Every year, Campolindo students are welcomed to go on a week-long science field trip to Yosemite, offered through the Nature Bridge program. This program is mainly offered to seniors but has included some juniors in the past. Students spend their time hiking, sightseeing, and understanding the natural environment around them. From observing rock formations and wildlife to studying the constellations and understanding how to properly respect the national park, students are learning around the clock. This leaves them with a new view and appreciation for the park.
At the start of this year’s trip, everyone arrived at Curry Village in Yosemite on January 11. Phones were then traded off for room keys, and students began the week-long technology detox. On the first day, students went on a night-time nature walk to an auditorium where they acted out different facts to know when visiting a national park.
Over the next few days in Curry Village, students bonded with one another through participation in numerous social activities and hiking on beautiful trails. Senior Madeline Babb said, “It was really fun to be in Yosemite with my friends and not have my phone, because I felt like it made me very present.”
On day two of the activities, each group went on their challenge hike for the week. Whether it was walking next to El Capitan or traversing along Yosemite Falls, everyone was able to fully appreciate the natural treasure that is Yosemite. The trip usually takes place after winter break when most travelers have already left. This calmer, quieter time allows students to feel more immersed in nature.
On Wednesday, students moved locations and traveled 30 minutes to the National Environmental Science Center in Wawona. They hiked to a nearby fire lookout tower where they had lunch and played activities with their hiking group. Senior Jackson Walls was part of the Allie Gattor group where they learned a lot about Yosemite and what it has to offer. Walls said he “learned a lot about the history of the park and its rock compositions and all the different hikes around.”
The last full day was Thursday where students explored the Bin Ranch two miles out from their camp site. After a full day of sightseeing and exploring, students had s’mores at the campfire and played a night game to end the trip. The game involved one person tapping another’s shoulder if they found them to be creative or funny on the trip.
On the day of departure, students said goodbye to their hiking counselors and went over the best moments of the trip. They left with a newfound gratitude for Yosemite’s beauty, its history, and the meaningful memories created in its wondrous space.
