- Expedition: Sep 23-28, 2012
- Turlock and Pitman High Schools
- Kings Canyon National Park: Paradise Valley and Castle Domes Meadow
Students from Turlock and Pitman High School went to Kings Canyon and found Paradise...Paradise Valley! They took great pride in helping each other overcome obstacles, often times singing on trail to keep spirits high. Highlights from the trip included Mist Falls, Castle Domes Meadow, and discussions about having a voice for one's self.
September 26, 2012
We are at Kings Canyon the 4th day here right now. We have a nice view of the stars even though we had to walk a little far and then had to come back. I was a little mad. The first night was so so so so nice. We were under the stars and saw shooting stars. People said that it is cold and want to go home.
P.S. But I love it.
Getting ready to head in to the Wilderness!
Our adventure has been a fantastic one so far. Though we've had many ups and downs, literally and emotionally, we've pushed through. On our way up here we saw an asteroid! It burned up before hitting the ground but it was still amazing. This last day has been the hardest. We walked about 7.5 miles.
Hiking along the Paradise Valley trail.
September 27, 2012
Yesterday was a rough day. I never felt so sick. I'm happy that I woke up today feeling better but time after time it came back. I will say that I don't regret coming up here, only the doubts that fill my mind so heavily, but ignoring them is easy when you're with amazing people. Today is the last day until we walk one more hike to meet up with Mr. and Mrs. Hollister and head home to our loud towns. I'm looking forward to tomorrow and see where we eat with them. What an odd thought to think? Tonight we are sleeping without tents...which I'm scared to do.
River time.
This trip to Kings Canyon was a blast. I got to meet new people and learned all their names. Thanks to Katie, John, and Ruth. This trip wouldn't have been any better. Sure, it was tough being around people we don't know but in the end we got along really well. Day one of the trip is hard, but we pulled it off together. The best part was when we worked together. Day two was a little rough, but not as bad as Day one. It sucks tomorrow is the last day to hike with each other, but I'll never forget them. Oh, great, school starts back up on Monday. Hey John, ,Ruth, maybe you guys can talk Katie in to another week together. Anyway, I had fun, and if you're reading this, I have some advice for you. Don't be shy and don't say, "I give up," because you're not alone. If I can do it, you can do it. Good luck!
Getting clean, nature-style.