Overland SUMMER PROGRAMS FOR 4TH - 12TH GRADERS

American Challenge

6 weeks open to grades 9-12

Overview

When you get to the Pacific, you will jump off your bike, race across the sand and dive into the water. You’ll scream, yell, shout and hug. Onlookers will not understand, and even if you tried to explain what that moment means to you, they probably still wouldn’t get it. That’s the way a lot of the American Challenge is.

The American Challenge doesn’t require previous experience—it requires determination. The American Challenge isn’t a race—there is no sag wagon or support team. The American Challenge won’t change you into a “hard core” biker—but it will change the way you see yourself and the world around you. Bike with us across America and discover for yourself the meaning of the American Challenge.

We start our six-week journey just east of Savannah, Georgia, on Tybee Island. This first section of the trip takes us straight into the heart of the South, as we make our way to one of America’s greatest rivers, the Mississippi. The terrain is generally forgiving, as we skirt south of the Appalachians, but our daily mileage is long with most days in the 75 to 85 mile range. As we work our way to the Rockies, long days on the bikes take us across the Great Plains where towns are few.

The Rockies offer challenge and beauty—high passes and snowcapped mountains, thigh-burning climbs and rollicking descents. We’ll pause briefly at the Grand Canyon, before we make our way across the Arizona and California deserts. Our final stretch of riding will take us up into California’s San Gabriel Mountains. We’ll camp high above Los Angeles and look back on six weeks of adventure and camaraderie. On our last day, we’ll work our way down and out of the mountains, through L.A. and all the way to the Pacific. When we reach the coast, we’ll sprint across the sand, front wheels in hand and dive into the crashing waves. Surrounded by tripmates with whom you have shared every day, every mile and every moment of these past six weeks, you’ll scream, yell, shout and hug.  Only then will you really, truly know what the American Challenge means to you.

“The American Challenge is a once in a lifetime trip. I couldn’t have asked for a more amazing experience! Overland has shaped me into the person I am, and it makes me want to grow even more. Thanks!”
Rachel Peebles, Richmond, Virginia

Highlights

  • Bike from the Atlantic to the Pacific
  • Ride over 3,000 miles across the U.S.
  • Discover small-town America
  • Cross the Rockies
  • Visit the Grand Canyon
  • Swim in the Pacific

Grade

For students who will finish grades 9-12 in June 2012.

Every year there are typically between two and five groups; multiple considerations go into our placement process (age, grade, gender, hometown, school, etc.).

Call us (413-458-9672) to check on current availability.

Challenge Level

10 (1-10, 1 is easiest)

Start and End Location

Starts in Savannah, Georgia.

Ends in Los Angeles, California.

Accommodations

The group will camp about half the time at comfortable campgrounds with modern amenities - most have flush toilets and showers - and stay indoors half the time. Indoor accommodations include: churches, community centers, motels and a hostel in Santa Monica. Laundry facilities are available at most campgrounds. The group will do laundry once a week.

Dates and Fees

6 Weeks

Wednesday, June 20 to Thursday, August 2
Thursday, June 21 to Thursday, August 2
Friday, June 22 to Saturday, August 4
Saturday, June 23 to Saturday, August 4

To keep our groups separate we have four staggered start dates (note that the 6/20 and 6/22 groups have a slightly longer first week—about 25 miles total—so their trips run one day longer than the 6/21 and 6/23 groups). Students need not choose a start date; instead, we will put together groups based on a number of factors (age, grade, gender, etc.) and notify all students of their assigned start date on May 1. If you have an end-of-the-school-year conflict that is inflexible (for example, Regents Exams in New York State) please contact us and we will try to accommodate you on one of our later departures.

$5895 (airfare not included)

Please note, one of the following bikes is required: Trek 520, Surly Long Haul Trucker, Cannondale Touring 2, Fuji Touring, Jamis Aurora, Novara Randonee. They must be in excellent condition and have been purchased in the past 48 months. Other bicycles will not be accepted. Questions? Please contact Alec at alec@overlandprograms.com.

“Thank you for five amazing summers. Through Overland I have met some of the most interesting, determined and selfless people I know. The AC presented the greatest challenge and, in turn, offered the greatest reward. Thank you for the best summer of my life.” Kelly McFall, Darien, Connnecticut

Itinerary

The Atlantic to the Mississippi

We start our six-week journey just east of Savannah, Georgia, on Tybee Island. On the first day of our ride, we’ll watch the sun rise over the Atlantic, dip our front wheels in a gentle breaker, then look west and begin our 3,000+ mile trek to the Pacific. This first section of the trip takes us straight into the heart of the South, as we make our way to one of America’s greatest rivers, the Mississippi. The terrain is generally forgiving, as we skirt south of the Appalachians, but our daily mileage is long with most days in the 75 to 85 mile range. The mileage is made more difficult by the demands of making the transition to group living—getting up early, waiting for others, sharing tents and meals, and making new friends.

The Ozarks & The Great Plains

As we work our way to the Rockies, we'll climb a bit in the Ozarks and then head out for some long days on the bikes that will take us across the Great Plains where towns are few. By the time we reach the Great Plains the group is in fine shape and trip routines are down pat.

The Rockies, The Grand Canyon & The Desert

Crossing the Rockies is a major goal of every American Challenge group. Left behind are the green, rolling hills of the East and South, and the wide open, but barren plains. The Rockies offer challenge and beauty—high passes and snow-capped mountains, thigh-burning climbs and rollicking descents. We’ll spill out of the Rockies and into vast painted deserts on our way to the Grand Canyon. We’ll pause briefly at the Grand Canyon, spending a night on the South Rim, before we make our way across the Arizona and California deserts. There is one day in the desert when we'll have vehicle support (one group will have support from Needles to Ludlow, California, the other group will cross the desert from Parker, Arizona to Twentynine Palms, California and both will have vehicle support on that day).

The Last Days & Santa Monica

Our final stretch of riding will take us up into California’s San Gabriel mountains. On our last night before riding to the Santa Monica pier, we’ll camp high above the lights of Los Angeles and look back on six incredible weeks of adventure, camaraderie and challenge. The next morning, we’ll work our way down and out of the mountains, through L.A. and all the way to the Pacific (where lots of parents and siblings will be waiting!). When we reach the coast, we’ll sprint across the sand, front wheels in hand and dive into the crashing waves. Surrounded by trip mates with whom you have shared every day, every mile and every moment of these past six weeks, you’ll scream, yell, shout and hug. Only then will you really, truly know what the American Challenge means to you.

Why We Ride From East To West

Anyone who has ever flown across the U.S. knows that the trip is shorter when heading east than it is when heading west—the reason is simple: upper atmosphere winds are from the west so a jet at 35,000 feet traveling east can have quite a nice tailwind (oftentimes over 100 mph). But surface wind conditions are not nearly so uniform—in fact, a study of wind conditions across the U.S. demonstrated that prevailing winds at the surface are so varied that there is no clear, country-wide prevailing wind (as there is at 35,000 feet). Our experience on the American Challenge over the past decades has borne this out: while we always have some difficult days with strong headwinds, those days are random and scattered, and, anecdotally, we hear many complaints about headwinds from bikers heading east. So, if wind is not an issue, then, to us, the obvious choice is to go east to west since: (1) the country becomes scenically more interesting as you head west, (2) the country was settled (largely) from east to west, (3) there’s an almost epic or legendary quality to heading west (think wagon trains filled with hardy pioneers) and (4) there’s a romantic, “Go west, my son” feeling to riding into the sunset. Plus, Santa Monica is an exciting place to finish—more so than, say, Rye Beach, New Hampshire—know what we mean?

“Thank you for the best summer of my life!” John Dowling, West Hartford, Connecticut

Trip Details

DAILY ROUTINE, BUFFER DAYS & MEALS, SNACKS & COLD DRINKS

Daily Routine

We'll get up before sunrise every morning and be on the bikes by shortly after first light. We'll bike for a couple of hours before stopping for a morning snack. We'll bike until 10 or 11 before we stop again for another snack and then continue until 1 or 2 before we stop for lunch. The afternoon riding is broken up by a snack stop or two. Depending on the day's mileage and delays en route, the goal is to pull into our overnight accommodations (typically a campground or church) between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. There will be shorter days and longer days—if the day gets too long we'll change our plans and stop for the night before reaching our planned destination (and we'll make up the mileage in the coming days).

Buffer Days

During each section of the trip, there are buffer days built into the itinerary to allow for delays en route. Most groups will find that they spend these buffer days partially or completely off of the bikes for rest, relaxation and exploration on foot.

Meals, Snacks & Cold Drinks

Breakfasts are generally made up of cereal, fruit, juice and milk. A typical morning snack is bananas and granola bars. Lunch is usually sandwiches (peanut butter & jelly, cold cuts & cheese, hummus), plus lots of chips and cookies and fresh fruit and veggies. Based on the availability of stores along our route one afternoon stop a day will include cold drinks (for example, cold water, juice or Gatorade purchased by Overland from a convenience store) and a salty snack (chips, pretzels or crackers). Popular dinners include pasta, stir-fry, tacos and burritos.

Overland's goal is to always provide more food than is needed so that everyone—no matter how big their appetitie—gets enough. Each group will plan and prepare their meals everyday. Over the course of the first week or so, groups develop a comfortable routine around meals and their favorite meals become established.

Please note that every meal, snack and cold drink on the American Challenge is provided by Overland and is shared by the group. This asks a lot of everyone in the group: even though it would be easy to allow students to buy their own meals and snacks if they wanted, doing so would break down the cohesiveness of the group. Getting 14 people across the country on bikes requires tremendous teamwork—sharing meals, snacks and drinks is an important building block of that teamwork. 

“The caliber of the leaders, the itinerary and organization were exceptional.” Jean Kane, Devon, Pennsylvania

STUDENTS: IS THIS THE RIGHT TRIP FOR YOU?

Only you can answer this question. We suggest you start the decision making process by reading everything on our website about the trip. Then, email us with any questions you have. Then, talk to students who have done the trip (we can give you references).

To start your thinking about the American Challenge, consider the following:

1. There are many kinds of challenges on the American Challenge:

  • Mileage: 80+ miles a day for six weeks with many days over 90 miles and a handful over 100 miles.
  • Weather: high temperatures (hot and humid east of the Mississippi; hot and windy across the Great Plains; hot and dry across the desert) and the good possibility of some rainy stretches.
  • Not-Feeling-Great: over the course of six weeks there's a good chance that you'll catch a cold or that you'll have a minor stomach upset—nothing serious but still a challenge when you're far from home and working hard.
  • Scrapes, Bumps & Bruises: before you jump joyously into the Pacific at Santa Monica you'll have scraped a knee or elbow, or bruised a thigh, or had some such minor injury (there has never been a major injury on American Challenge).
  • Homesickness: even if you've never had it before, there will likely be times when you long for the comforts and ease of home.
  • Camping & Sleeping In Churches And Community Centers: you'll get very comfortable sleeping out and sleeping on floors but you'll still miss the familiarity of your own bed, the ease and efficiency of screens and windows to keep bugs out, rain off and air-conditioned air in.
  • Group Living: group meals, group snacks, group cooking, group cleaning, group chores, etc., etc., etc. The demands of group living will be some of the most important challenges you'll face.

2. Are you ready to commit yourself to the training that is required for this trip? Visit the Pre-Trip Training page to see what is required. The pre-trip riding is essential as, once the trip starts in Savannah, students who are not able to maintain an average speed of 12 miles per hour will have to leave the trip.

3. Are you ready to commit yourself wholeheartedly to a demanding group experience? The American Challenge is all about the group succeeding, about the group getting the miles done, about the group enjoying the highs together (reaching the Rockies!)... and sticking together through the lows (heat... or humidity... or rain... or tough headwinds). Are you the kind of person who can put his or her own needs and wants after those of a group?

“I will tell all of our friends to do what it takes to send their kids to Overland—wonderful program! Thank you.” Jennifer Oriola, Carlisle, Massachusetts

PARENTS: WHAT YOU NEED TO UNDERSTAND

The American Challenge Requires Fitness And Pre-Trip Training

Parents need to understand how demanding the American Challenge is-- 80+ miles a day over demanding terrain in all kinds of weather averaging 12 miles an hour on a fully loaded touring bike. Your child must be active, involved in sports and fit; in addition, your child must be willing to complete the Pre-Trip Training page. Parents need to understand that if a student is not able to maintain the group's pace (12 miles an hour on average) that he/she will have to leave the trip.

The American Challenge Requires Selflessness, Sacrifice And Teamwork

Every summer there is a small number of students who wonder why they can't do as they please on the American Challenge: "Why can't I buy my own snacks (or lunch... or dinner... or dessert)." "Why can't I ride ahead of the group... I'm so much faster than the others?" What these students have failed to grasp is that the American Challenge is a chance to see beyond their own needs and wants, to see the needs of the group before their own. In this way, the American Challenge is a chance to become a caring friend... a terrific group member... an exceptional leader. Parents need to discuss this with their son or daughter to make sure that he/she understands the group demands of the trip (and parents need to understand, too, that if their son/daughter is not able to commit to the group that he/she will have to leave the trip).

Conclusion

The American Challenge is a chance for your son or daughter to be challenged in ways that school and sports might never have. Riding a bike is not technically difficult—but riding a fully-loaded bike for 80+ miles a day for six weeks with 13 other people is just about the hardest sustained challenge we can imagine. For your son or daughter to succeed on and enjoy the American Challenge you have to be committed to the goals of the trip so that you can help your son or daughter understand what it is they are to be a part of.

The American Challenge ends in Santa Monica... the group rides right down Santa Monica Boulevard... parents and siblings are waiting at the pier... the riders come streaming by, shouting for joy and racing for the beach where the entire group—front wheels in hand—dives into the water together. It's a remarkable achievement for each of the kids and the group as a whole... and, for the parents who are at the pier, it's an unforgettable moment in their lives, too.

“Chris had an adventure of a lifetime.” David Toups, Madisonville, Louisiana

“Zoe turned in her phone in Savannah and engaged in a truly human experience of working within a team to share the joy and pain, independence and interdependence of an epic, unsheltered, amazing trek across America.” Joan Fox, Long Lake, Minnesota

“The AC was a once in a lifetime adventure for Connor. His sense of accomplishment just couldn’t be measured as he biked down the Santa Monica Pier. He will never forget the summer of 2011.” Sally Mackenzie, Ridgefield, Connecticut

Photos

Click thumbnails below to enlarge

Before You Go

Prepare & Pack

Preparing for the Biking

Training ahead of time is essential to your success on an Overland bike trip. Training will enable you to enjoy your trip and to ride safely this summmer. Please review the training guidelines below:

This is Overland’s most challenging trip due to its length and intensity. The American Challenge is rated a 10 on a scale of 1-10 (1 is easiest). 

  • 3000+ miles of riding
  • 80+ miles a day of riding
  • 44 or 45 days from start to finish (depends on the group). Some days off of the bikes: arrival day, departure day plus four buffer days to allow for delays en route (most groups will find that they spend these buffer days partially or completely off of the bikes)
  • Riding begins at first light and ends in the late afternoon or evening

Past experience has shown the following:
(1) Your health, safety and well being for the duration of the trip will depend on the quality, duration and intensity of your preparation.
(2) Your enjoyment of the trip will depend on your understanding of and commitment to the American Challenge as a group experience—one that demands selflessness and teamwork.

Required Pre-Trip Training
You must be able to commit to a pre-trip training program that requires the following:
(1) two rides a week of one hour each in March (14 miles over varied terrain);
(2) two rides a week of 90 minutes each in April (21 miles over varied terrain);
(3) two rides a week of two hours each in May (28 miles over varied terrain);
(4) four rides a week, two afterschool rides of two hours each (24 miles over varied terrain) and two weekend rides of four hours each (48 miles over varied terrain). All rides in June should be on fully-loaded bikes with all of your gear and clothing.

All training rides that are unloaded (i.e., without your panniers, sleeping bag, etc.) must be at an average speed of 14 miles per hour (or greater); all loaded training rides must be at an average speed of 12 miles per hour (or greater). You must be able to maintain (or exceed) 12 miles an hour fully loaded on terrain that includes hills.

All pre-trip training rides must be undertaken on the bike you will use on the American Challenge and with the pedals and shoes that you plan to use on the trip - either running shoes with toe cages attached to your pedals or bike touring or mountain biking shoes with bottom treads and recessed cleats—these shoes clip into “clipless” pedals (it’s confusing). You must be comfortable with your pedals and shoes so that you can be a safe, competent rider once the trip starts.

Your Commitment to the Group
The American Challenge requires an extraordinary amount of selflessness and teamwork. Consider the following:

(1) Riding. There will always be a range of abilities in every American Challenge group. Successful groups are the ones where the stronger riders commit themselves to support the weaker riders and where the weaker riders work hard to improve their riding so that the group can stay as close as possible when on the road. For fast riders, the challenge is to slow down and enjoy the group experience of riding across the country (if you really just want to go fast then ride across the country on your own). For slower riders, it's important to pay attention to your speed on the bike during your spring training rides. If you can't maintain the minimum speeds required (see above under Pre-Trip Training: unloaded rides must be at an average speed of 14 miles per hour or greater; all loaded training rides must be at an average speed of 12 miles per hour or greater), then you are going to have to train more—and harder—than the requirements that we have spelled out.

(2) Pace. Let's say an easy pace for you when your bike is fully loaded is 8 miles per hour. Do the math: 80+ miles a day at 8 m.p.h = 10 hours of pedaling—when you add in stops for snacks and lunch and delays and breakdowns your 10 hours of pedaling has grown to 12+ hours. Assuming the group is on the road by 6:00 a.m. that means you're rolling into camp after 6:00 p.m.—it's simply not a schedule that can be maintained, especially when the day's mileage is in the 90+ range (there are typically 4 days between 90 and 100 miles and 6 days over 100 miles). Plus, there will be a handful of riders who can easily maintain 18 m.p.h. If in the spring you find that you are a slower rider, then you must work to improve your speed and endurance. If, despite training, you find that you simply cannot maintain the required pace then you must contact us so that we can try to place you on a different trip.

(3) Meals. Experience has shown that it is absolutely essential that the group come together for meals, snacks and drinks... these are the times when friendships form and bonds are strengthened. These friendships and these bonds not only make the trip fun, they are the bedrock that provides the support for the most difficult days. Your group will work together to make sure that everyone has the kind of meals, snacks and cold drinks that they need to stay healthy and to have fun. You will find that you are eating and drinking constantly on the American Challenge—but you are doing it as a group; enjoying meals, snacks and drinks that the group chooses, that Overland pays for and that the group enjoys together.

(4) Time Together Off The Bikes. There's precious little time off the bikes, but when it comes, the group has to stick together, to include everyone... in everything—from chatting at morning snack to relaxing at lunch to reflecting on the day just before bed. Train hard for the trip, be prepared for an incredible challenge and come ready to be an important member of a close-working team.

Conclusion
The American Challenge is the greatest trip any high schooler could ever take... if you're excited about it, apply today—then get ready for the most amazing summer of your life!

Packing for Your Trip

  • Label the following items with your name, address and phone number.
  • Overland bicycle tours are fully self-contained—meaning there is no van support. You will carry all of your belongings, plus some group gear, on a sturdy rack mounted over the back wheel of your bike. You will hang panniers (these are saddlebags, pronounced “pan-yers”) off the rack and attach gear like your sleeping bag and sleeping pad to the top of the rack using bungee cords.
  • Please bring only the clothes listed below and do not wear an extra set of clothes for the flight. At trip start, your leaders will distribute group gear and they will help you repack your panniers and bike—at that time any unnecessary items will be mailed home.
  • Check out some of our favorite brands and retailers to purchase items on this list.
  • Please do not bring any type of knife or multi-tool like a Swiss Army knife or Leatherman tool.
  • As you pack your gear adhere to the following instructions: (1) pack your sleeping pad and shoes in your bike box (2) Please take your helmet and sleeping bag with you on the plane as carry-on items in case your checked luggage fails to arrive on time. (3) Pack all your remaining items in your panniers. You can tape or strap your panniers together to check them as one piece of luggage. 

Biking & Camping Equipment

  • Touring Bicycle & Rear Rack
    One of the following bikes is required: Trek 520, Surly Long Haul Trucker, Cannondale Touring 2, Fuji Touring, Jamis Aurora, Novarra Randonee. These bikes must be in excellent condition and have been purchased in the past 48 months. Other bicycles will not be accepted.
  • Panniers & Four Bungee Cords
    Panniers are saddlebags sold in pairs that attach to either side of your rear rack. For our trips you will want large panniers, 2400-3000 cubic inches total (for the pair), designed for touring. One large pannier has internal dimensions of approximately 17" x 13" x 7". You should be able to fit all of your belongings, besides your sleeping bag and pad, into your two panniers and have some space for group gear. Consider compressibility of clothing while packing for your Overland bicycle tour.
  • Spare Bike Parts & Tools
    • Four spare tubes that match your bike's tire size. (Note: you may choose to start the trip with just two tubes and mail the other two ahead to one of the mail stops. On average, students on the American Challenge get 6-8 flat tires throughout the trip. Some punctures can be easily repaired with a patch, but other times putting in a new tube is a better option. Although four spare tubes may seem like a lot, many students use all their spares and some need to purchase more along the way.)
    • One pair of spare brake pads.
    • Four spare spokes that fit your wheels (two front, two rear).
    • One tire patch kit; tire levers; one spare tire.
  • Hydration System, Water Bottles & Cages
    70-100 oz. bladder inside a small backpack (e.g., CamelBak). The simpler the better—the pack is used primarily to carry water and if it's too big and heavy or filled with other items, it will be uncomfortable to wear all day. Also attach one or two water bottles and cages to your bike frame.
  • Helmet
    Carry on the plane with you.
  • Biking Gloves
    Well-padded for comfort.
  • Shoes For Biking
    You have two options (most American Challenge participants choose option 2):
    • Ride in running shoes and have toe cages attached to your pedals. OR
    • Ride in bike touring or mountain biking shoes with bottom treads and recessed cleats—these shoes clip into “clipless” pedals (it’s confusing). A popular style of clipless shoes/pedals are SPDs. Please do not ride in racing shoes (they have hard soles that are uncomfortable to walk in).
  • Sleeping Bag
    Warm to 30 degrees or less. Lightweight and compact (when stuffed in a compression stuff-sack it should be no larger than 12" x 20"). Synthetic or down is acceptable. Carry on the plane with you.

  • Sleeping Pad
    Compact and either 3/4 or full length. Closed cell foam (thin and firm—e.g. RidgeRest) or self-inflating (e.g. Therm-a-Rest) is acceptable.

  • Utensils
    6" to 8" plastic dish or bowl with top; insulated plastic mug; spoon, fork and knife. These don't need to be special camping utensils. A Rubbermaid dish (or similar) and regular utensils are fine.

  • Headlamp
    Small and lightweight. This comes in very handy in camp when it's dark and you're using both hands.

Clothing

Please bring only the clothes listed below and do not wear an extra set of clothes for the flight. At trip start, your leaders will distribute group gear and they will help you repack your panniers and bike—at that time any unnecessary items will be mailed home.

  • Fleece Jacket or Pullover
    To stay warm on cool nights. Also comes in handy as a pillow.

  • Waterproof, Breathable Rain Jacket
    Your rain gear must be waterproof (not just water resistant). Gore-Tex is one of the better-known waterproof, breathable fabric brands, but there are many to choose from. Ponchos are not acceptable.

  • Shorts To Bike In
    Two or three pairs of bike shorts. These are spandex shorts with a padded seat called a chamois. Bike shorts should fit snugly and feel comfortable to reduce chafing and any discomforts from sitting on a bike seat for long distance rides.

  • Around Camp Shorts
    One pair. Athletic shorts work well around camp as they are comfortable to wear, light and compressible to pack.

  • T-Shirts
    Three for biking and one for around camp. Synthetic preferred. Bike jerseys are acceptable but not necessary.

  • Underwear
    Four. Typically underwear is not worn under bike shorts, but you'll need some for around camp and days off.

  • Socks
    Four pairs; at least one warm, synthetic pair for inclement weather and around camp.

  • Pajamas
    One pair only. Pajamas aren't required as many students sleep in shorts and a t-shirt.

  • Bathing Suit
    One only. Not required as many students swim in bike shorts (and a sports bra for girls).

  • Sport Sandals
    Good quality flip-flops or crocs are also okay.

Miscellaneous Gear

  • Towel
    Medium size cotton or synthetic. Synthetic camp towls will dry faster and are more compactable.

  • Plastic Bags
    Ten large ziplocks and five tall kitchen trash bags. The trash bags will be used to line your panniers and to wrap your sleeping bag and pad in. The ziplocks will be used to organize and waterproof the rest of your gear.

  • Toiletries
    All travel size (in a plastic bag). If necessary, you will be able to restock en route.

  • Chamois Cream
    Special cream to put on your bike shorts chamois to reduce the risk of chafing and saddle sores. Some popular brands are Chamois Butt'r and Assos. You can purchase chamois cream at any bike shop.

  • Sunglasses, Sunscreen (SPF 15+), Chapstick (with SPF protection) & Insect Repellent

  • Paperback Book and/or Journal
    Optional.

  • Camera/Batteries/Memory Card
    Great for documenting the trip. Make sure you bring a large enough memory card (1 to 4 GB).

  • Spending Money
    $25/week in cash or with a debit or ATM card. If you are flying home at the end of your trip, please bring additional money to set aside to pay the airline bike fee for your return flight.

Cell Phones, Electronics and Personal Property

Please note the following important policies:

Our programs offer the opportunity to strengthen independence and self-reliance. To maximize these benefits, we do not permit phone calls to or from our students (except in the case of emergency).

If it is important for your son or daughter to be able to call you while en route to Overland, we recommend that you purchase an inexpensive phone card that your son or daughter can use at any airport pay phone.

If you feel that it is necessary to send your son or daughter with a phone, please do not send an expensive smart phone like an iPhone or BlackBerry. Send an inexpensive prepaid cell phone instead. On arrival we will collect all phones but we have found that safeguarding these phones is problematic given that our programs move from place to place. Despite our best efforts over $25,000 in phones have been lost, damaged or stolen in the last two years alone. We regret that due to the expense involved in replacing these items, we take absolutely no responsibility whatsoever for phones, electronics or personal property brought by students and we will not make any reimbursements for lost, damaged or stolen phones, electronics or personal property.

Communications

  • To maximize independence and self-reliance, we do not permit phone calls, emails or text messages to or from our students (except in the case of an emergency).
  • Your child will call home with our phones and assistance on arrival and departure if he/she flies to his/her program.
  • In the case of an emergency, we will make sure you are in touch with your child as soon as possible.

 Cell Phones

  • Cell phone use is prohibited on all Overland programs.
  • Any phone brought by a student will be collected by us on arrival and returned at departure.
  • If you decide to bring a phone, do not bring an expensive smartphone (e.g., iPhone or BlackBerry); instead bring an inexpensive prepaid cell phone (better yet, bring an inexpensive prepaid calling card).

Personal Electronics

  • We do not permit personal electronics (e.g., iPods, Kindles or iPads) except for digital cameras.
  • We do not permit emergency response or GPS tracking electronics.
  • Any electronics brought by a student will be collected by us on arrival and mailed home or returned at departure.

Personal Property

  • Overland is not responsible for any student’s personal property—including but not limited to: phones, electronics, cameras, equipment, bicycles and clothing. Please schedule all expensive items on your homeowners insurance policy to ensure that your child/ward’s personal property and equipment is covered against loss, damage or theft.

No Reimbursements for Lost, Damaged or Stolen Phone, Electronics and Personal Property

  • Despite taking precautions, some phones, electronics and personal property brought by students (and collected by us) have been lost, damaged or stolen. We regret that due to the expense involved in replacing these items, we take absolutely no responsibility whatsoever for phones, electronics or personal property brought by students and we will not make any reimbursements for lost, damaged or stolen phones, electronics or personal property.

Questions or concerns? Please call us. Your understanding and cooperation are appreciated.

Travel Information

Families are responsible for making travel arrangements to Savannah Airport and from the Los Angeles, California Airport. Overland’s leaders will be on hand at the airport to provide supervision and assistance at trip start and end.

DROP OFF:  Savannah Intl Airport (SAV) Airport Baggage Claim at 11:00 a.m
PICK UP:  Santa Monica Youth Hostel, 1436 Second St., at 10:00 p.m. night before trip end date, or 5:00 a.m at Hostel on trip end date, or Los Angeles Intl Airport (LAX) at 10:00 a.m. on trip end date.
FLIGHT ARRIVAL:  Savannah Intl Airport (SAV) between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon
FLIGHT DEPARTURE:  Los Angeles Intl Airport (LAX) between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon 

Any other special cases, please call Overland to coordinate, if you have not done so already.

Flight & Travel Information 2012

Program Start & End Information 2012

Mail Stops

Please send Letters & Postcards (rather than care packages)

  • Since we’re on the move and prefer to travel light, we encourage you to send letters and postcards rather than care packages.

Specific Instructions For Letters

  • On all letters: Please write clearly, in bold print, “Please hold for Overland Group” on the front of the envelope.
  • Please do not send overnight letters: Many overnighted letters arrive before or after we arrive and are then sent back (for this same reason, please do not send mail that requires a signature upon delivery).
  • All mail addressed to a General Delivery post office address must be sent via US Postal Service. FedEx and UPS packages will not be accepted at a General Delivery address.

AC 1

Mail Stop #1: Mail must arrive prior to June 30th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 1)
c/o General Delivery
500 Main Ave SW
Cullman, AL 35055-4736
 
Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/1/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package
 
Mail Stop #2: Mail must arrive prior to July 12th to ensure delivery to the group
 
Student's Name (Overland Group AC 1)
c/o General Delivery
Winfield, KS 67156-9998
 
Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/13/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package
 
Mail Stop #3: Mail must arrive prior to July 22nd to ensure delivery to the group
 
Student's Name (Overland Group AC 1)
c/o Durango United Campground
1322 Animas View Dr
Durango, CO 81301
 
Mail Stop #4: Mail must arrive prior to July 27th to ensure delivery to the group
 
Student's Name (Overland Group B)
c/o General Delivery
Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
 
Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/28/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package
 
Mail Stop #5: Mail must arrive prior to August 4th to ensure delivery to the group
 
Student's Name (Overland Group AC 1)
c/o Hostelling International Santa Monica
1436 Second St
Santa Monica, CA 90401
 
AC 2
 
Mail Stop #1: Mail must arrive prior to July 1st to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 2)
c/o Sherry Whinery
119 Park St
Union, MS 39365

Mail Stop #2
: Mail must arrive prior to July 11th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 2)
c/o General Delivery
Norman, OK 73069-7106

Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/13/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package

Mail Stop #3: Mail must arrive prior to July 19th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 2)
c/o General Delivery
Taos, NM 87571

Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/21/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package

Mail Stop #4: Mail must arrive prior to July 26th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 2)
c/o General Delivery
Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/28/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package

Mail Stop #5: Mail must arrive prior to August 4th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 2)
c/o Hostelling International Santa Monica
1436 Second St
Santa Monica, CA 90401

 AC 3

 Mail Stop #1: Mail must arrive prior to June 30th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 3)
c/o General Delivery
500 Main Ave SW
Cullman, AL 35055-4736

 Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/2/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package

Mail Stop #2: Mail must arrive prior to July 12th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 3)
c/o General Delivery
Winfield, KS 67156-9998

Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/14/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package

Mail Stop #3: Mail must arrive prior to July 23rd to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 3)
c/o Durango United Campground
1322 Animas View Dr
Durango, CO 81301

Mail Stop #4: Mail must arrive prior to July 28th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 3)
c/o General Delivery
Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/29/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package

Mail Stop #5: Mail must arrive prior to August 5th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 3)
c/o Hostelling International Santa Monica
1436 Second St
Santa Monica, CA 90401

 AC 4

Mail Stop #1: Mail must arrive prior to July 1st to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 4)
c/o Sherry Whinery
119 Park St
Union, MS 39365

Mail Stop #2: Mail must arrive prior to July 11th to ensure delivery to the group

 Student's Name (Overland Group 4)
c/o General Delivery
131 W Foley St
Eufaula, OK 74432-9998
 
Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/13/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package

Mail Stop #3: Mail must arrive prior to July 19th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 4)
c/o General Delivery
Taos, NM 87571

Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/22/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package

Mail Stop #4: Mail must arrive prior to July 27th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 4)
c/o General Delivery
Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/29/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package

Mail Stop #5: Mail must arrive prior to August 5th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 4)
c/o Hostelling International Santa Monica
1436 Second St
Santa Monica, CA 90401
 
AC 5
 
Mail Stop #1
: Mail must arrive prior to July 1st to ensure delivery to the group
 
Student's Name, Overland (AC 5)
General Delivery
500 W Main St. STE 102
Tupelo, MS 38804-9998

Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/5/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package

Mail Stop #2: Mail must arrive prior to July 12th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name, Overland (AC 5)
c/o General Delivery
Independence, KS 67301

Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/14/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package

Mail Stop #3: Mail must arrive prior to July 22nd to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 5)
c/o Durango United Campground
1322 Animas View Dr
Durango, CO 81301

Mail Stop #4: Mail must arrive prior to July 29th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 5)
c/o General Delivery
Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

Please write, "Hold for arrival 7/30/11" on the lower left corner of the envelope/package

Mail Stop #5: Mail must arrive prior to August 5th to ensure delivery to the group

Student's Name (Overland Group AC 5)
c/o Hostelling International Santa Monica
1436 Second St
Santa Monica, CA 90401 
 
 

 

Helpful Reminders

Checklist and Reminders 2011

Apply Now

HOW TO APPLY

You have two choices. You can apply online with a credit card by clicking the link below.

Apply Online

Or you can download the 2012 Overland Application as a PDF (you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader).

Then mail your completed one-page application and $795 deposit check to:

Overland
P.O. Box 31
Williamstown, MA 01267

For overnight mail via UPS or FedEx, please use our street address:

Overland
63 Spring Street
Williamstown, MA 01267

Applications are reviewed in the order in which they arrive at our office and we cannot hold spots over the phone.

Learn about our admissions process.

Leader Profile

Peter Harrison

Peter Harrison

Hometown
Concord, New Hampshire
School
Amherst College
Leadership
American Challenge, Blue Ridge Explorer, New England Adventure
More about Peter »

See More Overland Leaders

Check out photos from American Challenge

Check out our photo gallery

Find us on Facebook   Smug Mug

 

Travel Abroad or Travel the US

New England | Western US | Alaska | Hawaii | Canada | Costa Rica | Virgin Islands | Peru | Ecuador | France | Spain | Europe | Tanzania | Thailand

Summer Programs

Overland Programs offers more than 40 different trips including New England summer camps and adventures for kids (4th graders, 5th graders and 6th graders), hiking trips for teens, teen bike trips in Europe and America, teen summer service programs, writing programs on the Williams college campus and field studies trips in the developing world. Overland has summer adventure trips and programs of all types, lengths, and locations. Our teen adventure travel trips and programs are for elementary school students, middle school students and high school students. We have wilderness adventures, bike adventures cross-country, and outdoor leadership programs spread across five continents. Overland is not simply a summer-long experience—it's a life experience with value and resonance that extends far beyond the boundaries of a single summer.

  

Elite Leaders

Bright, charismatic and accomplished, our leaders ensure the safety and well-being of every Overland student. We recruit our leaders from America's finest colleges and universities, meeting with hundreds of campus leaders across the the countryan effort that generates over 450 applications for just 80 new leadership positions. No other organization of our kind invests the resources that we do to put together the finest summer leadership staff possible.

Programs and Adventures Since 1984

American Camp Accreditation LogoOverland, also known as Overland Summers, Overland Programs, Overland Travel, and even as Overland Adventures, is proud to have ACA accredited summer programs which are held to the highest safety standards. Overland is not a teen tour or a typical summer camp, our trips and programs are carefully crafted and designed to challenge our students, who are always in small groups of no more than 12 students with superlative leadership.

 

MA Education Web Design Copyright 2012 Overland All rights reserved