It was another terrific summer day in the Apogee world! Many of our groups beat the heat with delicious ice cream – or gelato, for our friends across the pond. Check out the details of our many active groups below!

Skip to a Specific Trip: AXA, AXB, CI, CRM, ECC1, ECC2, ECC3, IMC, MCCE, MCJ, MCP, NEMCA, NWX, PC, PMC

Alps Explorer A (AXA)

AXA is back at it! After enjoying their Courmayeur basecamp for the last few days, Megan and Faerin’s determined bunch found their way back to the TMB and trekked over 15km to the quaint Swiss town of La Fouly. Along the way, they conquered the Grand Col Ferret at over 8,300’, which marked their final border crossing of the trip, as they crossed from Italy to Switzerland. Not for the first time, they were joined on trail by a number of cows (presumably both Italian and Swiss citizens).

 

 

 

Alps Explorer B (AXB)

Two weeks, three countries, 110 miles, and thousands of feet of elevation later, Maeve and Finnegan’s intrepid AXB squad has done it! They’ve returned to Trient’s famous pink church to mark the successful completion of the Tour du Mont Blanc – calling it no small feat would be an understatement. This morning, they were up well before the crack of dawn (3 AM to be exact) in order to crush their final mileage across foggy, cow-laden hillsides, all while singing along to their very appropriate theme song of the day: We are the Champions. Then, it was smooth sailing (via bus and train) to their campsite in Fiesch, Switzerland. Well done, team!

 

 

 

Cape Cod & the Islands (CI)

Today was CI’s second biggest day of biking and they did it in style! They finished up their last morning on Martha’s Vineyard and boarded a ferry back to the mainland! They hit the paths and halfway through their bike ride, they fueled up with slushies and also Burger King crowns?? We always knew this crew was royalty! With 10 miles at the time of stopping and 10 miles ahead of them, this group certainly earned their slushies!

 

 

 

Colorado’s Rocky Mountains (CRM)

Today, our CRM team trekked up over 1,000 feet of switchbacks through ponderosa pine to reach the peak of Deer Mountain, topping out at over 10,000 feet of elevation. And we can only assume that the quad burn was worth every step after seeing the pictures from the top – mountain vistas as far as the eye can see! They capped off their adventurous day with a less-adventurous (but very important) stop at the laundromat to get cleaned up a bit. 

 

 

They also sent us a bonus picture from last night’s sunset walk in the campground!

 

Europe Coast to Coast 1 (ECC1)

Today, under clear skies and with the wind at their backs, our determined ECC1 group pedaled through the breathtaking Vosges Mountains, conquering challenging inclines and reveling in the stunning landscapes that unfolded before them. As the day progressed, they arrived at their campground, where a refreshing pool awaited them. Eager to cool off and unwind, our spirited riders took a well-deserved dip, relishing the joy of swimming amidst the beautiful surroundings. With memories made and laughter shared, they continue their extraordinary journey across the continent. They got so excited about their day, that they hit the hay before sending photos to their wayward, six-hours-behind-timezone friends! Stay tuned for more updates and photos tomorrow!

 

Europe Coast to Coast 2 (ECC2)

What an incredible feat for our extraordinary ECC2 team! Another day, another 100 km conquered with seemingly effortless grace. These fearless cyclists continue to amaze us with their unwavering determination and boundless energy. Today, they reveled in the picturesque hilly French countryside, pedaling through rolling landscapes that painted a stunning backdrop to their journey. As they settled into camp, the team embraced well-deserved relaxation by indulging in an array of delightful activities – some lounged by the inviting pool, others found solace in rejuvenating naps, while a few immersed themselves in captivating books or played card games. And, of course, what better way to refuel than with a satisfying and mouthwatering pizza feast?

 

 

 

Europe Coast to Coast 3 (ECC3)

Kudos to our unstoppable ECC3 team for their incredible progress today! They conquered a massive 110 km stretch through the picturesque French countryside in record time, leaving tire tracks in their wake as a testament to their travels. During their journey, they stumbled upon a charming playground, where they paused for a well-deserved lunch break, embracing the youthful spirit of the playground and romping together. Their spirits remain high as they continue to forge ahead on their extraordinary adventure. Keep up the fantastic work, ECC3! Your perseverance and enthusiasm are truly inspiring.

 

 

Iceland Mountains & Coast (IMC)

It’s another day of incredible adventures of our Iceland crew as they explore the captivating landscapes that surround them. Today, the group had an extraordinary experience visiting a local ice cave, where they marveled at the glistening ice and learned about the remarkable glaciers that shaped this breathtaking landscape. Afterward, they embarked on another beautiful day hike, surrounded by awe-inspiring mountain vistas. The weather was picture-perfect, allowing our young adventurers to fully immerse themselves in their day. Stay tuned for more updates on their very fun journey!

 

 

 

Maine Coast College Essay (MCCE)

Our dedicated writers had their final visit to Bates today and said goodbye to their new friend and tour guide, Jared! Today was absolutely ice cream weather here in Maine and this crew took full advantage! They stopped for ice cream on their way back to their temporary home and enjoyed it in a lovely, shady spot. They’re feeling good about their essays and are going to make the most of their last session with their writing instructor, Leah, tomorrow!

 

 

Maine Coast Junior (MCJ)

We are excited to share the latest update from our very spirited group of Maine Coast Juniors. Today, they embarked on a sunrise adventure up Cadillac Mountain for their last morning of immersing themselves in the beauty of Acadia National Park. Afterwards, they enjoyed breakfast next to Bass Head Harbor Lighthouse and were joined by seals and tons of dolphins! They spent some time sightseeing in Bar Harbor before they packed up and enjoyed the scenic drive back to midcoast Maine! The return to the midcoast area signals the homestretch of our Maine Coast Junior trip and we know this group will be sad to say goodbye in a couple of days!

 

 

Maine Coast Photo (MCP)

Gabe, Masha, and Sophie’s MCP team woke up to a delicious pancake breakfast before heading down to Portland to catch a ferry to Peaks Island. On Peaks, they walked around and explored the cozy little island town, snapping pics along the way of the incredibly photogenic beaches, the historic World War 2 installations, and everything in between. Afterwards, they made their way back home to work on some editing – after all, their showcase is in just two days!

 

 

 

 

New England Mountains & Coast (NEMC)

Today, our fearless NEMC crew took their trails vertically! They took on the challenge of rock climbing at a beautiful spot at Cathedral Ledge. They conquered the cliffs, reaching new “heights” of accomplishment (get it!?). Afterward, they adventured to the grocery store on a restock expedition, stocking up on caloric fuel for their upcoming adventures. Now, here’s the fun part: our young explorers got so caught up in the thrill of the day that they temporarily forgot to capture photos. But fear not, we promise to bring you more snapshots and exciting tales from their mountainous escapades very soon. Stay tuned for more updates from our amazing crew!

 

Northwest Explorer (NWX)

We are excited to bring you the latest update from our adventurous group in the Northwest. Today, the team enjoyed a well-deserved rest day in the charming city of Bellingham, Washington. Spending the day exploring local attractions, like Bellingham’s picturesque waterfront, was the perfect opportunity to recharge their batteries. We hope you enjoy these snapshots of their joyful faces and look forward to sharing more tales of their thrilling journey soon!

 

Pacific Coast (PC)

Our energetic bikers conquered another day on their incredible journey along the stunning Pacific Coast. After enjoying a well-deserved rest day in the charming town of Mendocino, California, our adventurers hit the road once again today, pedaling along the breathtaking coastal route. They covered an impressive distance of 49 miles, winding their way through rolling hills and marveling at the views of the majestic ocean. The group’s determination and enthusiasm were palpable as they embraced the challenges and soaked in the beauty of the coastal landscapes.

 

Pyrenees Mountains and Coast (PMC)

PMC is live! After everyone arrived, leaders Elle and Ellie kicked things off in proper Mediterranean fashion: with a dip in the sea under the palm trees. Not a bad start, huh? Afterwards, the first Cook Crew “chef-ed up” (their words, not ours) some delicious spring rolls and pad Thai while everyone else played some games. After a long – but exciting – day of travel and introductions, everyone was eager to hit the hay in preparation for their sea kayaking adventure tomorrow!