DEER HILL EXPEDITIONS
Located in the American Southwest, Deer Hill Expeditions offers a unique combination of backpacking and service learning within local, Indigenous communities. Participants will spend half of their experience in Colorado and Utah backpacking and/or rafting, while the other half will be spent working with and learning from Navajo or Hopi hosts. Participants will be challenged physically and mentally, reflecting on what they achieved and learned each day during closing circle.
Who is Deer Hill?
Deer Hill is Summer Search's longest standing partner, having started with us since the very beginning! They lead unique programs that empower youth to create authentic connection to self and their community through outdoor and service experiences. A special part of Deer Hill is their strong, long-standing relationship with the Navajo Nation and Hopi and Zuni pueblos, who have welcomed Deer Hill participants into their communities.
program details
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Location: Durango, CO
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Participant Mix: Mostly non-Summer Searchers, with little to no Summer Searchers
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Accommodations: Tents & camp beds
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Bathroom Access: Flush toilets & showers in the front country; none when backpacking
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Phone Access: While traveling only
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COVID Policy: No current requirements
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Transportation: Summer Search will pay for your flight to Durango, CO (with a layover in Denver). You will need a valid government-issued ID
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There are limited spots on this trip!
course details
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Southwest Journey
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Jul 8-Jul 30, 2025 (23 days)
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River rafting and backpacking
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River & Service Expedition
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Jun 26-Jul 9, 2025 (14 days)
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River rafting
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Mountain and Service Expedition
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Jul 19-Aug 1, 2025 (14 days)
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Backpacking
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Wilderness Leadership
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Jun 20-Jul 14, 2025 (25 days)
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Canyoneering and backpacking
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program activities
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Depending on your course, you will participate in river rafting and/or backpacking
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Wilderness Leadership course also includes canyoneering
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All courses spend a few days completing a community service project with the Navajo Nation and Hopi and Zuni pueblos
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Closing ceremony is held at the end of your experience, complete with a cookout and slideshow
what you'll get from this experience
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Increased confidence and sense of what you’re capable of
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New friends built around teamwork in the outdoors
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Deeper understanding and appreciation of the land and our communities
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A certificate stating your service credit hours
This program is a good fit if you...
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Have or are able to get a government-issued ID, like a REAL ID or passport
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Are comfortable flying alone (and your family feels comfy, too!)
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Are interested in service learning with Indigenous communities
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Want a trip longer than 2 weeks (for Southwest Journey and Wilderness Leadership)
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Are looking for a physical challenge
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Want to grow in your independence
Some courses, but not all, have:
