Checking in from Yosemite!
June 16, 2025
The backpacking journey ended with an awe-inspiring drive through Yosemite Valley, a breathtaking goodbye to the past four days. Towering cliffs rose on either side as the group marveled at iconic landmarks-Half Dome and El Capitan-etched against the sky in perfect clarity. The sheer scale and beauty of these granite giants set the tone for an unforgettable trip ahead.
After soaking in Yosemite’s majestic views, the group made a well-deserved stop for their first meal back in civilization at In-N-Out Burger. The atmosphere was casual and lively, a perfect contrast to the serene wilderness they had just experienced. Max, in particular, couldn’t get enough of the legendary burgers and shakes, devouring every bite. It was a joyful moment of reconnecting with simple pleasures, fueling the crew for the big adventure to come.
Day two was the highlight of the trip, a thrilling white water rafting experience that brought adrenaline and camaraderie to the forefront.The rafting itself was a spirited affair. Watkins, Fletcher, and Emily plunged into an intense game of “boat wars,” a friendly but fierce competition where skills were tested in the churning waters. Their laughter and shouts echoed over the rapids, blending excitement with the wildness of the river. Meanwhile, Jean, ever the fearless leader, took things to the next level by leading the pack in a daring cliff jump into the river. The leap was a bold display of courage that inspired the group and added an exhilarating thrill to the day.
That evening, the group gathered for “moonup”. Lawson the LOD invited our lovely raft guides to join us! It was a relaxed and silly occasion under the night sky. Sharing stories, laughter, and camaraderie, this gathering forged strong bonds between guests and guides alike, brightening the overall experience with warmth and friendship. Quinn found himself mesmerized by the night sky. He later shared that it was the best view he had ever witnessed-the stars sparkling, framed by the quiet rush of the river and the dark silhouettes of the surrounding cliffs. The cosmic spectacle left a lasting impression, a peaceful moment amid the high-energy rafting.
Day three unfolded with the group soaking in the tranquility of the river and its surroundings. After a day filled with rafting excitement, Ella, Cameron, and Olivia found joy in swimming beneath a picturesque waterfall. The cool, cascading water was a refreshing reward, a serene moment of connection with nature’s gentler side.
River and Emily, displaying impressive skill and confidence, took on smaller rapids without guide assistance. Their successful solo kayaking was a proud achievement, demonstrating both their growing expertise and adventurous spirit. It was a testament to the trust and skills built throughout the trip. As dawn broke, Steuart and Carly the LODs led the group’s first-ever “sun-up” session, a peaceful and energizing start to a big travel and prep day ahead. Their early rise symbolized the group’s readiness to tackle whatever challenges lay next, particularly the upcoming journey to Mt. Shasta.
The Great American River rafting trip was a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and friendship. From the stunning vistas of Yosemite Valley to the wild rapids and starry skies, each moment contributed to memories that we will cherish long after our trip ends. We are so thankful for this group and our experiences together!
– Carson + Gracie
What Do You Know, Its Yosemite
June 13, 2025
Our four-night backpacking trip through Yosemite was nothing short of unforgettable. Across miles of rugged terrain, towering waterfalls, serene alpine meadows, and countless shared meals and moments, our group bonded deeply while immersing ourselves in the beauty and challenge of the wilderness. From the steep ascent to the top of Chilnualna Falls to the peaceful hike back down on our final day, each person in the group brought something essential to the experience.
We began our trip with a 5-mile trek up to the top of Chilnualna Falls. The trail was steep and demanding, especially under the weight of our fully loaded packs, but spirits were high. Cameron took the lead that day, guiding us up the winding switchbacks with confidence and patience. Alongside Cameron was Quinn, who kept pace with the front of the group and helped scout the best spots to rest and hydrate. Their leadership was especially appreciated when the elevation gain started to wear us down. It couldn’t wear Fletcher down as he was always the first person to explore and climb the rocks to find the best spots. The reward at the top was well worth the effort. We saw sweeping views of the valley below and the peaceful sound of Chilnualna Falls cascading nearby. After setting up camp, everyone settled into their roles. Max stepped up as our designated water purifier, keeping our bottles filled and safe to drink. His commitment to staying on top of water needs was crucial, especially in the dry summer heat. Dinner that night was a taco bowl feast, cooked up by Emily using our backpacking stoves. Despite the long day of hiking, she prepared and served the meal, and we all agreed it was one of the best trail dinners we’d ever had. As the sun dipped below the horizon and our stomachs were full, we sat around quietly, taking in our first night in nature.
Our second day took us deeper into Yosemite’s backcountry. The trail led us through pine forests and rocky fields, each turn revealing a new, untouched view. This was the kind of terrain that made Yosemite famous: dramatic, wild, and humbling. We moved at a steady pace, sharing snacks, laughs, and the occasional game of trail trivia. As the day transitioned into evening, we reached our next campsite. After setting up our tents and filtering more water, some turned our attention to dinner, others decided to venture to a nearby lake. Carly led this journey and it turned out to be an unforgettable part of the trip. Jean also played a big role this night, helping to chop up ingredients and elevate our mac and cheese meal. With just a few additions—like onions, peppers, and salami—the simple dish became a gourmet backcountry dinner.
As night fell, Steuart organized a stargazing “moonup” Away from city lights, the night sky was a masterpiece. It was one of the most peaceful and awe-inspiring moments of the trip.
On the third day, we began our return journey led by Olivia, retracing some of our steps but also exploring new spots along the way. The highlight of the day came when Olivia discovered a stunning waterfall and swimming hole tucked off the trail. After days of dusty hiking, it was a perfect oasis. Watkins was completely in his element. He jumped into the waterfall over and over again. His energy was contagious, and soon everyone was at least dipping their feet or swimming in the chilly water. After the fun, Ella and Lawson found a perfect flat rock nearby and started what became an impromptu tanning and napping session. Others followed their lead, stretching out, drying off, and soaking in the sun. That evening, as the group settled into our final backcountry campsite, Quinn took charge of building our last campfire. Using dry pine and kindling, he got the flames going quickly and safely. We gathered around the fire, sharing stories from earlier in the trip and reflecting on how much ground we had covered—both physically and emotionally. The fire crackled into the night as we celebrated our last full evening in the wild.
Our final morning began early. River took it upon himself to be our group’s wake-up call, nudging everyone out of their sleeping bags before the sun had fully risen. His cheerful determination made it easier to shake off the morning chill and begin the process of packing up camp for the last time.
The hike down the falls was bittersweet. The descent was easier on our legs, but every switchback brought us closer to the end of an incredible journey. The same trail we had struggled up just days before now felt familiar, and we noticed details we had missed during the ascent. The views were just as breathtaking, and the group moved quietly, each person lost in their own thoughts or sharing soft conversations with nearby hikers.
When we finally reached the trailhead and saw the van waiting for us, there was a collective sense of accomplishment. We were tired, sun-kissed, and very dirty, but we were also proud. Proud of the miles we hiked, the meals we shared, the moments of challenge we overcame, and the way we had taken care of each other out there.
Shoutouts:
Jean- Hi mom and dad we just finished backpacking and I haven’t showered since before the airport! I hope you guys are having fun at home and please book me a message for when I get back!
Lawson- Hey fan I have bug bites all over my body and I don’t know what sleep is anymore but I love it, and I learned how to set up a tent! I miss y’all see yall in 8 days!
Ella- I love yall and miss yall! We just got out of the woods! Back to civilization but we will be headed back out again soon!
Cameron- Hey! Love yall and miss yall! Just had in-n-out for the first time and it was bussin!
Quinn- Hi mom and dad just finished backpacking and it was awesome can’t wait for rafting. Hopefully I don’t get too sunburnt!
River- Hey guys I have been destroyed by mosquitos, I am the dirtiest I’ve ever been, but I am having a blast. Pet Wyatt for me and I will see yall in 8 days!
Watkins- Hey parents I actually do miss yall. I am very thankful that yall sent me here and we just got out of Yosemite and I just had in-n-out for the first time! I miss you all at home!
Fletcher- Hey parents I just had tons of food! When I get home I want to see the weiner dogs! I miss all yall!
Max- Hey guys! We just got done backpacking and it was super fun! I just had in-n-out and I ate the most food i’ve ever had! Miss y’all!
Steuart- Hey family miss all of you a lot. My legs hurt I think in a good way and I should have packed my third book! Excited for the rest of the trip and to see you guys!
Carly- Hey guys I miss you all and backpacking was super fun and I wore sunscreen don’t worry! Say hi to Louie and gus for me!
Emily- Hey mom and dad had the best time in the back country! I have been applying sunscreen don’t worry! Can’t wait to see yall soon!
Olivia- Hi guys we just finished backpacking and I haven’t showered in days! We had so much fun and I wore a hat! Miss you and love you!
Carson- Love you guys miss you guys having a great time in Yosemite!
Safe Arrival!
June 8, 2025
Hello Yosemite Families!
We heard from our leaders this morning that the group has landed safely in Sacramento! The trip is off to a great start, and we cannot wait to hear more stories from their adventure! Please remember our leaders and students will be unplugged during their trips, but we will be posting trip updates throughout the next week! This will allow you to follow along with the trip. You can also follow us on Instagram, @moondanceadventures, to see more of what we are up to!
-Moondance HQ
