"Reaching the top of Sing Peak was not only one of the highlights of this course, but one of the highlights of my life."
—Christina S.
"We learned to push-on despite physical and mental challenges that would seemingly prevent us from taking another step. We lifted each other, literally and figuratively, to find the strength to carry on."
—Rebecca W.
Finding your path and your passion.
It starts in the early teens and carries into the early twenties. The challenges faced by young people start to shift, and just as they begin to understand the world around them, life gets complicated. The wilderness expedition setting of Outward Bound provides a unique environment where young adults can explore that challenge and experiment with independence explicitly. A Pathfinder expedition goes further, adding experiences, discussions and self-exploration, helping young adults to not only complete their journey to independence but also build a vision for their future and the confidence to make it happen.
What is Pathfinder?
Pathfinder is a 30-day Outward Bound expedition that focuses on increasing self-knowledge, clarifying values, strengthening decision-making skills and processes, and setting goals—all life skills to help any student chart a path toward independence with confidence and passion. Our Pathfinder curriculum was developed by a team of experienced Outward Bound Instructors to meet the needs of today’s 18-25 year olds seeking skills to forge a successful life path. The tried and true educational model of Outward Bound combined with the innovative Pathfinder curriculum and dedicated, skilled instructors, mean students walk away with the clarity and competence needed to reach their goals.
Is Pathfinder right for me?
Pathfinder expeditions are ideal for those who are in transition, taking a gap year, or searching for the right focus for their next phase in life. Pathfinder students are motivated to take on a unique and challenging adventure to better understand their strengths and interests, to begin to discover a sense of purpose to guide them, and to build the skills and confidence needed to thrive. Participants are typically recent high school graduates, college students or young adults seeking personal, educational or professional direction.