Before You Go

Taking the challenge…

It’s been said Cascadia courses are challenging – jam packed with activity, learning opportunities and plenty of work to support our lifestyle of living in the backcountry or in an unfamiliar foreign country.  Cascadia won’t be a fit for you unless you are willing to put your best foot forward and be ready to meet a multitude of challenges. 

Cascadia courses are often affected by many unknown conditions such as sudden weather changes, itinerary modifications, a shift in focus of a service project, or physical inconveniences.  Students should be prepared to be flexible, come with an open mind and be ready to try new things.

Physically Preparing Yourself…

Climbing, kayaking, backpacking, biking -- all require physical stamina.  If you are reasonably fit and an active person you will be successful and enjoy participating in all of Cascadia’s adventuresome activities.  If you feel your basic level of fitness is below average take time at least a month before your course and begin some physical conditioning.  Try a daily workout, some running or biking.   

Getting to know your course instructors…

Your course instructors will send you a letter of introduction and share some background information about themselves.   Additionally, they will convey pre-course details and give a brief overview of the students you’ll travel with.   

Alcohol Use / Illegal Drugs / Substances / Tobacco Use…

Zero tolerance.  No alcohol. No drugs. No tobacco products.  No possession, no use or purchase of alcohol, drugs or cigarettes. No sexual relations.  Students in violation of this policy will be dismissed.  Each student will be required to sign an honor contract and agree to adhere to the policies of the school.

Do I need a passport?

All students traveling internationally to Costa Rica must have a valid passport. If you do not already have a passport, we recommend you begin the application process as soon as you enroll in a Cascadia course. If you do not have a passport apply for one as soon as possible -- it can take up to six weeks to receive a new passport.

Family Travel…

Cascadia is unique.  We encourage parents to join in on the adventure.  Several courses are specifically designed for parents so that they can experience every aspect of a course with their teens.  See Cascadia’s course offerings:

1. Alaska:  High School Graduation Trip
2. Costa Rica: Alternative Spring Break Trip
3. Costa Rica: Alternative Winter Break Trip

Families also choose our destinations for family vacations and make arrangements to meet their son or daughter after they complete a course.  Meeting times and places can be arranged through the Cascadia office.

Youth Adventure Travel, Oregon Program Summer, Oregon Teen Kayaking Program, Outdoor Adventure Program