Yellowstone Kayaking Expedition

All adult survivors 18 and older whose loss occurred more than one year ago are invited to join TAPS on the Yellowstone Kayaking Expedition as we find new purpose, gain radical perspective, and remember what it feels like to live with determination. 

TAPS Expeditions are outdoor skills-based events that require dedication, preparation and a real sense of adventure.

OVERVIEW

Led by professional guides, we'll kayak the high-altitude lakes of America's first national park. Paddling through Yellowstone National Park will provide an exciting perspective on the park's abundant wildlife, geothermal features and impressive landscapes.

As we paddle through the park, we'll explore beautiful shorelines and take in the spectacular views of the Yellowstone backcountry. Together, we'll experience the solitude of Flat Mountain Arm and even leave the kayaks behind for a hike to the Shoshone Geyser Basin. We'll finish each day with a deeper appreciation of all that the remote corners of Yellowstone can offer.

The expedition will be unique and rewarding, while also pushing you physically, mentally and emotionally. You’ll have the chance to gain or hone valuable outdoor skills and kayaking techniques.

View photos from a previous TAPS kayaking expedition to see what this experience looks like. This expedition is being put together through a partnership with REI Adventures.

SCHEDULE

PRE-TRIP

Leading up to the expedition, we’ll form a team bond and gain familiarity with each other through a mandatory team meeting via conference call or video chat. During the meeting, we’ll discuss training regimens, gear lists and more. Your team will be a source of encouragement as you prepare for this adventure.

You’ll also have access to the TAPS Expeditions Facebook group, which will include participants from this expedition as well as those from previous expeditions so you can ask questions and learn from their experiences.

THE TRIP

Day 1: Our journey begins in Jackson, Wyoming. We'll meet our guides for a gear fitting and trip orientation at 6:30 p.m. Our guides will also discuss kayaking skills and camp etiquette. We'll stay in Jackson Hole for the night. Your accommodations in Jackson Hole this evening are not included in your trip cost.

Day 2: We'll head into Yellowstone National Park to start our kayaking adventure. As we paddle to our camp for the night, we'll get to explore beautiful shorelines and take in the spectacular views of the park. In the evening, our guides will cook a delicious meal and share their knowledge of the natural history of Yellowstone. Kayaking: 8-12 miles

Day 3: Our day will be spent paddling the crystal blue waters of either Yellowstone or Lewis and Shoshone lakes. We'll take a break from kayaking and hike to the Shoshone Geyser Basin to experience its many hot pools, steam vents, cauldrons and geysers. Kayaking: 8-10 miles

Day 4: A challenging yet rewarding day of paddling will bring us to our exit point and our shuttle van to journey back to Jackson. Kayaking: 16-18 miles

*Note: Please be aware that this itinerary is subject to change due to a number of reasons, including weather and participant skill level.

This schedule is provided by REI Adventures. For a more detailed itinerary, visit www.rei.com/adventures.

POST-TRIP

We fully expect your team members to become your family and an ongoing support network long after the TAPS Expedition is complete. You'll be provided with a directory following the expedition to keep in touch with each other.

TRIP FEES

A $50 deposit will be collected at the time of registration. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and sponsors, TAPS will cover the rest of the trip costs, with the exception of your transportation to and from Jackson, Wyoming, your first night's lodging expenses and some meals.

LODGING AND TRANSPORTATION

You will need to cover the cost of your transportation to and from Jackson, Wyoming. Please don't make travel arrangements until you receive a notification of your selection or waitlist status. You should plan to arrive in Jackson before 6:30 p.m. on July 26.

Your first night's lodging will be on your own, but we will be available to recommend lodging options that fit within your budget. TAPS will cover the costs for all subsequent lodging and meals.

SKILL LEVEL

This expedition requires no kayaking experience but does necessitate that you be physically fit and healthy. The expedition will include kayaking between eight and 18 miles a day and one- to two-mile hikes.

Even if you don't have kayaking experience, if this adventure excites you we encourage you to submit an application by Monday, March 26. The TAPS Expeditions team will make sure you are prepared and well-informed of the nature of this trip.

To maximize your enjoyment of the trip and to avoid sore muscles, we suggest you engage in a regular exercise regimen leading up to the trip. Prior to the trip, we'll discuss training plans and gear.

APPLICATION DETAILS

Applications now closed. Applications will be reviewed every two weeks. If more applications are received than we have slots available, we will do a random drawing from qualified applicants.

It’s our goal to ensure that as many survivors as possible have the opportunity to experience healing in the wilderness. Preference will be given to applicants who haven't participated in a TAPS Expedition within the past year, so long as they are capable of participating in all activities.

If you have any questions, please email expeditions@taps.org or call 800-959-TAPS (8277).