Staff Profile: Olivia Coble

Switching gears, we thought today's post would highlight a staff member who has participated in Moondance as a student as well as a leader. Olivia Coble hails from Nasvhille, TN and attended her first Moondance trip (Pacific Northwest) as student in 2006. Olivia's infectious energy and positive attitude earned her legendary Moondancer status as a teen, and we couldn't wait until she could share the Moondance experience on "the other side" as a leader. This past summer, Olivia was an intern on our California Discovery trip and will be leading again in 2013.

Olivia is currently in Uganda helping to restore peace in the northern part of the country and working to improve the future of its youth. This should come as no surprise to those of us who know Olivia, who is always there to give a smile and a helping hand. Here's a little more on Olivia!

Age: 21

Education (high school and college): Harpeth Hall High School in Nashville, Colorado College

Summers with Moondance (led and attended as a student): As a kid: Pacific Northwest in 2006, California Lost Coast (now called Yosemite Classic) in 2007, and Northern Lights in 2008. Led California Discovery this past summer

Favorite book: James and the Giant Peach or Pride and Prejudice

Favorite movie: The Lord of the Rings trilogy - especially the second one, love to watch them when I'm sick

Favorite band/musician: Nickel Creek

Favorite song? Maybe "Fake Empire" by The National or "The Lighthouse's Tale" by Nickel Creek or "Hard Sun: by Eddie Vedder

Dream Moondance Trip: of those available currently, probably Thailand or Kilimanjaro...BUT I'd love to get one planned to Uganda eventually!

Favorite place you've ever traveled: Probably Uganda, since I'm here right now and it's the longest I've ever gotten to be in one country. But I love Switzerland, and I love the western half of the US!

Motto for living life: Do what makes your soul shine, and live in the moment as much as you can.

Thanks for sharing your answers with us, Olivia! We look forward to profiling more great leaders on the blog!

Student Profile: Meg Kennedy

Much like our Leader Profile blog from a few weeks ago, we wanted to share some information about the type of students we have on board our trips. Just a reminder that all of our new applicants must provide contact information for two teacher references who can vouch for their motivated and positive spirit in the classroom or on the field. These teacher recommendations ensure we only get the highest caliber students on board our programs.

On such young lady is Meg Kennedy who has participated in three total Moondance trips, most recently our Kilimanjaro adventure in the summer of 2012. We thought we'd check in with Meg to see how Moondance has impacted her and the lessons she's learned from our adventures.

That's Meg with a young student of the Red Sweater Project during our Kilimanjaro community service section

NAME: Meg Kennedy

HOMETOWN: Kenilworth, IL

CURRENT GRADE: 12

PREVIOUS MOONDANCE TRIPS/YEAR: Hawaiian Islands 2010, Chamonix Alps 2011, Kilimanjaro 2012

MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT ON A MOONDANCE TRIP?: The most memorable moment on a Moondance trip for me was definitely reaching the top of Kilimanjaro and having our entire group circle up and sing "Hallelujah" together. We all worked so hard to reach the top and I will never forget the moment we got there!

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO JOIN MOONDANCE? One of my older sisters best friends, Joanie Davis, had done a few Moondance trips and always came back with the most amazing stories to tell. So, in the spring of 2010 I decided I wanted to go on a trip myself!

BEFORE YOUR FIRST TRIP WITH US, WHAT DID YOU EXPECT? Before my first trip began I was nervous and didn't know what to expect. I was hoping to meet new people that would continue to be my friends after the trip and of course this came true! Also, I was excited about the chance to live in the outdoors for three weeks and enjoy all the adventures, especially SCUBA diving [in Hawaii].

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE DESTINATIONS YOU'VE VISITED WITH MOONDANCE? It is hard to describe in words all the destinations I have visited with Moondance, because they have all been so amazing and words can't do them justice. Hawaii was beautiful due to all the rainbows, mountains, and beaches surrounding us everyday. Also, relaxing yet eventful as we were participating in many new activities such as scuba diving, surfing, and snorkeling with manta rays. Europe was a mix of educational and astonishing. We were in four foreign countries learning about their culture and hearing languages different from our own, and the views we saw everyday on our hikes were incredible and continued to amaze me with every hike. Africa was unique in every way. The scenery was so different then anything I have seen. The idea of being able to see for miles and miles and the only thing blocking your view was wild animals and smiling faces of the members of african tribes, was heart warming and peaceful. Also, every single person we met and got to know were all so happy and content with their lives and that seemed to be the nature of living. All together it was very memorable and eye opening.

IF YOU COULD DESCRIBE MOONDANCE IN ONE WORD, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Life-changing

HOW WILL YOU APPLY WHAT YOU LEARNED ON MOONDANCE IN THE FUTURE? The skills I have acquired on Moondance will carry on through the rest of my life. I am going off to college next year and the self confidence and independence I have learned through all my Moondance trips and from the people I have met on them will enable me to take full advantage of college and not be scared of trying something new. On all my trips my groups and I have worked hard to accomplish a goal and the idea of hard work paying off will help me overcome any challenge.

Thanks to Meg for sharing her answers with us! We look forward to sharing more great Moondancers stories with you!

Nature=One of Our Greatest Teachers

Homework…tests…quizzes…sports games…band practice…club meetings. How do you guys do it these days!?

If you want to learn how to better prioritize your life and effective ways to handle your everyday routine, we think we know just the summer adventure program to help you accomplish just that (hint: it’s us!) With this summer being our 18^th, we’ve found that experiencing all that nature and world travel has to offer can change your outlook on life for the better.

Being Leader of the Day (or even just part of a sweet Moondance crew) can teach you how to keep up with many different responsibilities by providing an opportunity to practice and master a variety of outdoor and social skills. The skills that you’re taught and that you practice during your outdoor adventure travel can be done by anyone with some patience, perseverance and instruction, so everyone can gain valuable life skills by learning about nature and the areas where we travel. Nature can help you gain confidence, become a stronger leader and best of all, create lasting friendships. AND there’s no experience necessary to get all these great things out of a Moondance trip (though if you have experience, what better way to keep learning and growing than on one of our trips?)

Motivation to Persevere

Hey, we know it’s not easy being a teen these days – snarky group texts! Mean Facebook messages! Dealing with the difficulties that come with growing up presents a challenge in itself: to give up or to persevere. But you’ve got a choice! Perseverance can be taught through experiencing nature in a beautiful setting with a group of new friends.

Not only will participating in a Moondance trip give you the experience of taking control and leading others in activities including backpacking, rock climbing and whitewater rafting, but simply observing the power of nature in the outdoors can give you a reason to reach a little farther and jump a little higher. To “Live in the Moment.”

If you're ready to experience the AWESOME power of nature, we’re here to make it happen. You can call the office and get more information about any and every trip you so desire. Even on our community service trips, you not only use nature to your benefit but also give back to nature as well, though all of the programs are planned with environmental concerns in mind.

Now who’s ready for some MOONDANCE?

Outlining Adventure Trip Types

 

Moondance offers four main types of memorable summer trips: Community Service Adventures, Leadership Adventures, Multisport Adventures and Discovery Adventures. The adventure camps are comprised of 10-12 bright, motivated students who are looking for teamwork and leadership opportunities. Both domestic and overseas adventure travel offerings are led by at least two dynamic leaders, one male and one female.

Some students may be hesitant about completely disengaging from the electronic world for these outdoor adventures, but doing so allows campers the opportunity to completely get lost in the natural and beautiful surroundings. During the students’ summer adventures, time is based simply on when the sun rises and when it sets.

Those who take part in Community Service Adventures give back to various areas of the world by doing things such as teaching English or repairing a community center. Travelers who take part in overseas adventure travel meet people from different parts of the world and interact with a variety of wildlife. During the Kilimanjaro trip, students volunteer at a Tanzanian secondary school and undertake a challenging trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain.

Leadership Adventures allow students to develop their leadership skills as they will lead peers on action-packed adventures in challenging, beautiful terrain. Those on these trips, students learn how to live comfortably in the wilderness. The Northern Lights trip offers travelers the opportunity to experience the backcountry wilderness of Alaska from Prince William Sound to the Talkeetna Mountain Range.

A variety of activities such as climbing, backpacking and sea kayaking are enjoyed by those taking part in Multisport Adventures. Travelers learn how to live comfortably, responsibly and simply in the wilderness. One popular trip is to the Pacific Northwest. Students start and finish in Seattle. In between, they travel to places such as Washington's amazing San Juan Islands and North Cascades mountains as well as the beautiful Deschutes River in central Oregon.

Discovery Adventures consist of introductory level adventures designed for younger students. Participants are introduced to a variety of activities such as riding a rushing river or experiencing high-flying ziplines. The Mountains to Sea trip engages the students with the rolling mountains and lush forests of the Appalachians as well as South Carolina’s stunning beaches.

At the conclusion of every day on these trips, the popular Moonup is conducted by Leaders of the Day who are selected by members of the group. These small-group discussions lead to bonding as laughter is shared, memories are made and trust is given and received. Moonups provide some of the most treasured memories that students take away from these unforgettable summer adventures.

Moondance Leader Profiles: Scott Joseph

Welcome to the first edition of Moondance Leader Profiles! We thought we'd use the blog to help highlight the awesome folks who provide the Moondance experience, so we'll be checking in with our summer staff periodically to give you a better glimpse of the folks behind The Dance!

First up, Scott Joseph from Bloomfield Hills, MI. Scott heard about Moondance from a former Moondance leader and applied after completing his NOLS Patagonia course in May of 2012. He's a Jack of All Trades - whether it's trekking to Everest Base Camp or running the Detroit Half Marathon - Scott puts his heart and soul into every endeavor, and we were so happy to have had him on board as our Costa Rica Venture 1 & 2 male leader for 2012.

We thought we'd check in with Scott and ask him a few questions. Enjoy!

Age: 26
Education (HS and college): Wylie E Groves High School / Davenport University
Summers with Moondance: 1 - Costa Rica Venture 2012
Favorite book: On The Road, by Jack Kerouac
Favorite movie: "City of God"
Favorite song: "Lovely Day" - Bill Withers
Dream Moondance Trip: Kilimanjaro
Favorite place you've ever traveled: Luang Prabang, Laos
Motto for living life: “I am one of the searchers. There are, I believe, millions of us. We are not unhappy, but neither are we really content. We continue to explore life, hoping to uncover its ultimate secret. We continue to explore ourselves, hoping to understand. We like to walk along the beach, we are drawn by the ocean, taken by its power, its unceasing motion, its mystery and unspeakable beauty. We like forests and mountains, deserts and hidden rivers, and the lonely cities as well. Our sadness is as much a part of our lives as is our laughter. To share our sadness with one we love is perhaps as great a joy as we can know - unless it be to share our laughter.

We searchers are ambitious only for life itself, for everything beautiful it can provide. Most of all we love and want to be loved. We want to live in a relationship that will not impede our wandering, nor prevent our search, nor lock us in prison walls; that will take us for what little we have to give. We do not want to prove ourselves to another or compete for love.

For wanderers, dreamers, and lovers, for lonely men and women who dare to ask of life everything good and beautiful. It is for those who are too gentle to live among wolves.”

- James Kavanaugh

Photo Contest!

The winning photo by Thomas Taylor, taken on his Moondance Leadership course June 20 - July 9, 2012
We want to thank everyone who submitted a photo for our contest announced via Constant Contact and our Facebook Page! We received so many great snapshots of all your wonderful adventures from this summer, and it's always fun to see a Moondance trip from a "student's eye view." After flipping through literally tens of thousands of photos from the leaders, it's refreshing to see some new material from our students! We thought we'd share a few more of our favorites from the contest.

Annie Boydston shares a glimpse of her climb on Mt. Shasta with her Yosemite Classic Second Session crew

Chamonix Alps Second Session student Dorsey Addicks submitted this great photo depicting the perfect way to "Live in the Moment" while in Paris!

Dylan Chan shares his "Tree with a View" from his backpacking section on the First Session of Pacific Northwest in Washington State
Thanks to everyone who shared their great photos, and feel free to upload more good ones on our Facebook page!

Sitting On Top of the World

The 2012 Moondance Leadership group finds success atop a snowy Mount Rainier
One of the major benefits of participating in a Moondance outdoor adventure is the ability to get to know some of the world's most pristine outdoor arenas on an up close and personal level. On any one of our summer adventures, you may find yourself surrounded by jagged peaks, crystalline lakes or even ancient ruins thinking to yourself, "How can I possibly describe what I'm seeing - and feeling! - to my friends and family back home?"

Several of our Leadership adventures allow participants a shot at bagging world-renowned peaks such as The Grand Teton in Wyoming, Mount Rainier in Washington, Mount Shasta in California and Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa. This summer, Moondance is proud to report that we had a 100% success rate for our students climbing Mount Shasta (on our Yosemite Classic trip), Mount Rainier (on our Moondance Leadership trip) and Mount Kilimanjaro (on our Kilimanjaro trip). 2012 marks the first time in Moondance history that all students attempting summits did so successfully, and we couldn't be more proud of this feat.

What any Moondance student will tell you, however, is that it wasn't their physical abilities that got them to the top. Instead, it was the positive encouragement of their teammates and leaders that allowed them to find the strength within...to take that next step...to breathe in and to breathe out...to ultimately succeed.

It's atop these peaks that we realize the only thing greater than just reaching the top is reaching the top together.

Check out our Adventure Programs for more information about teen summer camps.

Moondance Adventures Gave Back to Kilimanjaro Guides and Porters during Summer Trip!

Moondance Adventures presented 48 guides and porters on the mountain of Kilimanjaro with zero degree sleeping bags during our 2012 summer trip to Africa. The Marmot sleeping bags were given as a token of appreciation on behalf of Hayes Hitchens, president and founder of Moondance Adventures, who has been working with the outfitters, known as Active Kilitop and Safaris Limited, for several years in conjunction with Moondance Adventures’ Kilimanjaro expedition. The Arusha, Tanzania-based company is directed by Gabriel Nkini who has become a close friend and confidant of Hitchens and Moondance Adventures as a whole.

Kilimanjaro trip leaders Clark and Genna Harris were able to distribute the bags with Nkini’s help just before the team departed the Machame Gate at the base of Kilimanjaro. Because temperatures on the mountain dip at or below freezing on a regular basis, zero degree sleeping bags are critical to the success and health of all participants climbing Kilimanjaro, including the guides and porters who Genna Harris said worked so hard to maintain the positive energy among her group of 13 teenagers.

“The guides and porters of Active Kilitop and Safari really went above and beyond in making sure our group was comfortable and safe on the mountain,” says Genna Harris. “Giving them zero degree sleeping bags was the least we could do to thank them for their service and for ultimately getting our entire group to the summit.”

The Moondance group spent 22 days in all on the adventure as they departed for Tanzania on June 26 and arrived back in the States on July 17. While on the Kilimanjaro adventure, the teens had a chance to participate in a community service project with a local primary school, trek and summit Mount Kilimanjaro and experience a safari expedition in Serengeti National Park and the Ngorogoro Crater Conservation Area.

As part of the Moondance Adventures teen summer program, the Kilimanjaro journey encourages students to live in the moment and experience life beyond their comfort zone, providing an arena for self-awareness and leadership skills. The trip also allows the opportunity for teens to earn community service hours while working in educational facilities for underprivileged children as well as fully immerse themselves in a new cultural setting, like that of the Maasai tribe.

Moondance Adventures is a travel organization offering summer programs that challenge teens to step outside their comfort zones and achieve more than they ever dreamed possible in the great outdoors. Our leadership adventure program is built on the philosophy that challenge builds character and is designed to teach leadership skills amongst an exciting combination of nature, fellowship and fun.

To learn more about Kilimanjaro and other Moondance adventure programs, check out our adventure program chart here.

Fun and Good Will On Moondance Adventures’ Ecuador/Galapagos Trip

If having fun while doing important community service work sounds like the ideal summer camp experience, Moondance Adventures has the perfect trip for you. Forget about traditional summer camps—do something that is beneficial to people and cultures around the world! Our 22-day adventure camp in Ecuador and the exotic Galapagos Islands is an unforgettable experience.

High school students of all ages can participate in this exciting outdoor adventure program while satisfying basic community service requirements or just doing something they like. Each participant will earn 40 hours of community service while making outstanding memories and connections that will last a lifetime.

Volunteer Opportunities in the Amazon

Here's what you can expect if you're ready for a fun-filled community service adventure. The trip begins and ends in Ecuador's historic capital of Quito. Campers will enjoy hiking in the Andes and superb whitewater rafting in the Amazon basin before arriving in a remote village in the Morochos community. These friendly Kichwa-speaking natives open their homes to our campers while we get to work building a cultural community center, completing agricultural projects and building basic infrastructure.

Our community service work will continue in the village of Pucara where local families warmly welcome their home-stay guests. We'll pick up a bit of the language while learning about their unique culture and way of living. Our group will work alongside local leaders to grow their community and agricultural capabilities. In addition to volunteering, campers will be hiking in cloud-covered rainforests, completing an organic agriculture tour and visiting a fair-trade coffee co-op for an inside look.

The Galapagos

Our outdoor adventures will kick into high gear as we travel to the Galapagos Islands. These 15 unspoiled islands are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is renowned for its wildlife. We'll be snorkeling, touring the famous Giant Turtle Breeding Center and seeing iguanas, sea lions and sea turtles in their natural habitats while raising awareness about the fragile nature of our ecosystems.

At Moondance Adventures, our community service adventure camp programs are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. You'll meet new people, discover new cultures and enjoy new experiences that will travel with you for life. Apply now to reserve a space in our June 17th or July 10th summer trip.

About Moondance Adventures:
Founded by Hayes Hitchens in 1996, Moondance Adventures is a teen adventure travel program offering a wide variety of 13-23 day experiences including community service and wilderness-based leadership opportunities. Headquartered in Asheville, NC, Moondance offers 17 co-ed, non competitive teen summer adventure programs for teenagers ages 12-18. Moondance provides fun, education and character-building with each program’s curriculum. Moondance has been has been conducting unique adult and teen summer adventures in many of the finest teen adventure travel areas in the world with courses offered in Africa, Central America, Europe, North America and South America.

Moondance Adventures “Leaves No Trace”: Keeping the Great Outdoors…Great!

People are naturally drawn to the great outdoors. Nature has inspired exploration, achievement, creativity and more. No matter how advanced society becomes, the inherent allure of nature remains the same. For those who want to experience nature, Leave No Trace and Moondance Adventures are the perfect pair.

Leave No Trace is the leading educational organization of outdoor ethics. With this role, Leave No Trace is committed to teaching others how to explore nature responsibly. To accomplish this, Leave No Trace sponsors a number of programs that help people of all ages to appreciate nature in a way that protects it for future generations. The core ideals of Leave No Trace feature seven principles, each chosen to educate and empower. Education through Leave No Trace is both practical and idealistic, encouraging people to take realistic measures while also promoting conservation at large.

Moondance Adventures has partnered with Leave No Trace, offering a range of summer adventure camps to teens with conservation being an important aspect of all trips. These camps/trips are designed to offer a unique outdoor experience while teaching kids important skills that prevent their presence from creating a negative impact on the environment. The camps feature summer trips to a number of exciting locations and are structured to help teens meet individual goals within the framework of a supportive team. These trips are powerful and life changing, thanks in part to Moondance Adventures’ alliance with Leave No Trace.

Moondance Adventures explicitly structures its outings around the principles outlined by Leave No Trace. Therefore, all the trips and camps sponsored by Moondance Adventures are designed with sustainable travel in mind. These values help Moondance Adventures better equip teens during their summer adventure camps and summer trips. Teens are taught the most responsible ways to camp and explore, and teachings about nature and wildlife are inherent in all programs. Lessons include camping on hard surfaces, reducing waste, minimizing fires and respecting wildlife and other visitors.

With Leave No Trace, the great outdoors can remain great for generations to come. Moondance Adventures recognizes the inherent value of this program and is proud to support the cause.

About Moondance Adventures
Founded by Hayes Hitchens in 1996, Moondance Adventures is a teen adventure travel program offering a wide variety of 13-23 day experiences including community service and wilderness-based leadership opportunities. Headquartered in Asheville, NC, Moondance offers 17 co-ed, non competitive teen summer adventure programs for teenagers ages 12-18. Moondance provides fun, education and character-building with each program’s curriculum. Moondance has been has been conducting unique adult and teen summer adventures in many of the finest teen adventure travel areas in the world with courses offered in Africa, Central America, Europe, North America and South America.

Alaskan Sea Kayaking in the Prince William Sound

Teenage outdoor adventure enthusiasts have the rare opportunity to enjoy a unique kayaking experience in Alaska. Imagine combining a trip to see the beauty of the northern lights while navigating the Prince William Sound in a sea kayak. Before participating on this summer trip, it’s important to know what to expect in this vast and beautiful destination.

The Prince William Sound is located along the southern coast of Alaska. Since the weather can change drastically from one day to the next, it is important to be prepared. In the summer months, there is a mixture of warm sunny days and cool rainy days, so be sure to bring suitable clothes. Keep in mind that moisture will ruin electronic devices if they are not properly stored. The tour guide will provide other valuable tips for weather preparedness.

Since Alaska is close to the northernmost point of the globe, summer daylight hours are long. People who have difficulty sleeping without complete darkness should bring blackout sleep masks or any other necessities needed to get a good night's rest. Surprisingly enough, mosquitoes and other bugs come with the territory, so be sure to bring a spray that contains DEET.

Effort is necessary to paddle a kayak, but waters are generally calm. This Alaskan adventure involves paddling through fjords with both large and small glaciers. It is easy to feel mesmerized by their majestic beauty, but be sure to look in the water as well. Prince William Sound is teeming with life, and many species are hard to find in other parts of the world. Expect to see seals, sea lions, otters, porpoises, many varieties of fish, and even whales.

The wildlife sightings do not end in the water. There are also plenty of interesting creatures to see on land. Starfish, crabs and seashells can be found along the beaches. Alaska is famous for its plentiful eagle population. Their massive wings, loud calls and white heads are easy to identify. Dall sheep, moose and mountain goats are also common in the area. A trip through the Prince William Sound may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and the unique upfront experience kayaking offers is well worth every minute and every penny spent. Visit our leadership Adventure Programs page here to learn more about the Northern Lights Alaskan Adventure and other exciting excursions (such as ice climbing and whitewater rafting) that will take place during the trip.

About Moondance Adventures:
Founded by Hayes Hitchens in 1996, Moondance Adventures is a teen adventure travel program offering a wide variety of 13-23 day experiences including community service and wilderness-based leadership opportunities. Headquartered in Asheville, NC, Moondance offers 17 co-ed, non competitive teen summer adventure programs for teenagers ages 12-18. Moondance provides fun, education and character-building with each program’s curriculum. Moondance has been has been conducting unique adult and teen summer adventures in many of the finest teen adventure travel areas in the world with courses offered in Africa, Central America, Europe, North America and South America.

Experience the Hawaiian Islands while Supporting Conservation Efforts!

Taking a summer trip to an exotic location is a blast, and the only thing better than exploring your new surroundings is being able to assist with conservation efforts at the same time. Adventure camps that place emphasis on community service help instill a sense of accomplishment along with unforgettable experiences. This summer, Moondance Adventures is hosting a rewarding community service trip to the Hawaiian Islands for teenagers, 9th grade and up. Campers will contribute to sustainability in the form of forest conservation while experiencing many of the breathtaking sights and memorable activities Hawaii has to offer.

Kona Coast
The trip begins on the Kona Coastline where campers spend four days on a custom diving boat earning their SCUBA certifications from the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). After certification, the boat takes the adventurers out in search of exotic marine life, such as dolphins and sea turtles.

Volcanoes National Park
From Kona, campers head to the other side of The Big Island to spend a day at Volcanoes National Park learning about two of the most interesting volcanoes in the world. The first is the world's largest volcano: Mauna Loa. The second volcano is the world's most active: Kilauea.

Kauai Forest Conservation
Campers fly to the island of Kauai on the sixth day to take part in the ongoing forest conservation efforts at Koke'e State Park. Kauai is filled with lush, tropical vegetation and is one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Unfortunately, invasive species brought in by travelers have put a damper on the island’s natural ecology. Erosion is also a major threat to the forest.

Campers will learn what it takes to sustain a healthy ecosystem, but it is not all toil. Local volunteers bring food, play ukulele and talk about their native culture throughout the trip. Hearing the heartfelt stories of native Hawaiians allows campers to discover the true importance of the forest and the conservation efforts that keep the beauty alive. Moondance Adventures’ Hawaiian Island trip is the perfect remedy for ho-hum summer holidays.

About Moondance Adventures:
Founded by Hayes Hitchens in 1996, Moondance Adventures is a teen adventure travel program offering a wide variety of 13-23 day experiences including community service and wilderness-based leadership opportunities. Headquartered in Asheville, NC, Moondance offers 17 co-ed, non competitive teen summer adventure programs for teenagers ages 12-18. Moondance provides fun, education and character-building with each program’s curriculum. Moondance has been has been conducting unique adult and teen summer adventures in many of the finest teen adventure travel areas in the world with courses offered in Africa, Central America, Europe, North America and South America.

Adult Adventures: Discover the Mystery and Wonder of Machu Picchu

One of the greatest legacies that the Incas bestowed to mankind is the archeological wonder of Machu Picchu. The ruins of this once-great city are situated 8,000 feet above sea level on a ridge overlooking Peru’s Urubamba Valley. Archeologists believe that the Incas built “Old Peak” as an estate for Emperor Pachacuti. The Incas abandoned the site during the time of the Spanish Conquest in the early 1500s. Although located only 50 miles from the Incan capital of Cusco, Machu Picchu was not discovered or plundered by the conquistadors. It provides a rare perspective into the culture of the Inca civilization.

The ancient citadel remained unknown to the outside world until Hiram Bingham, a historian from Yale, discovered the site in 1911. This amazing urban environment is located in a beautiful setting amidst a pristine mountain forest. The site consists of three districts known as Sacred, Popular and Nobility.

There are temples, homes and storehouses in this ancient community. An adult adventure travel excursion with Moondance Adventures provides a remarkable opportunity for visitors to learn how the builders used ashlar, an innovative masonry technique. This is a process where stones are precisely cut so that they hold together without the aid of mortar or concrete. Archeologists don’t know how the laborers moved the massive stone blocks. There are hundreds of flights of stairs. Some of the structures are carved from a single granite slab.

During the adult Machu Picchu trip with Moondance, you can see the Intihuatana Stone. It is one of the last remaining Incan ritual rocks. Scientists believe that it served as an astronomical clock or calendar. Visitors participating in one of the summer programs will see the Room of the Three Windows, the Temple of the Sun and the Royal Tomb. There is evidence that an irrigation system supplied water to the homes. The natural setting encompasses a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Machu Picchu is one of the most important cultural sites in South America and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. In 2007, this majestic, primeval city became one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Over the years, Moondance Adventures has offered several adult programs in addition to the dozens of programs the company runs for teens during the summer months. Other Moondance adult programs have included a Wind River Range expedition in Wyoming as well as a Pacific Northwest sea kayaking tour, a mountaineering expedition to Mount Rainier in Washington State and a Kilimanjaro expedition in Tanzania, Africa.

About Moondance Adventures
Founded by Hayes Hitchens in 1996, Moondance Adventures is a teen outdoor adventure travel program offering a wide variety of 13-23 day experiences including community service and wilderness-based leadership opportunities. Headquartered in Asheville, NC, Moondance offers 17 co-ed, non competitive teen summer adventure programs for teenagers ages 12-18. Moondance provides fun, education and character-building with each program’s curriculum. Moondance has been has been conducting unique adult and teen summer camp adventures in many of the finest teen adventure travel areas in the world with courses offered in Africa, Central America, Europe, North America and South America.

Gear up for Your 2012 Moondance Trip!

Moondance Adventure summer camp/trips offer young travelers unique ways to spend their vacations. Although no prior camping experience is required, people who are interested in adventure travel need to be prepared to spend a lot of time outdoors. In order to attend any Moondance trip, participants need to make sure that they have all of the necessary gear. At the minimum, wilderness travelers will need sturdy backpacks or duffel bags (sometimes both), but the required gear usually varies with each outdoor adventure. Although students are encouraged to sleep under the starry sky, tents are provided.

This year’s domestic destinations include Alaska, California, Wyoming, Washington, North Carolina, Utah and Hawaii to name a few. Adventure camps are also scheduled to be held in Europe, Costa Rica, Tanzania, Peru and Ecuador. On international trips, students typically stay in youth hostels or with host families, so they may not have to bring sleeping bags or bedding.

On most domestic trips, travelers need to bring their own sleeping bags and cutlery sets, although Moondance provides all necessary food and group gear. Also, good hiking and walking shoes are required for every excursion. Some trips involve rafting and swimming, so participants need to make sure that they have the recommended style of pants, jackets, gloves and swimsuits. Additionally, everyone needs to bring sleeping clothes and underwear. Most outdoor gear can be either rented or purchased through Moondance, so participants can choose the gear that best fits their needs. Because travelers will be busy the entire time, cell phones and other electronic devices are not permitted on any of the outdoor excursions.

Moondance provides far more than a typical summer camp experience—these adventures build character and memories that will last a lifetime. If you have yet to sign yourself or your teenager up for a Moondance trip, check out our Adventure Program Chart for details about upcoming adventures. You can also find gear for your trip at our online store.

Discover the Appalachians at 1,000 Feet

With summer fast approaching, many people are making vacation plans, some of which include the outdoors. Adventure travel is becoming a popular way to experience the world.

Asheville, N.C. is a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of fun things for the entire family to experience. Over the years, thousands of children have attended summer camps in Asheville, and now there are summer adventure camps that also cater to adults. Visitors enjoy hiking and biking in the mountains, and some parents even schedule their own adventures while their children participate in activities with their own age group.

Anyone seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure will enjoy the splendor of a zip line canopy tour. Set among the wilderness near Asheville, the guided canopy tour includes multiple zip lines, sky bridges, rappelling and hiking. Visitors can glide among the trees and experience a bird’s-eye view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding area. Some of the trees even have platforms where people can stand and slowly take in the incredible sights around them. The entire course is carefully constructed to blend in with the natural beauty of the area, and the guides are happy to point out the various types of flora and fauna along the way. There are many different kinds of trees, plants, animals and other creatures that live in the mountains, and the tour affords visitors the perfect way to understand the area’s biodiversity. Guides will also talk about the history of the Appalachian region.

The zip line canopy tour takes about three hours to complete. For a different type of outdoor adventure, a nighttime tour is also available.

Moondance Adventures is offering a ‘Mountains to Sea’ adventure for 12–14 year olds this June, July and August that will span various areas in South Carolina, North Carolina and Tennessee and will include an Appalachian canopy tour. Check out our Adventure Program Chart for details.

Backpacking Safety and Preparation Tips

Enjoying an outdoor adventure by going on a backpacking trip is fun and exciting, but a backpacker needs to be well prepared to stay safe. Adventure travel generally requires more materials and preparation than a typical trip.

Preparation

The first step in preparing for a backpacking trip is to prepare for the hike. Conditioning should be targeted to the specific trail that you will be hiking, and the chosen trail should not be above the backpacker's fitness level. Getting used to traveling by foot with the weight of a fully stocked backpack is also a key part of training. Breaking in hiking boots is also important in the success of a backpacking adventure.

Packing an adequate amount of supplies and food is a must for a successful backpacking trip. A general rule of thumb is that each person on the hike will need one to two pounds of food per day to provide enough calories for the hike. This food should be rich in nutrition and not require refrigeration. Nuts, dried fruits are all ideal.

Safety

It is particularly important for novice backpackers to stick to marked trails when embarking on an outdoor adventure. At least one person that is not going on the trip should be aware of where the backpacker is hiking in case of an emergency.

Water sources are often a safety issue due to bacteria. Water can be boiled or filtered to increase safety, but it should be noted that filtering does not take care of viruses that may be present. Outdoor shops sell water treatment solutions that can be added directly to water to kill viruses. We suggest using iodine tablets to treat water.

Always bring a first aid kit on a backpacking trip in case of an emergency.

For younger backpackers, summer adventure camps are a great idea. Moondance summer trips give the benefit of experiencing the outdoors while also providing the safety of having a knowledgeable and experienced staff nearby at all times. Moondance Adventures provides safety in numbers with at least two adult instructors and assists in building character as well as lasting friendships.

Yosemite National Park: Rock Climbing at its Finest

Rock climbing is an experience fit for anyone interested in outdoor adventure travel. Yosemite National Park has gained the distinction of being one of the best places in the world for rock climbers to visit, offering 3,000 foot rock walls and challenges for climbers of all fitness levels. The views alone make rock climbing at Yosemite National Park a cut above the rest.

Yosemite has climbs that range from day trips to multi-day climbs. More experienced climbers will enjoy the challenge of setting out on an overnight climb, while novice climbers can practice their technique on less challenging rocks. In addition to traditional climbing, Yosemite National Park has areas where bouldering is permitted.

Camping is a great way to fully enjoy the outdoors while climbing at Yosemite. Some areas do require a wilderness permit for climbers wishing to set up camp, but these permits are offered free of charge. Climbers should check with park officials regarding whether a wilderness permit is required for camping in the area in which they will be climbing.

Park officials have noticed that wear to rock surfaces has increased as more climbers visit Yosemite. Climbers are advised to follow the rules of the park so it can keep its reputation as a world class climbing destination.

Yosemite climbing is geared toward different skill levels, with some areas focusing primarily on beginners or advanced climbers. This lets beginners get hands-on advice without feeling that they are slowing down the group, while advanced climbers can enjoy their climb without having to worry about waiting for novice climbers to catch up. Adventure travel is at its best when an experienced professional is available to give guidance and help climbers improve their technique.

Want to experience the thrill of rock climbing at Yosemite National Park without the risk involved of going it alone? Moondance Adventures is offering a Yosemite Classic trip for teenagers that features Yosemite rock climbing on its itinerary as well as backpacking, whitewater rafting, mountaineering, and surfing on Half Moon Bay. Although Yosemite offers basic summer camps, the Moondance Adventures trip will feature multiple destinations and cover an entire region in California. 

Check out trip details on our Adventure Program Chart!

About Moondance Adventures
Founded by Hayes Hitchens in 1996, Moondance Adventures is a teen adventure travel program offering a wide variety of 13-23 day experiences including community service and wilderness-based leadership opportunities. Headquartered in Asheville, NC, Moondance offers 17 co-ed, non competitive teen summer adventure programs for teenagers ages 12-18. Moondance provides fun, education and character-building with each program’s curriculum. Moondance has been has been conducting unique adult and teen summer adventures in many of the finest teen adventure travel areas in the world with courses offered in Africa, Central America, Europe, North America and South America.

It's (ALMOST!) the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Yes, the holidays have come and gone, but we at Moondance Central find ourselves pretty giddy with excitement these days. Obviously, our favorite time of the year is the summer, when we are running trips and doing what we do best - facilitating great adventures with great kids all over the world. But January and February are pretty special months for us because we find our trips starting to fill up and our groups starting to come to life! We have several trips that are full or are close to being full, and it brings us all great excitement to know that a new little Moondance family is being born before our very eyes as each group starts to form.


Northern Lights 1 "Family" - Summer 2011

As you can imagine, spending 24 hours a day with the same people for 2 to 3 weeks allows you to really get to know everyone in your group. You will have the opportunity to share experiences with these folks that you'll never be able to experience with your closest of friends or even your own family. That's one of the things that we think makes Moondance so special; we have the ability to bring so many amazing students from all over the country together to form such an unbelievably tight bond in less than a month. Our leaders have the power (and the privilege) of being a part of these families and changing lives in what is a considerably short amount of time. Like Hayes said in the short video Rich Addicks (photographer, videographer and Moondance parent!)put together for us about our leaders called "Why We Do What We Do", "How can you change someone's life in three weeks? It happens."


Two of our greatest and most veteran leaders, Willy Sebring and Michaelyn Koss

If you're a Moondance alum or leader, you know what we are talking about when we say Moondance is really like a family. And if you are interested in joining us for 2012, I hope you'll apply for what will not only be the best adventure of your life but the best group of friends/"family" you've ever come to know. Since trips are starting to fill up, we would definitely encourage you to apply as soon as you can. As we always say, "you won't know if you don't go!"