By Apogee HQ (a collective effort)
Each day we receive pictures and messages from our groups all over the globe. We gather around to “ooh” and “ahh” over the amazing places and incredible adventures our groups are exploring. Whether they’re hiking, biking, paddling, or doing service work, one of the best things about this perspective is the ability to see our groups really hit their stride.
Cape Cod & the Islands (CI1): It’s a surfing safari for our Cape Cod & the Islanders today! The group rode an easy four miles to the beach, put on their wetsuits, and hit the surf. Trip leaders Grace and Henry said the group had an amazing day in the water, and it sounds like surfing was definitely a highlight of the trip thus far. It’s hard to believe, but the group has only two more days of riding before their final day in Boston! 
Caribbean Service Adventure (CSA1): Our Caribbean adventurers transited from the main Island to the small island of Vieques today. They made the best of a missed ferry and hit the mountains of El Yunque to check out the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system. The group will spend the final portion of their trip volunteering with local teens and pass the afternoons at some of the most beautiful beaches the Caribbean has to offer. Not a bad way to spend your days!
Vermont to Montreal A (VM1A): Bienvenue á Canada! Red and Ariel’s crew powered across the border and into Canada this afternoon.After crossing the border, the group enjoyed the refreshingly flat farmland in the latter part of their ride.
Vermont to Montreal B (VM1B): The VM1B crew headed to Grand Isle today, their last stop in the United States before they cross into Canada tomorrow. The group woke up early today to ride to the famous Burlington bike ferry and were lucky to avoid an encounter with the fabled Lake Champlain Monster, Champy.
Maine’s Downeast Explorer A (DEX1A): Today these adventurous Downeasters head into the backcountry of the Appalachian Trail for their two-night adventure. The Appalachian Trail spans 2,190 miles and traverses 14 different states – this group will get to check out some of the Maine highlights in the famed 100 Mile Wilderness. They’re geared up and ready to go – experiencing wilderness and learning how to live with only what they can carry for a few days. Let the backcountry bonding begin! We’ll lack photos for the next few days as there is very limited cell service, but look forward to a multitude of photos as soon as they emerge on Sunday!
Maine’s Downeast Explorer B (DEX1B): Today is a big day for this group, they hiked Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in the Maine and the northern terminus of the Appalachian trail! Their legs, well-warmed from their time on the AT, were ready for this bike hike. Mount Katahdin looms, in all it’s beauty, at 5,268 feet – and this group conquered it today!
Costa Rica Language & Service (CRLS1): It’s our CRLS crew’s first full day at their ecolodge deep in the rainforest! They made it to the ecolodge yesterday afternoon, and were welcomed by a local family who runs the lodge with a delicious home-cooked meal. The group fell asleep last night to the gentle roar of the nearby waterfall and woke up bright and early to get started on their day’s service project working the sustainable garden on the land. Their afternoon was spent exploring the grounds and cooking under the supervision of “Mama Rosa.” Sadly we don’t expect pictures for the next couple of days, but we’re eagerly awaiting photos on Sunday!
Coast to Quebec A (CQ1A): The CQA-ers hit the water for an adrenaline-filled day as they raft down the Kennebec River. This day of “rest” is sure to leave them charged up as they prepare for their biggest day of riding yet as they cross the border tomorrow into Canada.
Coast to Quebec B (CQ1B): The CQB crew woke up this working to the smell of fresh pancakes. Happy for some cooler riding temperatures and guided by their fearless leaders Jess and Tim, the team was well-fueled and ready for their forty-mile ride today.
California Mountains & Coast A (CMC1A): Today is Day Two of CMCA’s backcountry adventure. As they head deeper into the Yosemite wilderness, they can expect to encounter more gorgeous views and fewer people. Experiencing the beauty and isolation of the Tuolumne Meadows is an opportunity that few ever get to experience, so we can’t wait to hear (and see) all about it in just two short days.
California Mountains & Coast B (CMC1B): For the last week, Jessi and Nick’s gang has been experiencing California’s “Mountains,” and now it’s time to enjoy the “Coast” portion of the trip. As they kayak through Tomales Bay, part of the Point Reyes National Seashore, they’ll keep their eyes peeled for seals, pelicans, and bat rays! Tonight, they may even have the opportunity to witness the unique bioluminescence of Tomales Bay.
Montana Service Adventure (MSA1): The group rode today from Augusta to Choteau on a relatively easy 28-mile day. The group got into camp very early and had the rest of the day to enjoy a picnic lunch, and walk around and explore small-town Montana. The group continues to be crushing their mileage each day, and it’s hard to believe, but they’re only a few days away from hitting the gorgeous peaks of Glacier National Park!
Northwest Explorer (NWX1): Today our Nor’westers are resting after a fun day of rafting yesterday. They may squeeze in a day hike today to keep their legs warm, but will largely be resting and resupplying for their biggest adventure yet – the five-night North Cascades backcountry section that will begin tomorrow!
Pacific Coast A (PC1A): After surfing along the Pacific coast yesterday, the group was ready to hop back on their bikes. They had a 28-mile ride down the coast with gorgeous views throughout the entire day. They made their way into elk country today – hopefully they’ll see a few!
Pacific Coast B (PC1B): It’s PCB’s “rest” day today as they trade in their bikes for surf boards as they hit the water. The group had a slow morning in the fog – sleeping in and enjoying a big breakfast before heading to the beach. After an great day on the waves, the group did some grocery shopping and prepared for the next stretch of riding. 
Scottish Highlands Explorer (SHX1): Today our SHX hard-chargers headed up the infamous“Devil’s Staircase” on their hike into Kinlochleven. Stopping at a grocery store along the way to refuel, the crew is enjoying the dry(er…) weather today. They’ll be enjoying the delights of three nights under a roof while in Fort William starting tomorrow.
Alps Explorer (AX1): Le deuxième jour á France! After meeting up their French Mountain Guide this morning, our Alps Explorers trekked up to the gorgeous Lac Blanc. Based on the weather report, we expect to see some epic views of Mont Blanc tomorrow when they’re back in cell service. Tonight, they’ll get to experience their first refuge, or mountain hostel, which includes an authentic four-course meal and a roof over their heads. There may even be a hot cocoa or two involved… Pictures to come tomorrow!
Europe Coast to Coast (ECC): The ECC crew continued their trip through the Netherlands, boarding a ferry to Renesse this morning, providing them a nice break from being in the saddle. Renesse, a coastal village in the Dutch province of Zeeland, thrives on tourism and is a bustling and popular spot for hiking, biking, and enjoying the beach. The group found two amazing playgrounds to explore – because you’re never too old to go down the kiddie slide (or jump on the great big bouncy thing).
America Coast to Coast 1 (ACC1): ACC1 had an early day today, rolling out of Richville Volunteer Fire Dept. at 5:30 AM. With sunny skies today, the crew was very excited to be well on their way.
America Coast to Coast 2 (ACC2): Having made it LaGrange for their first well-deserved day of rest, the ACC2 crew picked up mail at the first mailstop of the trip. Now having completed nearly 400 of the 2,710 miles that stand between them and the Pacific.
