Outdoor experiences for youth, students, and groups
Many people feel disconnected from nature and one another. The La Vida Center at Gordon College offers outdoor experiences for youth, students, and groups that build confidence, connection, and resilience.
Find the right La Vida experience
Whether you’re registering a child, planning for a group, exploring the rock gym, or preparing for college, start here.
Youth Programs
Day camps in Wenham, MA and overnight teen trips in the Adirondacks, NY.
Outdoor experiences that help kids and teens build confidence, connection, and independence through challenge, friendship, and fun.
Group Programs
Challenge course experiences in Wenham, MA and retreats and trips in the Adirondacks, NY.
Outdoor programs that help groups build trust, teamwork, and connection through shared challenge and guided reflection.
Rock Gym
Indoor climbing, lessons, and private events in Wenham, MA.
A welcoming place to climb, learn, and grow—whether you’re trying it for the first time or planning a group event.
College Programs
Outdoor first-year experiences for Gordon students in Wenham and the Adirondacks.
La Vida helps students build confidence, connection, and resilience as they enter college and prepare for what’s next.

People need more than another activity
In a distracted, screen-saturated culture, many programs are fun in the moment but disconnected from the kind of growth people really need. Parents want more than a way to fill a week. Group leaders want more than a few activities on a schedule. You want an experience that helps people connect, grow, and come away stronger.
If you’ve ever wondered whether an experience will be truly meaningful, you’re not alone.
Why La Vida is different
La Vida is built on the belief that outdoor experiences can shape confidence, connection, and resilience that lasts. Our programs combine meaningful challenge, supportive leadership, and intentional reflection so participants do not just have a great experience in the moment, but grow from it long after it ends.
-
Meaningful challenge
We create experiences that stretch people in healthy ways and help them discover what they’re capable of.
-
Strong relationships
La Vida is designed to build trust, teamwork, and real connection.
-
Growth that sticks
Through reflection, guided facilitation, and shared experience, participants carry what they learn into what comes next.
What people are saying
Ellen
Parent
"La Vida Adventure Camp has action-packed adventures on water, land, and in the air, community building to help all kids feel involved, and caring camp counselors. We're signing up again!"
Electa
Adirondack Expedition Participant
"La Vida is one of the most transformative experiences I have ever had. The integration of spiritual learning and disciplines with physical and tangible experiences, as well as the passion for developing leadership in every group member, make learning and leading something accessible and impactful for everyone who has a La Vida experience. And this is not even to mention getting to spend 12 days exploring the jaw-dropping wonders of the Adirondacks or the depth of community and friendship bonds that it creates for lifetimes. La Vida is stellar through and through."
Judith Claire
Professor at Boston College
“I have brought a group from my university to La Vida Adventure Pursuits for over 10 years. We do a full day of low ropes and high ropes. Each time we go, the event goes smoothly and my students learn a great deal about themselves and working together.”
A trusted leader in outdoor education since 1970
Trained leaders and clear safety practices
Best of the North Shore recognition
Challenge by Choice Participants are supported, not pressured
Rooted at Gordon College
Featured Experiences
What people take with them
La Vida experiences are designed to leave people stronger than they came.
-
Confidence
Discover what you’re capable of.
-
Connection
Build trust, belonging, and stronger relationships.
-
Resilience
Leave better prepared for what comes next.
Getting started is simple.
1. Choose your experience
Find the La Vida program that fits your child, your group, or your goals.
2. Register or contact us
We’ll help you with the details, answer your questions, and guide you to the next step.
3. Show up and grow
Leave stronger, more connected, and better prepared for what comes next.
