Come for adventure, prepare for life.
From multi-day backpacking or canoeing expeditions in the Adirondacks and the White Mountains to rock climbing, team building 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, strengthening 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.
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 seven have a combined expertise of over 70 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!
Reserve a Private Campsite at the La Vida Base Camp in NY
We’ve partnered with Hipcamp to provide basic campsites for those looking to explore the beauty of the Adirondacks. Check out our listing and availability on the Hipcamp website.
Stories from the Trail
Read articles, reflections and stories from members of our staff, students and our alumni community on our blog.
Abby’s Story
After 16 incredible years of service at the La Vida Center, Abby Stroven is beginning a new chapter as CEO of Toah Nipi Christian Retreat Center. This exciting opportunity allows her to stay connected with college student groups and step into a ministry that uses the...
FOUR WAYS TO CELEBRATE SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE
In my early twenties, I camped for two weeks with a small group as part of a La Vida experience in the Adirondack Mountains. We canoed through the mountains and carried our canoes over our heads when the river got shallow. On the third day, I learned that portaging (carrying a canoe over one’s head for miles) is not something to do alone; some things are just better with two people.
Finding “La Vida” in Forest Bathing
By: Lauren Berg “It’s the best thing I’d never do again,” is something I’ve heard Gordon College students say after their 12-day La Vida Adirondack trips. It’s said lovingly of their experience, an acknowledgment of the profound moments they encountered spiritually,...
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