Adventure. Confidence. GRIT.

The Heart of GRIT

Middle school is a pivotal time for growth and change — and a time when many students step away from sports and outdoor activities.

GRIT opens the door to new opportunities, providing an inclusive and supportive space for Anchorage youth to build confidence, community, and a spirit of adventure

• 100% free to participants

• Includes bike, helmet, lock, gear

• Six weeks of practice + one overnight trip

• Culminates in a 60+ mile ride to a backcountry cabin

How It Works

• Enrollment & Eligibility — 7th grade girls, trans, and non-binary students at Begich and Wendler Middle Schools are able to participate. Teachers and counselors nominate students to participate and the students decide if they want to opt in to the program. 

• Mentorship & Curriculum — GRIT meets after school 2 times per week and on a few weekends for 6 weeks. The weekly sessions feature a ride to a community space with topics ranging from bike safety and maintenance, arts and crafts, yoga, park discos, and more. GRIT Mentors are certified and experienced cyclists. 

• Midway Rides & Field Trips — Students ride the trails and roads throughout Anchorage to navigate their way to lessons in the city. On weekend rides, GRIT has longer distance rides with a few social pitstops. GRIT participants ride through snow, rain, sun, wind, mud - you name and they've ridden it!

• Culminating Adventure Ride — GRIT culminates in a 60+ mile bikepacking trip over two nights to the Eklutna Serenity Falls cabin. The riders carry all their own gear in cargo bags on their bikes and sleep in backcountry cabins. For some students, this is their first sleepover or first time camping. For all the riders, it promises to be a challenging, exciting and empowering trip. 

• Ownership of Bike & Gear — Students are provided with a bike, helmet, locks, and lights. Upon completion of the program, they are able to take their bikes and gear with them after they finish the bikepacking trip. 

How You Can Get Involved

• Donate —  Every dollar goes towards bikes, gear and snacks - with the help of your donations! If you have gently used gear (technical clothing, sleeping bags, panniers, etc.) that you would like to donate, please email [email protected]. We appreciate any way you are able to support the GRIT program!

• Volunteer / Mentor — If you're interested in being a mentor, email [email protected] to learn more.

• Spread the Word — Please follow us on Instagram and tell your friends about the program. GRIT is a success due to the amazing community support!

• Partner — Please contact [email protected] if you would like to support this year's program!