This expedition includes:
- River Rafting
- Cross-Cultural Service Learning
- Time at Basecamp
Deer Hill’s classic river expedition offers beginning explorers an opportunity to challenge themselves, build confidence, and grow as individuals. A multi-day journey on the San Juan River provides a space to develop teamwork, resilience, and self-reliance, all while navigating the rhythms of the river and the challenges of expedition life. Along the way, participants engage in meaningful service learning and cultural exchange, fostering empathy, connection, and a deeper understanding of the communities they encounter. This immersive experience empowers participants to discover their strengths, embrace new perspectives, and return home with skills and insights that extend far beyond the river.
“Deer Hill holds a unique and irreplaceable spot in my heart. It feels like a second home.” – Laura, participant
Arrive at Basecamp
Days 1-2
Participants arrive at Basecamp throughout the first afternoon. Their expedition leaders help them become acquainted with Deer Hill as participants meet each other and the group begins to form. In addition to playing games and eating home-cooked meals, the group will pack shared and personal gear for the first part of their trip.
Upper San Juan Rafting Expedition
Days 3-6
All prepped and packed, the group departs Deer Hill Basecamp on Day 3 for the river launch at Sand Island, Utah. They will spend their days on the river, rafting class I and II+ rapids through the deep and sinuous sandstone canyons, exploring side channels, and hiking to overlook points high up the canyon walls. Participants learn to read the river, paddle a raft and inflatable kayaks, and even have the opportunity to try the oar rig. After each day of boating, the group makes camp on a sandy beach where they will prepare dinner, and enjoy the scenery.
Service Learning and Cultural Exchange
Days 7-11
Participants live and work with their Diné (Navajo) hosts, contributing to meaningful community-based projects. The group will learn about Diné traditions and lifestyles, and how these traditions continue to evolve and adapt to our modern society.
Return to Basecamp
Days 12-13
Participants return to Basecamp for program closure. The group cleans equipment and returns it to its storage locations at Basecamp, and returns any rental items to the Deer Hill Store. The group holds a closing ceremony to conclude their experience, and enjoys a cookout and slideshow on the final evening. On the last day of the program, expedition leaders drive participants to the Durango airport to return home.
Ages 15-17*
Session 1: July 29 – August 10, 2026
Session 2: August 4 – August 16, 2026
13 Days
24 Service Hours
$4,200
Start and End at Basecamp
The expedition is bookended with time at Deer Hill’s Basecamp in Mancos, CO. From Days 1 to 3, participants get to know each other as they pack group and personal gear for their river expedition. At the end of their expedition, the group returns to Basecamp for hot showers and home-cooked meals. The final full day will include a closing ceremony and celebration with a cookout and slideshow.
Arrival and Departure:
Durango Airport (DRO) or
Deer Hill Basecamp, Mancos, Colorado.
Arrive 11-3pm; Depart 8:30am-2pm
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