What will I do on Quest?
Killarney participants will hike a portion of the 100km La Cloche range trail, and will canoe through many of the lakes in Killarney Provincial Park. They will also climb and rappel, and spend two days on Solo, during which participants will be placed around a lake, far from their fellow participants. They will leave behind many of the distractions of everyday life for the purpose of meditation and contemplation. 
Appalachian Trail participants will hike a portion of the longest hiking trail in the United States, as well as climb and rappel at St. John's Ledges. They will also experience a short solo period, of about 36 hours.
Will I have to do everything?
Quest's motto is "Challenge by choice." By signing up for the program you are signing up to participate in a number of experiences that will no doubt be quite challenging. If a participant feels unsafe at any point, he or she is encouraged to talk with one of his or her leaders or one of the guides. However, he or she will be strongly encouraged to participate.
Do I need previous outdoor experience?
No. The Quest program welcomes students of all levels of outdoors experience, and aims to build skills such as camp craft, orienteering, climbing, canoeing, and more.
What should I do to prepare for Quest?
It is very important that you start exercising regularly well before Quest begins. Being in shape makes the experience much more enjoyable. You should also be making sure that you have all the equipment on the packing list, and MAKE SURE that your boots are broken in.
Will there be a sail this year?
No. It became increasingly clear that the sailing program we formerly used was not completely in line with the Quest philosophy, so we have cut out the sail, shortened the program and lowered the cost.
How safe will I be on Quest?
Safety is a primary concern of the Quest program. All leaders have nationally recognized Wilderness First Aid certifications from SOLO. The climb and rappel sites are
run by very experienced climbers.
Where do I go to the bathroom in the woods?
Most of the campsites in Killarney Provincial Park and along the Appalachian trail have a 'box'. Toilet paper will, of course, be provided.
Will there be showers?
The short answer is no. There will be opportunities to swim every day in one of the many lakes in Killarney Park. Opportunities to swim will be more limited on the Appalachian Trail. Access to showers is extremely limited, and there are no showers once you are in the park or on the trail. Many of Killarney's lakes are considered dead (this is the reason for their clear blue appearance). As a result, even biodegradable soap is not permitted in the water. Consequently, most Killarney participants find daily swims to meet their needs.
What do we eat? Will I get enough nutrients/protein/etc.?
Plenty of food is provided to eat while on Quest. Group members will be responsible for carrying food (like oatmeal, pasta, soup, crackers, cheese, etc.) throughout the duration of the program, as well as planning their meals. Generally breakfast and dinner will be hot meals, and lunch will be eaten along the trail. Accommodations can easily be made for vegetarians, but this is important to note on your health form.
Can I bring my own food on Quest?
No, all of your food will be provided. Extra food is extra weight, as well as a safety concern in regards to attracting animals.
Do I need to buy my own equipment for Quest?
Much of your personal equipment (clothes, boots, etc) you will need to buy, but some equipment can be borrowed from the program. This includes backpacks, sleeping bags and pads, and water bottles. Click here for the gear list.
What kind of wildlife is there in Killarney and on the AT?
On both programs, one may encounter bears, raccoons, beavers, otters, chipmunks, squirrels, skunks, birds, snakes etc. Killarney participants may spot a moose as well.
How do I enroll in Quest?
After you are admitted to Trinity College, complete and mail the postcard on the 2008 brochure or the Quest application along with a $200 nonrefundable deposit. Your spot will not be secured until the deposit has been received.
How much does Quest cost?
For Killarney, there is a $1,350 participant fee. The AT fee is $600. Participants will need to provide themselves with all required personal gear. There are also need-based scholarships
available. The fee includes:
- Transportation from Trinity College to your program location and back
- Food for 7 or 14 days in the park
- Canoe rentals (Killarney only)
- Use of all necessary climbing and rappelling equipment
- Park permits
- All necessary group equipment
I have a medical condition. Will my Quest experience be affected?
We frequently have participants with conditions such as diabetes, asthma and others. If you have concerns about this type of activity, please talk to your doctor. Quest provides first aid kits with medications to manage many common problems. If you are prone to certain health problems, you may bring your own medication. However, please list this on your medical forms.
When can I move into my dorm room?
Appalachian Trail participants will not have the option to move into dorms, due to summer programs.
For Killarney participants, your room will be available before and after Quest. Those who wish to move in prior to the start of the program should be in touch with
the program director.
Can I participate in both the June and August programs?
Yes! While both programs will be run by the same philosophy, different leaders, participants and locations can provide a completely new experience.
If you have any more questions, please don't hesitate to contact Andy Miller, program director, at andrew.miller@trincoll.edu
"The aim of education is to impel people into value forming experiences to insure the survival of these qualities: an enterprising quality, an undefeatable spirit, tenacity and pursuit, readiness for sensible self denial and above all compassion."
-Kurt Hahn, Founder of Outward Bound