In an age of extreme sports there is a growing tendency to have a "been there, done that" attitude. But does extreme learning accompany the experience? La Vida provides participants with more than just extreme experiences.
Our mission is to provide a supportive experiential environment that encourages participants to explore the meaning of their relationship with Jesus Christ and foster a deeper personal commitment to Him.
We do this by providing youth and their leaders with challenging, small-group, wilderness adventures, facilitated by trained and qualified staff, all through which God's Word can be heard, experienced and integrated into daily life.
Email the Director of Adirondack Programs for more information
La Vida consists of four phases that take place during an 8-12 day mountaineering, canoeing or kayaking expedition. Patrols are composed of 6-10 participants and two La Vida instructors, or Sherpas. See the images below to read more about each phase.
Training Phase: Training begins with group initiatives/team-building games and ropes course. Lessons include: minimum-impact (Leave No Trace) camping skills, rock climbing, rappelling and backpacking, canoeing or kayaking. Participants are trained with the skills that will allow them to become more self-sufficient later in the trip.
La Vida is an educational adventure designed to develop character, leadership and Christian maturity. The effects of La Vida have been so transformational on Gordon students, that the College requires an Outdoor Education experience prior to graduation.
The Adirondacks!
La Vida trips experience breathtaking natural beauty from some of the highest peaks in the Northeast. The Adirondacks consist of over six million acres of protected state land. The ADK State Park is the largest state park in the continental United States, boasting a rich natural and cultural history.
Adirondack Weather
Check out the weather at La Vida's Base Camp in Lake Clear, NY.
Adirondack Mountain Club
A non-profit membership organization that protects wild lands and waters through a balanced approach of conservation and advocacy, environmental education, and responsible recreation.
Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics
The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics is dedicated to promoting and inspiring responsible outdoor recreation through education, research and partnerships.
Wilderness Education Association
The La Vida Center for Outdoor Education is an official WEA affliate
Wilderness Medical Associates
The WMA has provided La Vida with practical, expert training in wilderness and rescue medicine since 1999.
ADK Brochure (PDF)
2009 brochure for the ADK High School Program
La Vida Staff Letter (PDF)
Letter from the Director about working in the ADK's
Adirondack NEW Staff Application (PDF)
Apply to work in the ADK's this summer!
ADK Staff Recommendation Form (PDF)
All new staff must have 3 recommendations completed
Adirondack RETURNING Staff Application (PDF)
Apply to work in the ADK's this summer!