British Columbia

Outdoor Discovery on Vancouver Island With Your Grandchild

Program No. 2677RJ

Kayak, canoe, zipline, rock climb and camp your way through the wooded forests of Vancouver Island with your grandchild, learning all kinds of new skills along the way.

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Enroll with Confidence

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768

Plan ahead.

What kind of weather can you expect? Take a look!

Age 9 - 14

	ROOMING OPTION PRICING The figures below indicate the rooming options available.
DATES
Jul 21 - Jul 27, 2024 Per Adult 2,249 Per Child 1,499 Select
Jul 21 - Jul 27, 2024	2,249 / Adult 1,499 / Child	2,249 / Adult 1,499 / Child	2,949 / Adult 1,499 / Child	Select Date

Jul 27 - Aug 2, 2024 Per Adult 2,249 Per Child 1,499 Select
Jul 27 - Aug 2, 2024	2,249 / Adult 1,499 / Child	2,249 / Adult 1,499 / Child	2,949 / Adult 1,499 / Child	Select Date

Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Outdoor Discovery on Vancouver Island With Your Grandchild

Program No. 2677RJ Deposit at Enrollment: 250 Final payment due: 77 days before departure date

Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Note: These fees apply to at least one date of this program, but may vary by date. Program enrollments are on a per person basis and substitutions are not permitted.

If you transfer or cancel:

fee will be applied if you do not call Road Scholar Participant Services at least one business day prior to the program start date

Cancel Fee: 100% of trip total

less than 30 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: 100% of trip total

Cancel Fee: 100% of trip total

66 to 30 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: 50% of trip total

Cancel Fee: 50% of trip total

up to 67 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: $0.00

Cancel Fee: $250.00

If you transfer or cancel:	Transfer Fee:	Cancel Fee:
fee will be applied if you do not call road scholar participant services at least one business day prior to the program start date		100% of trip total
less than 30 days prior to program start date	100% of trip total	100% of trip total
66 to 30 days prior to program start date	50% of trip total	50% of trip total
up to 67 days prior to program start date	$0.00	$250.00

Road Scholar Program Terms and Conditions

How to Enroll in a Program

Call Us or Enroll Online To enroll

Please call us toll free at (877) 426-8056, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET. You may also enroll online at www.roadscholar.org. To reserve space on a program, Road Scholar requires a deposit followed by final payment.

Road Scholar is Not-For-Profit

Road Scholar is a not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) organization that incurs over $5 million annually on credit card fees. Please help us reduce this cost by paying for your program with a check. Please consider our paperless check option when paying on the phone or over the Internet. Our Advisors are happy to explain this payment option to you.

Tax-Deductible Donations

As a not-for-profit organization, we appreciate and rely on charitable donations to help us develop and maintain high-quality educational programs with exceptional value. Donations from U.S. citizens are tax-deductible as provided by law. As Road Scholar is not a registered charity in Canada, donations are not tax deductible for Canadian citizens.

Financial Assistance

Road Scholar offers two kinds of assistance: Scholarships, for those with desire but not the financial means to participate in our U.S.- or Canada-based learning adventures; and Caregiver Grants, designed to provide a unique respite opportunity for unpaid family caregivers to participate in a U.S.- or Canada-based Road Scholar program. Visit www.roadscholar.org/about/financial-assistance/scholarships, email us at scholarships@roadscholar.org, or call us toll free at (877) 426-8056.

General Program Information

Activity Level Ratings

Each Road Scholar program is assigned an Activity Level rating, ranging from Easy Going to Challenging, which are noted on program webpages. Try our Advanced Search tool to find programs that match your activity level. If you have special needs, or need a little extra help in finding the right program for your level of fitness and ambition, please call us and we’ll work to find options for you.

Disabilities and Special Needs

Road Scholar is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to participants with special needs and disabilities. If you have special needs requiring accommodation, please communicate them to Road Scholar at the time of enrollment. We will discuss your request with you and make every effort to accommodate you.

Service Learning

Our Service Learning programs bring participants together to work as a team to serve worthy projects. Road Scholar and sponsoring service institutions are not-for-profit organizations and are tax-exempt under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The program price may qualify as a tax-deductible gift. However, since individual circumstances vary, we suggest participants contact their tax advisors.

Included Emergency Assistance and Medical Evacuation Insurance

Road Scholar’s continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified in our Road Scholar Assurance Plan. Whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our programs overseas, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under the Road Scholar Assurance Plan. This plan is purchased by Road Scholar on behalf of every participant. The plan provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during your program and insurance for emergency medical evacuation. This plan includes insurance benefits underwritten by Arch Insurance Company and emergency assistance services provided by LiveTravel Assist. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/included-insurance/

Travel Health

In addition to maintaining necessary vaccinations, including seasonal influenza vaccination, Road Scholar recommends all participants consult with their physician, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Department of State regarding their health condition and any recommendations specific to the destinations they will visit or transit well before departure. While Road Scholar does its best to provide pertinent information regarding international health requirements and travel health precautions for travel abroad, please remember we are not health experts and can only share with you the recommendations made by the CDC and the US Department of State. It It is therefore your responsibility to consult with your physician and/or contact the CDC for health information specific to your travel destination. Your physician will be able to assess your overall health and fitness, provide information and guidance on health risks you may encounter while traveling, medication you may need to take, and other precautions for the prevention of injury and illness during your program.

Staying healthy is critical to enjoying your program experience, and taking common sense steps to reduce the risk of getting sick.

A week before you depart on your program, consider limiting your exposure to others. If you must be in public in the week prior to departure, wear a mask.
Do not travel if you are sick, have any symptoms of illness, or if you have had close contact with a person who is ill. Do not risk traveling if you are not feeling well.
Bring a few face masks to the program. Wearing a well-fitted mask is an effective means of protection against airborne viruses, including COVID-19. Wear a mask whenever around others, including when flying and transiting airports. Once on your program, wear a mask whenever you are in public settings, especially if you have a weakened immune system or an underlying medical condition.
Wash your hands often anbd practice good hygiene.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Once on the program, if you do begin to feel ill or have symptoms of illness, immediately isolate and notify the Group Leader.

For those looking for additional resources on this topic, we recommend trusted sources such as your physician, the US Department of State, CDC, and WHO.

U.S. Department of State: www.travel.state.gov
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.gov/travel
World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int/

Your health and safety are of the utmost importance to us. To learn more about Road Scholar’s commitment to our participants’ well-being and the steps you can take to keep yourself healthy when traveling, please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/general-health-safety/

Please also be sure to review our Travel Updates webpage for the latest travel information, steps we are taking to keep your program experience as safe as possible, as well as helpful information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there. www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/travel-updates/

Domestic Travel Arrangements

Programs in the United States and Canada require independent arrivals and departures unless otherwise stated, meaning that you must make your own travel arrangements to and from the program site. If you are flying to your program, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 60 days prior to your program in the United States or Canada to purchase airfare.

International Travel Arrangements

Road Scholar Can Help Arrange Your International Airfare

Almost all of our international programs can be purchased with airfare arranged by Road Scholar. We have negotiated special international rates with major airlines. A list of departure cities can be found by visiting our website or calling to speak with one of our experienced Advisors. As an added benefit, guaranteed airport transfers on the program’s published start and end date are included with your international air travel when arranged through Road Scholar. If your preferred airport is not listed, or you would like to travel on a different day, travel in premium or business class, specify the airline or routing, or travel independently before or after our program, we are happy to customize and create a personalized air travel itinerary to meet your needs. Select the “Custom Flight Arrangements” option and then the airport you want, or discuss your flight preferences with one of our expert air Travel Advisors.

Arranging Your Own International Airfare

If you choose to make your own international air travel arrangements, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 90 days prior to your International program to purchase airfare,

Road Scholar Optional Trip Protection with “Cancel for Any Reason” Coverage

The optional Road Scholar Trip Protection Plan helps protect your investment if you must cancel or interrupt your program for specified, covered reasons, such as illness or injury to you, your traveling companion or an immediate family member of you or your traveling companion. Plus, if you need to cancel your program for any reason not covered by insurance, you will receive a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar for the full amount of the Road Scholar cancellation fee. The plan also provides benefits if you are delayed getting to or returning home from your program and protects your investment should you have an emergency during your program that causes you to miss program days or return home earlier than expected. Your airfare, whether purchased through Road Scholar or independently, is covered at no additional cost — an exceptional benefit and value offered exclusively to Road Scholar participants. You will receive information about this optional travel insurance plan when you enroll in a program. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/protection-plan.

Additional Program Information

Our goal is to make sure our participants have the most enjoyable and rewarding program experience possible. Whether you are considering one of Road Scholar’s many educational adventures or are currently enrolled in a program, we highly recommend you review the additional program information available in the Practical Information section on our website. The section includes a wide range of topics and information -- everything from how to choose the perfect program to traveling solo to insurance. Please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information, or call us if you have specific questions. After you enroll in a program, please be sure to carefully read all pre-program communications and your Program preparatory materials, as they provide important information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there.

Program Policies

Deposit, Transfer and Cancellation Policy

Road Scholar requires deposits for all its programs, and charges fees if you transfer or cancel your enrollment. Deposits and fees vary between programs. Please refer to the Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy on program webpages for specific deposit amounts, and transfer and cancellation fee schedules. Please note that enrollments are on a per person basis and substitutions are not permitted.

About Program Details and Itineraries

We make every effort to operate our programs as advertised. The information on our website is updated regularly, and reflects the most up to date information. We are committed to providing participants with final program details no later than three weeks before the start of land programs within the United States, four weeks for programs International and Afloat programs. and one week for online programs. However, itineraries or other aspects of a program may change due to situations beyond the control. If this happens we will do our best to notify you of the change prior to arriving on your program. We ask you to pack a little extra patience and flexibility, just in case there are last-minute changes to your program.

If Road Scholar Cancels or Interrupts a Program

Road Scholar reserves the right to cancel programs prior to departure, terminate a program early, and to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action. Additionally, due to low enrollment or other unforeseen circumstances, Road Scholar must occasionally cancel or change the dates of a program. When that occurs we will notify you as far in advance as possible and will assist you in transferring your enrollment to another program or refunding your full Road Scholar program payment. If you have made transportation arrangements, such as an airline ticket purchase, Road Scholar will give you a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar to help cover the cost of transferring your travel arrangements for use on a replacement program. The maximum value of the credit will be $300 and documentation of your paid fees is required before issuance of the credit.

Accuracy of Information

While every effort is made to provide accurate information on our website and in our catalogs, Road Scholar is not responsible for typographical errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may relate to program descriptions, pricing, and availability. Road Scholar reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may appear in our publications, and to change or update information at any time without prior notice. If you discover an error on our website or catalog, please let us know.

Program Pricing

As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to providing exceptional educational opportunities at a remarkable value. We do everything in our power to ensure that the published program price is the price you pay. On occasion, costs we can’t anticipate and that are beyond our control arise and may be passed along to you. If this occurs, we will let you know as soon as possible.

Terms and Conditions

Program Selection
We want every participant to have a safe, enjoyable and rewarding program experience. The travel and activities of Road Scholar programs require participants to be in good general health and capable of performing all program activities as described by the program description and its corresponding Activity Level. As a group travel experience, participants must be capable of caring for themselves during the program and agree not to impede the progress of the program or interfere with the enjoyment of other participants. Participants are required to disclose known medical and physical conditions that may interfere with their safety and well being or the safety and well being of others during this program. Road Scholar may limit or terminate the participation in the program at the participant’s expense and without refund any participants who fail to disclose all medical information or do not honestly assess their physical capabilities in advance. With this information in mind, carefully consider the travel and program demands as described on the Road Scholar website, and consult with your physician about your travel plans. If after enrolling you have second thoughts about the program you chose, please call us and we will be happy to assist you in finding a program better suited to your abilities.

Responsibility

Road Scholar’s responsibility is limited. Road Scholar organizes, promotes, and sells educational programs consisting of certain travel services, including land, air, and water transportation, excursions, and cruise/barge/hotel accommodations that Road Scholar purchases or reserves from various suppliers (collectively, “Suppliers”). Road Scholar neither owns nor operates any of these Suppliers; they are independent contractors and are not Road Scholar’s agents. Therefore, Road Scholar is not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any Supplier or any other third party. You agree that you will look to such Suppliers, and not to Road Scholar or its agents, for any accident, injury, property damage, or personal loss you may suffer. Without limitation, Road Scholar is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage to person or property, death, delay, or inconvenience in connection with the provision of, or failure to provide, any goods or services occasioned by or resulting from — but not limited to — acts of God or force majeure, acts of war or civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist activities of any kind, mechanical or other failure of airplanes or other means of transportation, or the failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart on time, or for any other cause beyond the direct control of Road Scholar.

Safety & Risks

Certain risks — from natural disasters to accidents, outbreaks of illness, crime, insect-borne and other infectious diseases, environmental risks to health, terrorism and other unforeseen events — are inherent in travel. While such occurrences are beyond our control, we make substantial efforts to be prepared for such possibilities. Participants are encouraged to review the safety and travel information provided by the U.S. Department of State and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to learn about current security issues, travel advisories and warnings, recent embassy notices, country-specific health information, health risks you may encounter while traveling, precautions for the prevention of illness, disease and general health issues during your program and other helpful destination-specific information. By enrolling in a program, you agree to assume responsibility for your own health, safety, and welfare, and acknowledge that Road Scholar cannot guarantee your safety or health at any time.

Admission & Participation Policy

The granting or denial of admission to a program is within the sole discretion of Road Scholar. Road Scholar reserves the right to revoke admission or terminate or limit participation at any time if Road Scholar reasonably determines a participant’s condition, behavior or actions are inappropriate or disruptive, or adversely affect the participant’s health or safety, or the health, safety or enjoyment of other participants. Road Scholar reserves the right to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s sole opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action.

Photography and Video

Road Scholar reserves the right to take photographs, videos or audio/visual recordings during the operation of any program or part thereof and to use them, whether taken by a representative of Road Scholar or by other participants, for promotional purposes. By enrolling in a Road Scholar program, participants agree to allow their images or recordings to be used for such purposes. Participants who prefer that their images or recordings not be used are asked to identify themselves to program staff and the photographer at the commencement of their program. For Road Scholar online programs, all audio or video recordings, content and materials are the property of Road Scholar. Participants are prohibited from taking screen captures, or making, copying or distributing all or part of any audio or video recordings of online programs.

Online Program Terms

If you enroll in one of Road Scholar’s online programs, you are responsible for the integrity of the device on which you will attend this online program, as well as your own high-speed internet connection. Road Scholar is not responsible for outages or interruptions in internet service. Road Scholar cannot and will not provide recordings, content or materials, or provide reimbursement of any kind, for missed portion(s) of your online program, regardless of the reason.

Seller of Travel Information

Road Scholar’s state of Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602244658. CST #2068427-40. Florida Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST35594.

Modifications to Terms and Conditions

Road Scholar reserves the right at any time to update, change, modify, or revise these Terms and Conditions at any time. Any changes will become effective upon posting the changes, modifications or revisions to the Terms and Conditions. Accordingly, participants should review Road Scholar’s Terms and Conditions regularly prior to travel in order to ensure they are aware of any changes.

© 2023 Elderhostel. All rights reserved. The Road Scholar service marks, logos, website address and other marks are owned by Elderhostel, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring adults to learn, discover and travel.

Optional Trip Protection Plan

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768

7 days

6 nights

17 meals

6B 5L 6D

Check-in, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation

Campbell River, BC

Outdoor Adventures, Canoeing, Swimming

Campbell River, BC

High Ropes, Zipline, Kayaking, Orienteering

Campbell River, BC

Kayaking, Rock Climbing, Canoe Field Trip Prep

Campbell River, BC

Nature Walk, Overnight Canoe Field Trip, Camping

Campbell River, BC

Canoeing, Outdoor Activities

Campbell River, BC

Program Concludes

Campbell River, BC

View Full Itinerary

At a Glance

Bring your junior explorers on an active adventure in the mossy forests of Vancouver Island. Together you’ll learn new skills as you play kayak soccer, navigate with a compass and head out on an overnight canoe trip. Climb a rock bluff, rappel from a cliff, swing like Tarzan on a zip line and learn about teamwork on a log and cable ropes course suspended high above the ground. Swim on the sandy beach, tell campfire stories and learn all about the plants and animals of Vancouver Island on a nature walk with an expert. This fresh air adventure will bring you closer together — and closer to nature!

Activity Level

Outdoor: Spirited

Walking up to two miles per day; some uneven terrain.

Best of all, you’ll…

Learn survival techniques, camping basics, outdoor cooking, orienteering and wilderness etiquette throughout the week, including during a camping trip (optional) to Rainbow Island.
Climb a rock bluff, rappel from a cliff, swing from a zip line and navigate a ropes course under expert supervision and with a harness.
Explore a sphagnum bog, home of the carnivorous sundew plant, and spend time on the water kayaking and canoeing.

General Notes

Program is for grandchildren ages 9-14. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices will be unavailable.

Suggested Reading List (21 books)

Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop

You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.

Search for a Title

Bachelor Brothers' Bed and Breakfast

by Bill Richardson

Lake Woebegone goes British Columbian in this humorous slip of a novel about an unconventional Vancouver B&B, which features twin bookworm brothers, a talking parrot and a motley crew of hotel guests.

Following the Last Wild Wolves

by Ian McAllister

McAllister shares his experiences and inferences from studying two undisturbed wolf packs after 20 years of observing them while living on the coast of British Columbia. Check out McAllister's collection of photographs as well (CND288).

Must-See Birds of the Pacific Northwest

by Sarah Swanson

A practical, "blissfully unscientific" guide to the feathered friends of the Pacific Northwest. The 85 birds common to Oregon and Washington are profiled with color photographs and explanatory text that tells readers where to see and how to find each animal. Ideal for a long weekend birding trip!

Touching Spirit Bear

by Ben Mikaelsen

This young adult novel follows Cole, an abused and abusive teen, who chooses banishment to an Alaskan island over incarceration. But for Cole to reform, it takes an encounter with the white Spirit Bear of First Nation legends.

Great Bear Wild

by Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. (Introduction), Ian McAllister

A colorful photographic journey through the Great Bear Rainforest that follows the coast from Vancouver Island to southern Alaska; McAllister captures the spectacular landscapes and wildlife, including wolves, whales and bears.

National Audubon Society Field Guide to the Pacific Northwest

by Peter Alden

A compact photographic guide to the wildflowers, trees, mosses, butterflies, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals of the Pacific Northwest.

The Island Within

by Richard Nelson

A beautifully written tribute to the Pacific Northwest. Drawn from the author's journals, this is an account of the natural and cultural history of an island in the waters of Haida Strait, with emphasis on the relationship between people and the land.

Moon Vancouver and Victoria, Including Whistler and Vancouver Island

by Andrew Hempstead

A no-nonsense practical guide in the Moon series, jam-packed not only with travel necessities (hotels, restaurants, sights), but also with a good overview of history, flora and fauna and geology.

The West Beyond the West, A History of British Columbia

by Jean Barman

A fascinating history of the Canadian province from the 18th century to the mid-1990s. The author weaves portraits of major personalities and events into a readable overview of the cultural and social influences that have shaped the region.

I Heard the Owl Call My Name

by Margaret Craven

In this brief novel, a young vicar comes to live with the Kwakiutl Indians of the town of Kingcome in the Pacific Northwest. Written for teens but worthwhile for adults.

Vancouver Island Map

by ITMB

A colorful paper travel map of the island, at a scale of 1:250,000.

Myths and Legends of the Pacific Northwest

by Katharine Berry Judson

Presented here with 52 photographs, these traditional stories, first collected in 1910, reveal myths and traditions of creation, alongside noted geographical features of the territory.

Vancouver Map

by Berndtson & Berndtson

A laminated, folded map of Vancouver, British Columbia at a scale of 1:15,000.

British Columbia Seashore Life

by Pocket Naturalist

A fold-up, laminated card featuring color drawings and short descriptions of common marine plants, echinoderms, mollusks, crustaceans, nearshore fish, birds and mammals of British Columbia.

The Raven Steals the Light

by Robert Bringhurst, Bill Reid (Illustrator), Claude Levi-Strauss (Introduction)

A classic collection of 10 Haida myths and legends with accompanying black and white etchings by Vancouver artist Bill Reid. These stories capture the storytelling traditions of the Haida.

A Traveller's History of Canada

by Robert Bothwell

A readable and admirably concise march through Canadian history from prehistory to today, including a timeline.

Hatchet

by Gary Paulsen

In the first of Paulsen's wilderness adventure novels, 13-year-old Brian must fend for himself after his plane crashes in the Canadian woods.

Vancouver Birds: An Introduction to Familiar Species

by James Kavanagh

This pocket-sized reference for the bird enthusiast includes illustrations of over 120 species and a map of local birdwatching hotspots.

The Last Great Sea, A Voyage Through the Human and Natural History of the North Pacific Ocean

by Terry Glavin, Carl Safina (Introduction)

A wide-ranging conservation history of British Columbia and the North Pacific Ocean. Glavin lives in the Gulf Islands, where he writes frequently about fisheries and environmental issues facing the region.

There's an Owl in the Shower

by Jean Craighead George

In this novel for ages 8-12, Newbery Award-winning author and illustrator Jean Craighead George tells the story of how one unusual spotted owl makes his way into the home -- and hearts -- of a family of loggers in the Pacific Northwest.

Grass Beyond the Mountains, Discovering the Last Great Cattle Frontier on the North American Continent

by Richard Hobson

Hobson's classic memoir of his cross-country trek and pioneering days as a rancher in British Columbia's undiscovered remote north.

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7 days

6 nights

17 meals

6 B 5 L 6 D

DAY

Check-in, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation

Campbell River, BC

Strathcona Park Lodge

Activity note: Lodge check-in from 4:00 p.m. Strathcona Park Lodge is on a hill where trails and paths are gravel and dirt.

Afternoon: After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. There will be some time to unpack, unwind, relax, and informally meet fellow Road Scholars in the chalet building.

Dinner: At the lodge.

Evening: Orientation. Welcome to Strathcona Park Lodge and Outdoor Education Centre, where we are committed to helping children and adults of all ages appreciate the wilderness and learn more about themselves and others. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This is a Road Scholar Grandparent program. Grandparents are responsible for their grandchildren at all times. If/when separate age group activities are conducted concurrently, program staff will supervise. Minors are never to be left unsupervised. Educational content will be provided by our knowledge outdoor instructors. Meals at Strathcona are hearty and nutritious and reflect our commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/current conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Strathcona is a center for outdoor adventure and experiential education. Activities are selected to challenge, inspire, encourage creativity and reflection while having fun. Next, we will have a presentation on the history of Strathcona and the area, then explore the lodge. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

DAY

Outdoor Adventures, Canoeing, Swimming

Campbell River, BC

B,L,D

Strathcona Park Lodge

Activity note: Getting in/out of canoes; paddling. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; uneven, steep terrain. All equipment provided for canoeing.

Breakfast: At the lodge.

Morning: We’ll take part in fun activities for grandchildren and grandparents to promote group development, trust, problem-solving initiatives, and challenges. We’ll also introduce the “Challenge by Choice” philosophy.

Lunch: At the lodge.

Afternoon: We’ll walk to the lake and learn about canoe and paddle strokes as well as safety and comfort in the water.

Dinner: At the lodge.

Evening: At leisure. You might like to go for a swim along the sandy beach, enjoy spending time with fellow Road Scholars, or just relax.

DAY

High Ropes, Zipline, Kayaking, Orienteering

Campbell River, BC

B,L,D

Strathcona Park Lodge

Activity note: Participating in high ropes and zipline activities. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; uneven, steep terrain.

Breakfast: At the lodge.

Morning: We’ll continue developing our skills together on the high ropes and zipline. These are powerful and challenging activities, built from logs, cables, and ropes suspended above ground up to a height of forty feet. Participants will be secured at all times with harnesses and wear helmets. Good communication and support is central in these activities.

Lunch: At the lodge.

Afternoon: Next, it’s kayak soccer, a unique way to get comfortable in the boats while having fun. Play soccer like never before!

Dinner: At the lodge.

Evening: Orienteering is navigating. We’ll learn master map and compass skills and map reading while navigating the Strathcona orienteering course.

DAY

Kayaking, Rock Climbing, Canoe Field Trip Prep

Campbell River, BC

B,L,D

Strathcona Park Lodge

Activity note: Engaging in kayaking activities. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; uneven, steep terrain.

Breakfast: At the lodge.

Morning: At the lodge lake, we’ll learn the basics of kayaking including forward, reverse, sweep strokes, and maybe some more games.

Lunch: At the lodge.

Afternoon: We will learn the basics of climbing and gain opportunities for personal growth and change. Instructors will start us off on the rock wall. We’ll then head up to one of our climbing bluffs. Climbing can be a significant mental challenge for many participants as it requires a great deal of trust in themselves. Success shows that perceived limitations are often self-imposed.

Dinner: At the lodge.

Evening: We’ll pack and prepare for our overnight canoe field trip tomorrow, focusing on food, gear, and personal/group items. Note: Camping out overnight is an elective choice. Those who prefer to return to the lodge to sleep tomorrow night are welcome to do so.

DAY

Nature Walk, Overnight Canoe Field Trip, Camping

Campbell River, BC

B,L,D

Strathcona Park Lodge

Activity note: Getting in/out of canoes; paddling about 5 miles approximately 6 hours throughout the day (approximately 3 hours each way). Walking up to 2 miles; uneven beach terrain. For camping outdoors, bring warm under-clothing, personal water bottles.

Breakfast: At the lodge.

Morning: We’ll set out on a nature walk to the Sundew Bog and learn about the flora and fauna of coastal British Columbia, especially the species unique to Vancouver Island. We’ll gain an increased appreciate for nature, environmental education, and play some games before returning to the lodge.

Lunch: At the lodge.

Afternoon: We will get into canoes and paddle to Rainbow Island for an overnight field trip that will provide an enjoyable wilderness experience with focus on group strength. It will also offer a great bonding experience for grandparents and kids. We’ll have expert instruction on minimum impact camping, natural history, navigation, outdoor cooking, and other skills. Experienced instructors will provide supervision of kids and adults who camp outside. Equipment will be provided by the lodge: sleeping bags (ensolite or Therm-a-rest); unbreakable cups, bowls, and spoons; water bottles; ziploc bags/garbage bags for waterproofing; water-resistant paddling jacket. Those who wish can bring their own gear.

Dinner: At overnight campsite, cooking over campfire.

Evening: We’ll take part in team-building activities and games. Note: Camping out overnight is an elective choice. Those who prefer to return to the lodge to sleep tomorrow are welcome to do so (paddling canoes or motorboat driven by staff).

DAY

Canoeing, Outdoor Activities

Campbell River, BC

B,L,D

Strathcona Park Lodge

Activity note: Those who chose to sleep at the lodge the night before will return to the campsite (paddling canoes or via motorboat driven by our staff). Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; uneven, steep terrain.

Breakfast: At the campsite.

Morning: We will paddle our canoes back to the lodge, unpack, and enjoy hot showers.

Lunch: At the lodge.

Afternoon: We’ll set out to develop our wilderness skills and enjoy group games for both grandparents and kids. Challenges will include group problem solving while we play.

Dinner: At the lodge. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.

Evening: We’ll gather around a campfire (weather permitting) for closing ceremonies on the final evening with our grandkids/grandparents and new friends. Feel free to bring musical instruments, talents, stories, jokes, and games to share with everyone. Prepare for departure in the morning.

DAY

Program Concludes

Campbell River, BC

Activity note: Lodge check-out 10:00 a.m.

Breakfast: At the lodge. This concludes our program.

Morning: If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!