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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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FD Community (18+)

Hiking | Roanoke Hiking – September 12th

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Join Local FD member Catherine ("Ollie") for a fun Roanoke hike on Dragon's Tooth Trail! Saturday, September 12th | 9:00 AM Important Details Location: Meet at the I-81 Exit 140 Park and Ride to catch the Dragon's Tooth Shuttle. The shuttle will depart at 9:00 AM so be sure to get…

Eligibility: Open to new participants
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FD Community (18+)

Hiking | Stony Brook State Park Hiking – September 12th

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Join Local FD member Jonathan ("Wet Jacket") for a fun Stony Brook State Park hiking adventure! Saturday, September 12th | 10:00 AM Important Details Location: Stony Brook State Park Activity: Hike 2.3 miles on the Rim Trail Loop Cost: There is a parking fee of $9 per car What to bring:…

Eligibility: Open to new participants
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FD Community (18+)

Paddle Boarding | Morrison Paddleboarding – September 12th

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Join Local FD member Kelly ("Humble B") for a fun paddleboarding adventure at Bear Creek Lake Park! Saturday, September 12th | 9:30 - 11:30 AM Important Details Location: Bear Creek Lake Park! Meet at Rocky Mountain Paddle Board Rentals Activity: Paddleboarding on Big Soda Lake! Cost: $15 per vehicle to enter…

Eligibility: Open to new participants
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FD Community (18+)

Rock Climbing | Durham Climbing – September 14th

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Join local FD Community member Yujia ("Metro") for a fun Durham climbing adventure at Triangle Rock Club!  Monday, September 14th | 7:00 PM Important Details Location: Triangle Rock Club Activity: Indoor Rock Climbing Cost: $15 per person What to bring: Water and snacks, all equipment provided! Whether it’s your first time…

Eligibility: Open to new participants
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FD Community (18+)

Paddle Boarding | Pittsburgh Paddle Boarding – September 19th

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Join local FD Community member Yvonne (“Hummingbird”) for a fun Pittsburgh Paddle Boarding adventure at Allegheny Islands State Park on a guided paddleboard eco tour through alluvial islands, beaches, and abundant wildlife. The guided tour will be followed by plenty of time to explore on your own and relax on…

Eligibility: Open to new participants
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FD Community (18+)

Rock Climbing | Central New York Climbing — September 19th

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Join FD community members Jim and Marcie ("Rock Dancer") from The Clark Sports Center for a full day of awesome Central New York climbing! Saturday, September 19 | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM *This program is now on a waitlist. Feel free to still sign up, and someone from our…

Eligibility: Open to new participants
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