Wednesday, October 16, 2013

High Adventure in Yosemite



Each year the Young Men, ages 14-18 have an opportunity to participate in a High Adventure camp through the Boy Scouts of America program. The High Adventure activity varies year to year. This year, the Young Men from the Ladera Ranch 2nd ward were able to spend several days backpacking through the mountains of Yosemite National Park.

Our group of Scouts and leaders arrived in Yosemite and took a brief tour of the Yosemite valley floor. Half Dome and El Capitan were on proud display as we traveled through the park.

The trek began near Hetch Hetchy reservoir in the northwest corner of Yosemite National Park. The destination was to backpack over 11 miles to Lake Vernon where base camp would be set up.  The hike also encompassed a 2500 feet elevation gain, no easy climb with 50lb. packs on our backs.

Upon leaving on our trek, we were informed that we would most likely encounter some of the larger park inhabitants, the California Black Bear. Several rangers and other hikers had seen several Black Bears in the area we would be camping. Knowing that we would have company on our trip added a little more excitement for all!

We arrived to our destination after 6 hours of hiking. We camped near a small, remote lake deep in the backcountry of Yosemite. We were able to enjoy a few days at the lake, hiking, fishing, swimming and exploring.

All the boys enjoyed their experience in Yosemite.  We had no cell phones or computers to distract us from the beauty that exists in nature. One theme that ran throughout our High Adventure trip was the need to Disconnect to Connect. Each night we had spiritual devotionals where we discussed the importance of finding balance in life and the need to continually nourish our spirits.


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