WildLink June 2026: San Lorenzo High School

Their second day came and the students were eager to get going with the adventure, but they first had to gear up. So the group went over to Yosemite Valley where both of their incredible NatureBridge educators led them through the process of gathering all the gear they needed for the next four days. Explaining not only what every piece of equipment was and how to use it, but also how best to pack it in your backpack. Gear day is long and tedious, everyone has to think of every little detail, because once you are out there whatever you forgot you’ll have to make due without, if not, the trip might end shorter than you expect it. The group was very attentive and followed directions and advice seamlessly. By mid afternoon the group was set, packed and ready to go enjoy the river after a hot day of gear packing. A short walk through Yosemite valley brought the group to an awesome river spot along the Merced river where they cooled off and took in the sights of the valley. After cooling down and taking in the incredible Yosemite Valley views the group made their way back to the NESC for one last night indoors before their backpacking expedition. Dinner greeted them up at the NESC and another evening was spent around a fire, this time speaking of the hope and fear people had about the upcoming expedition. NatureBridge educator Sophia did a great job addressing the fears and encouraging the hopes. 

The bright morning came when the group was to set off on their backpacking trip. Everyone ate one last delicious breakfast prepared by the NatureBridge chefs and then gathered all their gear making sure they had everything they needed and it was packed in the best way possible. After loading up the cars, the group set out to their trailhead; McGurk Meadow. The road there took them through lush conifer forest and higher in elevation than they had been so far. After arriving at the trailhead the group centered itself, applied sunscreen and donned their backpacks. The trail began with dense forest and then opened up to the McGurk Meadow, one of the last wild homes to the biggest owl in North America, the great gray owl. The trail continued along the meadows weaving through the trees and after some time hiking the group had arrived at their campsite by Bridalveil creek. 

Setting up camp for the first time is always an experience and the San Lorenzo group did a great job. Having been joined by wilderness range Cate, the group was able to find a great spot to set up camp on durable surfaces and an appropriate distance from their water source. After camp was set up the sun demanded the group go down to the creek to cool off, and the group agreed. Bridalveil Creek was crisp and cool and made short work of cooling down the group. That evening the group relaxed at camp as the sun made its way across the sky and ate their first dinner in the backcountry around a campfire. 

The following morning, ranger Cate led the group in a restoration project of the area. A popular area to camp, Bridalveil creek sees a lot of impact from backpackers and visitors. Luckily, the group was excited to learn more about ranger Cate’s job and she was excited to share. Led by ranger Cate the group efficiently went through the area, cleaning up  micro trash and restoring and removing fire rings. Once they were done and happy with their work they sat down for lunch. After lunch ranger Cate said goodbye to the team and continued on her way. A quick break after lunch led the group to decide to go for a hike this time to Dewey point. The hike there felt light since no one was carrying heavy packs. The group was able to enjoy a beautiful sunset at Dewey point, looking down into 2,500 ft of air between them and the bottom of Yosemite valley. Dewey point brought on reflection and astonishment, laughs and conversation. As the sun hid behind the horizon the team made its way back. Now the way back was cool and darker, the trees seemed taller and the forest more quiet.

Day three was to be a big one, the group got up and ate breakfast, shortly after they began to get ready for a long day hike. The destination was Taft point, another incredible lookout over Yosemite Valley that also included far away views of the Yosemite high country. The group did so well and the hike there and back went smoothly. While at Taft point the team had lunch and shared laughs while taking in the views and enjoying the day. Back at camp a short creek break led to dinner around a camp fire, the last night of the expedition was bittersweet. Knowing they would go back home the following day and be able to see their loved ones, but also not wanting to leave a place that had become so special to them.

The last morning came and camp was packed up as swiftly as it was set up, a quick breakfast of bagels and cream cheese and the team was on the trail making their way back to the trail head. Laughs and conversations continued all along the trail back and once at the trailhead a rush of accomplishment went through the group. They had all just completed their first backpacking trip and had a great time doing it, which is the real measure for success. The NatureBridge educators along with the chaperones were so proud of this group. We hope you all continue to explore, play, and take care of your park.