Take only photos and memories...

This is our last night. We've spent four days on the Olympic Beach so far and it's been amazing. The sunsets are unlike anything I've ever seen. The sky is bright orange, red and yellow. I'll be sad to leave such a cool place. It's so neat that this area is so secluded and so pristine. Everyone in my group will take away something different, but I think the aspect I'll remember most is the uniqueness of this beach. The huge trees, the tidal pools, and the sea stacks all amaze me.
-Helen

Pushing the limits in Mt. Adams Wilderness...

Today was the most challenging day yet. When we got to our campsite everyone was exhausted. We set up our tents, discussed who was preparing dinner, and when we would eat. After we met, our leader suggested we take some time to write in our journals, write letters, or just rest. After dinner, yummy jambalaya, we had our evening circle to talk about the day. Even though everyone was pushed to his or her limits, no one had a negative thing to say. The day was remembered as challenging, but the most rewarding we've had so far. We remembered the lakes we passed, the beautiful wildflowers and all the funny stories that were told. It was a perfect day.
-Ken

Inspiration on the peak...

I have never had an experience that pushed me as hard as climbing Mt. Rainier. Being with such a fun and supportive group made the climb even more rewarding. We were woken with excitement from each other, our leaders, and our guides. We climbed and climbed. My friend Sara was in front of me. We kept encouraging each other, telling ourselves we would summit. The view was inspirational, not because of what we saw, but because of what we felt.
-Silvia

Rafting down the Sauk River

I saw the rapids from the van and wished we could be doing that. Well I got my wish! We arrived at the rafting company and met our river guides this morning. Soon we were floating down the river and enjoying the scenery. The view from the river is so cool. I was amazed at the different things we saw and the huge trees that lined the river. Our raft had a blast charging through the rapids and I think everyone got wet from the splashing. By the end of the day we had seen some amazing sights and learned all about the Sauk River. Today was a great day!
-Steph