HoWL: Homer Wilderness Leaders

"HoWL is an incredible program in which I have made countless, unforgettable memories and so many great friends. HoWL allows me to explore the wilderness around me and experience the sights that Alaska has to offer. My favorite part of HoWL are the friendships that are built through teamwork and games, through sunsets and summits."

- Alta Liljemark (14)

“I participated in HoWL for two years in a row and both times I had lots of fun. My favorite part was the overnights and building fires on the beach. It was well organized and I liked all the leaders.”

-Graysen Esslinger (12)

“I am so grateful to have an organization like HoWL in my community! As a single parent I am always looking for positive role models for my boys and empowering activities, and HoWL definitely provides both! The leaders are all great with the kids, forming good relationships and challenging them while also keeping them safe. These are the kind of character-building experiences every child should have. And I feel completely confident in the capacities and training of the trip leaders.”

-Saskia Esslinger, HoWL parent

“I ended up writing a college essay about my experiences with HoWL -  the values it instilled in me, and what I have gained from both participating in years of summer camps and in getting to  volunteer as a peer leader. HoWL not only taught me skills to plan trips for my friends throughout high school, but also inspired my love for adventure and desire to be days out of cell range. HoWL holds some of my most cherished memories and unforgettable friendships, and has made me feel empowered and capable.”

-Greta Bochenek (17)

“As a professional outdoors person, with over a decade of guiding hunters and fishermen in Alaska, I have been impressed by HoWL’s preparedness, attention to safety, and high quality of provided gear. I trust HoWL to teach participants good decision-making skills and instill a sense of responsibility and environmental stewardship in our next generation of outdoors men and women.”

-Dave Lyon, HoWL parent, Captain and Owner of Ashore Water Taxi

"I am amazed at how organized and energetic all of the counselors at HOWL are. They create a physically and emotionally safe environment, offering children the opportunity to take healthy risks and learn new skills in an outdoor environment. These camps are filled with fun and adventure regardless of the weather, while also encouraging that the campers are great stewards of the environment. We have enjoyed every camp my daughter has attended and hope to continue for years to come!"

-Whitney Whitman, HoWL parent

“First thing Wyndre said when I picked her up: ‘Can I go again next year?!’”

- Susan Cushing, HoWL parent

“For me, HoWL was one of my favorite summer activities. I’ve participated in several HoWL trips, each offering a variety of experiences—from hiking on both sides of the bay to scaling the cliffs at the Woz and paddleboarding in Tutka Bay. HoWL was an incredible opportunity that continues to inspire and influence me today. The friends I made and the spirit of adventure and hard work that HoWL fosters have had a lasting impact on my life. I credit HoWL with starting me on the path to many of the achievements and activities I enjoy today.”

– Johannes Bynagle (16)

“We are so lucky to have HoWL in our community. My 13 year-old attended his first overnight camp across the Bay last year after doing several day camps in the past. He gained confidence in himself as an outdoorsman and made memories he still talks about, and will last a lifetime. I’m pretty sure that swimming to an iceberg (growler/bergy bit?) will be something that sticks with him! HoWL offers camps and experiences like no other!”

-Lacy Epperson, HoWL parent