Southwest Journey

Detailed Itinerary

Dates: July 8– August 1 (25 Days)

Activity List: Whitewater rafting and inflatable kayaking, camping, peak ascents, rock climbing, mountain biking, Hopi culture and community service, basic photography skills

Arrive and Depart: Durango Airport (DRO) or Deer Hill Basecamp, Mancos, Colorado

“My Deer Hill experience was profound. Connecting with diverse people, with nature and myself is something I will always cherish. It truly changed my life, and I thank you all for making the experience so rich.” Kiley, Los Alamos, NM

Day 1

Arrival and orientation at Deer Hill Basecamp. Welcome dinner. Get to know your group and leaders.

Day 2

Pack for river expedition, depart for Moab, Utah

Days 3-9

Enjoy spectacular chartered flight into Sand Wash River launch to begin 87-mile rafting expedition on the Green River. River skills and Leave No Trace camping, class 3 and 3+ rapids, day hikes and group activities. Optional Basic Photography workshop on the river.

Day 9

River take-out, showers and laundry in Green River, Utah. Meet Basecamp staff to resupply fresh food and gear for the next phase of the trip.

Day 10

Travel to Hopi pueblo, set up comfortable camp and kitchen area, meet hosts, review work plan.

Days 11-16

Service projects, cross-cultural interaction and native arts project in a Hopi community.

Day 16

Say farewell to hosts and return to Deer Hill Basecamp; volleyball, swim in the Deer Hill pond, home cooked meals.

Day 17

Pack for the mountains; set-up camp near the Lizard Head Wilderness.

Days 18-20

2-day climbing camp and peak ascent/hike

Days 21-23

Mountain biking camp in the San Juan Mountains, using Boggy Draw and Phil’s World trail system.

Day 24

Back at Basecamp, sweat lodge ceremony, banquet and photo slideshow. Perfect and print your best shot from the trip.

Day 25

Breakfast, farewells, departure

“Deer Hill was eye-opening and rocked my world. I feel so glad that I was able to participate in this amazing experience. I have changed as a person in 25 days. i love that!” Gavin, Salt Lake City, UT