So Long, Farewell!
July 5, 2026
Hello again! Although our trip has come to an end, the last leg was just as special as the beginning, and the times we shared together will be times we cherish forever. Ice climbing, backpacking and rafting were so much fun, but sea kayaking was the perfect way to wrap up the trip.
After rafting, we had a chock full day of errands that involved eating too much and buying shirts we definitely did not need. First, we went to Walmart and let each cook crew buy ingredients for our later cooking competition. After Walmart we went to Costco, where Michael, Robert, and Max attempted the Costco challenge-splitting a full pizza, three hot dogs each and a chocolate chunk cookie. Let’s just say we were supposed to get ice cream later that day, but that challenge was a bit more challenging than they all expected. After our hours of food coma, we arrived at Whittier and explored the small town while the rain came down.
That night, the long awaited cooking competition began. Each group had their ingredients, the coleman, and whisperlites to make the best budgeted meal they could. After much deliberation and blood, sweat, and tears, the meals were finished and the judges (us leaders) critiqued their creations. The CIAs-McLean, River, Smith and Jack Michaelson-made a delectable chicken red sauce pasta, while the Nigel’s-Harper, Max, Michael and Jack-made a turkey, rice, avocado Thai bowl that reminded us of a sushi restaurant. Lastly, the Sizzlin’ Grizz-Miller, Robert and Julia-made an immaculate shrimp yum yum sauce salad. Although a tough decision, the Sizzlin Grizz came out on top and won the completion with soggy cupcakes.
The next day our sea kayaking adventure began. Although it started off rainy, we paddled 8 miles in the stunning scenery of Prince William Sound and saw an array of bald eagles and seals. Once we got to our campsite the sun came out and we swam and laid out like lizards. Robert and River jumped in many times while the rest of the group cheered them on. After our swim sunshine party, Maya, Gavin, Julia, Miller, and Robert made chipotle bowls and we shared a meal on the rocky beach. We even ran out of salt but a NOLS group nearby gave us some!
The next day was another long paddle day filled with sunshine and laughter. We camped at 17 mile beach, which was one of the most magical campsites we’d stayed in. The mountains and glaciers were towering over the beach, while our tents were tucked away in the mossy forest. We relaxed on the beach, played cards, and enjoyed a traditional Thanksgiving meal altogether.
The next day we took a scenic journey to the legendary glaciers Belouit, Blackstone and North land. We were dodging ice chunks as we approached the enormous glaciers and saw more seals along the way. After the glaciers, we did a small hike to another glacier and beautiful waterfall. Our sea kayaking guide, Jamie, found us a spot to cold plunge where River, Robert, Carson, Micheal, Jack Michelson and Baker swam. That night we ate cheesy pasta and finished Nutella together while huddling up in the bug tent and told ghost stories till we fell asleep.
The next day we finished sea kayaking and saw sea otters and a hump back whale on our way out. We got back to Whittier, took showers and drove to Talkeetna! We went into town for our last dinner together and listened to live music while eating delicious pizza. We shared a meaningful last moonup and really soaked in our last evening together.
We started our last day celebrating the 4th of July by making pancakes with every ingredient we could. Carson, Harper, Jack, Max and Michael made pancakes with chocolate, bananas, build-a-bars, Mott’s and other miscellaneous items. After our sugar filled breakfast, we went into town and watched the 4th of July parade and got salmon burgers. After the parade we headed off to the airport and said our goodbyes.
Every single person in our group soaked up every last drop of this experience and walked away a more confident leader and person with a newfound appreciation for the world and people around them. We feel a tremendous amount of gratitude for their grit, positive attitude and selflessness this trip brought out of them. Northern Lights is no joke, yet they embraced that in such a positive, can-do way that made it feel easy. NLT1A-we will miss the way you made us laugh and the way you changed our perspectives on life. Thank you thank you thank you! Alaska will miss you greatly, but we will miss you more.
NLT1A out!
Maya, Carson and Gavin
Update from Alaska!
June 30, 2026
Our rafting expedition on the Matanuska River was one of those experiences that managed to pack adventure, teamwork, and plenty of laughter into just two days. After loading our gear and meeting our Nova rafting guides, we pushed off into the cold glacial water, ready for whatever the river had planned. The first stretch wasted no time reminding us that Alaska doesn’t ease you into adventure. We tackled a Class IV section that had everyone paddling hard, listening closely to commands, and holding on through waves that soaked us from head to toe. Every rapid brought cheers from the rafts as we worked together to navigate the powerful river.
As the excitement of the whitewater gave way to calmer water, the river transformed into a peaceful float. Towering mountains, braided channels, and endless Alaskan scenery surrounded us as we drifted toward our campsite on a gravel bar. It was the perfect contrast to the morning’s adrenaline, giving everyone a chance to take in the landscape and enjoy conversations that are hard to have anywhere but on a river.
Throughout the trip, our students continued to show the qualities that have made this group so enjoyable to travel with. Max set the tone with his constant gratitude, regularly thanking our rafting guides for everything they did and offering encouragement throughout the day. His appreciation never went unnoticed and reminded all of us how far a simple “thank you” can go.
Harper quickly learned how to play Werewolf and immediately became one of the group’s strongest players. Whether she was convincing everyone she was innocent or carefully piecing together clues, she jumped right into the game and made every round more entertaining.
Mac continued to be one of the most dependable members of our kitchen crew. Whether preparing meals or helping organize camp, she consistently stepped up without hesitation. She has also become a strong voice within the group, helping keep everyone focused and moving in the right direction when decisions need to be made.
Jack Michaelson has become the group’s most improved hackey sack player, proving that practice really does pay off. Beyond the fun, he has developed a great habit of noticing when something needs to get done and simply doing it, whether that’s helping around camp or pitching in wherever an extra set of hands is needed.
Jack Baker once again elevated every game with his incredible storytelling. Whether narrating a round of Mafia or Werewolf, he has a way of describing each scene like a mystery novel, pulling everyone into the story and making every elimination feel dramatic and memorable.
River quite literally embraced his name on this section of the trip. He had the opportunity to take the oars and row one of the rafts, showing off some impressive captain skills while guiding us downstream. He also captured incredible GoPro footage that will help preserve many of these unforgettable moments long after the trip ends.
Smith has a unique ability to spark curiosity in those around him. Conversations with him often turn toward authors, composers, and the people behind great works of art. His enthusiasm for learning is contagious and encourages others to explore interests they may never have considered before.
Julia was especially excited for this portion of the expedition, sharing beforehand that whitewater rafting is one of her favorite activities. The smile on her face through the rapids made that obvious. Back at camp, she continued to impress by jumping into the kitchen crew, putting in extra elbow grease to help both our team and the rafting guides without ever being asked.
Robert’s competitive spirit and enthusiasm shine brightest during group games. Whether playing Werewolf, Mafia, or any other activity around camp, he throws himself into every role and keeps everyone engaged with his energy and excitement.
As the evening settled and we sat at camp, Michael brought out the guitar and shared the music that inspires him most. Around the camp, with mountains surrounding us and the river flowing nearby, his playing created one of those simple moments that everyone will remember. It offered a chance to slow down, reflect on the day, and simply enjoy being together.
Of course, no camp evening would be complete without a little humor, and Miller made sure of that by continuing to practice her famous bark in preparation for her future at UGA. It has become one of those running jokes that never fails to get the group laughing, adding another memorable chapter to our shared adventure.
After a chilly night on the gravel bar, we packed camp, loaded the rafts once again, and set off for day two. Instead of continuous whitewater, we floated through miles of fun boogie water, giving everyone the chance to enjoy the rhythm of the river while taking in even more incredible scenery. Before long, we reached the Chickaloon Nova base, marking the end of another unforgettable expedition.
These two days on the Matanuska River reminded us that trips like this are about much more than the miles traveled. They’re about encouraging one another through challenges, laughing together around camp, appreciating the people who make these experiences possible, and creating memories that will be shared long after we leave Alaska. With rafting now behind us, we’re drying out our gear, looking through River’s GoPro footage, and getting excited for the next chapter of our adventure. Next stop: Whittier, where we’ll trade paddles for sea kayaks and continue exploring everything Alaska has to offer!
Max Z: Hey Mom and Dad! Thank you for supporting me and making it possible for me to come on this trip. It’s truly amazing, and I am so grateful. I have seen so many wonderful things and spent it with some amazing people. I can’t wait to get back to y’all and tell you guys all about it. Love you! Max Z
Smith H: Hello family! Thanks for giving me the opportunity to come to Alaska. It’s definitely the most beautiful place I have ever been, and seeing it while backpacking and kayaking makes it all the more incredible. Love y’all!
Jack B:Hi Mom and Dad! I loveeeeee you and am so thankful this opportunity in Alaska. Thank you both for being so supportive. Mimi, I miss you I hope you’re having the best time at camp! Also, Mai I hope you’re having fun in Japan 😗 miss you guys see you soon!!!!
Harper: Hi mom and dad! Thank you so much for allowing me/ supporting me to come on this trip. I’ve had some truly awesome experiences while spending them with some amazing people. I can’t wait to tell y’all about it and show you the photos I got, even though I could stay here forever. Love y’all and see y’all soon!!! Love, Harper
McLean: Hi Mom! Hi Dad! Thank you so much for helping me decide to go to Alaska! I have had such an amazing time and I am so SO glad I came! Every day was full of adventure and exciting opportunities to challenge myself. Can’t wait to tell you everything in Wyoming!! Tell Hank I love him!! Love, McLean
Robert: Hey Mom and Pops! This trip has been nothing short of amazing. I have had a blast! Thank you for giving me this opportunity because I have made memories that will last a lifetime. See y’all in 2 days. Have fun at the Pawleys 4th parade. – Your 2nd born Robert
River: Hey Mom, Dad, and Carson. I have loved every single moment of this trip. I really appreciate you all for letting me go on this trip. I have met a lot of really cool people, and my councilors are really good. I got to see a whale today, which was amazing, and I can’t wait to see you all. Love, River
Julia: Hi Mom and Dad!! Thank you so much for letting me go on this trip! I have really loved it, and the views are amazing. I know that I was super worried for the backpacking portion, but it was great! The ice-climbing, backpacking, rafting, and sea kayaking was all super fun, but my favorite was definitely the ice-climbing. I hope Kate had a blast on her trip as well, and that Tommy has been healing well, and also that John had a fun time at Uncle Paul’s ordination! Happy Belated Birthday to Grandmother as well!! I hope y’all are having a great 4th of July, and I will see y’all soon! Love, Julia
Miller: Hi Mom and Dad!!!! Thank you so much for sending me on this trip. Everything has been so amazing, and I am so grateful to be here. It is so beautiful here, and I am so happy that I got to spend three weeks here. I am so excited to tell y’all everything about my trip when I get home. I am so stoked to see y’all, but I wish I could spend three more weeks here in Alaska with this fantastic group!!! I love you guys so much! Love, Miller
Jack M: Hi Mom and Dad! Thank you so much for letting me go on this trip! From hearing your experiences in Alaska, I had high expectations, and it did not disappoint. I’ve had tons of fun in all the activities. These past few weeks have been amazing, and I cannot wait to tell you guys about it. I hope you guys had a good anniversary and to Dad, Happy Belated Father’s Day. See y’all soon! Love, Jack
Michael: Hey Mom and Dad! Thank you guys so much for sending me on this trip! I have had the time of my life, and I have been able to enjoy one of the most beautiful places in the world. I am so grateful for this opportunity, and I cannot thank you guys enough for allowing me to come on this trip! The views have been some of the most unique I have ever seen, and this place is astounding. I hope you guys had great times on your trips while I was gone, and a Happy Belated Father’s Day to Dad. I love you guys, and I cannot thank you enough for the opportunity. Say hi to Chico and send Ruby a letter for me.
Greetings from the Talkeetnas!
June 26, 2026
Hello from the woods! We just finished our backpacking adventure through the Chitna Loop in the Talkeetna Mountains and it was a week none of us will ever forget. Over seven days, we covered miles of muddy trails, crossed rivers, climbed mountain passes, laughed until our stomachs ached, and connected on many levels. Every student played an important role in making this section of the expedition so memorable.
The first two days were spent hiking along muddy ATV trails, which is where we really started to understand what the “Alaskan mile” meant. Although the trail wasn’t glamorous, the group’s attitude made all the difference. Max was always the first to jump in and help with any task, whether it was setting up camp, carrying gear, or lending a hand wherever it was needed. Julia and Jack Michaelson also constantly helped with cooking, camp chores, and cleanup without ever needing to be asked. Throughout the trip, Harper captured countless memories as our group photographer with the moon cam to make sure we’d never forget this experience.
As we continued hiking, all the students contributed by making many noises to alert any bears of our presence. Mac carried the air horn, Robert led a “Name It Till You Can’t,” game where everyone tried naming football players until they ran out, and Jack Baker led enthusiastic singalongs like “Party in the USA” and Taylor Swift songs, with Miller, Harper, and Julia happily joining in.
One of the biggest milestones of the trip was when we reached the airstrip and prepared for the Chitna Creek crossing the next morning. Maya and Gavin crossed the night before and set up a handline for the students to use to cross safely. Julia, River, and Mac volunteered to hike down to the river with them to fill water containers and haul them all the way back up to camp, which might sound like an easy task but the hill was enormous!
The next morning we triumphantly crossed and celebrated by washing off in the river before we continued on. That night Maya, Robert, Miller, Jack and Julia prepared what quickly became the legendary salty mac and cheese. Although Robert may have gotten a little carried away with the salt, every bite was eaten and it was a perfect wrap up of the day.
The Chitna pass day was one of the most special days on the trail. We woke everyone up with Christmas music and hats and celebrated the holiday all day, just because we could! The mud was behind us (for the most part) and we played Nutella football in Chitna pass with Carson ultimately beating Max, Michael, Robert, River and Carson and winning the jar. After time spent at the pass, we arrived at the Field of Dreams-a stunning campsite with the legendary “Golden Peak” right in front. As soon as packs hit the ground, nearly everyone took off running up the enormous hill by our campsite to catch the incredible views waiting on the other side of the ridge. Especially Michael, who practiced his hill sprints the entire way up. It was the perfect reward after days of hard work and one of the most unforgettable moments of the trip. We ended the day with Moonup, but first we surprised the group with wrapped presents and played white elephant. A stuffed animal snake, bubble gum, harmonica, jump rope and other gifts were received!
The next day the Alaskan weather showed up and it rained all day. We got to the campsite Bear City early afternoon and warmed up while Carson, Michael and Max scouted two miles of the route we had for the next day. Once the rain subsided, we shared peanut butter and hot chocolate with butter to keep ourselves warm in the night, while we watched Robert, Max, Michael and River perform improv from our sleeping bags. We had laughed so much we forgot how cold and wet we were hours earlier.
Our final full day in the backcountry took us to a beautiful lake where we celebrated our last night together. Gavin, Smith and Carson made a pizza style bowl with chicken, pepperoni, cheese and tomato paste that ended up being a favorite for most people. Their creativity was flowing and decided to make dessert: almond flour dough with hot chocolate powder mixed in. The whole thing was eaten, but I don’t think we’ll make that again any time soon!
The next morning we only had a few miles left before we got picked up at the takeout. We were singing songs and pranking each other by putting rocks in each others packs without making it obvious. Once we got picked up, we sang Shawn Mendes in the van while driving back to NOVA base. We all were so relieved to be done, but also sad that it was over. This week was extremely challenging mentally and physically, but that made it even more fulfilling and made us appreciative of the trip and our everyday resources. The backpacking will be missed, but we are so excited for the rafting and sea kayaking ahead!
Much love,
Maya, Carson, + Gavin
Shoutouts!
Max – hey mom and dad we just finished 7 days in the back country I’m rally dirty but it was one of the most awesome 7 days of my life
Robert – hey mamma hey pop thanks for letting me go on this extravagant adventure to the last frontier. I just want to thank you for allowing me and funding me to go on this journey. Love yall
Miller – hi mom and dad thank you so much for letting me go here. We just finished backpacking and it was so much fun. It started off really hard but the end was pretty easy and had a lot of fun. I miss you.
Jake Baker – hi mom and dad thank you for sending on this trip. I hope you are having a great time getting Mielle ready for camp. I can’t wait to see you guys. Love Jack
Mac/Mclean – hi mom and dad thank you so much for sending me to Alaska. I know I was super nervous but it’s been super fun. We just finished backpacking and I’m super excited to start rafting. Tell Hank I love him, love you so much see you in August
Harper – hi mom / dad, I miss you both thank you for letting me come on this trip. We just finished backpacking and I had an awesome time. Can’t wait to see each of yall soon. Love Harper
Julia – hi mom and dad! We just finished backpacking portion of our trip and it was super fun. We are starting the rafting portion in 2 days and I’m showering tomorrow and super excited to wash my hair. Thank you for sending me on this trip love you all! Send good luck to uncle Paul for his ordination! Can yall make sure to tell Audrey guittriz that I am ok with whatever room decoration she wants.
Jack Michaelson – hi mom and Dad! Thank you guys for letting me go on this trip, I’m having a lot of fun and am excited to stay the rafting section in a couple days. Miss you guys and see you soon. Love Jack
Michael – hi mom and dad thank you for sending me on this trip I’m having a lot of fun. We just finished the backpacking section it was so beautiful. Send ruby a letter for me. Love you
Smith – hi family thank you for providing this opportunity. Backpacking was super fun, love yall
River – hey family I hope you all are doing well. I’m having a great time and am excited to see you
Adventures On The Ice In Alaska!
June 19, 2026
Hey Moondance Families!
Greetings from Alaska! Our adventure is officially underway, and after just a few days, we’ve already packed in enough memories to fill a whole trip. We wanted to share an update from the team and let everyone know what we’ve been up to.
Our journey began with an evening arrival in Anchorage. After a long day of travel, there was no better welcome to Alaska than having local pizza waiting for us when we landed. The group was excited to finally be together, and the energy was high as we loaded up and headed to our first campsite.
That first night gave us a true Alaskan welcome. Not long after settling into camp, we were treated to an incredible wildlife sighting: a moose and her two calves wandering through the area. Watching the two baby mooses follow closely behind their mother was a moment none of us will forget. It was the perfect reminder that we are guests in one of the most beautiful and wild places on Earth.
On our second day, we traveled from our first campsite to the area that would serve as our base for glacier climbing. The excitement grew throughout the day as we got our first glimpses of the massive ice fields we would soon be exploring. Once camp was established, Smith stepped up to lead our first cooked meal of the trip. The menu was Tex-Mex chicken bowls, and they were absolutely delicious. After a full day of travel and camp setup, everyone was grateful for a hearty meal.
That evening, Julia led the first official Moonup of the trip. Through a mix of thoughtful and hilarious questions, she helped us begin building connections as a group. There was plenty of laughter, but also meaningful conversations that allowed everyone to get to know one another better. It was clear that a strong community was beginning to form.
Day three brought us onto the glacier for the first time. The group spent the day learning the fundamentals of glacier climbing- including rope systems, movement techniques, and safety procedures. Max, Harper, and Michael eagerly volunteered to climb first, setting a great example for the rest of the team. We admired their willingness to jump in help everyone feel more comfortable as we practiced these new skills.
As the day continued, everyone had multiple opportunities to climb and become more confident on the ice. Jack Michealson earned special recognition from our instructors for his climbing form and technique. It was great to see everyone encouraging one another and embracing the challenge of learning something completely new.
Back at camp, Jack Baker took charge of dinner and delivered another crowd-pleaser: chicken pasta with broccoli and garlic bread. After another full day outside, the meal disappeared quickly. That evening, McLean led our second moonup. Building on the foundation established the night before, she guided the group into even deeper conversations that strengthened the sense of trust and community among everyone. It was another memorable night around camp.
The following day challenged us to take our glacier skills to the next level. We hiked further out onto the glacier and tackled more technical climbing routes. The conditions were incredible, and the group was eager to test themselves against more difficult terrain.
One of the highlights of the day came when Jack Baker took on the toughest route available. After several attempts, some problem-solving, and a lot of persistence, he successfully reached the top. It was a great example of determination and resilience, and everyone celebrated his accomplishment.
Later in the day, we moved to another climbing and rappelling area where students could put together everything they had learned so far. Miller and River especially stood out, demonstrating excellent technique and confidence as they navigated the climbs. It was exciting to watch their skills come together after several days of practice.
Throughout the day, Robert’s voice could be heard across the glacier. Whether someone was attempting a difficult move or preparing for a climb, he was always ready with words of encouragement. His positivity and helpful observations provided a boost for the entire group and helped create an atmosphere where everyone felt supported.
As if the day hadn’t already provided enough highlights, the evening concluded with a Thanksgiving-style dinner complete with all the comforts and warmth that such a meal brings. The feast was followed by a sweet treat that was enjoyed by everyone. Full, tired, and happy, the group settled into their tents reflecting on everything they had accomplished together so far.
As we look ahead, we are incredibly excited for what comes next! The students continue to impress us daily with their willingness to step outside their comfort zones, support one another, and embrace every challenge with enthusiasm. From wildlife sightings and camp cooking, to glacier climbing and meaningful conversations, each day has brought new opportunities for growth and adventure.
– Maya, Gavin, and Carson
Shoutouts:
Julia- Hi Mom and Dad, FAMILY, AND ALL, please send this to our groupchat. I’m having a really fun time in Alaska. It’s amazing, and I’m getting good pictures! Love y’all!
McLean- Hi Mom, Dad, and Sadie! Alaska is so much fun. Thanks for sending me! Can’t wait to see y’all, but I’m super excited for everything! Love you!
Harper- Hi Mom and Dad! Thank you for letting me on this trip, I’m having an amazing time and taking lots of great photos! Love you!
Miller- Hi Mom and Dad! I’m having the best time ever. We went ice climbing today, and it was really pretty. I hope Jimmy and Chip are doing well. Miss you guys and love y’all.
Jack Baker- Hi Fam! I hope you’re enjoying your time without me. I am having a great time. Also, hi to my Leah and Wuan.
Jack Michelson- Hello family, thank you for letting me go on this trip! I’m having lots of fun, and I’ll see you guys in a few weeks.
Smith- Hello family, thank you for letting me come on this trip. It’s absolutely gorgeous! Happy Father’s Day, Dad!
Robert- Hey Mom and Dad! I’m safe and having a good time. See you soon!
Micheal- Hi Mom and Dad! I’m having lots of fun.
River- I’m having a great time, and there’s lots of cool people on this trip!
Safe Arrival in Anchorage!
June 16, 2026
Hello Northern Lights families,
We heard from our leaders last night that the group has arrived safely!
The trip is off to a great start, and we cannot wait to hear more stories from their adventure! Please remember our leaders and students will be unplugged during their trips, but we’ll be posting trip updates throughout the coming weeks! This will allow you to follow along with the trip. You can also follow us on Instagram, @moondanceadventures, to see more of what we are up to!
-Moondance HQ
