River & Mountain Adventure

Days 1-3: ARRIVE AT BASECAMP

Participants arrive at Basecamp throughout the first afternoon. Their expedition leaders help them become acquainted with Deer Hill as participants meet each other and the group begins to form. In addition to playing games and eating home-cooked meals, the group will pack group and personal gear for the first part of their trip.

Days 3-6: UPPER SAN JUAN RAFTING EXPEDITION

All prepped and packed, the group departs Deer Hill Basecamp on Day 3 for the river launch at Sand Island, Utah. They will spend their days on the river, rafting class I and II+ rapids through the deep and sinuous sandstone canyons, exploring side channels, and hiking to overlook points high up the canyon walls. Participants learn to read the river, paddle a raft and inflatable kayaks, and even have the opportunity to try the oar rig. After each day of boating, the group makes camp on a sandy beach where they will prepare dinner, and enjoy the scenery.

Days 7-10: SERVICE IN THE NAVAJO NATION

Participants live and work with their Navajo hosts at their ranch in the Chuska Mountains on projects such as mending the fences around their ancestral farmlands, tending a sheep herd, or rebuilding a shade arbor. The group will learn about Navajo traditions and lifestyles, and what an ancient culture can look like in a modern world.

Days 11-16: BACKPACKING THE LA PLATA MOUNTAINS

After 2 days at Basecamp, preparing and packing for your backpacking section, you’ll head up into the San Juan Mountains. The final section of the expedition will be spent backpacking through the quaking aspen, subalpine spruce and fir, and alpine meadows peppered with wildflowers of myriad shapes and colors that make the La Plata Range of the San Juan Mountains one of Colorado’s most special places. You’ll learn how to stay safe and warm in unpredictable mountain weather, and take in some of the best views in the state.

Days 17-18: RETURN TO BASECAMP

Participants return to Basecamp for program closure. The group cleans equipment and returns it to its storage locations at Basecamp, and returns any rental items to the Deer Hill Store. The group holds a closing ceremony to conclude their experience, and enjoys a cookout and slideshow on the final evening. On the last day of the program, expedition leaders drive participants to the Durango airport to return home.