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The Florida Everglades

Deerfield Travel Programs

Species, Science and Sea

Beauty is timeless, and change happens. This is the fundamental theme of our trip to one of the most unique national parks in the USA. With plenty of biking, hiking, kayaking, and talking, our trip will explore the abundant stories to be found in such a deeply important setting that abounds

in reasons to realize the worth of conservation.

Our travel will take us on a plane from Hartford to Miami on day one and Miami to Hartford on day five. In between, we will seek to experience the Florida Everglades fully. To prepare for the trip and learn about our destination, we will read Marjorie Stoneman Douglas’ historic conservation treatise, The Everglades: River of Grass (2021 edition). Throughout the trip, students will be exposed to diverse and divergent perspectives on the present and future of how people should interact with the environment in the region.

Program Notes

  • During this trip, students will stay in hotels. Meals will be shared at hotels, restaurants, or picnic-style.
  • This travel program takes place during the entirety of Long Winter Weekend. Students will depart campus together on Thursday, Feb. 6 and return to campus together on Feb. 10.
  • As part of Deerfield’s commitment to face-to-face interactions, during certain times of the trip students will be “unplugged” without access to cell phones.
  • Students and faculty leaders will update families and friends at home through our Notes From The Field blog.

Program DATEs

February 6 – February 10, 2025

Program Eligibility

This program is open to all students, with a preference for those interested in science, the sea, and National Parks. Financial Aid is available to all qualifying students.

Faculty Trip leaders

  • Jan Flaska
  • Cindie Fidanza

estimated Cost: $2,200

This price is subject to change depending on enrollment numbers and flight costs. The final price will be set before initial deposits and enrollment paperwork are due.

2025 Preliminary Itinerary

*This itinerary is subject to change.

This itinerary begins on February 6 with a departure from Deerfield, MA, and check-in at a hotel near Bradley Airport in Hartford, CT. The next day, the group will travel to Florida. From February 8 to 10, students will engage in various activities exploring Florida’s ecosystems and cultural sites. Highlights include an airboat ride in the Everglades, a tour of Miami, and potentially attending an athletic event and visiting the University of Miami. The program emphasizes exploring diverse perspectives in this unique region. The trip concludes with a return flight to Hartford and a bus back to Deerfield.