The Road Less Traveled: Transformative Teen Travel Since 1991

Since 1991, The Road Less Traveled (RLT) has been leading small-group trips for teens across five continents—helping them explore, connect, and grow.

Over the years, our travelers have trekked across Alaska’s glaciers, kayaked the coast of Greece, scuba-dived in Sardinia, worked on service projects in Costa Rica, hiked remote trails in the Andes, and partnered with communities worldwide.

Each experience is designed to challenge teens, immerse them in new cultures, and build their confidence in ways they’ll carry with them for life.

So, what makes us different?

1. We Stay Small—On Purpose

Many teen travel programs operate on a large scale. We don’t. Staying small is intentional—it allows us to build real trust, both with families and within each travel group.

✔ Personalized Attention – We take the time to get to know every family before the trip, answering questions and ensuring each teen finds the right program.

✔ Tight-Knit Groups – Small groups mean our leaders can truly connect with each participant, supporting them in ways that matter most.

✔ Consistent Communication – Parents receive trip updates, and we remain available before, during, and after the experience.

We believe that meaningful experiences happen in spaces where relationships can thrive, and that’s exactly what our small-group model allows.

2. Our Trip Leaders Are the Best in the Industry

A program is only as strong as its leaders—and ours set the standard.

🏕 Experience & Training – All RLT leaders have backgrounds in youth leadership, outdoor education, and global travel. They hold essential safety certifications, including Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and CPR/AED.

🌍 Passion for Impact – Many of our leaders started as RLT participants themselves. They return year after year because they believe in the power of these experiences.

🤝 Support & Connection – Leaders don’t just supervise—they mentor, encourage, and create a team dynamic that makes every trip unforgettable.

By the time an RLT trip begins, our leaders aren’t just prepared—they’re fully invested in guiding teens through the challenges and growth that come with immersive travel.

3. Service is at the Heart of Every Trip

At RLT, travel isn’t just about seeing the world—it’s about engaging with it.

Every trip includes meaningful service, whether it’s:

✔ Water projects in Peru – Helping local communities access clean water.

✔ Teaching English in Thailand – Supporting students in rural classrooms.

✔ Community-building in Costa Rica – Working alongside local partners on sustainable projects.

✔ Conservation in Alaska – Preserving national parks and protecting wildlife.

Our service projects are built on years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Teens don’t just “help”—they learn, connect, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.


Helping Teens Grow for Over 30 Years

For more than three decades, RLT has designed programs that challenge and inspire teens to think bigger and grow stronger.

If you’re looking for a summer experience that will give your teen adventure, purpose, and direction, let’s talk. We’ll help you find the perfect trip and answer any questions you have.

Laura DunmireComment