Trek FAQs
Trek FAQs
Q: Who is invited to go on Trek?
A: All youth who turn 12 in 2024 and up (high school seniors included), and adult leaders who have been called to a committee or as a Ma and Pa.
Q: How will we get to our Trek site in Martin's Cove?
A: We have reserved school busses for the transportation to and from Martin’s Cove. They will also get us to and from the trek trailheads each day.
Q: Can I attend only part of Trek?
A: No. We ask if you sign up that you plan to stay the full 4 days.
How can I learn more about the Willie and Martin Handcart Companies?
There are several good books out there. A good, short one (just over 40 pages minus front and back matter) is the "Rescue of the 1856 Handcart Companies" (Rebecca Bartholomew and Leonard Arrington) which you can pick up for about $8 at Amazon.
Q: How many miles are we trekking?
A: We will be trekking approximately 6 miles each day in Martin's Cove for a total of 12 miles. If you haven’t been doing some walking regularly, you will want to prepare by walking a few miles each week leading up to Trek wearing the shoes you will take on Trek. This will toughen up your feet so you can avoid blisters and it will break in your shoes.
Q: So are you telling me we're just going to be hiking all day?
A: No! We will also be playing pioneer games, dancing, eating, having devotionals, learning about the history of the venue, and having a lot of fun!
Will there be cell phone service at Martin's Cove?
No. We will have a satellite phone available for emergencies.
Q: Why are electronic devices not allowed?
A: Well, there won’t be any cell coverage at Martin’s Cove! This is a tremendous opportunity to get out of the world and away from worldly influences. This allows us a better opportunity to feel the Spirit and to have better interaction with families and other participants.
Q: What will we eat on Trek?
A: We will have amazingly great food! This is not a starvation camp! Trek participants will receive 3 well-balanced meals each day and snacks between meals. If you have special dietary restrictions or other questions about food, please email Craig or Carrie Gandolph (third ward) , the Trek Food Committee Chairs.
Q: What do I need to bring on Trek?
A: We have an extensive packing list available on the website that will explain what you need to bring. Everything except your bedding will need to fit in a 5 gallon bucket with a lid.
Q: What about bathroom facilities?
A: Portable bathrooms will be available while trekking and at the camp sites.
Q: Are we dressing in pioneer clothing?
A: Yes! Participants are responsible for obtaining their own trek clothing. We will have an activity in February to help those who need to make bonnets or aprons.
Q: What if medical needs or emergencies arise?
A: Mike and Mariannne Obsborn (4th ward) are the Trek Medical Committee chairs, and are backed by other skilled medical professionals on their committee. Mike Osborn is an Emergency Physician with Intermountain Health. If you have further questions about potential medical needs, please email them.
Q: How much does it cost to go on Trek?
A: Your ward will determine the fee for Trek. Check with your bishopric.
Q: Can adult leaders bring younger children?
A: We ask that adult leaders do not bring younger children. Family comes first, of course. If finding care for younger children will be difficult than we can find other adults to fill your role, and you can look forward to attending activities like this with your children when they get older.
Q: How do I register for Trek?
A: You can find information about registration here. Please either fill out the google form and submit your registration forms online, or print out the registration forms and turn them in as a hard copy to your bishop or ward YW president.
Q: What will be the water supply?
A: Each handcart will have sufficient water for drinking and washing hands. There won’t be water available for showers or washing hair. We recommend bringing some wet wipes and deodorant. See Packing Lists.
Q: Is dehydration a concern?
A: Yes, but we will have frequent water breaks while trekking. We advise that you plan to drink at least 8 to 10 oz of water each break. You will feel strong and much better!