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PO BOX 23350 • NASHVILLE, TN 37202 800.832.5229 • INFO@ MOONDANCEADVENTURES.COM WWW.MOONDANCEADVENTURES.COM
SUMMER 2020
MOONDANCE ADVENTURES
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Pyrenees Mountains, France Trip: Chamonix Photo By: Jonas Hill
1996
Patrick Ahearn, 18, Huntsville, AL
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SUMMER TWENTY TWENTY
“Moondance is something that has changed my life in inexplicable ways. It has taught me to live in the moment and to cherish every second of my life.”
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Front Cover: Zrmanja River, Croatia Trip: Croatia Photo By: Garrett Lucey
Baños, Ecuador Trip: Ecuador + Galapagos Photo By: Gray Rixey
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WHY
We believe that life happens outside. PAGE
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We believe that life happens outside: outside of buildings, outside of the lines, and outside of our routines. When you go outside, you discover who you are, where you are, and what you care about. You grow, you shift. You become part of the world, and all of yourself. Life is full outside: full of beauty, adventure, people, and decisions. It is always out there, always happening, and we can decide how to move with it. There are mountains to climb, countries to explore, places to help, and
night skies to stare into. There are friendships to forge, and challenges to overcome. These experiences are limitless, and they become the most precious souvenirs of our lives. They only happen, however, when we make the decision to go. We believe in making that decision again and again. Once you’ve been outside, you know that it is somewhere you can always return. After all, it’s where your life happens.
Mt. Shasta Trip: Yosemite Photo By: Joanie Davis
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TABLE OF
CONTENTS
“Moondance has expanded my mind and enabled me to lose myself in nature. I lost myself on Moondance and found someone new, someone strong, someone beautiful.” Cat Knox, 15. Boerne, TX
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OUR ADVENTURES
LEADERSHIP ADVENTURES
WELCOME TO OUR ADVENTURES
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BACKGROUND + PHILOSOPHY
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WHY WE TRAVEL
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25 YEARS OF MOONDANCE
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WHAT TO EXPECT
15
MYSTERY TRIP ..................48
EXPEDITION BEHAVIOR
17
NORTHERN LIGHTS ...............49
BEYOND THE ADVENTURE
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NORWAY.........................50
UNPLUG
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LIVE IN THE MOMENT
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MOONUP
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WHO ARE MOONDANCERS
23
LEADERS 27
CHAMONIX.......................45 CROATIA .......................46 DOLOMITES .....................47
SARDINIA ......................51 SLOVENIA ......................52 SPAIN + MOROCCO ...............53 YOSEMITE ......................54
CLASSIC ADVENTURES
WHY I DO WHAT I DO
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RISK MANAGEMENT
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TRIP FINDER
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AROUND THE WORLD
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MIDNIGHT SUN ..................62
FOUR WAYS TO EXPLORE
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PACIFIC NORTHWEST .............63
ADVENTURES
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THINGS WE LOVE
85
THE HEART OF THE HOUSE
89
THE FINE PRINT
91
ABOUT THE FOUNDER
92
GET YER YA-YA’S OUT
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BIG WILD ......................59 BRITISH COLUMBIA ..............60 ICELAND .......................61
DISCOVERY ADVENTURES CALIFORNIA ....................69 COLORADO TRAIL ................70
SERVICE ADVENTURES BELIZE + COSTA RICA ...........75 COSTA RICA ....................76 ECUADOR + GALAPAGOS ...........77 FIJI ..........................78 HAWAIIAN ISLANDS ..............79 KILIMANJARO ...................80 MACHU PICCHU ..................81 MAUI ..........................82 SOUTH AFRICA ..................83 THAILAND ......................84
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CATALOG SECTIONS
WELCOME TO OUR
ADVENTURES When one door closes, another opens. My grandparents founded Camp Deerhorn, a summer camp in northern Wisconsin in 1930. Not a great time to start a business, but they loved kids and had a dream. I spent every summer there until my early teens only to return later as a counselor. It changed my life. I had grand dreams to take over Deerhorn one day, but when my cousins followed their parents in running the camp, I had to find a new opportunity. After an exhaustive search, I stumbled upon a magical old camp in North Carolina that was going to be perfect. On Friday, the 13th of October, 1995 they sold it to someone else. The sun rose the next day and I had to pivot. I decided to create an adventure program for teens. A week later, we were up and running. It certainly was not easy and I was unsure how to navigate these uncharted waters. In the summer of 1996, 34 adventurous kids joined Moondance for our inaugural summer. I was not sure if we would make it to year two, but we sure had a great time. As we begin our 25th season, I am humbled by the lives impacted. With over 1500 kids traveling to five continents and 21 different countries in 2020, I am reminded that you have to believe. It has not always been easy, but when I reflect back on the last quarter century, I am grateful to have been part of a business that has touched so many lives. This catalog is dedicated to the thousands of kids that have been part of the Moondance family. In addition, a huge dose of gratitude goes out to the hundreds of leaders who have given their all to create a trip of a lifetime. Cheers to changing lives. We’ll never really know how many lives have been impacted, but for one, I know my life is better for the work of so many involved. Forever Grateful,
Hayes Hitchens President + Founder
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PHILOSOPHY It is our goal and passion at Moondance to provide teens with the trip of a lifetime. The kind that expands the mind, the heart, and the soul. The kind of experience that encourages curiosity and the type that unleashes the strength and spirit of the self. We provide adventures where students are challenged to leave their comfort zones and, outside of their day to day lives, gain a deeper understanding of who they are. We believe that the wild outdoors
is the ideal setting for reminding us of who we are as leaders, team members, friends, and human beings. We go places where distractions are limited to night skies, sunsets, new friends, good conversation, mountain passes, and fresh air. We show our students that they become better when they are working for something bigger than themselves, that teamwork and community are a cornerstone for living consciously and courageously, and that
they have more confidence, capabilities, joy-capacity, and wonder inside of them than they ever thought possible. We are in the business of life changing, belly laughing, star gazing, foundation shifting good times. We know that life begins when you step outside your comfort zone, and whether that be climbing up a rock face, sleeping in a tent for the first time, or traveling to a new and exotic land, we’re here to show you how much you are capable of.
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BACKGROUND +
Mt. Shasta Trip: Yosemite Photo By: Casey Savoie
WHY WE
TRAVEL Every moment, our world is humming. Simultaneous versions of experience are occurring at all times. There are infinite places with different colors, combinations, tastes, sights, smells, and feelings happening at every moment. Our lives each occupy one version of this human experience. Only one. When we travel, we diversify our lens. We shift, expand and open. We let in new colors, sights, smells and inspiration. When you are in motion, it is impossible to not be moved. Traveling is a window and a mirror. Seeing new things and places shows you a different version of yourself. Discover what you like, what attracts you, what inspires you, and what makes you who you are. The reasons for traveling are as limitless as the rewards. Here are some of our favorite ones.
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STEP OUTSIDE THE LINES
DISCOVER NEW CULTURES
FIND YOUR PEOPLE
Our lives are only one version of what’s possible. We get comfortable within the lines of our routine, and it can be uncomfortable to step outside of what is familiar. Traveling teaches us that that comfort is a portable concept. Stepping outside of your routine gives you the opportunity to receive life’s greatest lessons, joys and inspirations. Being comfortable doesn’t always have to do with what is easy, controlled, or familiar. Being comfortable is about who you are, and how you experience the world as yourself. It comes from within. And one of the greatest ways to see what’s within is to step outside.
People all over the world live their lives according to their environment, their history, their stories and how they came to be where they are. It’s incredibly valuable to look through a different lens and understand that there are many ways to live. Taste the food, play the games, observe the customs, listen and share stories with people in a completely different culture. By experiencing these differences we are able to see more clearly our similarities and feel more connected to humanity as a whole. Laughter and joy are the same in every language. Sometimes the best part of a place is the people who live there.
On a Moondance trip, we believe that the company you keep makes all the difference. That’s why we keep groups small and expose you to the joy of finding new friends. When you arrive without knowing anyone, you are able to be yourself without any pre-conceived identities or roles. When everyone shows up free from the social identities of home, you get to discover who you are in a fresh way. The friendships forged on a Moondance trip are special. You go through incredible experiences together. You discover new things together. You laugh and sing and travel the world together. You’ll be amazed at how close you can get to your people when you are far away from the routines of your everyday life.
Mt. Shasta Trip: Yosemite Photo By: Casey Savoie
NEW PERSPECTIVES
LEARN TO RIDE THE WAVES
UNPLUG AND RECHARGE
Experience the vibrancy and detail of a new place. Fill your brain with new sounds, sights, colors and landscapes. Expand your memory palette. Your imagination will thank you later.
Life is an incredibly rich and complex adventure. Like any great adventure, yours will encounter bumps, twists and turns. Travel teaches us to roll with the punches, and laugh through the traffic. Putting yourself in the arms of the unexpected will give you the skills to confidently handle the inevitable unknowns that life can throw at you. What better way to face a challenge than with a group of friends in an incredible place. You’ll learn that it’s not the challenge you remember, but how you got through it that counts.
Traveling encourages us to engage with the present moment and experience the journey of motion and movement. There is so much reality to absorb in a new place; you won’t have the need to check your feed.
Travel not only transforms us through experience, but it enhances our confidence in reaching for more experiences. Once you have been out in the world and seen who you are out there, you gather the confidence and competence to take yourself anywhere. Travel leads to more travel, and more travel leads to a more fully lived life.
WRITE YOUR OWN STORY Your life is your story, and you are the author. Give yourself the ingredients to make it interesting, inspiring and memorable. Travel gives you chapters, action, adventure and the richness of experience. How you spend your time in this life is what ultimately makes you who you are. Moondance wants to help fill your story with chapters worth remembering, treasured memories, and unforgettable good times.
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STAMP YOUR PASSPORT OF EXPERIENCE
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ALUMNI + LEADERS
LEADERGENNA SUGGS HARRIS
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We love our Leaders. It’s as simple as that. These fine folks come from all over the country with the shared passion for giving our kids the trip of a lifetime. Many of them were students themselves before becoming Trip Leaders. They couldn’t wait to spread the spirit of Moondance as a Leader one day. As we celebrate 25 years of business, we honor some of the best. Ever wonder what your Moondance Leader does once the summer is over? Here’s a quick glimpse into the lives of Genna, Kelly and Tyler. Their Moondance trips may have only been during the summer, but the impact has lasted a lifetime.
WHERE ARE
THEY NOW? “Just remembering to laugh every day, to cherish the people you’re with and to appreciate the places around you. These will be the keys to happiness in the later half of life.” Kelly McGee
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Genna Harris was born and raised in Rocky Mount, North Carolina and is a graduate of UNC – Chapel Hill. She was a Trip Leader for Moondance in 2007 & 2008 before coming on board to work at HQ between 2011-2014. Genna is an all-star Veteran Leader of the Pacific Northwest, Grand Ascents, Hawaiian Islands, Chamonix, Kilimanjaro and Machu Pichu trips. Wow! Apart from her time as a leader, Genna also loved going to Colorado and climbing Mount Rainier as a Moondance student herself. This awesome gal has seen it all! When asked about what she’ll always remember about her time at Moondance, she wrote: “I will remember all the beautiful places I traveled and how valuable of a classroom the outdoors can be. I KNOW I’ll remember the strong relationships and friendships I made with my fellow students, my fellow leaders, and my co-workers in the office. I KNOW I’ll remember the high-level of self-confidence Moondance gave me as not only a student but also as a leader. I KNOW I’ll remember that I’m capable of taking on challenges that I originally might think are too daunting or impossible.”
Since leaving Moondance, Genna has taken on many new adventures in New Zealand, Belize and Portugal, to name a few! She currently works at a digital marketing firm in Asheville, North Carolina where she lives with her husband, Clark (also a former Moondance Leader), and their baby girl, Ferrin.
LEADERTYLER HOGAN
LEADERKELLY MCGEE
Tyler Hogan was a student on the Blue Ridge Expedition, Big Wild and Northern Lights trips! After pursuing his undergraduate degree at the University of Virginia, Tyler was a Trip Leader on our Pacific Northwest, Grand Ascents, and Northern Lights Adventures.
Growing up, Kelly was a student on the Big Wild, Costa Rica and Chamonix trips. Kelly has traveled all over the world with Moondance, but he calls California home! Kelly grew up in Pasadena, and ventured East to attend college at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) where he studied Mechanical Engineering. He couldn’t resist coming back to Moondance as a Trip Leader in 2017 after graduation and explored the last frontier on Northern Lights. When asked about what he’s been up to since his last summer at Moondance, he wrote:
“I went to work at General Electric in Wind Energy and spent nearly as much time climbing in the Adirondacks as I did in the office. Three years was enough for me at a big company. My wife, Kira, and I married in 2012, and we moved to Boston after an extremely long honeymoon in southwest Colorado. I pursued my MBA at Harvard University while she taught in a fastpaced charter school. After graduating I partnered up with my best friend from college and beyond and we acquired a small business in the water industry, then another, and most recently another. Kira and I live in a small town in New Hampshire, have a 2-year-old daughter, Ada, and another one on the way. Life is dandy.”
Tyler was raised in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, and he remembers his time with Moondance fondly. He reflects: “My memories of Moondance are some of the brightest memories I have from that time in my life. When I’m 50 years old, I’m sure those mental images will be as vivid as they are today. When I string them together, I hope they always tell the same story: cherish these wild places and the moments spent with true friends within them; preserve them at all costs and teach others to do the same.”
“After my epic summer with Moondance galivanting through Alaska, I started work for Apple in California. After two years as a Product Design Engineer, developing everything from Watches to iPads, I have been fortunate enough to take a step out of the corporate world and start my own company. I’m combining my innate passions for design and helping others to create a new approach to orthopedic bracing. While it has been a lot of work so far, it has given me the flexibility to travel and get outside more, allowing me to get back to the key activities that brought me to Moondance.”
Way to go, Kelly! If he could offer two pieces of advice to Moondancers this summer, it would be this: “Live in the moment. Appreciate this idea of being truly present, and the curveballs of life will be much easier to hit. Just remembering to laugh every day, to cherish the people you’re with and to appreciate the places around you. These will be the keys to happiness in the later half of life.”
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In his own words, Tyler shares a snapshot of his life after Moondance:
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Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Trip: Midnight Sun Photo By: Liza McLain
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WHAT TO
EXPECT NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY You won’t know if you don’t go. But will you go if you don’t know? You'll just have to trust us on this one. Snag those heavy hikers off the shelf, let them lose their new shoe scent, and fill them with a whiff of adventure. That’s a smell that won’t come out in the wash. This might be your first time, but first times are the best place to start. Anyone in good physical condition with a positive attitude and an open mind will find great success. It’s out here with the rushing rivers of the Rockies, the enchanting Maasai Markets in Tanzania, and the kelp-collecting tide pools in Hanalei Bay. So bring your sense of adventure and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
WHAT YOU’LL DO Each day in our lives is an opportunity, and this is never more true than on a Moondance trip. Your days will be packed with experiences and the spaces between them. Activities will be adventurous, and of the outdoor variety. We believe that an outdoor adventure pushes boundaries, and is the best classroom for experiencing growth and connection. Each trip has multiple activities specific to their region around the globe, and you can gear your experience towards your preferred flavor of exploration. Focus on rock climbing, wave catching, safari gazing, cultural immersion, community service, or river rafting to name just a few. Pick your flavor. Each trip delivers a hearty meal of adventure and exhilaration, alongside a curriculum of leadership development, group dynamics, life experience, and fun. You’ll learn to travel with a group, with everything you need, and nothing that you don’t. There will be times for challenging yourself, enjoying yourself, and surprising yourself. The days will fly by, and each one will be different, but you will create a rhythm, and a home within your group.
“Get ready for the trip of a lifetime!” WHO YOU’LL BE WITH Moondancers are a rare and wonderful breed. Every year we are struck by the caliber of people who flock to our feather. They come from all over the globe. Some of them are bold, shy, hilarious, or thoughtful. They are adventurous, movie buffs, music makers, creative forces, and thrill seeking wanderers. All of them are different, and all of them, authentic.
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We encourage the Moondance student to come on a trip without knowing anyone else. This fact means you don’t have to fall into the roles and routines from home. Our trips encourage you to be your most unfettered self, unearthing some amazing people. We like to think that adventures attract the kind of people who don’t limit or define themselves in a singular way. We like to think this because it’s true. Our students are diverse in their backgrounds and stories, but they come together to create a larger, more collective narrative. Our students become family, they keep in touch, and they are the type of people you find on life’s greatest adventures.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Our trips offer the opportunity to hone a diverse array of skills depending on where you venture. You might come home knowing how to belay, how to read a map, or how to barter in a Moroccan market. These skills are icing on the layer cake of your trip; however, the core curriculum of our adventures comes from developing leadership skills in a small group setting.
“Everyone gets to stand up, stand out, and be a necessary part of the machine!”
GROUP SIZE One of the best realities of a Moondance trip is the small group and how it becomes its own larger-than- life organism. Because the group is small, everyone gets to stand up, stand out, and be a necessary part of the whole. Operating as a unit, the group moves together, eats together, lives together, and makes decisions together. You’ll learn how to be an asset to a team, how to find your voice as a leader, and how to support others in their own leadership roles. Everything you do, you’ll do together, thus your success depends on your group. We’ll teach you how to take care of that group, and in the process, you’ll get closer and more connected to this friend-family than you ever thought possible.
TWO FRIEND POLICY
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Moondance’s two-friend policy allows groups of two to travel together. All of our trip sessions have multiple groups with different itineraries simultaneously running. We can only honor friend requests when they are mutual among both parties, meaning that the request is listed on the enrollment application or sent in writing to and confirmed by the Moondance office. It is the responsibility of each family to ensure both parties have made the request.
EXPEDITION
BEHAVIOR Expedition Behavior (EB) is our favorite leadership skill to serve up on a Moondance trip. Simply put, be good to each other and the good will spread. It’s the golden rule, multiplied by the power of an actual expedition. When you’re a part of something bigger than yourself, you become self-aware in a different, more deliberate way. Good EB is when you take care of your group, because in doing so, you are taking care of yourself. When you are good to your team, the bar is constantly being raised higher and higher. When you bring out the shiniest versions of each other, the whole group sparkles.
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BEYOND THE
ADVENTURE “We believe that these trips change lives.�
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What makes Moondance different is our passion for providing you with an experience that changes you. We believe that these trips change lives, and your personal growth is our most prized outcome. Our adventures instill in you the ability to find comfort in the outdoors and confidence in yourself. You will prove to yourself that you have everything you need to face life and thrive in whatever situation it throws at you. Long after your trip is over, the person you become on a Moondance trip will walk into the world with more awareness, openness, leadership, and life skills. Our dedication to your life beyond the adventure is what makes Moondance different.
UNPLUG
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” Anne Lamott
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Ditch the doldrums of your device and free yourself from the daily tangle. We are here to wage war on the wires and recharge your soul. Unplug! It’s the best thing you can do for your eyes, your mind, your heart, and your life. When you disconnect from technology, you slow down and are able to awaken to the experience of the present moment. This crucial truth too often gets clouded in the cloud. Free your eyes from a filtered existence and fill them with the real thing. For all the powers and progresses of technology, life is still about flesh, blood, laughter, and eye contact. Real friends come from real experiences, and real experiences happen when you are free from the constant clatter and ghostly glow of your screen. The importance of the unplugged experience cannot be overemphasized. Reconnect to the fact that life at its very best is happening right in front of you.
“ Love the Unplugged policy!!! Live in the moment, experience life versus watching others on social media. Even my 16-year-old son agrees this is what makes the trip special.” Cynthia O’Donnell, Parent of Kellen O’Donnell. Tiburon, CA
LIVE IN
THE MOMENT
Anna Stewart, 13. Atlanta, GA
we have. The best way to honor them, capture them, and keep them is by living them to the fullest. Be where you are. Talk to each other, and listen. Laugh with your friends, jump in the water, and take in the view. Your moments are actually your most precious resources. Pay attention to them, the way they feel and look and smell. Appreciate the people who are in them. Take comfort in the fact that when you anchor yourself in the here and now, you realize you are exactly where you are supposed to be.
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“If you’re scared of being away from home, do it. If you’re scared at all, take a risk. Put yourself out there and become the person you want to be.”
These days we often find ourselves trying to live in many different moments at once. Our lives encourage it as the multi-tasks multiply. Our brains bounce from person, to place, to future, to past, so fast that we don’t notice the details of where we are. The details, however, make all the difference. One of the most crucial life skills we wish to instill is the ability to live in the moment. The value of all moments surpasses everything. They become who we are, and what we care about. Moments are quick moving, magical things and they are all that
MOONUP The ritual of a nightly circle with your group is one of the most special parts of a Moondance trip. Moonup happens every night, on every trip, whether you’re on a glacier in Alaska, or a bamboo raft in Thailand. This gathering each evening is a chance to debrief the day, tell stories, or simply ask each other whatever you want. It’s incredible how close you can become when you simply take the time to sit together on the edge of the day and talk. Moonup often becomes a favorite feature of our trips. It’s a place to grow, reflect, and learn from each other. It’s also a place to laugh, stare at the sky, and howl at the moon. However you choose to spend this time, it is completely yours. It becomes unique to your group, and your circle becomes one of the greatest places you will journey.
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Alftavaton, Iceland Trip: Iceland Photo By: Temple Moore
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WHO ARE
MOONDANCERS? Every season we are delighted, jaw-dangled, and awestruck at the gemstone students that join us. Folks of the positive, open-minded, belly-laughter loving variety arrive year after year. They come from all over the world! We love them, they love each other, and we all love a good quest. We first get to know each of our students through their individual applications and teacher recommendations. Then they come get to know us, and we all get to know what it means to build a great community.
“My Moondance experience allowed me to be myself. I was challenged, encouraged, and cared for by all members of my group. As a group we had multiple eye opening experiences that deepened our understanding of ourselves. In the end I walked away with a new side of myself I didn’t know I had.” Will Chapman, 14. St. Louis, MO
“It’s the most amazing thing I have ever done. I wouldn’t change a single thing about it. I can’t wait for next summer.” Thatcher Garrison, 13. Raleigh, NC
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“My biggest takeaway is I can do it. No matter what it is, I’m so much stronger than I think I am. I am capable and I am powerful and my priorities feel like they’re finally in order.” Courtney Hogan, 17. St. Simon’s Island, GA
Nan Barnhill, 12. Rocky Mount, NC
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“During this trip I was amazed by how much I could love 14 people in only 2 weeks. I not only learned a lot about my Moondance family, but I also learned things about myself that I would never find at home.”
“I enjoyed every single second of it. The kids were amazing, the leaders were incredible, and the adventures incomparable.” Ian Zambetti, 15. Austin, TX
“Moondance is miles ahead of other programs with its missions and goals. It is innovative and simple and the trips are ‘once in a lifetime’ so the experience is not easily replicated. Camps are very traditional and school trips are very calculated. Moondance is one of a kind.” Claire Smith, Parent of Ricky Smith. Athens, GA
“My daughter left home very happy and returned happier.” Larry Garland, Parent of Allison and Parker Garland. Erwin, TN
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“I’m not sure if there is much I have left unsaid...we were absolutely blown away as parents. It was very likely one of the defining experiences in our son’s life. Every child should have an opportunity to experience this type of adventure, connection with nature, and- probably most importantlypositive connection with others their own age (and the young adults that are leading them.) A true slam-dunk in all ways!” Lisa Yarbrough, Parent of Oscar Yarbrough. Charlotte, NC
“Moondance lets you bond with strangers and create lifelong friendships while traveling the world and getting the most amazing experiences.” 26 PAGE
Thomas Grier, 17. New York City, NY
MEET OUR
LEADERS
MOONDANCE 25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION
Our Leaders are the heart, soul, hands, and feet of our entire operation. They deliver trips of a lifetime, and they do it safely, smoothly, and with style. We know that the people we send into the field make our trips, and make our company, thus we keep the Moondance family small, so we get to know each and every person we send out. We are constantly amazed by the caliber of people who work with us and love how many of them continue to come back.
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Our Leaders are varied in background and personalities, but they all share a passion for cultivating awareness and adventure for young people. Many of them are graduates of Outward Bound or NOLS leadership programs, and many of them are Moondance graduates. They are at least 21 years of age, with the average age being 24. They come to us with resumes that exceed their age in years, and enthusiasm that carries our
mission at Moondance. They are hired for their experience in leadership, adventure travel, international experience, positive energy, and interest in working with young people. They are teachers, musicians, climbers, writers, future nurses, doctors, and coaches. To our students they become role models, leaders, and great friends. Risk management is the cornerstone of all Moondance trips, and our leaders are well versed in it. Every leader is required to complete an intensive wilderness medicine certification prior to arriving at staff training. Each leader is a certified WFR (Wilderness First Responder) or WFA (Wilderness First Aid). Each leader is also required to attend our 12-day Staff Training, where they will streamline their wilderness, leadership and travel skills to pertain to each of their specific trips. Staff training is the opportunity for us to really get to
know every leader in order to send them confidently into the field. They focus on the details of their particular trip, and get to know each and every one of their students. We walk away from staff training every year having formed a family. The bond created as a staff, and the quality of individuals we send into the field amazes us. Our Leaders are people who we admire, respect, and learn from every year. They are hilarious, caring, authentic, and amazing. We are delighted to send them out into the field to pass on their passion to young people all over the world.
“To our students they become role models, leaders, and great friends.�
WHAT I DO FUN
TO BE CONNECTED TO THE PLANET
Fun seems to be the simplest and most obvious reason, but it is the one that permeates all the others. Life is fun. Fun is important. With Moondance you embody this truth. You go to the best places on earth with the best humans, and it is your actual job to HAVE fun. While you do this you spread the reality that fun is the most worthy of enterprises. It’s important to keep your priorities in check.
One year, my co-leader and I made a rule that I still stick to this day. If you have the opportunity to jump into a natural body of water, you must take it. You’ll never regret it! While you’re at it, put your face in a flower. Sleep beneath stars, walk beneath trees, and be surrounded by life. Life is incredible, and beautiful and we are connected to it all. When you go into the wilderness, you remember that you are already complete. A perfect design, meant to live among and interact with other perfect designs of life, like trees, mountains, birds and rivers. You remember that the moon is there, and that it moves the oceans. Every night the sun does an incredible firework display as we spin through the universe. It feels good to connect to that. I want to marvel at it and live among it with my friends. To understand our impact and connection to it. To realize we live in a planetary paradise, and not take it for granted.
The comfort zone, the asphalt castle, the real world, whatever you want to call it, our species continuously attempts to live in a controlled atmosphere. We live indoors. We control the lighting, and the sounds. Our eyes are full of screens and our ears are full of headphones. Discomfort has become something of a tragedy in our society. We fight to believe we are in control of everything, but here’s the thing: WE AREN’T. I like to be reminded of this. Go out in the rain. Get cold and wet, and then bundle up, make a shelter and some hot food. Entertain each other beneath a tarp three days into the backcountry. Realize that you are okay. Being wet is uncomfortable. Fix it, and move on. Your response to the rain is what makes all the difference in how you experience it. I like to show people that they get to choose how to respond to the rain.
28 Kelly McFarling, Former Moondance Leader
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“I came to Moondance in the summer of 2006 looking to work in the wilderness, and give my meandering life path an upgrade. As I gathered in that Moonup circle for the first time, listening to strangers discuss their biggest fears and wildest dreams, I felt the beginning of a large shift. I had never been around such a concentrated group of people that I was so deeply inspired by. I learned so much, and laughed so hard. I spent 12 days focusing on how to cultivate adventure, and haven’t really stopped. That summer my life changed color. The flavor of this experience has left a lifelong linger. Here are some of my favorite reasons it stays.”
TO BECOME COMFORTABLE WITH BEING UNCOMFORTABLE
MOONDANCE 25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION
WHY I DO
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29
MOONDANCE 25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION
30 PAGE
Heather Miller, Parent of Holland Miller. Richmond, VA
MOONDANCE 25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION
“Holland’s leaders gave my child something that I cannot give her. Three weeks of hiking, camping, climbing, kayaking, rafting and developing confidence and a deep appreciation for the world around her. The connection and support offered by her leaders and peers gave her a trust in meeting new people and opening her heart to creating new connections. This is a trip that will forever resonate in Holland’s heart and will give her a touchstone for confidence, gratitude, simplicity, strength of character and the connections she made.”
RISK
MANAGEMENT
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31
We take enormous pride in our excellent safety record and work hard to provide a quality experience for our students. Our reputation is a direct reflection of our well-designed courses, detailed protocol for conducting safe activities, and our low student-to-staff ratio. We monitor and evaluate risks for each trip and make managing these risks a year round responsibility. We use only the finest outfitters and guide services for technical activities such as rock climbing, mountaineering, and whitewater rafting. Our leaders are integral to the safety of each trip. Prior to the start of our programs, our trip leaders participate in an intensive 12-day training where safety policies and procedures are emphasized. All of our leaders have their Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certifications. Every leader-team has an extensive first aid kit and is familiar
with the emergency support systems in the areas we travel. We must learn to manage risks daily while living in the wilderness and in international settings. Safety is not something that Moondance, or any program, can guarantee. Participating in outdoor adventure activities involves inherent risks and dangers that can lead to injury, property damage, or even loss of life. Almost any activity can be potentially dangerous. These risks cannot be predicted and can include forces of nature with the possibility of accidents. We discuss how to respect and evaluate risks throughout each trip. We want to teach each participant that responsible behavior, good judgment, and a concern for group safety are the most valuable assets in the outdoors.
RISK MANAGEMENT 32 PAGE
“Without question, safety is the foremost concern for any family looking into a wilderness or cultural immersion program and is of paramount importance on any Moondance trip.�
Your journey starts here.
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Tofo Beach, Mozambique Trip: South Africa Photo By: Cecilia Gigante
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Marataba, South Africa Trip: South Africa Photo By: Sam Whitehurst
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TRIP
LOCATION
CURRENT GRADE PG.
CHAMONIX
10-12TH
45
CROATIA
9-10TH
46
DOLOMITES
9-10TH
47
MYSTERY TRIP
11-12TH
48
NORTHERN LIGHTS
10-12TH
49
NORWAY
10-12TH
50
SARDINIA
10-11TH
51
SLOVENIA
10-11TH
52
SPAIN + MOROCCO
9-10TH
53
YOSEMITE
9-11TH
54
CLASSIC ADVENTURES LOCATION
CURRENT GRADE PG.
BIG WILD
8-9TH
59
BRITISH COLUMBIA
7-8TH
60
ICELAND
8-9TH
61
MIDNIGHT SUN
8-9TH
62
PACIFIC NORTHWEST
7-8TH
63
DISCOVERY ADVENTURES LOCATION
CURRENT GRADE PG.
CALIFORNIA
6-7TH
69
COLORADO TRAIL
6-7TH
70
SERVICE ADVENTURES LOCATION
CURRENT GRADE PG.
BELIZE + COSTA RICA 8-9TH
75
COSTA RICA
76
8-9TH
ECUADOR + GALAPAGOS 9-10TH
77
FIJI
9-10TH
78
HAWAIIAN ISLANDS
10-11TH
79
KILIMANJARO
10-12TH
80
MACHU PICCHU
9-11TH
81
MAUI
8-9TH
82
SOUTH AFRICA
9-10TH
83
THAILAND
10-11TH
84
36 PAGE
FINDER
LEADERSHIP ADVENTURES
AROUND
BRITISH COLUMBIA
PACIFIC NORTHWEST
BRITISH COLUMBIA
BIG WILD YOSEMITE CALIFORNIA
BIG WILD COLORADO TRAIL YOSEMITE CALIFORNIA
BELIZE + COSTA RICA BELIZE + COSTA RICA MAUI
COSTA RICA MAUI
HAWAIIAN ISLANDS
COSTA RICA ECUADOR + GALAPAGOS ECUADOR + GALAPAGOS MACHU PICCHU
MAP KEY LEADERSHIP CLASSIC
37
DISCOVERY
PAGE
HAWAIIAN ISLANDS
COLORADO TRAIL
PACIFIC NORTHWEST
SERVICE
MACHU PICCHU
ICELAND
MIDNIGHT SUN
NORTHERN LIGHTS
MIDNIGHT SUN
ICELAND
MOONDANCE 25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION
NORTHERN LIGHTS
THE WORLD
PAGE
THAILAND
MOONDANCE 25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION
THAILAND
KILIMANJARO KILIMANJARO FIJI
SOUTH AFRICA FIJI
SOUTH AFRICA
38
CHAMONIX NORWAY SARDINIA DOLOMITES SLOVENIA CROATIA
CHAMONIX NORWAY SARDINIA DOLOMITES SLOVENIA SPAINCROATIA + MOROCCO
SPAIN + MOROCCO
FOUR WAYS TO
EXPLORE
PAGE
39 Talkeetna Mountain Range Trip: Northern Lights Photo By: Anna Altenberg
LEADERSHIP ADVENTURES Life is a wilderness designed for you to explore! There are deep canyons of decisions, rushing rivers of relationships, and massive mountains of motivation to be climbed. Our Leadership trips take you on an adventure that sharpens your wilderness skills and shows you how to apply them in the wilds of your everyday life. These trips, designed for 9th through 12th graders, will take you to some of the most beautiful places on the planet. You’ll realize that being a leader means being part of something bigger than yourself, and that thing will be a life changing expedition of adventure, joy, and accomplishment. Get ready to confront your most confident and competent self.
CLASSIC ADVENTURES The classic experience is tried, true, and sure to impress. Our Classic trips embody all that you love about Moondance and exemplify adventure. These trips are the foundation of legendary experiences loved by Moondancers everywhere. Whether this is your first adventure, or your third, our Classic trips dive deep into the backcountry, the coast, and the wild. For 7th through 9th graders, fine-tuned, multi-sport adventures await!
DISCOVERY ADVENTURES First time feelings are never forgotten. Our Discovery trips are designed for beginners with the outdoor adventure bug. These trips are an introduction to wide open spaces, starry sky ceilings, and the infinite possibilities that await you out in the wild. 6th and 7th graders, the world is waiting to reveal itself to you this summer—one adventure at a time!
SERVICE ADVENTURES The more you give the more you get back, and we’ve got back stage passes to some of the most remote and beautiful places on earth, some of which need your helping hand. By collaborating with communities abroad, you can foster a kaleidoscope of adventure, featuring cultural immersion, environmental wonders and the kind of life experience that stays with you forever.
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40
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Kerlingarfjรถll, Iceland Trip: Iceland Photo By: Temple Moore
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42
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43
LEADERSHIP
ADVENTURES LOCATION
CURRENT GRADE PG.
CHAMONIX
10-12TH 45
CROATIA
9-10TH 46
DOLOMITES
9-10TH 47
MYSTERY TRIP
11-12TH
48
NORTHERN LIGHTS
10-12TH
49
NORWAY
10-12TH 50
SARDINIA
10-11TH 51
SLOVENIA
10-11TH 52
SPAIN + MOROCCO
9-10TH
YOSEMITE
9-11TH 54
53
LEADERSHIP ADVENTURES
“Thank you so much Moondance for giving me this life changing experience. I can’t stress how much this trip means to me.” Trip Mize, 16. Atlanta, GA
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44
CHAMONIX TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE LEADERSHIP LENGTH
23 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUL 1 JUN 14 - JUL 6 JUL 3 - JUL 25 JUL 8 - JUL 30
CURRENT GRADE
10-12TH
MEET
�
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND COST
DEPART
PARIS, FRANCE
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
From the mountains to the Mediterranean, this leadership trip will take you trekking through the old world. See Europe through the lens of an alpine adventurer as you climb through glacier clad mountains in 4 different countries. Hike from remote alpine huts to picturesque villages nestled in valleys, frozen in time. Paddle the Mediterranean Sea off the Spanish coastline, and marvel at the museums and monuments of Paris. This trip combines challenging terrain with the most culturally rich nooks and crannies of Europe.
We travelled through a stunning canyon with breathtaking swimming holes around every turn. We jumped into the deepest parts of the perfect blue water and moved with the water as we witnessed the ways in which it has sculpted the canyon walls over the years. We refreshed ourselves in the cold water then warmed up like seals on the rocks bathing in the sun and repeated this process until it was time to hit the trail again. Exhausted from too much fun, we made our way to the quaint town of Torla for the night. We explored the cobblestone streets, enjoyed dinner together, and had Moonup in the courtyard of the church.
$7,195
LEADERSHIP
HIGHLIGHTS • Hike and hostel-hop your way through the world famous Tour Du Mont Blanc, gazing upon the glaciers of the Swiss, French and Italian Alps • Paddle the majestic Mediterranean coastline as you explore the coves and caves of Costa Brava
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• You’ll need your knees in the Pyrenees as you trek this challenging rugged range • Promenade through the magical streets of Paris and reflect on your conquests in the City of Lights
ABOUT
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE LEADERSHIP LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUN 22 JUN 25 - JUL 8 JUL 11 - JUL 24
CURRENT GRADE
9-10TH
MEET
�
ZAGREB, CROATIA COST
DEPART
ZAGREB, CROATIA $5,295
HIGHLIGHTS • Paddle the crystal waters of the Zrmanja River, staying overnight on the riverbanks • Sea Kayak off the Dalmatian coast on a small island, where you’ll explore the local culture of the town and the surrounding caves, rocky coast and crystal-clear water • Trek through Paklenica National Park, staying in mountain huts among rocky hills that rise from the sea • Explore the winding cobbled streets of Dubrovnik, an old town rich in history and culture
The next morning we set out with a new goal in mind, to explore the neighboring island of Lopud. After taking a ferry over to the island we set our sights on an old fort located at the top of the island. We soaked in the 360° view that overlooked the neighboring islands and mainland. Our guide had to force us to leave the view because we couldn’t pull ourselves away and it was time for lunch. We strolled across the island passing old farm houses and chapels to get to a farm where we would dine. Lunch consisted of bread with farm made olive oil, veggie soup, fried chicken, potatoes, and all sorts of fresh vegetables. We ended the meal with cold slices of watermelon which was a perfect refreshing desert in the heat. The students were awestruck by the meal and deemed it the best meal we got to share together in Croatia!
LEADERSHIP
46 PAGE
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
CROATIA
The “Adriatic pearl” to poets (Lord Byron) or the “best sunset in the world” according to movie makers (Hitchcock), Croatia has been inspiring minds for over 8,000 years. Home to some of the oldest European civilizations, and the most diverse palette of watercolors, this country is stunningly beautiful and steeped in history. You’ll explore the rock walls and ridge lines of the mountains as you take the backcountry road less travelled for a wilderness experience. Then you’ll paddle the ancient waterways and crystal seas by boat and body. You’ll see why humans have been protecting this magical turquoise treasure for centuries.
DOLOMITES TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE LEADERSHIP LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUN 22 JUN 25 - JUL 8 JUL 11 - JUL 24
CURRENT GRADE
9-10TH
MEET
�
VENICE, ITALY COST
DEPART
VENICE, ITALY $5,295
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
Italy is the land of beauty: beautiful cities, food, mountains, and art. It’s no surprise that its alpine style sets the bar for bellissimo. The famed Dolomite Mountains tower in jagged spires and buttresses of limestone made for scaling and exploration. Spend your days walking the Alta Vias (high paths) of this impressive range and spend your nights in refugios nestled in the alpine glow. Trek through passes, rock climb ancient formations, and explore historic tunnels used in World War I. This trip provides a rugged mountaineering experience while taking you deep into the heart and soul of Italy.
Before you continue reading this, please Google a photograph of Cinque Torri. You simply have to get a glimpse of the grandeur of the place before you continue reading. Our group really understood the magnitude of Cinque Torri once we arrived. We put our packs down and hit the trail for a full day of rock climbing. Most of our students had not spent time on a rock wall before, much less the famous routes of Cinque Torri. It was a blast to see their excitement as our guides began to explain the basic techniques associated with climbing and handed the ropes over to them. The gang began with easier routes and slowly made their way toward multi-pitch climbing by the end of the day. Everyone was *rocking it* (pun intended) by lunchtime. We went to sleep that night with full hearts after a fun, relaxing day outdoors and a Moonup that had some of us giggling until we cried.
LEADERSHIP
HIGHLIGHTS
PAGE
47
• Fill your lungs with high altitude air, and your eyes with limestone vistas as you trek through the stunning Dolomites • Scale the via ferratas (“iron roads”) of Cinque Torri in rope teams led by some of the most impressive climbing guides in the world • Take the plunge into the fresh mountain pools of Belluno on a canyoneering adventure • Soak in the beauty, culture, and gelato of Venice wandering the cobblestone streets and riding the gondolas of this ancient city built on water
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE LEADERSHIP
JUL 7 - JUL 27
CURRENT GRADE
11-12TH
MEET
ďż˝
?
COST
DEPART
?
$8,195
The Mystery Trip begs these questions of anyone who inquires. What location could explode expectations and excite adventurers while simultaneously encapsulating the Moondance experience? The Mystery Trip excites not only returning Moondance students, but the entire Moondance community. Students embark on a wild ride into the depths of the unknown, the uncharted, and the undiscovered: The Mystery Trip.
LEADERSHIP
Imagination can take you anywhere: to the ends of the earth or to the edge of your hometown. Imagining where the Moondance Mystery Trip could take you is just as, if not more, boundless. The world is your oyster and the Mystery Trip dives into this oyster head first. A lot of questions float around in preparation for, or simply in rumination on, this coveted opportunity: What will you do? How do you get there? WHERE is it?
48 PAGE
21 DAYS
DATES
MYSTERY TRIP
LENGTH
NORTHERN LIGHTS
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE LEADERSHIP LENGTH
21 DAYS
DATES
JUN 11 - JUL 1 JUL 6
- JUL 26
CURRENT GRADE
10-12TH
MEET
�
COST
DEPART
ANCHORAGE, ALASKA
ANCHORAGE, ALASKA
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
Braided rivers, vast mountain ranges, and untamed territories, Alaska is one of the last true wilderness refuges in the country. Here the summer days linger into the nights and are full of wild exploration. Trek in the true backcountry, kayak in glacier fed fjords, and raft rivers of melted ice. Experience the wilderness in its most unspoiled form on our most challenging and thrilling backcountry adventure.
After lunch we headed to the majestic Blackstone Glacier. It took us a bit of paddling to get there but the effort was beyond worth it. Upon arrival we paddled up to a 50 foot waterfall. Right next to the waterfall was a cliff full of kittiwake birds that soared, over our heads, and back to the cliff as a means of defense. We couldn’t help but get close! We finished our action packed day by crushing a three mile paddle back to camp where we discovered two giant bald eagles perched atop a spruce overlooking our tents, as if to protect our home from unwanted critters. The group agreed that this was perhaps the most remote place any of us had ever camped. As we all worked together to prepare a sweet potato, rice, and veggie stir fry dinner, students laughed and reflected on the day’s adventure.
$5,895
HIGHLIGHTS
LEADERSHIP
• Gaze upon the highest concentration of glaciers in the world; camp the remote beaches; and watch for otters, eagles and orcas from the belly of a sea kayak in the wild and wondrous Prince William Sound
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• Ascend the ice walls and rappel the bright blue caves on the Matanuska Glacier as you learn to safely explore the world of crampons, ice axes, and the crunching of crystal beneath your feet • Spend eight life changing days of true wilderness navigation, backpacking the braided rivers and alpine tundra of the Talkeetna Mountain Range • Ride the glacier melt of the Chickaloon River as you exit the Talkeetnas on rafts flown in by bush planes
NORWAY
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE LEADERSHIP LENGTH
17 DAYS
DATES
JUN 24 - JUL 10 JUL 13 - JUL 29
CURRENT GRADE
10-12TH
MEET
�
OSLO, NORWAY COST
DEPART
BERGEN, NORWAY $5,795
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
Explore the snowcapped mountains, deep blue fjords, and the seaside Nordic culture on this challenging leadership trip. Trek through Norway’s famous Jotunheimen National Park on foot, hiking from mountain hut to mountain hut surrounded by green valleys, majestic mountains, and blue glaciers. After trekking, take on the towering fjords carved into Norway’s coast from your sea kayak. Camp along the coast as you explore these fjords from the sea and land. Finish your trip in Bergen, Norway’s classic Scandinavian fishing town, with a rich culture and history.
We started this portion of the trip by staring at the entrance of the National Park and making our way to the beautiful mountaineer hut where we’ve been staying. We’re all in agreement that this is one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever been! On the hike to the hut, we were swept away by the incredible views of towering mountains and crystal clear waters. We saw several pools that were just too scrumptious to ignore, so we ditched the socks and boots and jumped in one of the pools! The fun times were rolling as we passed each incredible viewpoint. It was a day we’ll not soon forget!
HIGHLIGHTS • Grab your trekking poles and get off the beaten path on a multi-day trek through the world-famous ranges of the Norwegian highlands
• Soak in the rich cultures and traditions of Norway as you wander through sleepy seaside villages and sample local cuisine along the West Coast
50 PAGE
• Dip your paddle into the glassy waters of one of Norway’s many glacier-carved fjords and camp along the beaches as you take off on a sea kayak expedition
LEADERSHIP
• Lace up your boots and venture into the alpine as you attempt to summit some of the highest mountains in Scandinavia
ABOUT
SARDINIA
Sardinia is one of the Mediterranean’s bestkept secrets! This rugged island juts up from the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea and offers a once in a lifetime experience to those brave enough to explore its amazing coastlines and warm waters. Take a multiday trek on the “Wild Blue” along the Orosei Gulf, one of the most challenging treks in Italy. Camping on the beaches and staying at local mountain huts, you will be rewarded with amazing local food and culture along the way. Cool off at the end of the day with a swim on one of Sardinia’s many hidden beaches!
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
HIGHLIGHTS
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE LEADERSHIP LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUN 22
CURRENT GRADE
10-11TH
MEET
�
ROME, ITALY
LEADERSHIP
COST
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51
• Discover Sardinia’s world-famous beaches and crystal clear waters on a full day sailing excursion along the La Maddalena archipelago DEPART
ROME, ITALY $5,495
• Hike, climb, and rappel along the Sardinian coastline on the Selvaggio Blu, or “Wild Blue,” a challenging multi-day trek off of the beaten path with amazing views
• Enjoy your final evening in one of Europe’s oldest cities, Rome! Indulge in authentic Italian food and soak up the local Italian culture while you explore this ancient metropolis
We transferred to a small beach where we had a morning dip. The water was amazing, crystal clear and surrounded by exposed cliff faces. We gathered our belongings and began our hike with the only way Italians know how, a steep ascent. Due to steepness on several sections on our trail, we used a hand line to protect us when coming down and climbing up specific sections. Our group didn’t hesitate at any of these challenging tasks. The trail continued towards an exposed scree field where we saw several big pieces of quartz—they were beautiful. Our trek ended with a section of via ferrata, which differs from rock climbing, but essentially is clipping into chains and climbing rock. We arrived on a beach and treated ourselves to a well-deserved break.
SLOVENIA
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE LEADERSHIP LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 26 - JUL 9 JUL 12 - JUL 25
CURRENT GRADE
10-11TH
MEET
�
VENICE, ITALY COST
DEPART
VENICE, ITALY
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
A hidden gem nestled deep in the ancient forests of the European Alps, Slovenia has it all: crystal waterways, snow-capped mountains, jagged peaks, castles, canyons, and caves. This small nation blends the best that Europe has to offer with Mediterranean coastline, awe inspiring mountains and old towns full of medieval castles to spark the imagination. The Julian Alps are some of the most picturesque alpine environments in Europe, full of tall snow-covered peaks, lush green valleys, pure mountain streams, and fairytale villages and farmland. This destination is perfect for avid adventurers looking to explore Slovenia by raft, canyon, rock, and sea!
From the top we could see the mountain hut we would be staying at that night, but it took another two and a half hours to safely navigate down the terrain. We couldn’t wait to see the valley from above! We thought the views from the top of the saddle were amazing but the view from the most remote mountain hut we stayed at were absolutely stunning. People from around the world were there and sharing laughs. It was such a fun, unique, and unforgettable experience for all.
$5,495
HIGHLIGHTS • Spend five days hiking hut to hut through the alpine peaks and passes of the rugged Julian Alps in Triglav National Park
• Paddle the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea on a sea kayaking expedition in Croatia • Explore Europe’s most magical canals, culture, architecture, and gelato in the floating city of Venice
52 PAGE
• Rappel, jump, slide, and scale the water-carved canyons of the Soča River Valley on a canyoneering adventure
LEADERSHIP
• Navigate narrow canyons of the Soča River as you raft through its famed overhanging rock walls and emerald green water
SPAIN + MOROCCO
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE LEADERSHIP LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUN 22 JUN 25 - JUL 8 JUL 11 - JUL 24
CURRENT GRADE
9-10TH
MEET
�
MADRID, SPAIN COST
DEPART
MADRID, SPAIN
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
The pairing of Spain and Morocco combines two continents of the road less travelled. The color and culture of this adventure is unparalleled in our offerings. Climb mountains and collect a lifetime of experience from sea, to sand, to summit. You’ll trek alpine trails, surf swells, and explore ancient marketplaces and metropolis. This trip is challenging, inspiring, and combines outdoor adventure with a deep cultural experience.
We started our push for the summit just before sunrise. A long and challenging few thousand feet later, we made it to the summit! We were elated to reach the peak of the tallest mountain in northern Africa and the tallest mountain in the Atlas Mountain Range! We celebrated with a quick dance party on the top of the summit which got everyone so excited to be at the top. Our LODs kept everyone belly laughing on the way down with their quick wit and humor, and continued to say how getting to the top of the mountain was the highlight of her whole trip. There are honestly no words to describe how accomplished we felt to be up there.
$5,695
HIGHLIGHTS
• Get in sync with the Spanish swells and surf the golden shores of the Asturias region
53
• Barter with merchants, sample local cuisine, and wander through curls of incense, saffron spices, trinkets, and snake charmers in the Medina Marketplace of Marrakech
PAGE
LEADERSHIP
• Trek high trails and ridge lines by day and rest in remote refugios every night as you live the mountain life in Picos De Europa
• Tackle the culmination of the High Atlas Mountains, Mount Toubkal, as you attempt to summit Morocco’s highest peak
ABOUT
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE LEADERSHIP LENGTH
21 DAYS
DATES
JUN 10 - JUN 30 JUL 3
CURRENT GRADE
9-11TH
MEET
�
- JUL 23
DEPART
SAN FRANCISCO, SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA COST
$5,895
HIGHLIGHTS • Take a water escapade through Tahoe National Forest and run the Class III and IV rapids of the stunning American River • Experience the granite moonscapes, towering domes, and stunning wilderness of the Sierras as you live in them for six days on an iconic backpacking expedition • Rock climb in the company of world records, huge waterfalls, and enormous monoliths in the impossibly carved Yosemite Valley • Rise before the sun for your snowy summit bid of the mighty 14,179’ Mt. Shasta • Get into the wilderness of the Pacific Ocean and watch the California sunset from your surfboard as you surf Pacifica State Beach
It’s here. Finally, the day we’ve all been dreaming of. Our team ran and piled into the car, fighting for window seats anxiously awaiting the drive into Yosemite. Energy was quickly diminished as we started the long hour and a half drive to Half Dome Village. We took in the sights of the Sierras as we wound our way through the mountains towards one of the most famous natural wonders. We were in awe driving through Tunnel Road watching the light at the end get bigger and bigger, awaiting the picture-perfect scene we’ve seen on TV and magazines a thousand times. It was far better than any of us could ever imagine. The morning sun lit up El Capitan to our left and Half Dome in all its grandeur was standing far in the distance on our right. We screamed, we laughed, some even cried. We took our time driving in to soak up all the beauty and aweinspiring scenes.
LEADERSHIP
54 PAGE
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
YOSEMITE
When you live on the edge, life is more in focus. On the edge of the continent, California dreams actualize in the form of granite halls, Sierra sunsets, and Pacific swells. The edge beckons, and the California wilderness is iconic in its vastness, its scope, and beauty. Follow the footsteps of John Muir to the towering domes, moonscapes, and sunshine of the Sierra’s high camps. Learn to mountaineer on the sacred and stunning Mt. Shasta. Rock climb in the place where the sport was born, Yosemite National Park. This trip will take you from the highest points of the Sunshine State to its golden coastline and everywhere in between.
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Lake Bohinj, Slovenia Trip: Slovenia Photo By: Elizabeth Oakes
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CLASSIC
ADVENTURES CURRENT GRADE PG.
BIG WILD
8-9TH
59
BRITISH COLUMBIA
7-8TH
60
ICELAND
8-9TH
61
MIDNIGHT SUN
8-9TH
62
PACIFIC NORTHWEST
7-8TH
63
Tatum Newcomer, 14. Alamo, CA
CLASSIC ADVENTURES
“This was truly the best two weeks of my life. I would recommend this trip to anyone. Every activity was amazing. I woke up every morning and went to bed every night excited for what was to come.”
58 PAGE
LOCATION
BIG WILD TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE CLASSIC LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 10 - JUN 23 JUN 27 - JUL 10 JUL 14 - JUL 27
CURRENT GRADE
8-9TH
MEET
�
JACKSON, WYOMING COST
DEPART
JACKSON, WYOMING
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
One of the greatest masterpieces in our country’s continental gallery is the Teton Range. These mountains show up in songs, poems, and bucket lists across the globe. Cowboys and mountaineers alike flock to them to pay homage, and this trip gives you proper immersion. Climb, raft, backpack, fly fish, explore, and be awed. There is no better place to begin your outdoor adventures than the Tetons. Amid the famous jagged peaks and crystal alpine lakes, you’ll begin to formulate your own homage to them. Wake up your inner mountaineering cowboy and bask in this truly wild western gem. Saddle up!
We entered the Salmon River that afternoon and roped up into a mega boat for our last section of rafting. We camped out at an orchard in the middle of the canyon where blackberries, apples, and apricots were growing for the public. We spent a few hours picking blackberries and used them in a funfetti cake later that night! We collected fruit all afternoon and felt like we were in an oasis fairytale land. The river was amazing, but the views from this camp were even better.
$4,495
HIGHLIGHTS
CLASSIC
• Sunsets and stars will look better and brighter than ever as you backpack the famous Wind River Range • Rocks rock! On belay is the place to be with Exum Mountain Guides, as they bring out the climber in you • Shift your Teton telescope to river vistas, and raft the whitewater of the Salmon River
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• Learn the dance of fly vs. fish as you cast a reel into the waters of Wyoming • Get your Wild West passport stamped at a bona fide rodeo in Jackson Hole
ADVENTURE CLASSIC LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUN 22 JUN 26 - JUL 9 JUL 14 - JUL 27
CURRENT GRADE
7-8TH
MEET
�
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON COST
DEPART
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
Just off Canada’s Pacific Coast is a lush and wild place – Vancouver Island. Home to British Columbia’s capital, Vancouver Island is full of history, heritage, and a plethora of natural places. Shorelines are rugged and full of fjords, bays, and inlets ready for exploration. Its provincial parks are plenty, some of which include peaks with the only glaciers on the island. Winding in between mountains, valleys, and forests are crystal clear rivers that carry salmon on a quest to find their spawning grounds. This magical island will have you in awe of its natural wonders and itching to explore every inch of it.
The sun quickly burned off the morning fog and treated us to a beautiful, clear day with incredible views of the green rocky coast, clear water, and distant mountains. The paddling was challenging, but the group quickly displayed great tenacity and grit. We spotted numerous seals and even a sea otter with her babies. For lunch we picnicked on a small island where we explored tidal pools and found Dungeness crabs. Kayaking has quickly become our group’s favorite activity yet!
BRITISH COLUMBIA
TRIP FACTS
$4,495
HIGHLIGHTS
• Explore the beaches of Tofino from a standup paddleboard and catch some waves as you surf the Pacific
CLASSIC
• Dip your paddle in the clear, glasslike water of the Pacific Ocean and kayak to the islands of the San Juans
• Reach new heights while you rock climb the Comox Lake Crags
60
• Feel the rush of whitewater while you raft down the Squamish River, along with your friends—the salmon
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• Hike to premiere views of Vancouver Island on some of the best trail systems in Canada
ICELAND TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE CLASSIC LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUN 22 JUN 25 - JUL 8 JUL 11 - JUL 24
CURRENT GRADE
8-9TH
MEET
�
KEFLAVIK, ICELAND COST
DEPART
KEFLAVIK, ICELAND
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
Despite its namesake, Iceland offers the warmest of welcomes possible; that of the geothermal variety. Thanks to its seismic activity and remote location, this unique landmass is home to technicolor landscapes, rugged coastlines, glaciers, volcanoes, and rivers of hot water. On this trip of a lifetime you will sample the wildest and most wondrous sides of this incredible island. From hiking to rafting to hot spring soaking, this Icelandic experience will leave you awestruck.
After a misty morning, the skies cleared up to be bright blue. We all were taken aback by the mountains, waterfalls, and snow patches that surrounded us. Towards the end of the day, we came upon a naturally occurring hot spring. Everyone changed into their bathing suits and hopped in the warm water ready to soak. After a refreshing break, the group got back on the trail again and covered the last few kilometers to our camp for the night. How are we so lucky?
$5,595
CLASSIC
HIGHLIGHTS
CLASSIC
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61
• Kayak, cruise, and camp the rugged coastline, featuring towering emerald cliffs and remote wilderness only accessible by boat • Marvel at the vast array of natural wonders as you spend 5 days backpacking Iceland’s volcanic trail system • Walk through clouds of steam and soak in a remote hot spring river in the Icelandic wild • Brave the waves and whitewater raft the wild beauty of glacier fed rivers
ABOUT
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE CLASSIC LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUN 22 JUN 25 - JUL 8 JUL 11 - JUL 24
CURRENT GRADE
8-9TH
MEET
�
ANCHORAGE, ALASKA COST
DEPART
ANCHORAGE, ALASKA $5,195
HIGHLIGHTS • Leave the modern world behind, and get into the rhythm of outdoor living as you backpack the stunning and rugged Kennecott Valley • On the Root Glacier you’ll be armed with crampons, glacier boots, harnesses, and helmets as you learn to climb and explore the frozen walls leading to the famed Stairway Icefall • Spend 4 days on a river expedition paddling the pristine glacier melt, and camping the remote beaches of the Copper River.
After much anticipation, we finally arrived at the Chitina Airport to take our flight to McCarthy. The thirteen of us split into three Alaskan bush planes — a new experience for everyone! We took off a few moments later and began navigating our way through the Wrangell Mountains. Everyone’s eyes were glued to the window as our pilot pointed out wildlife (some saw a moose!), braided glacial rivers, and different mountains like Mt. Blackburn (the fifth tallest mountain in North America), Mt. Drum, and Donoho Peak (a mountain we will soon be very familiar with). After a few minutes we realized: we were in the middle of everywhere.
CLASSIC
62 PAGE
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
MIDNIGHT SUN
Alaska. Saying it out loud is almost like a sigh of relief. It is a relief knowing that there is a place out there that is still truly wild and untouched. A place where the scale of natural beauty is almost impossible to fathom. A place where many people use planes instead of cars because there aren’t actual roads. In this place, getting around is limited to your feet, ice axes, crampons and passion. On this Alaskan expedition you will ride the rushing rivers of glacier melt that carve the landscape. You’ll climb the cobalt blue of giant ice sculptures. You’ll go for days without seeing another human being as you backpack this rugged terrain. Experience the long lovely days of wilderness immersion in the land of the midnight sun.
PACIFIC NORTHWEST
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE CLASSIC LENGTH
21 DAYS
DATES
JUN 10 - JUN 30 JUL 5
CURRENT GRADE
7-8TH
MEET
�
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON COST
- JUL 25
DEPART
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON $5,395
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
There is a place in the top corner of the country, bound by the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Rocky Mountains to the east. Some call it the Pacific Northwest, others call it Cascadia. Everyone who has been calls it beautiful. This rugged wilderness is a wonderland to humans, salmon, sea creatures, land dwellers, eagles, osprey, and orca. It hosts jagged mountain ranges, lush rainforests, high deserts, and rushing rivers. Things here are bigger and lusher. Trees grow to be enormous. Ferns drape and moss carpets the towering forests. Even the summer days linger longer, and the summer months are when the green vibrancy of this place comes out to shine. Spend some time in the top corner, through its most prized outdoor adventure opportunities, you’ll find bright gorgeous summer days that are like no other.
The morning fog was slowly fading, and when we arrived at Lake Hozomeen we were treated to what many students claimed was the most beautiful view they’ve ever seen. The calm, clear water of the alpine lake, combined with towering rocky peaks piercing the clouds made this place feel like a movie set. We jumped in the cold lake and rinsed off the dirt and then bathed in the warm sun. As we relaxed beside the lake a National Park guide showed up in search of a family of loons that was said to be living there. She spotted them through her binoculars and showed some of our students. Later that night during Moonup the two loons and their baby swam right up to us and let out their spectacular loon call. It was a night we’ll never forget.
HIGHLIGHTS
CLASSIC
• Learn to carry your home and hearth as you backpack the dense forests and deep mountains of the North Cascades • Find your inner monkey at Smith Rock. Rock climb and complete a Tyrollean Traverse in this iconic destination • Ride the rapids of the Deschutes River
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• Glide the tides and comb the beaches of the San Juan Islands from the belly of a sea kayak
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64
Yosemite Valley Trip: Yosemite Photo By: Jonas Hill
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65
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66
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DISCOVERY
ADVENTURES CURRENT GRADE PG.
CALIFORNIA
6-7TH
69
COLORADO TRAIL
6-7TH
70
Riley Jones, 13. Nashville, TN
DISCOVERY ADVENTURES
“Moondance means an escape from everyday life and a journey into a completely different world–a world full of laughter, love, and relationships that will last a lifetime. I truly wish that I could live in the Moondance world 365 days a year because it is an unforgettable feeling.”
68 PAGE
LOCATION
CALIFORNIA
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE DISCOVERY LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 10 - JUN 23 JUN 27 - JUL 10 JUL 14 - JUL 27
CURRENT GRADE
6-7TH
MEET
�
DEPART
SAN FRANCISCO, SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA COST
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
The Gold Rush may have gleamed bright in 1849, but the sheen of California’s riches still sparkles in its wildernesses. The western frontier places its crown jewels in this state, bordered by the mighty Pacific Ocean and the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Adorned with Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, and countless other wild spaces, California has it all from sea to summit. Hike, climb, surf, and raft your way to discovering a lifelong pursuit of all things golden in California.
After paddle boarding, we went to the Bayview Trailhead to summit Maggie’s Peaks. These two peaks are tall mountains on the edge of Lake Tahoe. At the top, you can see a panoramic view of the snowy mountain range and the gorgeous lake! Once we got to the top of the trail, we were led to a BEAUTIFUL outlook unlike anything we had ever seen. We ended the day by grilling out s’mores, which we could not get enough of! After an awesome Moonup, the group all slept comfortably in their hammocks soaking in a stunning view of the starry night.
$4,295
HIGHLIGHTS
DISCOVERY
• Harness the wave riding riches of the golden state and surf the swell of Pacifica State Beach
DISCOVERY
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• Bask in the blue waters of Lake Tahoe from a sea kayak and on a standup paddle board • Follow the footsteps of John Muir and hike the stunning beauty of Yosemite National Park’s trails • Get your hands on world famous granite in the birthplace of modern rock climbing • Cruise the classic American River, conquering big waves and big fun while rafting with your team
ADVENTURE DISCOVERY LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 10 - JUN 23 JUN 27 - JUL 10 JUL 14 - JUL 27
CURRENT GRADE
6-7TH
MEET
�
DENVER, COLORADO COST
DEPART
DENVER, COLORADO
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
The great state of Colorado shows up in cowboy songs, tall tales, and mountain legends. Its spine is the majestic Rocky Mountains; its veins are the rushing rivers that tumble down the sides of the continental divide. Those with the thirst for the high mountain life need look no further then this Discovery trip in the wilds of Colorado. Walk in the footsteps of historic explorers, climb the walls of famed peaks, and ride the rapids of the riverbeds that make this state unparalleled in expedition potential.
At a starry 3:00 am, we arose, hopped into the van, and were hype for the dunes despite the early hour. Our feet on the sand, we began our journey up, up, and up. Through the hike, spirits were high as we shut off our headlamps and looked for shooting stars. After a couple hours of traversing the hills, we made it to the very top. Exhausted and proud, we watched the sun come up over the mountains, still capped with snow, in the distance. We wrote a huge “Live in the Moment” in the sand for all to follow the spontaneity and freedom of the Moondance way. After spending some time in the sand, we headed back to the campsite for a bountiful harvest of eggs, bacon, cereal, and some fruit. The meal was delicious and well deserved.
$4,295
COLORADO TRAIL
TRIP FACTS
HIGHLIGHTS • Follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark and explore the exhilarating Arkansas River by raft
• Fly through canyons and high desert vistas on a zip line through the Colorado mountains • Scale the sandstone obelisks of Taylor Canyon as you learn to climb in the company of great guides and beautiful wilderness. On belay!
70 PAGE
• Surf, slide, and summit while the sunlight and moonlight dance across the giant sand dunes of Great Sand Dunes National Park
DISCOVERY
• We like to say that the San Juan National Forest is San-Juan-in-a-million. Commune with your wild self as you live in this pristine wilderness and learn to backpack
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Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania Trip: Kilimanjaro Photo By: Wick Bushong
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SERVICE
ADVENTURES CURRENT GRADE PG.
BELIZE + COSTA RICA 8-9TH
75
COSTA RICA
76
8-9TH
ECUADOR + GALAPAGOS 9-10TH
77
FIJI
9-10TH
78
HAWAIIAN ISLANDS
10-11TH
79
KILIMANJARO
10-12TH
80
MACHU PICCHU
9-11TH
81
MAUI
8-9TH
82
SOUTH AFRICA
9-10TH
83
THAILAND
10-11TH
84
Zach Dunn, 15. Winston-Salem, NC
SERVICE ADVENTURES
“This trip was awesome. I went into it knowing no one and I came out of it with new and amazing friendships. My leaders were amazing. I woke up everyday ready for an adventure and I was excited to try new things. I probably enjoyed the friendships I made the most.”
74 PAGE
LOCATION
BELIZE + COSTA RICA
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE SERVICE LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 10 - JUN 23 JUN 26 - JUL 9 JUL 12 - JUL 25
CURRENT GRADE MEET
8-9TH
COST
DEPART
OR
BELIZE CITY, BELIZE
SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
The best kind of adventures are the ones that take you further than you thought possible. For those who want to find deeper meaning, this journey to Belize and Costa Rica satisfies the desire of depth. Experience life below the surface as you venture into these two stunningly beautiful and culturally profound countries. Explore a world overflowing with color, culture, jungles, beaches, and rivers. Get to know the welcoming soul of Central America, as you give back to communities in need. You better Belize it!
Our last day at our private beach retreat was spent snorkeling, bird watching, and fishing. We boated over to Half Moon Island to see the rare “red-footed boobies” from a watchtower. There was a little fluffy baby in a tree about three feet from the stand that was waiting for her mother to bring her fish. We then went snorkeling around the reefs by the island and saw many stoplight par fish, reef shark, and a barracuda. Scuba diving here has been our favorite activity yet. You better Belize that we haven’t had enough of these crystal clear waters!
$5,995
HIGHLIGHTS
SERVICE
• Explore the wilderness beneath the waves as you get SCUBA certified on the largest coral reefs in the Caribbean
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• One of the top-rated rivers in the world, the Pacuare, is thrilling, stunning, and brimming with Class III and IV rapids to take you on an unforgettable journey through the rainforest • Experience the true value of the “rich coast” as you get to know and work with the Tico community in the remote countryside of Costa Rica • Surf the turquoise waves of Uvita, where the rainforest meets the sea and you meet your new favorite sport • Shift your vantage point and zip line through the lush rainforest canopies of Costa Rica
COSTA RICA
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE SERVICE LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 10 - JUN 23 JUN 26 - JUL 9 JUL 12 - JUL 25
CURRENT GRADE
8-9TH
MEET
�
SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA COST
DEPART
SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA $5,195
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
Isthmus. Just say it aloud. It sounds like a meditation; it feels like a reset button. Technically, an isthmus connects two larger landmasses, yet, philosophically, Costa Rica is responsible for connecting adventurous souls with its national motto: Pura Vida. This is a land of true connection: the mind, body and spirit of humans with the pure, natural beauty of what life on Earth should be. One part world famous water adventure, one part cultural immersion, all parts amazing, this Costa Rica trip is a once in a lifetime one. This is your one lifetime, and Pura Vida is waiting for you!
We left our service project in Mollejones with full hearts (and stomachs) ready to fully embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle on the Pacuare. Geared up and briefed on the history of the river, we divided into our boats and headed out to get acquainted with the Class II and III rapids for the day. Not only was the morning filled with adventure and laughter, but we also had the incredible opportunity to experience the lush beauty of Costa Rican rainforest from a completely new perspective. This first day of rafting was an inviting taste of what was to come downstream, and we soon arrived at our first campsite settled along the riverbank and nestled in the trees. We headed into the evening ready to relax in our cozy tents and dream of the class III and IV rapids headed our way!
HIGHLIGHTS
• Immerse yourself in a remote and beautiful jungle village while filling your hours with meaningful community and service • Hike with howler monkeys and toucans as you embark on a multi-day camping trip through majestic jungles
76 PAGE
• Learn to ride the tides of the “rich coast” and surf the sparkling swells of the Caribbean
SERVICE
• Raft the thrilling and astounding Pacuare River’s Class III, Class IV, and world class rapids, staying at river front campsites along the way
SERVICE
ECUADOR + GALAPAGOS
ABOUT
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77
Welcome to Middle Earth – that is the middle of the earth: Ecuador! Jungles, waterfalls, rushing rivers, and wildlife abound in this cultural mecca. Immerse yourself in the vibrant communities as you work alongside local people and lend your helping hands. The more you give, the more you will be awed by the natural beauty of life in the middle. Next, fly to the Galapagos Islands, where unique creatures and ecosystems have evolved like nowhere else on the planet. Return from these ecological, cultural, and adventurous wonderlands with your own new-found evolution; your time and you are the greatest gifts you can give.
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE SERVICE LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUN 22 JUN 24 - JUL 7 JUL 9
CURRENT GRADE
9-10TH
MEET
�
QUITO, ECUADOR COST
- JUL 22
DEPART
QUITO, ECUADOR $5,795
HIGHLIGHTS • Raft through the dense jungle of the Amazon basin on the roller coaster waves of the Jatunyacu River • Enrich and enlighten your experience while immersing yourself in Ecuadorian communities and earn service hours • Spend a gorgeous day in Banos, “the Gateway to the Amazon,” a small town that hosts over 60 waterfalls • Get your Galapagos goggles on and go beneath the surface to snorkel technicolor reefs and underwater wildernesses • Mingle with marine iguanas, giant tortoises, and blue footed boobies as you explore the Galapagos Islands’ most unique nature beast populations
To start our time in San Cristobal, we did as Charles Darwin would do by visiting a Giant Tortoise Center. The slow moving tortoises captured our attention, and we cheered on each step they took. After increasing our knowledge about tortoises, we ventured to Puerto Chino to begin... surfing!!! We snacked on plantain chips and fresh fruit while taking in the sound of the waves breaking. Once everyone had their fair share of surfing, we went to a local ranch for lunch; however, our day didn’t end there. We went to a beach full of marine life, and we had our first encounter with sea lions. While snorkeling, we had a rare glimpse of sea turtles as they are shy to people. The sun started to set once we got out of the water, and we were able to reflect on all that we have accomplished in a single day.
FIJI
ABOUT
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE SERVICE LENGTH
17 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUN 25 JUN 25 - JUL 11 JUL 12 - JUL 28
CURRENT GRADE
9-10TH
MEET
�
NADI, FIJI COST
DEPART
NADI, FIJI
Edging ever outward toward the uncharted corners of our glorious home planet, like modern day Magellans, we welcome you to a little place called Fiji. Deep into the mighty Pacific, this island attracts the most adventuresome beating hearts in existence. Your journey there includes surf, sand, service, and SCUBA. Dive into the waters, the culture, the people, and the more adventurous side of the South Pacific.
$5,795
NOTES FROM THE FIELD Throughout our time in Nabukelevu we were surrounded by smiling faces and were in constant awe of how kind and welcoming everyone was to our group. Whether it was cooking meals for us or inviting us into their homes, we immediately felt like family. We were even invited into a Fijian home for a special meal of chicken, cassava, and vegetables cooked in an underground oven pit. It was so special watching the meal come together, not to mention the kids said it was the best chicken they have ever had. The last morning in Nabukelevu we slept in and had an easy morning which is what the Fijians call “Fiji time.” We then went for a muddy jungle hike in order to reach the spot in the Navua River where we would begin rafting. We truly felt like we were in the movie Tarzan while hiking through creeks, waterfalls, and bamboo forests.
HIGHLIGHTS
tropical white water you paddle through carved rock formations and giant the Upper Navua River
• Share meals and perspectives with the people of a local village as you serve the community nestled deep in the jungle • Surf and paddle the swells of paradise, and finish your Fijian days riding the perfect wave
78 PAGE
• Take the route as volcanic ferns on
SERVICE
• Gain global aquatic access by getting your SCUBA certification in Fiji’s world famous diving environs
HAWAIIAN ISLANDS
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE SERVICE LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 10 - JUN 23 JUN 26 - JUL 9 JUL 12 - JUL 25
CURRENT GRADE MEET
10-11TH OR
KONA, HAWAII COST
DEPART
LIHUE, HAWAII $5,395
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
A tropical paradise like none other on the globe, Hawaii has it all: volcanoes, underwater tropical forests, the most famous waves on the planet, lush jungle, and stunning coastlines. Many look to Hawaii for the easy breezes - but we’re in it for the adventure fix. SCUBA certification, surfing, sea kayaking, and night snorkeling, we’ll show you the wilderness of this famed paradise unseen by most. After you’ve adventured, you’ll be thrilled to give back by helping to preserve this beautiful terrain. It’s a feedback loop of tropical beauty, adventure, and goodness - and that’s what we like to call island time. Set your clocks.
We’ve spent the majority of our time on the Big Island underwater as we’ve explored the bright blue waters along side manta rays, octopi, flounder, starfish, and many other beautiful, exotic creatures. Our early days in the ocean kicked off with one of the coolest activities you can ever be involved with: snorkeling with manta rays. We took a beautiful sunset boat ride along the coast to our diving site. Upon our arrival, we watched the sun disappear behind the peaks of Maui as we geared up for some underwater adventure! We piloted surfboards that illuminated the water below us as we held on for the ride. The vibrant light attracted schools of plankton that swarmed in conglomerates beneath us. After no time at all, we spotted massive rays swooping in to feast just beneath us, which is a sight that is truly indescribable. Our entire group gasped in awe and found it hard to contain our boundless excitement.
HIGHLIGHTS
SERVICE
• Let loose in the land of Hanalei as you surf the swells of this beautiful bay
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• Gain lifetime passes to the wilderness beneath the waves and get your PADI open water SCUBA certification • Marvel at manta rays in the moonlight on a spectacular night snorkel • Protect your new paradise home by participating in local sustainability projects • Paddle beneath the towering bright green cliffs of the Na Pali coastline as you view these famous land fins from a sea kayak
ADVENTURE SERVICE LENGTH
23 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUL 1 JUN 13 - JUL 5 JUL 5
- JUL 27
JUL 9
- JUL 31
CURRENT GRADE
10-12TH
MEET
�
KILIMANJARO, TANZANIA COST
DEPART
KILIMANJARO, TANZANIA
$8,195
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
This Tanzanian adventure features the most stunning superlatives of Africa. The wildest of wildlife, the highest peak on the continent, the largest volcanic crater in the world, and cultures and community that are unique, vibrant, and honored. With a balance of challenging adventure, and cultural immersion, you’ll experience this incredible country in every way, from its people to its most profound places. Ascend, administer, adventure, and be amazed. This trip will take you to the roof of Africa and you’ll soak in all the adventure and beauty that lies beneath it.
The next day, we continued moving up the mountain on rocky, steep terrain called moorland. The trail took us above the clouds to Shira Camp (12,467 ft.), nestled comfortably on the edge of the Shira Rim, overlooking the Shira Plateau and a sea of clouds. The views offered on this trek change daily and get more dramatic and beautiful with each passing day. At Shira Camp, we took a short hike to the Shira Cave, one of the earliest trekking shelters on Kili, then to a viewpoint to better acclimatize... Every night came with a beautiful sunset, followed by a sky full of stars. The night at Shira Camp brought us all out of the mess tent to take photos and watch as the sun went down.
KILIMANJARO
TRIP FACTS
HIGHLIGHTS • Paint a classroom, expand a garden, and explore the Great Rift Valley alongside children with the Red Sweater Project
• Visit the largest volcanic crater on the planet, and witness its incredible wildlife concentration in the Ngorongoro Crater • Experience a true African safari in the famous Serengeti National Park
80 PAGE
• Immerse yourself in the rich traditions, colorful dress, and cultural practices of the vibrant and fascinating Maasai Tribe
SERVICE
• Trek the Machame Route for seven days of a true mountaineering experience as you place your feet on the highest point on the African continent: Kilimanjaro!
MACHU PICCHU
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE SERVICE LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUN 22 JUN 24 - JUL 7 JUL 9
CURRENT GRADE
9-11TH
MEET
�
CUSCO, PERU COST
- JUL 22
DEPART
CUSCO, PERU
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
Time moves at different paces in Peru. It rushes by as you navigate rapids on the headwaters of the Amazon. It flashes with the hustle of with culturally rich Cusco. It slows and lingers as you ascend the breath-taking Salkantay Trail, and then it flies backwards as you catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incan Empire. Lose yourself in this legendary time lapse. Watches not included.
With the snow capped Salkantay Mountain in the background, the vibrant green fields surrounding us, the sun brightly shining, and a river flowing beside us, we trekked on while taking in this incredible Peruvian landscape. After hiking for several hours in the morning, we came upon our stunning lunch spot- a grassy open field situated next to the riverbed with a close-up view of the infamous Salkantay Mountain. As we were hiking back and forth across switch backs with the mountain views ahead of us, the group exclaimed that this is the coolest thing they have ever done! We agreed. After hours of determination, countless picture opportunities, many water breaks, and several llama encounters, we reached the Salkantay Pass, which stands at about 15,000 feet! Everyone felt very accomplished as we sat above the clouds at the Salkantay Pass.
$5,395
HIGHLIGHTS
SERVICE
• Carve through towering canyons, dense jungle, and mountain landscapes on the thrilling Apurimac River
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• Find yourself nestled in the Andes, and feel the warmth of Peruvian culture working alongside people of the local community • Hike the sacred and scenic Salkantay Trail for five days of stunning alpine vistas, cloud forests and high mountain passes over 15,000 feet • Marvel at one of the world’s seven wonders as you explore the archeological gem of Machu Picchu
MAUI
TRIP FACTS ADVENTURE SERVICE LENGTH
14 DAYS
DATES
JUN 10 - JUN 23 JUN 26 - JUL 9 JUL 12 - JUL 25
CURRENT GRADE
8-9TH
MEET
�
KAHULUI, HAWAII COST
DEPART
KAHULUI, HAWAII $5,195
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
With its green majestic peaks, desolate craters and sugary sand beaches, Maui has done its fair share of mesmerizing visitors for centuries. We strive to take you on the road less travelled to experience this paradise slice. On this trip you’ll explore the jungles, the tropical reefs, crystal waters, and colorful critters of Maui, even assisting its beloved locals as you restore cultural lands. From its underwater worlds to the volcanic heights, Maui provides beauty, adventur,e and inspiration at every level.
Aloha! We started our day before the sun rose, rolled out of our sleeping bags in the dark and threw on bathing suits for today’s adventure, snorkeling at Molokini Crater! We started our snorkeling tour in the mouth of the crater where we swam around hundreds and hundreds of fish. Along the wall of the crater was vibrant coral that flourished with sea life, but off the wall was a drop off of 250 feet! All of the students were initially intimidated by the “moana” (the deep blue), but that didn’t stop them from jumping in for a quick swim. This area had some of the most beautiful coral that any of us had seen. Our guides made a huge lunch spread for us- pasta salad, deli meat, cheese, and all the toppings. After saying farewell to our guides, we hopped in the van and made a quick stop at our favorite ice cream shop. It was the perfect finish to our morning activity.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Sample the finest of aquatic sports as you explore coastal caves and turquoise tides on sea kayaks and stand up paddle boards • Work with the local community on a service project that protects Hawaiian culture
82 PAGE
• Explore the technicolor forests of the underwater worlds as you snorkel Maui’s famed reefs
SERVICE
• Balance the breaks, ride the tides, and surf the swells of the best waves in the world
ABOUT
SOUTH AFRICA
A must for those with spirit animals, a heart for service, and a want for adventure, this trip is a triple threat. South Africa is the land of exotic mammals, and you will see them all, from safari on the African plains to treks through the bush. Once you get your fill of some of the most majestic creatures to ever walk the planet, you will immerse yourself in the local culture and give back by working in the local community. Then soak in the sun and the salty spray of the Indian Ocean as your travel to the white sandy beaches of Mozambique. Surf the swells and search for some of the incredible ocean creatures like whale sharks and manta rays that live in these exotic waters. This adventure in South Africa and Mozambique has it all!
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
TRIP FACTS
• Peel your eyes for the “Big Five” and set your sights to a safari on a private game reserve
ADVENTURE SERVICE LENGTH
17 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUN 25 JUN 26 - JUL 12 JUL 13 - JUL 29
CURRENT GRADE
9-10TH
MEET
�
DEPART
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA
SERVICE
COST
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$6,195
HIGHLIGHTS
• Make a big impact on a small community as you work on projects to improve local infrastructure • Surf and swim in the Indian Ocean on the sandy beaches of Mozambique, and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, manta rays, and whale sharks!
We rise with the sun now. We eat and then we drive into the bush. Bundled up from the South African winter morning, we set out in search of elephants. Following the river system, we begin to pick up traces of elephant activity – a massive footprint here and a broken tree branch there – signal that we are on the right path. After an hour or so our efforts are rewarded: we spot 30 or more elephants grazing along the opposite riverbank. We are in awe of the things we see. We are surrounded by this beautiful landscape and amazed by the animals that call this place home. With each new day we drive deeper into the bush. With each drive we discover new things about this area through our observations and discover new things about each other through our conversations.
ADVENTURE SERVICE LENGTH
21 DAYS
DATES
JUN 9 - JUN 29 JUL 2
- JUL 22
CURRENT GRADE
10-11TH
MEET
�
BANGKOK, THAILAND COST
DEPART
BANGKOK, THAILAND $6,395
ABOUT
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
Thailand: land of the free and home to orchids, elephants, and the philosophy of flow. Known for its tropical beaches, opulent temples, and mountainous jungles, its ideologies are felt in the friendliness of the people, the pace of the days and the integrity of its culture. Thailand is a destination that beckons travelers of the mind, the spirit, and the body, and it delivers in all directions. This trip takes you diving deep into the ocean, vertical on its famed rock walls, high into the hills to immerse in culture, and grounded in the face of the sacred at an elephant sanctuary. Move through the beauty of this country awakening your most adventurous and enlightened self.
Greetings from our bungalows in a Chiang Mai jungle! Our LODs led us to breakfast in the morning, and we ate the most colorful fruit, fluffy pancakes, and dangerously good coffee that fueled us up for the day ahead. We stopped at a fruit market en route to the elephant sanctuary where we would spend most of our day. We drank fresh coconut water straight from the fruit, most students left the market with a new hat to take home, and everyone sampled a new food. Everyone was excited to meet the elephants, but we had no idea how close we would get. After amazing curry and watermelon for lunch, we led the elephants on a small hike to a river. We watched the elephants dive right into the deep part of a jungle river to cool off, and then hopped in ourselves. We watched the animals play and snorkel with their trunks. It was an experience that no one will forget.
THAILAND
TRIP FACTS
HIGHLIGHTS • Walk among, touch, and participate in the lives and rescue of Asian elephants at a rehabilitation center SERVICE
• Trek deep into the hill country and immerse yourself in the kindness, colors and culture of hill tribe communities • Awaken to Thai culture amongst the ancient glittering streets of Chiang Mai
• Rock climb the spectacular cliffs of Railay Beach, accessible only by boat, and human strength
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• Glide the coral forests of the Gulf of Thailand as you get SCUBA certification and aquatic access for life
THINGS
WE LOVE
MEMORIES What’s your favorite memory from this year? What are you most proud of? Where do you feel like the best version of yourself?
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At Moondance, these aren’t just Moonup conversations, these are the questions that we ask ourselves all the time! Our lives are marked by the milestones of school, sports practice, exams, graduation, or work, but what do we really cherish? We long for experiences that bind our community and provide a link to the world around us. Though change is constant and life moves fast, your experiences come to define your life. Wherever you go in the world, you will never lose the memories or experiences that are cultivated on a Moondance trip. Go big this summer, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
TRANSFORMATIONAL TRAVEL As Oliver Wendell Holmes famously said, “A mind stretched by new experiences can never go back to its old dimensions.” It’s not traveling to a new destination that changes us, but the experience of stepping into the unknown. Once we get outside of our comfort zones and explore, we’ll never be the same. It doesn’t always matter where you go, but how you go, so go with an open mind. At Moondance, we believe that our lives are transformed by moments of growth, change, bewilderment and exploration. It is in that space between what is familiar and what has yet to be explored where we find our true selves. Let’s go. Where will this summer take you? What will you explore? Will you grow beyond your wildest imagination?
STARGAZING After the sun sets, a different world awakens. Enjoying a crystal - clear night sky is at once completely removed from our day to day experiences while also inseparably a part of every day. We look into a star-filled sky with hopes, dreams, and endless expectations. The rest of the world falls away, and you’re left with what’s in front of you. You’re left with the moments you cherish, the days that have passed, and the many starry nights awaiting you. The setting sun spins the stars in front of us again and again. We enjoy these sacred nights outside maybe at different times and in different places, but always looking up at the same, rotating sky.
“A mind stretched by new experiences can never go back to its old dimensions.� Oliver Wendell Holmes
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“My biggest takeaway from my trip is that there is way more to learn from experiencing things than in a classroom. It is so important to challenge yourself, explore and help others.� Martina Franck, 15. Ramsey, NJ
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Great Sand Dunes National Park Trip: Colorado Trail Photo By: Ellie Bradach
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THE HEART OF
THE HOUSE
Hillary Bridges, Admissions
Janie Spilman, Admissions
Harrison Newman, Admissions
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Hometown: Richmond, VA
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
Hometown: Jacksonville, FL
College: University of Georgia
College: Sewanee: The University of the South
College: University of Alabama
College: Sewanee: The University of the South
What advice would you give a new Moondance student this summer?
Best Moonup location?
What advice would you give a new Moondance student this summer?
Best Moonup location?
“Don’t be afraid to go on a Moondance trip by yourself, trust me. Moondance isn’t just about the places you go, it’s about the friends you make along the way.”
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“Challenge yourself! Pick a trip with activities that feel outside of your comfort zone! And always jump in any body of water.”
“Anywhere under the stars! I will never forget our last Moonup in Croatia as we laid out under a sky with too many stars to count.”
Liza McLain, Operations
Mike Lackey, Operations
Sam Whitehurst, Operations
Wick Bushong, Operations
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
Hometown: Richmond, VA
Hometown: Houston, TX
College: University of Georgia
College: University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
College: Virginia Tech
College: Louisiana State University
Name your next bucket list travel destination.
What is your favorite place you’ve traveled to with Moondace?
Describe a WoW moment from this summer:
What is your favorite place you’ve traveled to with Moondance?
“Geeeeez, such a good question! Especially since my bucket list destination was just checked off - Alaska. I guess I will choose YOSEMITE!” 89
“On the top of a mountain overlooking the beach in Llanes, Spain! The sun was setting over the horizon, and it is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen.”
Garrett Lucey, Admissions
“Peru! The mountains are HUGE and the landscape is beautiful, but it’s really the people and the history that make Peru one of my favorite places in the word.”
“During Moonup on the South Africa trip, a giraffe walked up to the watering hole next to our group. It was incredible! We all sat in awe and realized just how special the trip would become.”
“Hard to answer. Big Wild because it kept me coming back for more Moondance! Nothing beats the Tetons.”
Claire Perrone, Staffing
Stewart Roddey, Staffing
Gray Rixey, Staffing
Kit Sommi,
Hometown: Nashville, TN
Hometown: Richmond, VA
Hometown: Morehead City, NC
Hometown: Knoxville, TN
College: Sewanee: The University of the South
College: Sewanee: The University of the South
College: Washington & Lee University
College: Sewanee: The University of the South
Describe a WOW moment.
What advice would you give a new Moondance student this summer?
What Moondance trip would you choose if you were a student in 2020?
Describe a WoW moment from this summer.
“British Columbia, of course! It’s a jawdroppingly beautiful area with some of the coolest activities around. It has life-changing experiences written all over it. I highly recommend it.”
“We stopped at a beautiful waterfall in the middle of our trek in the Pyrenees for the day. As I looked at the people by my side all I could think was how lucky we were to be standing there.”
Ashley Kubit, Accounting Hometown: Northville, MI College: Michigan State University
What Moondance trip is on your “bucket list”?
“My Moondance bucket list definitely has Thailand on it! I would love to be immersed in such a different environment than my own! Plus, I want to see the elephants!!”
“Let your guard down! Your experience on a Moondance trip is what you make of it. Open up and push yourself. Don’t forget to take a step back and appreciate the moment that you’ve found yourself in!”
“We’re in the people business, because we believe people are ultimately the most valuable. We’re people-centric, not travel-centric.”
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“I loved watching students face their fears on the Monkey’s Face in Oregon! Pacific Northwest is one of my favorite trips, and it was the perfect day.”
Staffing
THE FINE PRINT HOW TO ENROLL It is best to submit an enrollment request online as soon as possible since we operate with rolling admissions. To secure a spot, you must submit your enrollment request along with a $1000 deposit. Our trips tend to fill quickly, and we have a limited number of openings for each program. Enrollment requests are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. We open our enrollment to alumni families at the end of each summer, and while most trips are full by early December, there is no deadline for submitting enrollment requests. After January 1st, please call the Moondance office to inquire about any available openings. APPLICATION/DEPOSIT To apply, submit an enrollment request online at www.moondanceadventures.com and deposit via Visa, MasterCard, or AMEX. Every family is required to have a credit card on file when you submit your enrollment request. Your deposit will be applied towards the full tuition of the program. The deposit is fully refundable if your choice is not available or the applicant is not accepted. ENROLLMENT AND ADMISSION POLICIES After submitting this application, you’ll receive an automated email confirming we’ve received it. Our Admissions team will then call you to confirm whether space is available and explain what’s next in our enrollment process. If we cannot place you in a trip group, the deposit will be refunded. For students new to Moondance, we require two teacher references to ensure that your child is physically, emotionally, and behaviorally able to participate in a Moondance program before official acceptance. Moondance will not accept students who are unable or unwilling to maintain a group dynamic grounded in teamwork, challenge, respect, care for others, and self-reliance. After submitting your enrollment request there is a possibility Moondance will require additional medical screening paperwork to ensure your child is fit to participate. Our medical screening process is in place to not only help us determine if Moondance is an appropriate fit for a student, but also to maintain the integrity and overall group safety of Moondance programs. It is imperative that medical (including mental health) information and history be accurate and current and if requested, authorized by a licensed medical practitioner. Failure to provide accurate medical information, or knowingly omitting and/or falsifying submitted medical information will result in denied acceptance and/or potential removal from a Moondance program at additional expense of the family. Moondance programs vary in challenge level and we advise all students to consider the physical and mental demands of their trip and prepare accordingly. It is the responsibility of each family to be informed about the specific demands and requirement of their trip. Information is available on our website. Moondance reserves the right to refuse admission or remove a participant from our trips for any reason it deems in the best interests of the student or Moondance. We’ll share access to our online portal with trip forms and information such as medical forms and flight information. Failure to complete these forms in a timely manner will jeopardize your space. GROUP PLACEMENT Moondance group sizes are between ten to fourteen students. While we limit the number of students per school and per hometown, we cannot guarantee your child will be the only one from either his/her hometown or school. Our goal is to have equally balanced co-ed groups, but due to the nature of our rolling admissions, our groups are sometimes single-gender. In the case that a group becomes single-gender, the Moondance office will inform all enrolled families. IMPORTANT NOTE TO PARENTS We are proud that Moondance seeks positive, wholesome, enthusiastic, motivated, and team-oriented individuals. Moondance is not a program for students with behavioral, motivational, or substance abuse issues, nor are we a continuation of a therapeutic, vocational, or rehabilitation program. We observe the right to deny admission to anyone we believe is unable to meet the physical, medical, and safety demands of our programs at any time. TUITION/FINAL PAYMENT Trip tuition is due on February 1st, 2020. A deposit of $1000 is required to officially confirm space on any Moondance program and the full tuition balance will be due no later than February 1st. For families enrolling on or after February 1st, full payment will be due at the time of enrollment. If full balance payment (inclusive of a 3% credit card processing fee) is not received by March 1st (30 days past due), Moondance will charge a 3% late fee and process the credit card on file for the program balance. Moondance Adventures reserves the right to cancel any applications with balances remaining beyond March 1st without refund. All payments must be in U.S. dollars.
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REFUND POLICY When you sign up for a Moondance trip, you have accepted a limited space within a small group. Once that space is reserved, we are no longer able to offer it to others. Regardless of whether the cancellation is personal, academic, or medical or the cancellation occurs during the trip due to dismissal, medical, or another reason, Moondance is not able to provide any tuition refund other than what is outlined above. Due to the seasonal nature of our programs and our investment in staffing, planning, food, and equipment before a trip, we have a strict no refund policy. Expenses are contracted for the season and are based on a total-group, rather than a per-person basis. Moondance cannot recover course expenses from cancellations even due to illness or injury, late arrival, early withdrawal, or cancellation for any reason. If you must cancel your space, please notify us of your cancellation in writing. For cancellations after February 1st, applicants forfeit all tuition paid provided the trip does not fill.
If the trip does fill, Moondance will refund tuition paid less the $1000 deposit. Moondance is not able to provide any tuition refund other than what is outlined. The parent of any applicant who withdraws from his/her trip must do so in writing. CANCELLATION FEES Notice of Cancellation Prior to October 1st After October 1st After February 1st
Cancellation Fee $500 $1,000 No Refund
MOONDANCE PROGRAM ALTERATION POLICY Moondance reserves the right to combine programs or alter any aspect of a program, including itinerary, dates, activities, or location for reasons including but not limited to: the number of confirmed students, weather, environment, health hazards, civil unrest, or for any other reasons Moondance determines, in its discretion, is appropriate. ADDITIONAL COSTS/SPENDING MONEY Tuition does not include domestic, international, or in-country airfare (except Hawaiian Islands, Midnight Sun, Belize + Costa Rica, Croatia, Ecuador + Galapagos, South Africa, Spain + Morocco, and Thailand). In addition, medical expenses, spending money, and personal gear are not included in the tuition fee. Students should have a small amount of spending money for incidentals such as souvenirs, gifts, showers, and personal items. Additional expenses for Visas will be the responsibility of participants on the Kilimanjaro and South Africa trips. If a student withdraws, is dismissed, or arrives late to the program and Moondance incurs fees related to travel expenses, these will be the responsibility of the participant. TRIP INSURANCE Moondance offers Trip Insurance for all US families through TripMate Summer/ Camp Study Protection. International families cannot be insured through TripMate, but Moondance will recommend another insurance company. This insurance is not required, but highly encouraged and covers trip cancellations for medical reasons, early departures, transportation, and baggage loss. Trip insurance cost varies with each program. To insure you against unexpected emergencies, we strongly urge parents to secure their investment by purchasing an inexpensive trip cancellation insurance policy. This reimburses you should you have to cancel due to certain unforeseen reasons. More information will be sent to you in your trip information. ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, AND DRUG POLICY Alcohol, tobacco products, nicotine products (electronic cigarettes and vaporizers), and drugs are absolutely not permitted on any Moondance program. If you are caught in possession of, or partaking in the use of alcohol, tobacco, nicotine, or any illegal substance, expulsion will occur immediately. We have a zero tolerance policy and there will be no second chances. If a student breaks one of these policies, he/she will be sent home immediately without a refund. Families are responsible for the student’s travel expenses home. CELL PHONE AND ELECTRONICS POLICY One of the lessons we hope to teach you is to work through challenges and accomplishments and communicate within your group. To this end, Moondance offers a chance to “unplug” from technology and social media. We encourage all students to “Live in the Moment” on our programs. Students will not be permitted to use their cell phones or personal electronics like watches, iPods, iPads, Kindles, or tablets during their trip. The trip leaders will collect everyone’s cell phone and watch at the airport after each student has called his or her parents to confirm their safe arrival. Students will be allowed to use their cell phone only in the airport before and after their trip and in an emergency. A smartphone may not be used as a camera. Drones are not permitted. Digital cameras and GoPros are permitted. OUR OFFICE If you need help with anything, we encourage you to call our office; we will gladly help you with any questions or concerns you may have. Moondance strives to provide the best personalized communication to all of our families. From your first contact with the office until you are back home after your trip, we aim to take care of you. Feel free to give us a call to discuss which trip would be appropriate for you and how best to get prepared. Please call 800.832.5229, or e-mail us: info@moondanceadventures.com. SPECIAL USE PERMITS Moondance operates under special use permits granted by the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service, USDA. We would like to acknowledge the following areas for welcoming Moondance Adventures: Pisgah, Talkeetna, Nantahala, Gunnison, San Juan, and Shasta-Trinity National Forests. In addition, Moondance operates under commercial use and concessionaire’s licenses in the Olympic, North Cascades, Yosemite, Great Sand Dunes, Point Reyes, and Grand Teton National Parks.
“Moondance is one of the most special things in the world to me. I am my absolute happiest on Moondance, and it is because of the incredible people I meet, the places I go, and the ways in which I always find myself changing for the better.” Sallie England, 16. Denver, CO
ABOUT THE
FOUNDER Atlanta for twelve years as the Dean of Students and the Director of Summer Programs. He has participated in programs with the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) and the North Carolina Outward Bound School (NCOBS). Hayes tries to visit as many trips each summer as time allows and has made ascents of Mt. Rainier, the Grand Teton, and Mt. Kilimanjaro with Moondance groups. Hayes’ wife,
Michael, is a native of Nashville, TN and graduate of Harpeth Hall and Sewanee: The University of the South. Michael spends her quality time raising their daughter, Hunter. Hunter enjoyed her first Moondance trip in 2019. They live in Nasvhille, TN where they coordinate all Moondance Adventures.
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Hayes founded Moondance in 1996 as a way to share outdoor adventures with young people. He has been working and designing programs for teenagers for over 40 years. He began his love for the outdoors at Camp Deerhorn in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, a camp founded by his grandfather in 1930. A graduate of Charlotte Country Day School and the University of Alabama, Hayes served The Lovett School in
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Front Cover: Zrmanja River, Croatia Trip: Croatia Photo By: Garrett Lucey
N C E A DV EN T
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MO
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PO BOX 23350 • NASHVILLE, TN 37202 800.832.5229 • INFO@ MOONDANCEADVENTURES.COM WWW.MOONDANCEADVENTURES.COM
SUMMER 2020
MOONDANCE ADVENTURES
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Pyrenees Mountains, France Trip: Chamonix Photo By: Jonas Hill
1996
Patrick Ahearn, 18, Huntsville, AL
IN
THE MO
ME
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SUMMER TWENTY TWENTY
“Moondance is something that has changed my life in inexplicable ways. It has taught me to live in the moment and to cherish every second of my life.”
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