In fielding a lot of questions along the lines of, ‘Why on Earth would you want to do something like that?’ I was able to answer easily…’for the experience. While the brain craves order and finds comfort in patterns, it’s critical and healthy to throw ourselves for a loop every now and again, lest we find ourselves in a rut.’ I once read that the only difference between a rut and a grave is its depth. A rather ominous warning, don’t you think? These kinds of experiences provide time and space to see what’s working, what might need some tweaking and what needs eliminating. It is most excellent time spent getting to ‘know thyself.’
On this course, students will be navigating the Florida Everglades, carrying everything they need in the hull of their sea kayak. Both single and tandem kayaks will be used and students will have the opportunity to spend time in both vessels. Depending on the wind and weather, the level of difficulty will vary from day to day. Crews will practice marine expedition risk assessment and management, route planning, navigation, paddle stroke techniques, kayak-based rescues and equipment use and its care. Once beached, the crew will practice cooking and Leave No Trace camping before tucking in for the night.
A little more than halfway through course, students will participate in a reflection period called Solo. During this time, Instructors assign students their own individual spaces within a designated area. These sites are both secluded and within hearing distance of other group members and Instructors for safety. Students will be given all the necessary gear, food, water and skills to enjoy this time alone. Solo is a great opportunity for students to relax, recharge and reflect on their course after having long days of strenuous group activities. They also know the location of their Instructors should they need to contact them for any reason. Instructors will be monitoring students closely during this experience.
Everglades National Park, Florida
This course takes place off the west coast of southern Florida in Everglades National Park and Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge. As the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and the third-largest national park in the lower 48 states, the Everglades provides a variety of precious wildlife habitats. The aquatic preserve hosts more than 350 species of birds, 300 species of fresh and saltwater fish, and 40 species of mammals within its confines. Everglades National Park is one of only three locations in the world to show up on lists of International Biosphere Reserves, Wetlands of an International Importance, and World Heritage Sites. As a subtropical region, The Everglades have a 12-month growing season. The Florida peninsula is believed to be the last part of the continental United States to rise from the ocean, making it the youngest region geologically and only Alaska can claim a longer shoreline. The Everglades have mild and pleasant temperatures from December through April, with low humidity and clear skies. Temperatures reach average highs of 88 degrees and lows of 54 degrees throughout. These regions are the ancestral lands of the Calusa, Miccosukee, and Seminole nations.
Course Stories
In fielding a lot of questions along the lines of, ‘Why on Earth would you want to do something like that?’ I was able to answer easily…’for the experience. While the brain craves order and finds comfort in patterns, it’s critical and healthy to throw ourselves for a loop every now and again, lest we find ourselves in a rut.’ I once read that the only difference between a rut and a grave is its depth. A rather ominous warning, don’t you think? These kinds of experiences provide time and space to see what’s working, what might need some tweaking and what needs eliminating. It is most excellent time spent getting to ‘know thyself.’
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