One last check in!
July 7, 2025
We left Mt. Shasta with full hearts and full backpacks, winding our way south toward the American River. The transition from the cool alpine forests to the dry golden hills of California’s Sierra foothills was striking. What had begun as a peaceful mountain retreat was now heading into the heart of whitewater country. Excitement grew with each passing hour in the car. Everyone knew what lay ahead: three days of rafting, beach camping, and Class IV rapids.
That first day was mostly about the journey and the anticipation of what was to come. We stopped for snacks, took in the changing landscape, and reminisced about all we’d already experienced. There was an extra burst of energy in the air—perhaps it was the buzz of the cookoff competition, which wrapped up just before the rafting leg. In an impressively close showdown, the winning team of Sawyer, Savannah, Abby, and Will brought home the title with a vibrant and flavorful plate of tacos and nachos. Their dish, filled with color, creativity, and seasoning, set the tone for the festive spirit that carried us into the river.
The next morning, we launched onto the Middle Fork. Within minutes of hitting the water, the calm turned into chaos—in the best way possible. The river roared, and so did we. Our guides expertly navigated the boats as we hit wave after wave, Class IV rapids crashing around us. The adrenaline was instant, and everyone was grinning.
It didn’t take long for the boat wars to begin. A lighthearted battle between rafts, the game quickly escalated into full-blown splash warfare. Elizabeth and Lillian, the dynamic sister duo, proved to be the chief instigators—pulling off sneak attacks, charging other boats, and turning every quiet moment into a chance to splash someone. Their energy was electric. But in the end, it was Hank and Charlie who stood tall. Literally. They were the last ones standing—soaked but undefeated—after a final flurry of pushes, splashes, and playful betrayals. Their balance, strength, and sneaky tactics together earned them the coveted title of “Boat Wars Champions.”
When we pulled off the river that night to set up camp, the canyon light had softened into that golden California glow. Our beach campsite, tucked into a curve of the river, became our home for the night. Sleeping bags were unpacked, dinners were prepared, and the sound of the river became our evening soundtrack.
That first night on the river, we gathered for Moonup, a tradition that brought everyone together to reflect, connect, and wind down. Georgia stepped up as one of the night’s leaders, helping guide us through the circle. With the raft guides joining in, we played games that had everyone laughing and followed it up with meaningful conversation that deepened the bond among us. It was one of those simple but powerful moments—the kind you remember long after the trip is over.
The next two days on the river delivered more whitewater, more sunshine, and more unforgettable moments. Kirsten had her own personal breakthrough—overcoming her fear of the cold water. At first hesitant to even dip her toes in, she not only took the lead paddle position on her raft but eventually made the bold leap into the chilly current, joining the group mid-swim with a triumphant smile. Her bravery was inspiring and infectious. Elizabeth and Lillian continued their kayaking adventures in the inflatable duckies, weaving through rapids and charging alongside the big boats, cheering and laughing the whole way. They were constantly on the move, often doubling as occasional chaos coordinators. Throughout the river days, Henry became known for his effortless humor and willingness to dive into any group activity. But he truly shined during our final night celebration. After our three-day river journey ended, we loaded up our gear and headed to a local Mexican restaurant for a well-earned banquet dinner. Dressed in fresh clothes and recharged from the river, the group was ready to celebrate.
It was during this banquet that Henry participated in a fashion show, which had everyone roaring with laughter. From improvised costumes to dramatic catwalk struts, he brought the house down and reminded us all how fun it was to let loose together after such an intense, bonding experience on the river. The food was delicious—sizzling fajitas, enchiladas smothered in cheese, endless chips and salsa, and ice-cold drinks that tasted like victory. Laughter echoed across the long banquet table as stories were shared from the rapids, the campsite, and the boat battles. Hugs were exchanged, photos taken, and inside jokes formed that would last far beyond the end of the trip.
As we finally wrapped up our final evening and made our way out of the restaurant, there was a quiet realization that the trip—this wild, beautiful, sometimes chaotic two-week adventure—had reached its end. We had gone from mountain peaks to canyon rapids, from quiet hikes to rowdy rafting, and from strangers or acquaintances to something more like family.
Those last four days captured everything that makes a journey like this so special: challenge, laughter, growth, teamwork, and celebration. And for each kid, it became something personal. Hank’s triumph on the raft. Henry’s spotlight moment. Kirsten’s courage. Georgia’s leadership. Elizabeth and Lillian’s unstoppable energy. Sawyer, Savannah, Abby, and Will’s culinary creativity.
Everyone left with their own story—but all of us left with the same feeling: that we had been part of something unforgettable.
– Carson + Gracie
Triumphs on Yosemite
July 3, 2025
The past four days of our journey took us from the granite cliffs of Yosemite to the snow-covered slopes of Mt. Shasta, As we drove north, leaving behind Yosemite’s towering walls and winding roads, the mood in the van was electric. With each mile, the playlist shifted, bouncing from indie rock to country, then to rap and throwback hits, everyone taking turns as DJ. The variety in music sparked plenty of laughs, commentary, and some surprising sing-alongs.
On the second day, we traded van seats for hiking boots and began our ascent toward Mt. Shasta’s base camp. Climbing to 9,000 feet was no small feat, but the group moved with determination, adjusting to the thinner air and heavier packs. The landscape transformed with each step — from pine forest to alpine tundra, and finally to snow and rock. Base camp offered stunning views and a shared sense of anticipation: summit day was ahead.
The summit push began under a star-filled sky, early and quiet. Spirits were high, and energy was focused. The mountain was demanding — a mix of snow, scree, and steep elevation gain — but our group responded with strength and grit. Lillian and Georgia’s rope team took the lead and set a steady, reliable pace that helped anchor the rest of the group. Their leadership on the slope was subtle but impactful, offering a rhythm for others to follow as the altitude increased.
By mid-morning, the summit group — Will, Henry, Savannah, Kirsten, and Abby — had reached an impressive 13,000 feet. With just over a thousand feet left to the summit, the team was strong, close-knit, and driven. But mountains demand respect, and Mt. Shasta was no exception. Dark clouds began to loom on the horizon, and thunder echoed faintly in the distance. The guides made the difficult but necessary call: turn around.
There was disappointment, yes, but also an incredible sense of pride. The group had given everything they had, climbing high and supporting one another the entire way. Sometimes, the strength lies not in making the summit, but in knowing when to turn back. The descent was filled with shared stories, handshakes, and laughter — the kind that comes from shared challenge and accomplishment.
As the summit crew made their way down, Elizabeth and Gracie became the unofficial cheerleaders of the descent. Stationed along the return route, they welcomed teammates with warm smiles and uplifting words, creating an emotional buffer for those who had just faced the raw elements of nature and the sting of a necessary retreat.
The next day was a welcome contrast — sun-soaked and easygoing. We spent it relaxing at Lake Siskiyou, a well-earned reward after days of exertion. Sawyer jumped into a spontaneous volleyball game on the beach, laughing with strangers and friends alike, while Hank tossed a football back and forth from the water, refusing to let the mountain stiffness stick around any longer than necessary. Everyone found a way to unwind: some swam, some laid back on the sand, others just floated, letting the water soothe sore muscles and full minds.
That evening, pizza never tasted better. Around the table, slices disappeared quickly, and the conversation flowed just as easily. The mood was light but layered — tired bodies, full hearts, and a mix of reflection and satisfaction in the air.
After dinner, Charlie led a post-summit moonup that went deeper than usual. Under a clear sky, the group circled up, the mountain behind us, and something about the night made people open up. Charlie guided us into a discussion about intentions for the rest of the trip: What did we want to take away from the trip? The conversation was honest and thoughtful. People spoke about resilience, about less phone use and being more willing to meet new people. It was a moment of cohesion — one that made clear just how far we’d come not only physically, but as a group.
Though the summit had eluded us, the mountain had still given us what we came for: perspective, challenge, and connection. These four days were filled with moments of personal triumph, team support, and shared joy. From car ride playlists and hiking grit to volleyball games and moonlit reflections, each person had their part in shaping this chapter of the journey.
As the trip continues, we carry with us the elevation of Shasta — not in terms of altitude, but in experience. We didn’t reach the summit, but we reached something else: a deeper understanding of each other, and of ourselves.
Thank you’s
Henry- thx gang (my parents)
Sawyer- Thank you mom and dad!
Georgia- thank you mom and dad for sending me, I’m having a great time.
Elizabeth- thanks mom for sending me on this trip, I’m loving it
Kirsten- thank you mom and dad for sending me on this trip, I’m having a great time
Lillian- thank you for letting me on this trip, I’m having the best time
Hank- appreciate it big dog
Abby- hola familia, I had a lot of fun Shasta, had some good food, thank you guys for sending me on this trip, can’t wait to see you.
Charlie- thank you for sending me on this trip, it’s fun
Will- thank you guys!
Savannah- thank you so much for letting me go on this trip, I’m having the best time
Hello From Yosemite!!!
June 29, 2025
The first morning in Yosemite National Park dawned crisp and golden, sunlight streaming through the towering pines like warm fingers brushing our faces. We unzipped our tents, stretched sore limbs, and took our first deep breaths of clean mountain air. The hum of excitement in the group was undeniable-today was the start of our backpacking journey through one of the most breathtaking parks in the country.
Abby and Will took the reins as our leaders for the day. With trail maps in hand and a shared sense of direction, they confidently guided our group into the backcountry. Their energy was contagious, keeping spirits high even as the trail began to climb steeply. Packs were heavy, but the view at every turn made the weight feel worth it. Jagged granite cliffs, wildflowers swaying along the trail’s edge, and the distant promise of adventure spurred us forward.
By the time we reached our first campsite nestled in a pine-dotted clearing, our legs were tired, but our hearts were full. That evening, Elizabeth took center stage on the cook crew, showing off her culinary skills with flair. She whipped up delicious taco bowls from our backcountry stash-rice, beans, spices, and perfectly warmed tortillas. After a day of hiking, it tasted like a five-star meal.
We ended the night under a blanket of stars, full bellies and happy chatter echoing around the camp.
Morning came with golden light filtering through trees and the sound of zippers unzipping as we prepared for the next leg of our adventure. Henry and Savannah, our designated leaders, did an incredible job navigating the terrain, keeping the group moving with positive energy and steady pacing. Our trail wound upward through a valley dotted with alpine meadows and over creeks that sparkled in the sun.
When we finally crested a ridge and caught sight of the lake, we all stopped in awe. It was crystal-clear, nestled like a sapphire in the palm of the mountains. We set up camp along its banks, and without hesitation, Georgia bolted toward a rocky ledge and leapt into the water with a fearless scream. Her splash was the call to action-the rest of us scrambled into swimsuits (or just jumped in clothes and all), following her lead into the freezing alpine lake.
Though the water was shockingly cold, it was exhilarating. Sawyer, especially, was in his element. He couldn’t get enough swimming and jumping!
As the sun dipped lower, Lillian took over the cooking crew and transformed our lakeside campsite into a wilderness Thanksgiving celebration. We sat together, legs crossed, and ate like family. Afterward, we circled up for moonup-a reflective tradition we’d come to cherish-and to our surprise, someone pulled out graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate. S’mores under the stars with the lake glistening beside us made the evening feel absolutely magical.
The third morning began with a relaxed pace. Charlie stepped into the role of leader and led us smoothly to our next destination, a peaceful spot tucked between boulders and pines, with plenty of flat ground for tents and a small stream trickling nearby.
Once we’d settled in, the energy shifted to play and laughter. Someone suggested a game of sardines, and before long, we were sprinting through trees and ducking behind logs, trying to stifle giggles as we squeezed into hiding spots with the “sardine.” The woods echoed with laughter and the kind of carefree joy only found after days unplugged and present in the moment.
As the sky turned pink, Kirsten took charge of dinner and made the group’s favorite: the infamous “Murder Mac.” It was mac and cheese with a mystery twist-no one ever knew exactly what was in it, but it was always delicious. Tonight’s version had bits of jerky, cheese, and a sprinkling of seasoning magic. Everyone devoured it.
That night, Hank built the perfect campfire. We gathered around it for moonup, watching the flames dance and listening as each person shared thoughts, reflections, and laughter. We closed with the beloved “noise game,” where someone makes a crazy sound and the rest of the group has to mimic it. Nick led us off with a hilarious noise. One after another, we added roars, squawks, honks, and chirps until the whole forest probably wondered what kind of wild creatures had moved in
On our final morning, we packed up camp slowly, savoring our last few hours in the wilderness. The hike out was bittersweet-our legs ached, and we missed hot showers, but we didn’t want this to end.
As we descended toward the valley, Half Dome and El Capitan loomed ahead in all their granite glory. We paused in the meadow beneath them for lunch, sitting in the shade of giants, humbled by the scale of nature. Sandwiches never tasted so good.
After soaking up the views, we loaded into the van and drove to our final campsite near the park entrance. But the day wasn’t over yet. As we turned down a highway exit, someone in the front shouted, “Surprise!” and suddenly we realized: we were going to In-N-Out. Dirty, sun-kissed, and exhausted, we rolled into the fast food joint like royalty.
Burgers, fries, and milkshakes devoured, we sat on the curb outside, trading stories and laughter as the sky darkened one last time.
Henry- Hi Mom and Dad, I love you and I’m having fun! Good luck in college Walter
Elizabeth- Hi Mom! I got In and Out! Love you, miss you, pet Louis for me 🙂
Savannah- Hi mom and dad! I miss yall so much but I’m having so much fun, tell Turner and Gypsy hi for me. Love yall so much!
Sawyer – Miss you mom and dad! Love you! Say hi to Shep for me
Georgia- hi mom and dad! I miss you and love you guys. Hope Jackson has a good group of kids. Hope Hudson is having fun at home. Tell tuck hi for me. I’m doing well.
Charlie- hey mom and dad! I miss yall so much, say hi to Livvy for me
Abby- Hi I’m doing good, I miss you guys! Pet Benny for me.
Lillian- hi! I miss you so much, having a great time!
Will- I’m doing well, I miss you guys! Caden is dust.
Hank- I love you guys and miss you!
Kirsten- Hi! I love and miss you, I’m having a great time!
Nick- I love you, I miss you and can’t wait to see you again.
Off to a Great Adventure!
June 24, 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
