Outdoor
“Now I see the secret of the making of the best persons. It is to grow in open air, and to eat and sleep with the earth. -Walt Whitman
The camping program is one of the greatest traditions of the Lowell Whiteman School. Lowell Whiteman, the founder of the School, believed in the importance of an outdoor program, viewing it as “wholesome adventure” which asserts the values of personal growth, responsibility, tough-mindedness, appreciation of nature, cooperation and tolerance. Today, the goal of the Lowell Whiteman School outdoor program remains what it always has been: to challenge each student to reach his or her full potential, to promote an appreciation of our natural environment and the wonders of life, to stimulate personal growth, and to learn to have fun while being challenged both physically and mentally.
Whiteman students take part in several all school camping trips filled with backpacking, hiking, mountain biking, climbing, canoeing, kayaking and horseback riding. There are many incredible destinations within reach: the Flat Tops and Mt. Zirkel Wilderness Areas, Buffalo Pass, and the Gore Mountain Range. In the fall, just prior to the start of classes, new and returning students go on a three day orientation camp trip to kick off the new year. Then, in September, everyone participates in another three-day camp trip, offering a variety of outdoor activities. In the middle of October, students and faculty participate in Desert Week, a six day adventure exploring the deserts, rivers and canyons of Utah. The fall camping program culminates with Desert Week, when shared experiences and relationships built set the tone for the balance of the year.
In addition to the fall camp program, all students participating in foreign travel spend one winter weekend with their foreign trip leaders and group.
“Students learn they can increase their physical limits and when they do, they grow immensely. There is nothing like being on top of a 14,000 foot peak to move the spirit in wondrous ways.”
-Margi Missling-Root
Director, Experiential Education, Lowell Whiteman School