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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+)

Dragon Boat | Denver Dragon Boat Race – September 26th

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Join local FD Community members Rachel (“Canoe”) and Leilani for a day of Dragon Boat Racing in their cancer survivor boat at the Riverdale Regional Regatta! After the races, there will be a night market with food, performances, and a drone show. This race is a true beginner's race and…

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

Rock Climbing | Castle Rock State Park Climbing – September 27th

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Join local community member Liz (“Pippin”) and our friends over at Adventure Out for an awesome day of climbing in Castle Rock State Park! Sunday, September 27th | 9:00am - 1:00pm Important Details Location: Los Gatos, CA Activity: Rock Climbing -  no experience necessary Cost: $120 per person (this includes gratuity)…

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

Rafting | Asheville Rafting – September 27th

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Join local FD Community member Kimberly (“Fitbit”) for a fun rafting adventure on the French Broad River! Sunday, September 27 | 1:15 PM Important Details Location: French Broad River. Meet Fitbit at Blue Heron Whitewater Activity: Fully guided whitewater rafting trip down section 9 of the French Broad River. 5…

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

Hiking | Ann Arbor Hiking – October 4th

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Join Local FD member Mary ("Sassafras") for a fun Ann Arbor hiking adventure at Gallup Park! Sunday, October 4th | 11:00 AM Important Details Location: Gallup Park Activity: A nice, easy hike along the Huron River! Cost: Free! What to bring: Comfortable hiking/walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat and water. Whether it’s your…

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

Hiking | Massachusetts Hiking – October 18th

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Join local FD community member, Jen (“Moose”), for an awesome Massachusetts hike around Gates Pond in Berlin, MA. Sunday, October 18th | 10:30 am Important Details Location: We will meet at the trailhead HERE. Activity: The hike is a 2.5-mile loop. You can check it out HERE. Cost: Free What…

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

Rock Climbing | Salt Lake City Climbing – October 26th

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Join local FD Community member Hilary ("McHappy") for a fun Salt Lake City climbing adventure at Westminster University!  Monday, October 26th | 6:00-8:00 PM Important Details Location: Westminster University Climbing Wall Activity: Indoor Top Rope Climbing Cost: Free! All equipment, belayers, and climbing instruction will be provided. Max capacity: 30 Participants…

Eligibility: Open to new participants
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