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 Where does my trip start?
Blue Ridge Expedition begins in the quaint mountain community of Brevard, North Carolina. Whether you are arriving into Atlanta to begin your trip, or into Brevard, Moondance leaders will be in baggage claim to greet you before heading into Pisgah National Forest with the rest of your group!
What happens in a typical day?
That depends on whether you are backpacking, climbing, or rafting, but you can expect to laugh, see a beautiful part of the country, and learn a great deal about each activity. Each morning, one cook group will prepare a feast for everyone to enjoy and then your day will begin by climbing at Looking Glass Rock in Pisgah, by packing packs hiking through the wooded hills and mountains of Appalachia! After a morning and afternoon of hiking to a fantastic lookout, learning how to belay, or sliding down "Sliding" Rock into a pool of water from springs high in the mountains, your group will settle into camp in the evening, share stories, and feast on gourmet delights prepared by each other. Every night ends with 'moon-up;' a chance to debrief the day, talk about upcoming adventures and challenges, and just hang out.
Where are the Blue Ridge Mountains?
The Blue Ridge Mountains are a smaller chain within the Appalachian Mountain Range -- the oldest mountain range in the country. The Blue Ridge begins in north Georgia and runs through West Virginia and Kentucky. It is characterized by lush forests, cool running streams and summits void of vegetation known as "balds".
What if I've never paddled a raft before?
No problem, every raft is guided by a professional river guide who will lead you through the challenging rapids with expert skill. You will learn basic paddling strokes needed for your time on the Nantahala when you paddle your inflatable kayak! As with all of our water sports, everyone is required to wear a personal flotation device - PFD.
Do I need special gear for rock climbing? What about experience?
All of the technical rock climbing equipment is provided. If you own climbing shoes, bring them along. No experience is required! Our professional climbing guides will teach you the skills and knowledge to move safely and efficiently over stone!
What is a ropes course?
 A ropes course is a man made course designed to test elements of teamwork, balance, coordination, and trust. It involves climbing on ropes and logs suspended in the air. During the entire course students wear helmets and harnesses and are roped to a "belayer" on the ground. With a ropes course, there is a challenge for everyone to move beyond his or her comfort zone while trusting in oneself and others for support.
I'm nervous about the ropes course--how safe is it?
It is very safe. Your ropes course activity will be facilitated by a professional ropes course instructor. Ropes, harnesses, and helmets are worn at all times.
Do I need to break in my boots for the backpacking section?
Absolutely! The most common medical injury we face in the backcountry is blisters. Though that may not seem like a big deal, blisters can turn a 6 mile hike into a nightmare if not properly attended. The best way to avoid blisters is to buy boots that fit you properly and to wear them often to break them in. Leather boots can take 1-2 months to break in so start early! Once your trip starts, your leaders will show you how to care for your feet to avoid any unwanted blisters!
How many miles do we backpack in a given day?
Itineraries while in the backcountry can often change since poor weather is possible at any given time. Therefore, your instructors may decide that it is safer to set up camp early rather than continue hiking. Your group will begin to read weather patterns and will start to make these kinds of decisions too, with your instructor's help. Your group may also decide to stop early in order to take advantage of the great fishing in the Blue Ridge Mountains. In any case, this may mean that some days you only hike a couple of miles, while on other days when the weather is ideal and your group feels strong, you knock out 7-8 miles.
What else do we do during our backpacking section?
You'll be hiking among lots of wildlife, so keep your eyes pealed! You'll hone your route-finding skills as you navigate through forests and mountain valleys and perfect your backcountry culinary talent during breakfast and dinner. There will be plenty of streams for fishing along the way and peaks beckoning to be climbed. The art of packing a backpack will become second nature and the simplicity of life while carrying your home on your back will never be forgotten. Due to the Blue Ridge's mild temperatures, swimming could be a possibility at any time along the trip.
What kind of students will be on my trip?
You will be accompanied by other 7th and 8th graders looking for adventure and challenge in the great outdoors. We look for great students who want to grow and learn in some of the world's most spectacular environments.
Will they be my same age?
The Blue Ridge Expedition is only open to current 7th and 8th graders and since we run multiple sections of each trip, there is a possibility that you will only be in a group of students in your grade.
What's the weather like in the Blue Ridge?
The weather is rather mild and should not get too cold. At higher elevations in Pisgah National Forest there is a chance that temperatures could drop to 50 degrees at night. During the day it will be warm enough to welcome any swimming opportunities that may come your way! As with all Moondance trips, your leaders will teach you appropriate layering techniques to ensure that you stay warm and dry in any environment.
What will I learn by the end of my trip?
By the end of your Moondance experience, you will have learned how to cook a great meal in the backcountry, how to find your way using topographical maps and a compass, or how to belay your friend who is rock climbing above you. Most of all, you'll learn that life's lessons are often camouflaged as a brilliant rainbow that follows a storm, a challenging mountain and a heavy pack, or strangers that become family at the end of 14 days. The self-confidence that you can gain by exploring the unknown will provide a constant foundation for your life adventures down the road. |
