WildLink August 2026: Venture Academy
The 2026 WildLink team from Venture Academy arrived in Yosemite bursting with energy and ready for the adventure ahead. The group arrived at the National Environmental Science Center (NESC) and settled into their cabins for the first two nights. Alongside their chaperones, Jeremy Sinclair and Kris Dustin, the students enjoyed a delicious dinner that led right into an evening program under the clear night sky, where everyone gathered around a fire, looked up at the stars, and got to know each other. The next day, the group woke up and spent the day in Yosemite Valley with their guides, Sam and Sarah, gearing up for the backpacking expedition ahead. Once everyone had everything they needed for their four-day, three-night journey into the backcountry, they enjoyed the rest of the afternoon in the Valley before heading back to the NESC for dinner and one last night in the cabins.
This trip changed me in so many ways. Just being around nature made me appreciate so many things. My love towards nature definitely got stronger, not just that but the bonds I’ve created with others. It made me realize that its okay to take a break from the real world to take a breather.Marlen Monroy-Duran
The big morning finally arrived, and the group hit the trail to hike into May Lake carrying everything they needed on their backs. The weather was a dramatic mix of brilliant sunshine and cold wind with fast-moving alpine clouds that swept through the peaks. The team donned their layers, adjusted their heavy packs, and pushed up the trail, arriving at the alpine lake just in time to set up camp at the base of Mt. Hoffmann. They spent the rest of the day settling into their new wilderness home, taking in the shifting shadows on the water as the sun dipped below the ridges. That night, the group came together to share their first warm meal in the backcountry, sleeping safe and sound under a starry sky.
Day two of the backpacking expedition was the big summit day. The group woke up early, ate a hearty breakfast, and began the challenging, steep climb up Mt. Hoffmann. Proving themselves to be incredibly strong and determined hikers, the team pushed through the rocky terrain all the way to the top, where they were rewarded with breathtaking, panoramic views of the entire Yosemite high country. After celebrating their summit victory and taking in the sweeping vistas, they carefully made their way back down to their camp at May Lake to relax, share dinner, and rest their tired muscles after an unforgettable day on the mountain.
Yosemite is so beautiful and diverse. I love all the different landscapes. Up close, I’ve loved learning about granite, succulents, flowers and plants. Seeing these details up close is so fun and interesting. There is so much to notice. I felt really in my element foraging for wood. Bugs and little details help me slow down and make me happy. The big views are also amazing. I love Mt. Hoffman the most.Sarah Wegner
On day three, the team focused on giving back to the wilderness. After breakfast, they met up with Ranger Jonathon for a rewarding restoration project around the May Lake campsite. The students worked hard together, restoring and removing illegal fire rings and picking up trash to help protect and preserve the delicate alpine environment. Once their service work was complete, the group packed up their camp and hiked further into the wilderness to Raisin Lake. They had the beautiful, secluded area entirely to themselves, taking advantage of the absolute solitude to enjoy their final evening around the campfire under a canopy of glistening stars and moody clouds.
The last morning arrived with the bittersweet feeling of having to return home after a great expedition. Camp was packed up tightly, making sure not a single trace of the group was left behind. After a quick breakfast, the team began their hike back to the trailhead, passing May Lake one last time for a final view of the high country. Once back at the vehicles, the students, chaperones, and guides came together for one last lunch, returned their borrowed gear, and took a triumphant group photo. With faces still smiling from the summit, the restoration work, and the shared memories, they loaded up for the journey back to Stockton, forever changed by the mountains.
Yosemite has inspired me in the sense of peace and exploring mother nature. It was my first time being able to see this amazing place. I have learned so much these past two days talking to Sam and Sarah. It's honestly so breathtaking to see different kinds of animals and lots of trees. It led to me feeling a sense of happiness within me.Jayleen Munoz
Stories
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