The Challenge Hike

What a fun day!  Each group of students went on a challenge hike today to a different place.  The groups hiked along a canyon,up to overlooks and up to glacial lakes.  Scenery seems to be everyone's favorite part of the day.  It is truly beautiful here.  The challenge part of the hike was in the length for some and steepness of a climb for others.  The kids are proud of what they accomplished in overcoming such a difficult hike -- especially on our first day.  We've hardly had time to acclimate to the altitude!  Many are showing off their "war wounds" and comparing blisters and scratches with pride. 
Along the hike, the groups also played games such as "camouflage" and learning how to use a compass and topographical map.  Some groups got to use GPS and make a nature art project as well.  We saw Marmots, mule deer, pica, chipmunks and moose, too! 

Overall it has been a great first day.  Tonight, two groups will go on a night hike and the other groups will play "Communication Chaos."  We'll post more soon.