Frequently Asked Questions

Trek is a 4-day reenactment of the pioneer handcart experience, held June 17–20, 2026, at Deseret Land and Livestock Ranch. Youth pull handcarts across the terrain as part of a spiritual and physical journey designed to draw them closer to Jesus Christ and help them discover that they can do hard things.

Youth within the North Ogden Coldwater Stake who are turning 14 by December 31, 2026, through age 18. Graduating seniors are especially encouraged to attend. Due to costs and very limited bus space, only North Ogden Coldwater Stake youth may participate.

Trek is free for all participants. Youth should bring a sack lunch from home for Day 1 (June 17). All other meals, trail snacks, water, and transportation are provided.

At Deseret Land and Livestock Ranch. The North Ogden Coldwater Stake provides buses to and from the Stake Center.

Fill out the registration form at forms.gle/AEocn57Ktr1TjZxN7. The registration deadline is May 17, 2026.

Trek families are assigned prayerfully by leadership and announced on the first morning (June 17 at 6:00 AM). Individual family requests cannot be accommodated.

No. Partial attendance is not possible. All participants must arrive at the Stake Center by 6:00 AM on June 17 and return on June 20.

Each family consists of a Ma and Pa (adult leaders) and approximately eight youth. Families travel together, pull their handcart together, and share meals, spiritual experiences, and evening activities. The family bond is one of the most meaningful parts of trek.

Family assignments are announced on the morning of June 17, after arriving at Deseret Land and Livestock Ranch.

Ma's and Pa's are adult leaders — often parents or other trusted adults — who volunteer to lead a trek family. They are responsible for their family's handcart, spiritual guidance, and care during the four days of trek.

Tents are provided by the stake for all of the youth. Youth need to bring their own sleeping bag and sleeping pad.

Participants trek approximately 5–8 miles per day, pulling a handcart over four days at Deseret Land and Livestock Ranch. The terrain includes hills and uneven ground. Physical preparation in the weeks before trek is strongly encouraged.

A medical team is present throughout trek to manage minor ailments. Prescription medications should be brought labeled with the participant's name and dosage and given to trek medical staff. If you have specific medical concerns, talk to your ward leaders before registering.

Youth sleep in tents with their trek family (boys and girls separately). Tents are provided by the stake. Youth should bring a sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures and a sleeping pad.

Portable toilets are provided throughout the trek route.

Almost all meals are provided. Youth should bring a sack lunch from home for Day 1 (June 17) — that is the only exception. From dinner on Day 1 through the final meal on Day 4, all food, trail snacks, and water are included.

No. Cell phones and all electronics (earbuds, music players, etc.) are prohibited. This is intentional — being free from screens helps participants be present for the spiritual and personal experiences that make trek meaningful.

Makeup, cosmetics, perfume, cologne, and contact lenses are not permitted. Glasses are recommended due to the dust and wind at the ranch.

Pioneer-style clothing is required — modest, layered, and appropriate for outdoor activity. See the Packing List page for detailed guidance. No modern athletic wear or camouflage.

Evening activities vary each night and include devotionals, testimony meetings, speakers, talent shows, square dancing, and pioneer games. Many participants say the evenings are the most memorable part of trek.

Yes. A testimony meeting is held during the trek — typically on the final evening. Youth are encouraged to come prepared spiritually and with something to share.