Pastors across the country are discovering that one of the most effective ways to disciple boys, strengthen families, and raise future leaders is through a thriving Trail Life USA ministry.
The Christ-centered outdoor adventure and character development organization is helping churches engage boys early, equipping them with biblical values, practical life skills, and strong male mentorship.
“Your young men become men of God very practically,” said Pastor Jack Hibbs of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills in California. “The things being taught are life skills based on biblical truth. You can’t get better than that.”
Around campfires, on hiking trails, and at weekly Troop meetings, boys are learning responsibility, leadership, and perseverance while being mentored by Christian men in their church.
“You and I are called, as pastors, to make disciples,” Hibbs said. “Discipleship doesn’t begin in adulthood—it begins early.”
Church leaders say the impact extends beyond the boys themselves.
“We saw Trail Life as a way to help us help parents build godly men,” said Pastor Montia Setzler of Magnolia Church in Riverside, California. “Parents today are looking for support in raising boys with strong biblical values—and Trail Life provides that.”
According to Trail Life USA CEO Mark Hancock, the ministry works because it is rooted in the local church.
“We’re not just an organization that meets in a church basement,” Hancock said. “Trail Life is an active outreach of the local church. We are a Christ-centered ministry that uses outdoor adventure to disciple boys and strengthen families.”
Pastors also say the program naturally raises up new leaders within the church.
“The Troop is a valuable extension of our church’s disciple-making efforts,” said Pastor Dan Leitz of Calvary Chapel Oceanside. “It plays a vital role in shaping the next generation of godly men.”
For many churches, launching a Trail Life Troop has also strengthened relationships between fathers and sons while engaging families in the surrounding community.
“You’ve got men in your church who are just waiting for the opportunity to step up,” Hibbs said. “Sometimes pastors just need to open the door.”
For churches willing to take that step, leaders say the results are clear: stronger families, engaged fathers, growing boys—and a new generation of young men learning what it means to follow Christ.
Trail Life USA is the premier national character development organization for young men, producing godly and responsible husbands, fathers, and citizens. The organization’s mission is to guide generations of courageous young men to honor God, lead with integrity, serve others, and experience outdoor adventure.
Troops exist in all 50 states and continue to grow nationwide.
Learn more or start a Troop at TrailLifeUSA.com.