I took a Skyride to get to summer camp!
That’s what these kids will boast about in September. From learning survival skills to becoming a bona fide shutterbug, exciting adventure awaits high above the city – on Grouse Mountain.
With distinct daily themes, each camp aims to inspire youth to get outdoors, experience activities unique to Grouse, make friends, play – and connect with nature.
“Our summer camp programs are a great way for kids to get out into nature and gain an appreciation for the wilderness we have here in B.C., while making friends and creating lasting memories,” says Grouse spokeswoman Julia Grant.
Instead of climbing the walls at home, kids can clamber through tree canopies. Grouse’s brand-new mountaintop ropes course gets campers exploring the forest from high in the tree tops. After stepping off the platform, kids will encounter a variety of suspended elements, including bridges, ziplines, ladders and nets, on a journey through the canopies.
Every day of the week offers a different mountain adventure for kids. Mondays are eye-catching, as kids get up close with birds of prey, including owls and raptors. A trip to the top of the wind turbine, offering 360-degree views of Vancouver, is part of the fun.
Wednesday brings some serious lessons in wilderness survival. Kids learn how to collect water using an old T-shirt and how a garbage bag can save their life. Building a natural shelter, filtering water and practising aim on the mountaintop archery range are highlights of survival camp.
Do you have an aspiring wildlife biologist or wildlife ranger in the house? They won’t want to miss Thursday’s camp which explores plants and animals and the clues they leave behind. The adventure begins with a taste test at the rooftop garden, before walking in the footsteps of a wildlife ranger as the group gets to know Grouse’s grizzly bears, Grinder and Coola.
Kids can channel their inner lumberjack on Fridays – and even give axe throwing a shot. The camp kicks off in the Grouse feast house, where a Squamish elder will teach participants songs, dancing, crafts and the art of storytelling.
Grouse’s adventure camps cost $320 for the full five days, or $75 per day. A kid-friendly lunch, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, is available upon advanced request.
Meanwhile, a five-day outdoor photography camp will put the mountain in a different perspective for kids. The sessions will focus on landscape, macro, action, wildlife and long exposure photography from unique places and stunning vantage points on Grouse.
Each camper will be provided with a mini photography journal and have one of their snaps printed daily. A professional shutterbug will share top tips, their portfolio and experiences in the world of photography. The week caps off with an informal exhibition of works for parents each Friday.
Campers must supply their own cameras, and while point and shoot cameras are adequate, SLRs are preferred. The cost is $335 for the five-day photography camp.
More information is available on the Grouse Mountain website.
This story originally appeared in the North Shore News Summer Camps special section, which highlights local summer camps for kids.
