Growth, Discovery, and Community on the Colorado River. Written by CI Field Instructor Eeland Stribling.

For the second year in a row, we had the pleasure of taking a group of students from Lincoln Hills Cares on an unforgettable adventure. While last year’s trip was fantastic, this year managed to top it in so many ways.

On Monday, our journey began bright and early as we gathered at the meeting spot in Denver. From the start, we could feel the excitement and some hesitation in the air. Icebreakers like “Biggest Fan” and a few fun whip-a-round questions got everyone warmed up and ready for the drive and week ahead. After loading up the vans with personal gear and making sure we had enough snacks, we hit the road. Before arriving at our home at Colorado Outward Bound School (COBS) we took a bathroom and snack break in Georgetown and got to know each other some more.

Once we arrived at the COBS outside Leadville, the students quickly set up camp. This year, the students who had been in the program a year before seemed more confident and even assisted other students. It wasn’t long before everyone had found the perfect spot for their tents and settled in. The afternoon was filled with team-building activities, including a human knot challenge that had everyone laughing and working together. As the sun set, we gathered around the campfire for our first evening circle, where we shared what we were excited about and what made us a little nervous.

Tuesday started with our morning circle, where we checked in, shared our thoughts, and set the agenda for the day. After a hearty breakfast, we hiked our way to the local Leadville National Fish Hatchery. This part of the day brought back memories from last year, but this time, it was even better. The students were more engaged, asking questions, and soaking up every bit of information.

After the tour, we headed to a nearby pavilion for lunch and some well-deserved chill time. The afternoon was spent learning the art of fly fishing. Last year, it took a while for everyone to get the hang of it, but this time around, the group was catching fish like pros! Watching them proudly hold up their catches was one of the day’s highlights. Several students caught fish and took photos with them before returning the fish to the water.

We then transitioned to a hands-on exploration of the creek’s ecosystem, where the students got to wade into the water and collect various aquatic macroinvertebrates. They were thrilled to discover tiny creatures like mayfly nymphs and stoneflies, which are indicators of the stream’s health. This activity not only deepened their understanding of the environment but also sparked curiosity and excitement as they connected with the natural world in a tangible way.

As the evening approached, we returned to camp for dinner and our nightly campfire. We reflected on the day’s experiences, sharing laughs and stories as we prepared for the adventure ahead. Of course, no night of camping is complete without s’mores. As we roasted marshmallows and gazed at the stars, it was clear that this group was ready to make the most of the rest of their time in the mountains.

On Wednesday, it was time for rafting with Wilderness Aware Rafting! If there was one day everyone was looking forward to, it was rafting day. After a morning circle and a quick breakfast, we packed up our gear and headed from the headwaters of the Arkansas River downstream. The water was high—higher than it had been in ten years—making the experience even more thrilling!

There were a few nerves as we hit the first set of rapids, but soon enough, the students were getting on life jackets, helmets, and water shoes and getting pumped. With a short instruction session the students were paddling like seasoned rafters. The sense of accomplishment and sheer joy on their faces as we navigated the waves was incredible. The day was exhausting but in the best possible way.

When we returned to camp, we ended up with a wood-fired pita pizza night. The students loved it, and it turned out to be one of their favorite meals of the trip. Just before bed, Jesse led a spontaneous night hike that turned into an unforgettable adventure. The students, flashlights in hand, wandered through the darkness, listening to the sounds of the night and marveling at the stars above. Jesse led them in a meditation moment. It was a perfect end to the day, leaving the students who missed out on a desire to go on the next one.

Thursday was all about giving back. We headed to a nearby site on Freemont Pass where we met up with Environmental Scientists from Climax Molybdenum for a service project, planting willows and clearing out drainage ditches. It wasn’t easy work, but the students tackled it with enthusiasm and pride. We took a break at Clinton Reservoir, where we skipped rocks, had lunch, and spent some quiet time reflecting on our place in nature.

The evening was filled with games and another campfire, where we ran through our final evening circle. The conversations were deeper, and it was clear that the group had grown closer over the past few days. Jesse led another night hike under the stars with more students, and we ended the day with a sense of peace and fulfillment.

Friday came too quickly. We packed up camp, held our last morning circle, and said our goodbyes to the beautiful space that had been our home for the week. Before finally departing, we had our last “sit spot.” Students could sit at their empty tent site, find their friend tree, or find a spot to connect and reflect. The drive back to Denver was filled with music, laughter, and reflections on the incredible journey we had just completed.

This year’s trip with Lincoln Hills Cares was special. The students brought an energy and curiosity that made every moment memorable. We can’t wait to see what next year holds, but for now, we’ll carry these memories with us, knowing that we’ve all grown a little bit more, both as individuals and as a community.

We wanted to give a huge thanks to our sponsors and partners who helped make this program possible, including: Lincoln Hills Cares and Climax Molybdenum. If you are inspired by this program and want to help fully fund it, please Donate Today!