What are some exciting gap year adventure programs?

I'm considering taking a gap year before college and want to do something adventurous. Are there any recommended programs out there that offer unique experiences, like outdoor adventures or travel opportunities? I'd love to hear about some options.

Absolutely, there is a plethora of gap year programs focused on adventure and travel experiences. Here are a few which might pique your interest:

1. "Outward Bound" Gap Year Courses: This program offers many options for out-of-the ordinary experiences in locations across the globe, from backpacking in the Pacific Northwest to sea kayaking in New Zealand.

2. "National Outdoor Leadership School" (NOLS) Gap Year Programs: NOLS is well known for providing intensive outdoor leadership experience. Their semester-long courses include wilderness survival and leadership skills in some of the globe's most challenging and beautiful outdoor settings, such as The Yukon, Patagonia, and Baja.

3. "Global Citizen Year" Programs: If you're interested in a more service-oriented adventure experience, Global Citizen Year might be a good fit. These are immersive, purposeful gap year experiences where fellows live and apprentice in communities across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

4. "Rustic Pathways" Gap Year Programs: Rustic Pathways brings together a group of like-minded adventurers for gap year travel with an emphasis on community service. You can combine various program units to customize your experience.

5. "Where There Be Dragons" Gap Year Courses: Offering gap year and semester programs in Asia, Africa and Latin America, Where There Be Dragons focuses on cultural immersion, experiential learning, language study, and issues related to globalization.

Remember, each gap year program can offer a wealth of unique experiences, so consider what you personally want out of the experience. Think about the geography, the climate, the physical challenges, the cultural experiences and the opportunities each program affords in making your decision. Best of luck with your exciting year ahead!