RIVER WRITERS
August 2nd - August 8th
This Trip is Now Full ...
to be added to the waiting list, please email: trevor@openroads.org
There may be no better place to unplug, to take a break from the hustle of everyday routines, and to seek clarity about the life you want to create after high school, than on a river!
August 2nd - 8th, 2023
This summer, Open Roads is curating a co-ed adventure for rising high school seniors that is focused on providing time in nature where we can unplug and reflect on the lives we want to create. In addition, participants will get an introduction to documentary storytelling as a way to begin the process of writing their personal statement for college applications.
Our belief is that this combination of experiences will leave us with an increased confidence in our ability to navigate a healthy and grounded path through high school, to college, and beyond, while getting a jump on the often stressful college essay -- something every student (and parent) will appreciate.
The heart of the adventure is a river rafting trip through the majestic Gates of Lodore Canyon, on Utah's Green River -- one of our country’s most awe-inspiring wilderness areas. The focus of this trip is to use the unique opportunity that river travel offers as a time to decompress, reflect on our values, and share stories of how to make the most of this pivotal time in life.
The trip will also be a thrilling and fun journey with a combination of exhilarating rapids, peaceful flat water, hikes to waterfalls and native rock art, camping under the stars, time for play, and so much more.
We are partnering with Holiday River Expeditions, who we have worked with for over 20 years. Holiday handles all river logistics, food prep on the river, and will provide a wonderful introduction to the one-of-a-kind geology that will inspire us at every turn.
RIVER WRITERS 2023 SCHEDULE
Wednesday, August 2nd
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Arrive at the Salt Lake City Airport before Noon MT
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Begin travel as a group to Vernal, Utah
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Meet Holiday River Guides for basic introduction to river travel and to pick up gear
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Camp nearby and pack for the adventure ahead
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Opening circle to set intentions and learning to listen to stories
Day Two
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Wake up to the sound of the river
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Learn about meal prep and planing
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Explore Dinosaur National Monument
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Orientation day will include a few short hikes, an introduction to documentary writing and photography
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Prepare for the river launch!
Day Three
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Enter the canyon through the impressive Gates of Lodore and imagine you’re entering the great unknown
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This day bring the first major rapids we’ll navigate
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Spend the night sleeping under the stars with an epic chance to see the night sky as never before
Day Four
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The “Gates” mark the beginning of high desert country (the Colorado Plateau) in what is deemed an ecological transition-zone: a landscape teeming with wildlife
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As the canyon narrows, more rapids emerge and we will have the opportunity to discover a secluded waterfall
Day Five
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At the confluence of the Green and Yampa rivers at Echo Park, the canyon widens and the river circles Steamboat Rock
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Beyond this, the river cuts through the dramatic Mitten Park Fault and enters Whirlpool Canyon
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The afternoon may be spent at Jones Hole Creek, a blue-ribbon trout stream with side canyon petroglyphs and a waterfall
Day Six
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Enjoy a peaceful morning in Island and Rainbow parks before entering another massive gorge
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The Green’s powerful forces cut laterally through Split Mountain’s uplifted and colorful core
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Slide into the take out at approximately 2:00 p.m. Our expected time of arrival back at our headquarters is 4:00 p.m.
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Drive to Salt Lake City for a final banquet and prepare for return home
Tuesday, August 8th
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All participants fly home from SLC, departing before Noon
OTHER DETAILS
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All camping and other gear will be provided by Open Roads and Holiday River Expeditions. Participants only need to bring the clothing on the recommended packing list, which is also accompanied by a useful FAQ
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Participants are responsible for booking their own travel to and from Salt Lake City
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Please contact Open Roads if you need assistance.
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Every other element of travel from arrival to departure will be handled by Open Roads.
PLEASE CONTACT US FOR TRIP COSTS
PARTIAL AND FULL SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE!
Participant Forms
Please complete all forms below. Holiday River Expedition Forms are to be completed via the links. If you have any questions please email sam@openroads.org.