Venture with APU’s Journeys program for challenges beyond the classroom

When you begin your Early Honors program with an APU Journeys adventure, you’ll start the school year with a sense of accomplishment – and a whole new group of friends to greet as you make your way to class.

Journeys are five-day, four-night excursions to remote and scenic destinations in Southcentral Alaska. As an Early Honors student, you’re welcome to join one of our sea kayaking, river rafting or backpacking trips. Journeys are scheduled annually in mid-August and organized by the APU Outdoor Recreation Program.

Students often tell us that Journeys travel is among the highlights of their time at APU. Moderate fitness is recommended, but you need not be an outdoors expert to join us. Enrollment is limited on a first-come, first-served basis.

If Alaska is your new home, an APU Journeys adventure is an affordable way to see backcountry that most people only dream about. If you’re from the Anchorage area, let Journeys reintroduce you to your big backyard and all it has to teach about leadership, self-reliance, decision making and teamwork.

Journeys trips are billed separately from your Early Honors tuition for travel Aug. 17 through Aug. 23. A pre-trip meeting Aug. 16 reviews your itinerary and safety procedures and lets you get to know group members and leaders. Learn more about schedules, gear, expectations and fees.

• Sea kayaking starts with a full day of paddling practice in the APU saltwater pool. Next is a water taxi ride through Passage Canal on your way to exploring Blackstone Bay south of Anchorage. Paddle, hike and camp through a landscape of tidewater glaciers and habitat attracting eagles, moose, black bear, whales, porpoise and seals, among others wildlife.
• For a backcountry float trip within view of the Alaska Range and Mount McKinley, join Journeys for Chulitna River rafting, north of Anchorage. Rapids up to Class II are a feature as well as tributary streams for excellent fishing for trout, Dolly Varden and grayling. You will need a valid Alaska fishing license. Rafting equipment is provided.
• Soak up Alaska’s long summer days with Journeys as you backpack in the Talkeetna Mountains north of Anchorage. Bushwhack through wilderness and explore alpine trails while you watch for wildlife roaming through glacier-carved valleys. You should be moderately fit; some backpacking experience is helpful but not required.

Journeys introduces you to skills you’ll rely on as you explore backcountry in Alaska and beyond. And because each Journeys trip includes APU student leaders, you’ll hear firsthand from exemplary peers willing to help you navigate college life.

Journeys leaves plenty of time for you to ask questions and talk over your personal and academic goals. You’ll return to campus ready for Orientation fun and the start of your Early Honors year.

Apply now to the Early Honors program at Alaska Pacific University.