Come for adventure, prepare for life.
From multi-day backpacking or canoeing expeditions in the Adirondacks and the White Mountains to rock climbing and custom challenge course programs at Gordon College, La Vida offers a broad range of outdoor programs for youth, families and a wide variety of groups. These experiential learning environments foster character and leadership development to prepare you to contribute to the greater good in your community and the world.
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Programs
ADVENTURE CAMP
A week-long summer day camp for ages 10–15 with a high ropes course, kayaking, mountain biking and more.
Adirondack Expeditions
Backpacking and canoeing trips focused on developing transformational leadership, exploring your faith and building community.
Adventure Pursuits
Team-building activities that provide meaningful and memorable adventure experiences for groups like schools, non-profits and families.
Rock Gym
Indoor climbing opportunities that build strength and confidence for people of all ages and abilities on the North Shore.
Adventure Retreats
Custom experiences that create long-lasting memories for schools, churches and families.
Which Program is Best for Me?

what we stand for
La Vida’s Mission
Our mission is to catalyze character formation, cultivate community and develop servant-leadership skills in individuals, groups and organizations through outdoor experiential education.
ABOUT LA VIDA
STAFF OPPORTUNITIES
We hire seasonal staff throughout the year to facilitate outdoor and indoor experiences for participants of all ages. Staff are trained to belay at our ropes course and rock gym and are trained in other outdoor skills like map and compass, camping, mountain biking and more. Learn More »
OUR TEAM
Our core office staff of eight have a combined expertise of over 100 years. Each of us is an integral part of making La Vida a success. Meet us⇒
GIVE
Every gift matters. We need the entire La Vida community to rally together as our belay team. Make a gift⇒
Our Partners
Through the years, La Vida has partnered with a host of area non-profits. Together, we have guided kids, teens and adults through the life-changing experience of outdoor education and adventure activities. Without these partnerships, our mission and ministry wouldn’t be what it is today. We’re so grateful for them!
Stories from the Trail
Read articles, reflections and stories from members of our staff, students and our alumni community on our blog.
La Vida Summer Testimonies
Adirondack Expeditions and Retreats "Wow, thank you all so so much! Mom of recent La Vida participant. What an amazing experience and wonderful guidance and leadership he experienced. I wanted to personally thank you...for all you did this summer for so many. I am...
La Vida’s Run Dedication and the Power of Prayer
At the end of every La Vida Adirondack Expedition, participants are driven 8.6 miles away from base camp and challenged to run, safely and at their own pace, back to camp before packing up gear and loading up the vans for their return home. For many participants,...
From woods to table: Former guide leads food to those in need
A few short weeks after Steph Tyler Smith began her new role at Food for Free, the world shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic. During a time when organizations were scrambling to stay open, Steph’s team at the hunger relief non-profit pivoted, to create new...
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