FAQs
Trek is a special Stake Youth Conference event for all youth ages 14-18 (turning 14 in 2025).
Trek is not a pioneer re-enactment, but we will use the pioneer experience as a vehicle to help the youth come
unto Christ, rely upon Him, and find joy in their personal journey here on earth as they strive towards eternal
salvation. Trek will provide our youth with new perspectives, strategies, and an increased desire to turn to the
Savior as they face contemporary issues that are unique to their generation.
Trek will be held in and around Nauvoo and Carthage, IL with our base camp being located at Nauvoo State Park.
Who can participate in Trek?All youth living within the Cedar Rapids Stake boundaries between the ages of 14 and 18. Those who turn 14 in
2025 and those who graduate from high school in 2025 are also included in this definition.
Can we invite friends or family from outside of our stake?
Unfortunately, no. We love it when others can join us for activities, but due to limited space, costs, and planning,
we must limit this activity to only youth within our stake.
Can any adult from the stake attend Trek?
Trek is a stake youth activity planned specifically for the youth. Due to the nature of the activity and costs and
preparation involved, only adult leaders who have received a specific calling or assignment will be able to attend.
If you are an adult and would like to attend and volunteer in some capacity, please reach out to Jana Bailey
and/or Jeremy Thayne.
What if I have a physical disability or limitation that will prevent me from walking? Can I still participate?
We desire that all youth in the Cedar Rapids Stake attend Trek! If you have any concerns with your ability to
participate in any part of the Trek experience, please be sure to note that information in the registration form
so that we can make necessary accommodations.
How much does Trek cost?
Each youth participant will be required to pay $75.00, payable through your individual unit. Please consult with
your bishop or branch president if funds are an issue. This should not be a limiting factor in anyone's ability to
participate.
How will transportation be arranged?
Wards will be responsible for arranging transportation to and from Nauvoo for their youth and adult leaders with
assigned responsibilities.
Can I attend only part of Trek, or leave and come back later?
In order to establish and maintain the close “family” relationships of Trek, youth are strongly encouraged to
attend the entire event.
What is the policy for cell phones and electronics?
Cell phones should not be brought to Trek. Trek presents a unique opportunity to get out of the world and away
from worldly influences. Leaving your cell phone at home will improve your ability to interact with family
members and other participants as well as create a better environment for you to feel the spirit. Additionally,
charging options will not be readily available.
Other electronic devices (tablets, music devices, gaming systems, portable speakers, laptops, etc) are not permitted
and are to be left at home.Trek Trail Bosses, Ma’s and Pa’s, and other adult leaders will have cell phones to handle any emergencies and tocommunicate with parents if needed.
How can I take photos during Trek?
We will have designated photographers who will be documenting the trip and will share photos in the weeks
following Trek. You are welcome to bring a disposable or digital camera if you’d like.
What is the plan for food?
With the exception of Tuesday's lunch (pack your own), all meals will be provided by the Stake. Food will NOT
be prepared to mirror historical pioneer recipes or consist of limited proportion sizes! We have a very talented
food committee who will be working hard to plan, prepare, and serve well-balanced meals throughout Trek.
Meals will be served at the campground or packed in advance for meals along the trail. We can also provide
alternative food options for those with food-related allergies or other requirements. Please be sure to document
any special dietary needs and restrictions during the registration process.
Our stake will be divided up into approximately 15 family units. Each family will be led by a "Ma & Pa"
(adult couple) that has been carefully selected by Stake and Ward/Branch leadership. Each family unit will consist
of approximately 8-10 youth. Youth will be assigned to a family unit prior to our Trek Kickoff activity on March
29th.
How are family assignments determined?
Stake leaders will prayerfully assign youth to specific family units taking into consideration age, gender, and any
other special accommodations. Each family should have a similar number of young men and young women that
cover the age range of 13-18.
May I request to be in a specific family or to have friends assigned to my family?
No, there are many reasons why it would be extremely challenging to try and coordinate families. We see this as a
great opportunity to meet other youth in the stake and to form new friendships!
Do I have to always be with my family?
Youth should plan to be with their family units while on the trail, during certain activities, and while sleeping.
There will still be plenty of time to be with your friends during meals, tours, temple visits, and other activities.
How will sleeping arrangements be made?
Youth will be expected to sleep in their family's designated area. This area will be divided so that young men and
young women will be separated by a considerable distance, with the Ma and Pa's tent in between.
How much walking will we be doing on Trek?
Trek will consist of 3 days of trail walking. The longest day will consist of 10 miles of walking with the other 2
days being about 6 miles each. Please see the Schedule page for more information.
We encourage you to set aside time between now and Trek to exercise and increase your stamina for
long-distance walks and hikes. Plan these activities with your units and prepare together!
What will the trail conditions be like?
Most of the walking will be on graded gravel roads, with some asphalt in and around Nauvoo.
What if I have physical limitations that will keep me from walking the full distance?
Accommodations can be made for individuals who cannot walk the full distance. If this is known ahead of time,
please make na ote on your registration form.
Will we be doing baptisms at the Temple?
Yes! Youth participating in baptisms will have an assigned time with their Trek family on Wednesday. Please
see the Schedule page for more information and other activities.
What are the dress requirements?
All youth and adults are expected to wear pioneer-era clothing on the 3 days that we are on the trail. The day in
Nauvoo will consist of both Sunday dress and casual dress. Please see the Packing List page for more specific
clothing information and how to source or make inexpensive clothing for Trek.
Can I bring a hammock?
Hammocks may be used during free time but may not be used for overnight sleeping. All youth will be required
to sleep in tents.
Yes, each family unit will have its own handcart to carry food, water, and supplies for the day.
What is the plan for inclement weather?
We have made reservations to have the Nauvoo Stake Center available as a storm shelter or if needed due to
inclement weather. The safety of our Trek participants will be paramount and considered in all decision-making.
Will there be support vehicles on the trail?
Yes, we will have support vehicles carrying additional water, medical supplies, and emergency gear. Support
vehicles will remain out of sight but will be prepared to act in the event of an emergency.
Yes, we will have a hoedown/dance during Trek (specific night TBD)
Are there bathrooms and showers in camp?
The campground has bathrooms with running water as well as a limited number of showers (3 men & 3 women).
We will also provide additional porta potties in camp.
There will be at least one physician at Trek who will be dedicated to medical surveillance and treatment.
Anyone taking prescription medication is responsible for bringing, storing, and taking them as prescribed. Please
notify one of the medical personnel if you need assistance.
Medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, antacids, etc. will be available from our dedicated medical
personnel.
Will there be plenty of water?
Yes! The campground will have running water, and each handcart will have sufficient water for drinking and
hand washing on the trail. Numerous water breaks will be provided, and youth will be encouraged to always stay
hydrated!
Why should we use glasses instead of contact lenses?
We recommend glasses due to the wind/dust/debris that will be stirred up in the air. It is also more practical with
our limited facilities.
Yes, there will be free time in between activities, before and after meals, and at other times during the week.
Ma’s and Pa’s will be responsible for providing tents for their family units (1 tent for boys and 1 for girls).