Third annual bears ears youth trip
Spend the weekend reconnecting with your land, elders, language, and traditions.
TRIP DATES:
April 10 – 12, 2026
Utah Foster Youth x Women of Bears Ears Trip
Spend a weekend connecting with the land, history, and stories of the region. Surrounded by red rock mesas and the San Juan River, Bluff, Utah provides space for cultural learning, reflection, and community bonding. It’s a peaceful setting where youth can explore heritage, gain confidence, and build lasting memories.
Activities
- Hiking
- Camping
Included
- Round-trip transportation to and from Salt Lake City
- All group camping gear for cooking and eating
- Sleeping bags
- Sleeping pads
- Two person occupancy tents
- Meals as outlined below
- Medically trained WFR certified guides
Not Included
- Lunch on day 1 (bring money for a quick stop)
- Dinner on day 3 (bring money for a quick stop)
Weather
The best times of year to hike in the deserts of Utah are during early spring, from late February to May, and the fall months of September through to early November.
Intensity (1-5 scale)
Level 2 – Suitable for beginners and those with some experience. Requires a basic fitness level; intermittent periods of activity. Generally easy trails, some uneven surfaces, and minor elevation changes.
Accommodations
sponsored by c 4ever green
C 4Ever Green Strives to lead our communities to beautify Mother Earth by restoring our beliefs in the rematriation of autochthonous lands. It is our strong belief that through education and understanding the long held Diné Bi Beehazaanii (traditional values and philosophies) of the Diné people that we can make a difference in protection, preservation, and conservation.
Day One
- Departure from Salt Lake City
- Welcome to Camp! Receive campers at Sand Island, Utah from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm
- Set up a campsite for tents
- Song & Dance: Introduction to our social dance and songs by Mary R. Benally
- Lights out. May the guidance of Father Sky and the Stars be upon us.
Meals: D
Day Two
- Departure for Monument Valley, Utah
- We will visit both a male and female hogan, noting the designated structure for each gender as explained by Harlen Chief
- Travel to Medicine Man Jonah Yellowman’s Residence
- Traditional Hogan: This session will cover individual responsibilities, particularly gender roles in a ceremonial context, and conclude with a Protection Prayer. *Participation is optional. Please inform us if you choose to decline.
- Sweat Lodge Ceremony: Hosted by Jonah Yellowman and Charlotte Morris. Participants will learn about the ceremony’s deep significance and its role in fostering health and well-being.
- Travel back to Sand Island
- Dinner & Story Telling – Navajo Constellation
- Lights out. May the guidance of Father Sky and the Stars be upon us.
Meals: B, L, D
Day Three
- Break down camp
- Travel to Tara’s home in Tóháádikaani
- Identify the Indigenous plants significant to the Kinaaldá ceremony and to treat colds
- Return to Salt Lake City
Meals: B, L
*Itinerary is subject to change
Packing LIst
Required Gear
- Day pack (15-30 liters recommended)
- Luggage (can be left in the vehicle, 1 small suitcase per person)
- Pack cover
- Headlamp
- Reusable water bottles or bladders (3L total capacity)
Recommended Gear & Personal Items
-
Cotton or silk sleeping bag liner (optional, recommended if renting)
-
Travel pillow
-
Sunscreen
-
Earplugs
-
Insect repellent
-
Toiletries (please choose biodegradable and scent-free items)
-
Small, personal first aid kit (including blister treatment)
-
Small, quick dry towel
Required Clothing
-
Warm jacket (down, puffy, fleece)
-
Rain jacket or shell
-
Breathable wicking base layers
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Lightweight hiking pants
-
Warm clothes to sleep in
-
Warm hat
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Sun hat with a brim
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Wool socks (1 pair per day of trip)
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Hiking boots
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Sunglasses
Recommended Clothing
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Rain pants
-
Buff or neck scarf
-
Comfortable clothes for camp
-
Sandals or camp shoes
Trip FAQ’s
What can I expect?
Folks can expect to spend the weekend connecting with the land, history, and stories of the region. Double occupancy tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads will be provided for shelter and sleeping on the ground. Campground facilities include vault toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and a day use picnic area. This space will be used for cultural learning, reflection, and community bonding.
Are there age requirements?
No, any age of youth can participate. However, if you’re under 18, you must register with a guardian.
What will we eat?
Meals will be prepared by elders, with focus on the three sisters – corn, beans, and squash. We can cater to most dietary requests and allergies with advanced notice. Be sure to include this information in our intake form when registering for your trip!
When do I need to register by?
The last day to register is March 19th, 2026.