They boarded the bus, eager and excited. Their backpacks were full. The time had come. This group of rising high school seniors came all the way from Jacksonville Florida to Noah’s Ark Whitewater Rafting in Buena Vista, Colorado to hike for 3 days in the Collegiate Peaks Mountain Range. When the bus started, their nerves were high. Most of the students had never backpacked in their lives, let alone seen mountain ranges like the ones in our backyard here at Noah’s Ark. Once the short bus ride out of Buena Vista to the trailhead began, there was no going back.
It only took a few steps onto the trail before the students’ walls began to come down and people opened up. There’s something special about a journey that will bring groups together. This adventure not only offered breathtaking views, but also fostered deep connections among friends and guides alike. Coming all the way from Florida, the Colorado mountains offered a fresh perspective. The sense of fellowship that comes throughout backpacking is unbeatable. The group shared stories, laughter, and challenges, creating a strong bond that will surely last beyond their high school years.
One student noted, “It was a great experience… to see all the fellowship between not just me and my friends but also between us and our guides.”
“It was really a blessing to see all the beautiful places,” another student shared.
The scenery served as a backdrop for reflection and connection. The trip wasn’t just about the physical journey, it was also an opportunity for personal growth. Participants learned invaluable backpacking skills and gained insights into their own strengths and capabilities. As the trip came to an end, the sentiment among the group was bittersweet.
“I’m really, really excited that we did this, and I’m so sad that we have to leave,” one participant shared.
The bonds formed, lessons learned, and memories created on a backpacking trip at Noah’s Ark will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact. If you’re looking for an adventure that combines breathtaking Colorado scenery with lasting friendships, consider joining Noah’s Ark for an unforgettable experience in the Collegiate Peaks Mountain Range. From large groups to families, we have an experience for you. We want to adventure together!