Our Program
Student Life
Outdoor Education
Armstrong Beyond Belmont
From redwood forests to mountain trails, Armstrong’s Outdoor Education program gives students in all grades opportunities to explore, discover, and grow in the natural world. Each trip builds confidence, curiosity, and connection — to nature, to classmates, and to self.
Grade-Level Adventures
List of 6 items.
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2nd–3rd Grade:
Day hikes and local park explorations introduce students to the outdoors through hands-on nature activities that spark curiosity and wonder. -
4th Grade:
Students camp overnight at Mount Tamalpais, pitching their own tents and deepening independence and teamwork. -
5th Grade:
At Camp Monte Toyon in the redwoods of Santa Cruz, students study forest ecosystems and practice observation and inquiry alongside naturalists for three days. -
6th Grade:
A four-day trip to central California’s coast in Cambria invites exploration of tide pools, beaches, and scenic trails. -
7th Grade
At Grizzly Creek Ranch north of Lake Tahoe, students explore the mountains and tackle ropes courses building confidence and camaraderie. -
8th Grade:
The capstone trip on the South Fork of the American River features rafting, high ropes, and reflection—marking a milestone in students’ Armstrong journey.
What Students Gain
List of 4 items.
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Connection to Nature:
Firsthand experiences with diverse ecosystems inspire care for the environment. -
Curiosity and Discovery:
Each adventure encourages exploration and new perspectives. -
Personal Growth:
Overnight experiences foster independence, resilience, and leadership. -
Community:
Shared challenges and successes strengthen Armstrong’s core values—Kindness, Respect, Growth, and Reflection.
Outdoor Education at Armstrong isn’t just time outside—it’s an essential part of learning. Each journey nurtures curiosity, confidence, and lasting memories that help students see the world, and themselves, in new ways.
