JOIN US FOR A 2026 HEALING ADVENTURE!

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.

Filters

Find Your Adventure

Filter By
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
View Program

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
View Program

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
View Program

Oncology

Santa Cruz, CA – Oncology

September 28, 2026 - October 10, 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 School.…

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

Caregivers

Estes Park, CO – Caregivers

August 23, 2026 - August 28, 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: Caregiver Participants, ages 18-45, serving those ages 18-45
View Program

Oncology

Ozarks, AR – Oncology

September 27, 2026 - October 2, 2026

Experience the hidden gem of Southeastern climbing in the Ozark Mountains! You'll be climbing with the outfitters at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, a 350-acre ranch that holds some of the nation's finest sandstone rock and is home to 300+ rock climbing routes. Downtime brings delicious meals made by pro chefs, tranquil…

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

Multiple Sclerosis

Ozarks, AR – Multiple Sclerosis

October 4, 2026 - October 9, 2026

Experience the hidden gem of Southeastern climbing in the Ozark Mountains! You'll be climbing with the outfitters at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, a 350-acre ranch that holds some of the nation's finest sandstone rock and is home to 300+ rock climbing routes. Downtime brings delicious meals cooked by pro Chefs, tranquil…

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

The Out Living It Blog

Out Living It Blog

Read The Blog

Why FD Works

Read More