AAVE: Ultimate Alaska Program Overview & Recommendation

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Choice Camps Recommendation of AAVE: Ultimate Alaska

Since 1976, more than 10,000 students from 48 U.S. states and over 40 countries have enjoyed AAVE trips throughout the world. AAVE programs combine adventure travel with service work, language study, and wilderness skills through carefully-crafted itineraries. All AAVE programs include community service projects which contribute to the environment and communities visited.

The "All About Visiting Earth" community consists of teenagers who choose active participation, individual responsibility, and who respect and care about one another. AAVE trips are led by top-notch trip leaders who teach skills that lead to a lifetime of exploration, friendship, enjoyment, and personal growth. For families looking for a summer that will exceed their expectations for leadership, safety, adventure, fun, and depth of programming, AAVE may be the perfect choice.

Trip Description

AAVE’s Ultimate Alaska adventure begins with stunning scenery and abundant wildlife in the Chugach mountain range. Here, you enjoy a four-day backpack as well as a "give back" service project in the areas you visit.

You then head to Seward, one of Alaska's oldest and most scenic towns, to participate in a magnificent sea kayak adventure out of Resurrection Bay.

Next, you enjoy an unforgettable Alaskan mountaineering experience on the Matanuska Glacier. After being outfitted with crampons, ice axes and climbing gear, you get an introduction to the exhilarating sport of ice climbing. Then, you hit the ice!

On the Matanuska River you spend two days rafting class III and IV rapids. Your final adventure is a five-day exploration of the Denali region where you backpack along the Kesugi Ridge in the shadow of Mt. McKinley, the highest peak in North America.

Staff Overview

AAVE trip leaders are highly motivated role models with extensive experience working with teenagers in adventure environments. All Trip Leaders are certified in the highest levels of first aid, CPR, and lifeguard training. AAVE Trip Leaders are at least 21 years old and are current college students or graduates.

Setting & Accommodations

AAVE Ultimate Alaska trip participants enjoy traditional camping accommodations.

Safety Standards

AAVE Trip Leaders have a minimum certification of Wilderness First Responder or Advanced Wilderness First Aid. Many are certified Adult Wilderness EMTs and life guards.

AAVE is accredited by the American Camp Association and meets more than 300 safety standards set forth by the organization.