Shenandoah Explorer I & II
Located outside of Charlottesville, Virginia the Blue Ridge Mountains offer a diverse and exciting setting for new experiences. During this program, participants embark on an expedition in one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world. Here, we will search for photo opportunities of indigenous wildlife such as white-tailed deer, black bear, and bobcats. We explore one of the headwaters of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed and witness the waters magical elements and species as it continues its journey to the coast. Like scientists, we will make observations, discuss our finds and use tools such as binoculars, dip nets, and field compasses. On the east side of the Central Appalachians, participants experience the watershed using canoes and gain knowledge of the human and natural impacts to Virginia’s waterways.
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Daily Itinerary
Day 1 (Monday): Arrive Triple C Camp
Upon arrival at Triple C Camp, you will be met by our experienced expedition leaders and introduced to the other participants. This morning, we spend time on our thrilling ropes course getting to know one another, becoming a team, and challenging ourselves on our 35 foot climbing tower and zip line. After lunch we continue training for our adventure, by practicing necessary survival and wilderness techniques. The day will conclude around the campfire as we finalize preparations for the following days.
Day 2 (Tuesday): Canoe Trip
This morning, after our Outdoor Adventure Safety Briefing, we depart on our overnight canoe trip. We paddle one of many rivers found in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. The river is determined the week before the trip departs, based upon flow rates. All rivers are easy to moderate paddling and are approximately 16 miles long (covered over two days). During our time on the river, we explore a variety of habitats and experience breath-taking scenery. After enjoying a riverside lunch we will take time to make observations of the rivers’ “critters” and use chemistry to assess the health of this watershed. This evening we set camp riverside, enjoy dinner over the campfire and prepare for our second day of paddling.
Day 3 (Wednesday): Shenandoah National Park
After we finish our canoe trip, we hike along the waterway into the National Park to Chesapeake Bay headwaters. This is where the water begins its long journey. Along the way we take in the vistas and remarkable waterfalls found in this park located just 75 miles from our nation’s capital. The trail takes us through a variety of plant communities providing the perfect opportunity to use plant and tree identification guides. There may even be the opportunity for a swim in a cool refreshing mountain stream. We meet our gear at our campsite. Following dinner, we experience the thrilling sounds of the forest and identify the stars glowing overhead.
Day 4 (Thursday): Shenandoah National Park
In the morning, we visit Big Meadows, a unique wetland found on top of the mountain containing globally rare plant communities. As we explore this region, we discover the importance of protecting wetlands. We visit the Byrd Visitor Center to learn the history associated with this National Park. This is a great opportunity to purchase a souvenir. In the afternoon, we spend the day testing our map and compass skills as we hike off the beaten path in the back country.
Day 5 (Friday): Return to Triple C Camp
The day starts with an art in nature activity, learning basic sketching and journaling techniques scientists use when observing nature. After our activity, we break camp and begin our trip home. During our return to Triple C Camp we stop at various overlooks to discuss the origins of these majestic mountains. When we arrive at Triple C Camp, we have time to unpack and reflect on our adventure before saying goodbye.
General Information
Program Cost
*5-day adventure $425.00
5-day adventure $595.00
Departures
March 8-12* Explorer I
April 5-9* Explorer I
June 14-18 Explorer I
June 21-25 Explorer II
August 2-6 Explorer I
August 9-13 Explorer II
Explorer I and II are two different trips. This allows for two full weeks of fun and excitement.
Participants
Groups will be comprised of co-ed explorers in age appropriate divisions. This expedition is suited for travelers between the ages of 9 and 16.
Group Size
There is a maximum group size of 12 participants. There is a minimum number of participants for this program Triple C Camp reserves the right to cancel the trip based on participation. If we do, full refunds will be provided. Participants will be accepted on a first come and space available basis.
Included
All camping gear with the exception of a sleeping bag; all canoeing gear; all safety training; all meals and snacks from Day 1 am snack to Day 5 pm snack; all transportation; all park fees and permits; GAP Expedition T-shirt.
Not Included
Transportation to and from Triple C Camp; items of a personal nature (personal clothing, toiletries, souvenir spending money, etc.) A full packing list will accompany registration confirmation.
Staff Qualifications
Our Expedition Leaders are trained in First Aid, CPR and Water Safety. Many have additional certifications to include Wilderness First Responder, Boy Scout Merit Badge Counselor, and River Safety and Rescue. Expedition Leaders have completed course in leadership, primitive living skills and watershed education.
Accommodations
We will be sleeping in 4 person, gender specific tents at state recognized camping areas. At Triple C Camp we will be at the Outpost Camping Unit or cabins based on weather.
Climate
Summers can be quite warm. However, the mountains elevation can decrease the temperature by an average of 10 degrees.
Getting To Triple C Camp
Triple C Camp is located five miles south of Interstate 64, off Route 20 in beautiful southern Albemarle County. (A good landmark is the Vintage Market/Citgo Gas Station.) Triple C Camp entrance is 1/3 mile south of the Citgo Gas Station on the east side of Route 20.
Itinerary Changes
Triple C Camp reserves the right to make itinerary changes as necessary to provide a safe and enjoyable experience.
Safety & Trip Enjoyment
Green Adventure Project plans these trips in natural areas where the environment can sometimes lead to unpredictable conditions. To avoid dangerous situations for our travelers, it is extremely important that all rules and regulations set forth by the Expedition Leaders are followed. We reserve the right to prohibit any traveler from continuing a journey if, in the Expedition Leaders opinion, that traveler’s actions pose a threat to the safety of themselves, others, or to the environment or if the traveler’s actions or behaviors are seriously jeopardizing the enjoyment of the trip for others. No refunds will be given if removed for behavior. Participation in the program will require behavior, medical releases and covenants. Communication can be difficult in many locations we will be visiting. Expedition Leaders will carry a phone at all times for communication with the camp.
Cancellation & Refund Policies
We understand how disappointing it is for participants if they are forced to cancel an adventure. We make non-refundable payments for staff and suppliers of transportation in advance, therefore we have a fixed Cancellation and Refund Policy:
- All cancellation requests must be made in writing.
- All cancellations more than 45 days prior to departure will invoke a $250 cancellation fee.
- Cancellations made 45 to 20 days prior to departure invoke a loss of 50% of the entire program fee including extensions.
- Cancellations made within 19 days of departure invoke a loss of the full program fee.
Registration
Please download the Registration Form.
A deposit of $250 is required for each week with registration. You can mail the deposit with your registration form or we will be happy to accept Visa or Mastercard with the understanding that a 3% surcharge will be added.
Deposit accepted with registrations received prior to May 1, with balance due by May 1. Full payment due with registration made after May 1.
Extensions
Expedition extensions are available to accommodate Sunday arrivals and travelers interested in participating in back to back trips. Please contact us for more details.
