The Journey was started with the idea that you don't have to be retired, rich, and old to go out and enjoy the world. You can travel with your family, kids, and friends, without breaking the bank or limiting yourself. You can still create lasting memories no matter what stage of life you’re in. Memories that will recharge yourself and your loved ones for the everyday grind. Life can be an adventure, you just have to remember,
“Tomorrow is too late!”
Come Journey with us…
Our Story
The idea for The Journey was sparked many years ago by our founder Lucas Smissen. Inspired by a family reunion Lucas attended, after weeks of traveling and exploring new places, he became fascinated with the idea of exploring all 50 states. While sitting in the back seat of his family's car, Lucas discovered a large Atlas map that showcased the entire United States. As he flipped through the pages, he realized there were many places he wanted to visit and explore. That summer, he decided to embark on his journey, not knowing where to start or how he would accomplish his goal.
Lucas realized that this adventure was not meant for him alone but something he wanted to share with others. He presented his vision to his closest friends, and they all jumped on board. Together, they planned and prepared for their first Journey in 2014, a 17-day, jam-packed itinerary filled with adrenaline-fueled activities and scenic views. Seven of them piled into a 10-passenger van and journeyed from Virginia to California and back. The Journey provided them with the opportunity to experience God's creation firsthand, and it was an adventure they would never forget. Three summers, after that first trip Lucas and his friends traveled over 25,000 miles, saw many of our great National Parks, Toured some of our biggest cities, and visited 30+ states in this beautiful country. Needless to say, they were hooked.
For us, these trips have always been more than just a way to capture scenic views, eat good food, camp under starry nights, take photographs, and do epic stuff; it was an opportunity to witness the power and glory of God in nature. This experience changed the way we viewed our Faith, and we knew we had to share it with others. Lucas had a vision of making The Journey an annual event, but he never imagined it would grow into something more significant. As he shared his passion with others, he realized that The Journey could be more than just a yearly trip and he needed a team to help share that vision.
Composed of some of the original friends who went on those early trips, we formed a team with the goal of sharing our faith through our love of Nature, and have a blast along the way. We believe that God brought together a great team with various talents and abilities to help share the love of Christ through his great big playground we call the world. The Journey will continue to inspire and motivate others to live life to the fullest because we are not promised tomorrow. Tomorrow is too late.