West Virginia Highlands Adventure
West Virginia Highlands Adventure
Nine days of backpacking, canoeing, and rafting in the Allegheny Mountains.
Trip Overview
The Appalachian Mountains are the oldest mountains in North America and home to fascinating critters and unique ecosystems. Over the course of this nine-day adventure, we will hike, canoe, raft, and explore the stunning landscapes while spending nights under the stars with new friends. This trip begins with a backpacking trip in the heart of the Appalachian wilderness, where we’ll see waterfalls, search for salamanders and native trout, and learn essential camping skills. Next, we’ll canoe a beautiful section of the Cheat River that features exciting rapids and plenty of swimming holes. During these adventures, participants will develop communication skills, an appreciation for Central Appalachia, and a greater sense of self. On closing day, we’ll celebrate our challenges and successes!
No experience is necessary to join this trip. All you need is a curious, open mind and the willingness to learn about yourself.
More photos from recent expeditions are here.
Intended Outcomes
- Have fun! Participants will get outside and experience outdoor adventures they may or may not have experienced previously.
- Create a community of friends who live nearby.
- Learn technical skills such as navigation, canoeing, and cooking. These skills will prepare participants for future trips with Appalachian Expeditions or on their own.
- Learn leadership and communication skills that will make participants more effective and engaged members of their communities.
- Explore the cultural and natural history of this beautiful region.
Travel Information
Getting dropped off and picked up in Davis?
July 1- Meet us at Blackwater Falls State Park at 9am
July 9- Pick up at Blackwater Falls State Park at 11am
Arriving by plane?
Fly in and out of Dulles International Airport. We will meet you at the airport at the set times below and transport you from the city to the mountains! We’ll camp at Blackwater Falls State Park.
Arrival Day (day BEFORE start of program) – June 30, schedule your flight to arrive between 2-5pm
Departure Day (last day of program) – July 9, schedule your flight to depart between 4-7pm
What is the total cost of the trip?
$2,750
Why do we Charge This?
Safety, fun and learning are our main priorities. Tuition from these programs goes towards our highly developed risk management systems and top of the line gear that will keep participants warm, dry, and safe. Our instructors are the face of our programs, we seek to employ and retain highly qualified instructors and pay them a livable wage so that we can create the best possible experiences for our students. Lastly, as an education program, we are committed to teaching our intentional curriculum to create better leaders and more engaged citizens of this planet. Education is an investment in ourselves and our communities. If you are excited about our programs, but unable to afford the full tuition, consider applying for a scholarship or contacting us directly.
Trip Details
July 1-9
Ages: 13-15
Activities: Backpacking, Canoeing,
and Rafting
Location: Blackwater Falls State Park (prep days and transitions), backcountry wilderness area (backpacking), Cheat River (canoeing and rafting)
Difficulty: 6/10