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Our Programs

To apply for a First Descents program, click the Join Us button below!

Main Program Offerings

Core Programs

Core Programs are available to young adults impacted by cancer and multiple sclerosis, caregivers, and healthcare workers. Participants must be diagnosed with cancer or MS between the age of (15-39) and must currently be between the age of (18-45).

Core Programs

Community Adventures

Part of the Out Living It Project, Community Adventures are adventure experiences created and facilitated by FD alumni and members of the FD community.

Community Adventures

Prescribe Adventure

Partner with FD to improve the emotional and physical health for the adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer and MS patients in your care. Whether you refer patients to our programs or want to sponsor a program, we are committed to supporting your team to address the unique needs of AYA survivors.

Prescribe Adventure

Programs Finder

Programs ensure individualized care, medical attention and intimate experiences with fellow survivors. First Descents programs are offered free of cost to participants.

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FD Community (18+)

Sundance Kayaking Retreat – August 23rd – 27th

August 23, 2026 - August 27, 2026

Join our friends at Sundance Kayak School for a wonderful 4 day FD Alumni Whitewater Kayak Retreat on the Rogue River in Southwest Oregon. This retreat is open to anyone who has already attended a weeklong Core Program (kayaking, climbing or surfing) and is looking to continue Out Living It with…

Eligibility: Open to new participants.
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Oncology

Smoky Mountains, NC – Oncology

May 10, 2026 - June 5, 2026

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Bryson City offers some of the best whitewater kayaking in the American Southeast. With a rich history in the kayaking world and one of the greatest kayak learning centers in the country, this is an unbeatable place for your First Descents…

Eligibility: Oncology Participants, ages 18-45, diagnosed ages 15-39
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Oncology

Hood River, OR – Oncology

June 7, 2026 - July 3, 2026

Located in the famous Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, our Hood River programs are the perfect introduction to whitewater kayaking. You won’t be able to beat the intoxicating thrill of kayaking down glacial runoff from a 12,000-foot volcano, so trust us when we say you’ll be amazed by the…

Eligibility: Oncology Participants, ages 18-45, diagnosed ages 15-39
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Oncology

Missoula, MT – Oncology

June 8, 2026 - June 20, 2026

The Blackfoot River winds its way through the heart of Western Montana and provides some of the best stretches of water in the country to learn how to whitewater kayak! Get immersed in the beauty of Big Sky Country and experience the magic of First Descents, all while kayaking with…

Eligibility: Oncology Participants, ages 18-45, diagnosed ages 15-39
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Caregivers

Clark Fork, MT – Caregivers

July 12, 2026 - July 17, 2026

The Clark Fork River winds its way through the heart of Western Montana and provides some of the best stretches of water in the country to learn how to whitewater kayak! Get immersed in the beauty of Big Sky Country and experience the magic of First Descents, all while kayaking…

Eligibility: Caregiver Participants, ages 18-45, serving those ages 15-39
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Oncology

Clark Fork, MT – Oncology

July 19, 2026 - August 7, 2026

The Clark Fork River winds its way through the heart of Western Montana and provides some of the best stretches of water in the country to learn how to whitewater kayak! Get immersed in the beauty of Big Sky Country and experience the magic of First Descents, all while kayaking…

Eligibility: Oncology Participants, ages 18-45, diagnosed ages 15-39
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Oncology

Adirondacks, NY – Oncology

June 7, 2026 - June 26, 2026

The Adirondack Mountains offer 6 million acres of classic rock climbs, warm swimming holes, and meandering tree-lined trails. Spend a week learning how to rock climb on some of the most famous granite rock walls on the East Coast with your First Descents crew and the trusted guides at Alpine…

Eligibility: Oncology Participants, ages 18-45, diagnosed ages 15-39
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Multiple Sclerosis

Missoula, MT – Multiple Sclerosis

June 22, 2026 - June 27, 2026

The Blackfoot River winds its way through the heart of Western Montana and provides some of the best stretches of water in the country to learn how to whitewater kayak! Get immersed in the beauty of Big Sky Country and experience the magic of First Descents, all while kayaking with…

Eligibility: Multiple Sclerosis Participants, ages 18-45
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Oncology

Rogue River, OR – Oncology

July 12, 2026 - August 21, 2026

The Rogue River starts its journey at Crater Lake and winds its way through 215 miles of Oregonian wilderness. The warm water, friendly rapids, and lush scenery make it the perfect kayaking playground for beginners and experts alike. Expert guides from Sundance Kayak School will teach you the basics and…

Eligibility: Oncology Participants, ages 18-45, diagnosed ages 15-39
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Oncology

Estes Park, CO – Oncology

August 30, 2026 - September 18, 2026

Join your First Descents community for a week of breathtaking mountain views, connection, and adventure as we climb in Rocky Mountain National Park with our friends at Colorado Mountain School! Rocky Mountain National Park is truly a climber’s paradise, offering hundreds of climbs for all skill levels. Whether you’re new…

Eligibility: Oncology Participants, ages 18-45, diagnosed ages 15-39
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Healthcare Workers

Rogue River, OR – Healthcare Workers

July 5, 2026 - July 10, 2026

The Rogue River starts its journey at Crater Lake and winds its way through 215 miles of Oregonian wilderness. The warm water, friendly rapids, and lush scenery make it the perfect kayaking playground for beginners and experts alike. Expert guides from Sundance Kayak School will teach you the basics and…

Eligibility: Healthcare Worker Participants, ages 18-45
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Healthcare Workers

Santa Cruz, CA – Healthcare Workers

September 21, 2026 - September 26, 2026

Ride the world-famous waves of Santa Cruz, California, on this weeklong surfing adventure with your First Descents community! With a coastline that is also part marine sanctuary, Santa Cruz offers sunny beach days and pristine wilderness that is perfect for catching waves with the incredible guides at Richard Schmidt Surf…

Eligibility: Healthcare Worker Participants, ages 18-45
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