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TeenTreks Newsroom
Who's talking about us.
Media Coverage
Leadership Team

Cliff Madell
Executive Director, Founder

Katie Barnhill
Program Coordinator
Cliff Madell
Executive Director, FounderCliff Madell is a Buffalo-based youth adventure leader and the founder of Teen Treks, a nonprofit that since 2001 has led self-contained summer bicycle adventures for teenagers. He first fell in love with bike touring as a teenager on an American Youth Hostels trip, and launched Teen Treks to make sure those life-changing summer experiences would continue for new generations. Today, more than four decades later, Madell and his team have guided 1,000s of young travelers on trips across North America and Europe. Cliff also serves as president of the Buffalo Niagara Youth Hostel nonprofit, underscoring his broader commitment to affordable, cross-cultureal travel and exchange.
Katie Barnhill
Program CoordinatorKatie Barnhill is Program Coordinator and General Director at Teen Treks. A local cyclist and Finger Lakes Cycling Club member, she helped forge an internal partnership between Teen Treks and regional cycling organizations to launch new youth and family bike tours. Katie is known for channeling her passion for travel into empowering the youth of today. As Program Coordinator, she helps shape trips that let teens "grow through new and challenging experiences", reflecting her deep commitment to youth development through adventure travel.
Supporting the Storytellers Who Shape the World
At Teen Treks, we deeply value the role journalists play in educating, inspiring, and connecting communities. Your storytelling shapes public understanding and drives meaningful conversations—and we’re here to support you.
Whether you’re exploring themes of youth development, mental health, outdoor education, screen-free summers, or global cultural exchange, we believe Teen Treks can help bring your next story to life. Our programs are filled with inspiring narratives of personal growth, leadership, and lifelong impact—told through the lens of 13 to 18-year-olds who unplug and pedal across the U.S., Canada, and Europe.


We welcome all media inquiries and are happy to provide:
- Interviews with our founder, staff, or past teen travelers
- Behind-the-scenes access to our trips (pending timing and location)
- High-resolution photos and b-roll of bike tours in action
- Background on our nonprofit’s 25-year history and educational mission
- Local angles, especially for stories based in our home region of Buffalo, NY
- Stats, facts, and first-hand quotes from teens, parents, and alumni
If you’re working on a deadline or brainstorming ideas, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re committed to making your reporting easier, more insightful, and impactful.
ACROSS AMERICA
Every Year, 24 Teenagers Cycle 4,500+ Miles in 56 Days
From Portland, Oregon, to New York City, these independent teens have a wealth of experiences to share with your outlet’s audience.

Who to Contact

Contact teentreks@gmail.com to connect with a spokesperson, subject matter expert, or for any other requests.
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Learn More About Our Treks
Want to explore more about what a day in the life of a Teen Treks bike trip is like? Check out our frequently asked questions or contact us for more information. We love talking all about bike touring!