By: Kelly McGinty
There were many bittersweet goodbyes today – bitter as Apogee families that have formed on trips over the last couple of weeks are now parting ways, but sweet because a sad goodbye means fun was had and friendships formed. Many trips are still out making these memories: from a sunrise hike and scavenger hunt, to whitewater rafting and exploring waterfalls, to college essay completion and preparing for the next step in the summer (and in life!). Needless to say it was – as always – a busy day across the Apogee world!
Skip to a Specific Trip: NEMC, CRM, MCCE, DEXA, CRLS, CMCA, MSA, NWXA, NWXB, PCA, PCB, SHX, AXA, AXB, ECCA, ACC1, ACC2
New England Mountains & Coast (NEMC)
Our fearless NEMC squad hit the water today and took on the white waters of the Kennebec River. Rafting resulted in lots of splashing, smiling, and sunscreen application! While they were smart and did not bring cameras with them for this part of the day, this means that we unfortunately do not have photographic evidence of the adventure. Thank goodness for these pics from their hike and waterfall peeping!
Colorado’s Rocky Mountains (CRM)
CRM seized the day with a sunrise hike in the wee hours of the morning. How do you try to top that? Checking out the Alluvial fan to stay cool, followed by a scavenger hunt!
Maine Coast College Essay (MCCE)
Today is the day they’ve been working towards – the college essayists put the final touches on their writing this morning and will have the opportunity to share their final product with the group at the end of the day. We’re so proud of all the hard work they’ve put in and hope they enjoy the well-deserved dinner they’ll have out on the town tonight!
Maine’s Downeast Explorer (DEXA & DEXB)
It was with heavy hearts that we waved goodbye to our Downeast Explorers today. The groups have hiked numerous mountains, kayaked the sea, conquered the backcountry, and have a lot to be proud of as they return to their homes all across the country.
Costa Rica Language & Service (CRLS)
Similarly, our CRLS group said “adios!” and are flying homeward with memories, further developed Spanish skills, and a new Apogee family. ¡Hasta próxima!
California Mountains & Coast (CMCA & CMCB)
Three goodbyes in a row? Say it ain’t so! CMC A&B took their memories and photos from the Yosemite backcountry, day hikes, surfing, kayaking and more, and headed home. We have no doubt they’ll continue to be California Dreamin’ for the next few months…
Montana Service Adventure (MSA)
Leader Emily reports that the theme of today day was community service and thumbs on the lens – as expertly displayed in their photos below! The MSA team spent their first community service day working at a community garden shoveling, weeding, and harvesting. The group was described by our community partners as “hard workers” and “really fun” – we’re beaming with pride here at HQ!
Northwest Explorer (NWXA)
Having led this trip back in 2013, I can tell you firsthand that this group is undoubtedly soaking in stunning views of all that Washington has to offer – snow capped peaks, wildflowers, sunny skies… but unfortunately we’re left with just our imaginations to picture it as the quality of the cell service hardly matches that of the backdrop.
Northwest Explorer (NWXB)
After exploring Washington by water yesterday, the group decided to forge ahead by foot and hiked in for their first night in the backcountry. The remote forests of Washington are good for many things – none of which are cell service related. Can’t wait to see pics when they emerge!
Pacific Coast (PCA)
PCA was full of sunshine and smiles today! You may not be able to tell because both photos are chock full of blue skies, blue ocean, and no blue feelings, but the top photo trickled in from yesterday’s time at Battle Rock while the latter was from today’s ride south. These folks don’t need to worry about Vitamin D deficiency!
Pacific Coast (PCB)
PCB made up for their lack of photos yesterday in stellar fashion. Not only do we have photographic evidence of them crushing (and mocking) the Seven Devils, but it looks like between yesterday and today they’ve found time for picnics on the beach, selfies, and rocking the latest in high viz fashion!
Scottish Highland Explorer (SHX)
What could be better than amazing views of the Scottish waters? Soaking it in with a side of fish and chips! Max and Sam’s Highland team enjoyed the local dish – OK, fine, technically it originated in England, but close enough!
Alps Explorer (AXA)
Our AXA’ers spent today hiking along the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps. Between the dramatic mountains, historic glaciers, and tiny hillside towns, we can’t help but wish we could make our way out there to join them!
Alps Explorer (AXB)
It was a big day for the AXB crew. Not only did they start the Tour du Mont Blanc, but they also hiked from Switzerland into France. When was the last time you hiked from one country into another? For me, never!
Europe Coast to Coast (ECCA & ECCB)
We can hardly believe it, but our Euro Tour has come to an end. Our ECCers are headed home and we miss them already! Thank goodness we have this montage of pastry eating photos to get us through until ECC begins next summer…
America Coast to Coast (ACC1)
ACC1 has come upon the world famous Pie Town, NM. Yes, you read that correctly, there is, in fact, a town in New Mexico called Pie Town. And guess what? Your assumptions are also correct! They are proud of and known for the many, many pies that are baked within town parameters. It had to earn its name somehow… fingers crossed for pics of a pie eating contest from ACC1 soon!
America Coast to Coast (ACC2)
ACC2 hit the road bright and early today – rocking their matching jerseys! With a beautiful sunrise to get them through the morning, they made it in to camp in great time and look forward to a day off the bikes tomorrow.
