Hayes Hitchens Death and Obituary – Hayes Hitchens, the founder and CEO of Moondance Adventures, passed away on December 24, 2025, leaving behind a profound legacy of leadership, mentorship, and inspiration. His death has deeply saddened family, friends, colleagues, and the thousands of young people whose lives were shaped through his work in adventure travel and youth development.
Hitchens was best known as the visionary force behind Moondance Adventures, an organization he founded with the belief that meaningful experiences in nature could help young people grow into confident, grounded, and compassionate adults. From its earliest days, Moondance was built on principles of integrity, intentional living, and genuine human connection. Under his leadership, the organization grew into a highly respected program offering carefully designed adventure travel experiences across the globe.
At the heart of Hayes Hitchens’ philosophy was the idea of “living in the moment.” He believed that stepping outside of comfort zones—whether through hiking remote trails, serving communities abroad, or navigating unfamiliar cultures—allowed young people to discover resilience and purpose within themselves. This belief shaped Moondance’s mission and culture, creating a close-knit community of students, leaders, and alumni who continue to honor his values.
Hitchens’ impact on youth development was widely recognized. Parents entrusted Moondance with their children because of the organization’s emphasis on character, safety, and personal growth. Participants often described their experiences as life-changing, crediting Hitchens’ vision for helping them build confidence, leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Even after his passing, Moondance Adventures continues to operate trips in his honor, ensuring that his mission lives on.
Beyond his professional achievements, Hayes Hitchens was deeply rooted in family and personal relationships. He was a resident of Nashville, Tennessee, where he was known for his warmth, generosity, and strong sense of community. He was the beloved son of Leslie (Les) and Joey Hitchens and shared a close bond with his three brothers, Peter, Ben, and another brother also named Hayes. Family was central to his life, and those closest to him remember him as thoughtful, driven, and deeply caring.
Hitchens was married to Michael Maxwell Hitchens, his partner and supporter throughout his journey. Their relationship was marked by shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to living a life of purpose. Friends and colleagues often spoke of Hayes’ ability to make others feel seen and valued, whether in a boardroom, on a trail, or in everyday conversation.
As news of his passing continues to spread, tributes have poured in from across the Moondance community and beyond. Hayes Hitchens will be remembered not only as a successful entrepreneur, but as a mentor and guide who believed fiercely in the potential of young people. His legacy endures through the countless lives he touched and the adventures that continue in his name.
