What kind of service work can I expect to perform?
We will be performing a variety of service projects on our trip. We will work with Alaska State Parks performing trail work and campground restoration. Other opportunities may also arise to help local organizations. In year’s past we have worked with the Haines Fire Department, with the Alaskan Indian Arts Institute and with the Southeast Alaska State Fair. We have volunteered serving meals at a 4th of July BBQ, built trails on Mt. Ripinski, restored a historic carousel, and helped paint ceremonial totem poles. Expect a variety. The best part about this is that we meet most of the members of the town!
How many hours of service will I perform on this trip?
All participants will earn 40 hours of community service on the Alaska Service trip. You will be issued a certificate of service following your summer experience.
What kind of experience do I need for this trip?
No previous experience is necessary for this trip. Our leaders will teach you everything that you need to know about wilderness travel whether we are sea kayaking, hiking, or rafting. If you are fit and enthusiastic, then you are most than capable of completing the Alaska Service trip.
What kind of weather can I expect in Alaska?
Weather in Alaska during the summer is quite nice. During the day, you can expect sun with warm temperatures. Hiking in a t-shirt and shorts is the norm. In the evening, the temperatures will drop as low as the 40’s, providing the perfect sleeping weather.
Will I see wildlife on this trip?
Southeast Alaska is home to abundant wildlife. During our time in Haines, you will have the opportunity to see moose, grizzly and black bears, wolf, fox, and many other species of mammals and birds. While kayaking near the Chichagoff Island, you can see whales, seals, sea lions, otters, and other aquatic mammals.
Will I need a passport for this trip?
Yes! We will actually cross over into Canada on this trip to go whitewater rafting on the Blanchard River. A valid passport is necessary to enter Canada and then return back to the United States. If you do not have a passport you should consider starting the process as soon as possible as it can take up to six weeks to receive a new passport.
What kind of food will we eat?
Your fellow trip participants, with help from your leaders, will create the menus for your trip. Everyone will be involved in this process to ensure a wide variety of food choices that provide a balanced diet to fuel our bodies. We shop in regular grocery stores and teach you how to plan for and obtain great food for camping expeditions. The food is delicious, healthy, and there will be plenty of it.
How will I get to know more about my leaders before the summer starts?
Before the summer starts your leaders will be sending you a letter introducing themselves. They will include information about their background as well as some details about the service work you will be doing this summer.
How do we get around when we’re in Southeastern Alaska?
The main way of transportation for you and your group is going to be driving in a 15-passenger van. However, we will also get to experience two modes of transportation that make traveling in Southeastern Alaska truly unique: ferries and bush planes.
What will my group be like?
Your group will be the most important and memorable part of your Wilderness Ventures experience. Your group will have 13 students with two leaders, one male and one female. Our groups are co-ed and made up of students from all over the country and internationally as well. The other students in your group will be just as excited as you are about the Alaska Service trip and the activities it has to offer.
