in this experience.
Will I have fun on Trek?
Super yes! Trek activities and devotional topics have been planned by the Stake Youth Committee and cleared by your wonderful Stake Presidency. We are only Trekking 4 hours each day. The rest of the time will be great food, amazing devotionals, and tons of fun activities. Click here for details on events and activities along the trail.
How will we get to and from Trek?
Individual wards will arrange transportation to and from the Trek location. Rock, paper, scissors for who gets to DJ.
What should we bring on Trek?
Please click here for a complete packing list.
What will the food be like on Trek?
Our pioneer ancestors are rolling their eyes at the food committee, but it’s happening anyway! Crowd pleasing favorites will be served up for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. To answer the question, it will be like a dance battle between sweet and savory in your mouth. Of course, special taste bud parties will be made for those with food allergies.
How will we be handling food allergies on Trek?
As part of the registration process, all allergies, and medications need to be provided so we can accommodate any special cases and keep everyone safe. We will provide substitutions for any youth who cannot eat certain ingredients, but please let staff know far in advance.
What does Trek have in common with Leap Year, Olympic Games, FIFA World Cup, United States Presidential Elections, and the Rugby World Cup?
They all happen every four years. Maybe not a frequent question, but something to think about. The stake does this every four years so every youth will have an opportunity to attend a pioneer trek during their youth. Come live your epic pioneer history for a few days and appreciate what it took to be a pioneer legend.
What is the Youth Committee and how are they involved in Trek?
One young woman, and young man are called to represent each ward in the Highland Utah East Stake Youth Committee. The Youth Committee has been planning and preparing for Trek 2024 since November of 2023. They have brainstormed all the devotional topics and activities on Trek. They designed the logos and lead all discussions regarding the promotion and needs of Trek.
What is the policy for electronic devices?
Please, leave all those electronic devices at home for a few days. There will be photographers throughout Trek and Ma and Pas from each Trek family will have a camera for capturing moments along the way.
Why do I need to register for Trek?
Registration is very helpful for planning and logistical purposes. We also need the medical and permission slips for legal purposes. Click here to register ASAP.
I already told someone I couldn’t go on Trek. Can I change my mind?
Yes, please change your mind and come on Trek with us. It’s not too late.
What are the sleeping arrangements on Trek?
Each Trek family will camp together in three tents. Young Men in one tent, Young Women in another. Mas and Pas in their own tent.
Do we really need to pull handcarts?
Yes, we do our best to reenact the pioneer experience while having a blast in the process.
I’m worried about pulling handcarts across the mountains. Can I do this?
Yes, this is why you have a great new Trek family with muscles. If you are not the muscles in your Trek family that’s okay. Bring some good jokes and stories to encourage the muscles in your family. You will all make it together!
How do I know if I am strong enough for Trek?
There is an easy Trek capability test. Find a mirror. Take a deep breath and breath the hottest air you have directly onto the mirror. If you can fog the mirror, you are strong enough for Trek. You can do this. Your Trek family will help.
Does everyone need to dress in pioneer clothes on Trek?
Yes, pioneer clothes are part of the tradition and fun of Trek. There will be instructions and help available for acquiring your pioneer clothes.
I heard there is dancing on Trek, is this true?
Yes, on our last night we have a professional square dancing “caller” that will get us all moving in an old fashioned Pioneer Hoe Down. Grab that partner, dosie-doe.
Is Trek safe?
Yes, it will be a fun and safe environment for all. We will have lots of training and instructions prior to take off. We’ll have healthcare professionals with us at all times.
How are Trek families organized?
The Trek Committee will carefully and prayerfully arrange us all in families for the best and most adventurous experience possible. Like life, you don’t get to pick your family, but you are with the ones that need you most.
Will restrooms be provided in camp and on the trail?
Yes, yes, yes! History has proven that the more restrooms along the way the easier it is to get everyone to drink plenty of water. We are trucking in potties all along the trail. Drink lots, and potty with privacy whenever you need.
I am not a youth but would like to participate. What can I do?
We are looking for willing helpers to assist with the many aspects of planning a Trek. Reach out to a Trek committee member for more information.
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Please fill out and submit the question form here. For questions regarding personal circumstances or privacy-related issues please reachout to your individual bishop.
Important Dates
- April 14th - Ma/Pa Training
- April 18th - Trek Youth Kickoff Activity
- May 8th - Square Dancing (tentative)
- July 17th-20th - Trek
