Alllllllll aboard! This is your captain speaking. I would like to welcome you all to today’s blog, where we will stop for a quick glimpse at each trip in the field. All in all, today was a day of smooth sailing for our seasoned crews. Please sit back, relax, and enjoy cruising from trip to trip!

Skip to a Specific Trip: AKMCA, AKMCB, AXA, AXB, CCM, CRMC, CS, DEX, ECC1, ECC2, ECC3, NWX, PC, PMC, VMA, VMB

Alaska Mountains & Coast A (AKMCA)

Our AKMCA group got to experience a once-in-a-lifetime, bucket list event today – Ice Climbing and Glacier Hiking! Guided by our outfitter partners, these troopers had quite the adventure together on the glacier, and, truthfully, words can’t quite do the experience the justice it deserves, so we’ll let the photos speak for themselves on this one… Scout reports that they were able to climb down (safely) into one of the glacier crevasses, and then topped it all off by eating lunch right there on the glacier. Supremely cool, AKMCA!

 

 

 

 

Alaska Mountains & Coast B (AKMCB)

When’s the last time you went sledding in July? Never? Yeah, me neither… But today this AKMCB group got to check that off their bingo card! They reemerged from the backcountry, and treated themselves to some true comfort food they’ve been craving all trip. They’re looking forward to their service project and Final Dinner tomorrow!

 

 

 

Alps Explorer A (AXA)

Today AXA crushed 10 miles on the TMB (and apparently they were still hungry for more, as we’ve heard they are competing in a friendly, intra-group plank competition). The views from the trail consisted of peacefully grazing cattle and picturesque alpine mountain towns. A highlight of the day was celebrating one of their students half-birthdays with popsicles! Popsicles just hit differently when they’re enjoyed with the majestic Alps in the backdrop, ya know?

 

 

 

Alps Explorer B (AXB)

AXB had another amazing day in the alps today! This group summited Col De Seigne, then went and crossed the Italian border! For lunch, the group picked up a fresh spread for a mid-day picnic, including Beauforte cheese from a local cheese-maker, where they got a mini-lesson on cheesemaking (see below)! Only in the Alps, #amiright?

 

 

California’s Coastal Mountains (CCM)

This morning CCM had a surfing lesson at La Selva Beach! Stoke level was higher than the waves as they enjoyed their morning in the water. In the afternoon, they had time to explore the colorful town of Capitola before heading to Half Moon Bay, where they got to enjoy sunset from yet another beach!

 

Caribbean Service (CS)

Today, CS assisted Surfrider Rincon with beach cleanup! They had a chance to learn about local conservation and volunteer operations in Puerto Rico, and had a great time treasure-hunting for trash in the sand. After their work in the morning, the group got to enjoy the beach for a little longer before returning to their residence for pool games and a relaxing evening!

 

Costa Rica Mountains & Coast (CRMC)

This group enjoyed another stellar day at the beach! I’m proud to report that they have had ample time to perfect their water handstands, and their yoga form (land and pool) is looking better by the day! Highlights of the day included husking coconuts and a competitive game of basketball in the afternoon.

 

 

 

Europe Coast to Coast 1 (ECC1)

Today ECC1 crushed a 60 mile ride on their second day in France! After an unforgettable day of riding, the group got to cool off and relax in the campground pool. Check out the gold hour picnic below — this group is glowing with their recent successes! More fantastic French riding awaits them tomorrow!

 

 

 

Europe Coast to Coast 2 (ECC2)

ECC2 are thrilled to be living large now that they’ve crossed into the 3rd country on their month-long European journey – they’ve made it to France! After a lovely morning of riding along gorgeous Belgian canals, this team sauntered across the border into the nation they’ll call home for the next eight nights. Their very own Tour de France is underway, and they have lots to see and do before they leave, including their eagerly-anticipated trip to Paris in a few days’ time! But until then, they’ll have to make do with the pastoral French countryside vistas and gorgeous rural villages on their route. The poor things!

 

 

 

Europe Coast to Coast 3 (ECC3)

After their rest day in Bruges, this group was ready to hit the road again! They made great time while riding today, so they had plenty of time to stop and enjoy the beautiful towns they passed through along the way. They even had time for a gelato stop!

 

 

 

Maine’s Downeast Explorer (DEX)

Today our DEX crew enjoyed kayaking between islands off the coast of Maine! They were joined by a special guest for the day: Kevin Cashman, one of Apogee’s founders and directors! Spirits were high as the group participated in service with the Maine Island Trail Association, singing as they worked. Tonight was their last dinner in camp, as tomorrow’s final dinner celebration will be in Portland!

 

 

 

 

 

Northwest Explorer (NWX)

Our NWX crew headed into the backcountry this afternoon, kicking off an epic, six-day adventure in the North Cascades! Though we might not get any photos from them until next week when they return to the land of cell phone service, we can be confident that they’re enjoying the most scenic vistas, awe-inspiring hikes and memorable experiences in the meantime. We can’t wait to hear their stories and see the photos from what’s sure to be an awesome expedition!

 

Pacific Coast (PC)

PC started their morning riding through the beautiful Redwood Forest and along the rocky California coast. The group enjoyed a long lunch, with a plentiful picnic spread and group games. They’re looking forward to their service day tomorrow!

 

 

 

Pyrenees Mountains and Coast (PMC)

PMC headed out early from Refugi Llong to start their final hike on the Carros de Foc. The group’s guide, Lisi, took them on a detour to see a group of archeologists from the University of Barcelona, who were excited to show the group walls that were built over 2,000 years ago! After a brief history lesson, the group enjoyed dinner under a rainbow. If you’re thinking “sounds too good to be true…” you’re not alone!

 

 

 

Vermont to Montreal A (VMA)

VMA crushed their last day of biking today, and rolled into Montreal with style! Their day started off with peaceful farmland, and ended by cruising through the suburbs and toward the bustling city. Stoke levels are high as they get ready to explore Montreal tomorrow and celebrate the culmination of their hard work!

 

 

 

Vermont to Montreal B (VMB)

This group could not be more excited to be spending the night in their final destination – Montreal! They absolutely crushed their final stretch of biking today, and can’t wait to wake up tomorrow and explore the city. They’re ready to practice their French and celebrate together! Congrats, VM!