Outdoor Adventure Programs

“First Descents provided me with the foundation to break down the physical and emotional walls that cancer has been building in me. This experience was a catalyst, and just the kind of life changing force I needed.” -First Descents Participant

First Descents provides life-changing outdoor adventures and community support for young adults impacted by cancer and other serious health conditions, as well as frontline healthcare workers and caregivers. Click here to view our full eligibility criteria. Our goal is to get you Out Living It on a program that works for you as soon as possible. From rock climbing in the Adirondacks to whitewater kayaking the Rogue River in Oregon, there is an adventure for everyone. Our adventure programs are fully adaptive and completely free of cost. There’s no better way to start Out Living It with your new First Descents community!

Ready to join us on an adventure? Check out our upcoming programs below and then Apply Today!

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Caregivers

Kayaking | Hood River, OR – Caregivers

June 4, 2023 - June 9, 2023

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: Caregiver Participants, ages 18-45
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Oncology

Kayaking | Hood River, OR – Oncology

June 11, 2023 - July 7, 2023

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

Kayaking | Missoula, MT – Oncology

June 19, 2023 - June 24, 2023

The Blackfoot River winds its way through the heart of western Montana and provides some of the best stretches of water to learn how to whitewater kayak in the country! 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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Oncology

Rock Climbing | Adirondacks, NY – Oncology

June 11, 2023 - June 30, 2023

The Adirondack Mountains offer six million acres of classic rock climbs, warm swimming holes, and wandering 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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MS/ONC Healthcare Workers

Kayaking | Glacier National Park, MT – MS/Oncology Healthcare Workers

June 23, 2023 - June 28, 2023

First Descents is honored to now serve healthcare professionals who have dedicated their lives to improving health outcomes for our alumni and their families. It’s time we care for those who care for our community. Whether you are feeling burned out by work or in need of connecting with others…

Eligibility: MS/Onc Healthcare Worker Participants, ages 18-45,
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Multiple Sclerosis

Kayaking | Buena Vista, CO – Multiple Sclerosis

August 13, 2023 - August 18, 2023

Home to the Arkansas River and towering Collegiate Peaks, Buena Vista is the perfect place to work on your kayaking skills, recharge in nature, and soak up the sunny summer days. The Arkansas River offers everything from scenic float trips to class III and IV whitewater adventures. Over your program,…

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