Bears and rain were my main concerns when asked to lead Alaska Explorer for the summer of 2024. I’d imagine most would also be apprehensive of bears and rain when preparing to lead middle schoolers on an outdoor adventure in the Last Frontier. Little did I know, Alyeska – the Aleut word for “Great Land” – would come to hold a very special place in my heart. It would humble me in ways I’d never experienced before, and would leave me awestruck by the endless open space. Not to mention, I only saw one black bear at a distance, and the rain was a pleasant mist that would frequently clear to reveal the most unbelievable snowy peaks.
A day in the life of an Alaskan leader begins the same way as all other Overland trips, up thirty minutes before the students are awake. The only sound in the Chugach State Park during those minutes is the wind softly whistling around the mountains, rustling the vestibule of my tent. As I poke my head out of my tent, I am greeted by the morning sun which, I’ve come to learn, looks different from the late evening sun. I uncover our bear cans of food which were protected by rocks and a tarp, and begin to boil water for oatmeal. My co-leaders wake up our students, and one by one they file down to where our backcountry kitchen has been set up. We enjoy our oatmeal and dried fruit while recounting last night’s dreams and take guesses on how far up the towering peak that faced us we could all make it in one go.
Fully kitted in long pants, bug nets, and sunglasses, we hit the trail. Alaska is so vast that many of the trails are not well travelled. As such, front leading the group on trail requires great attention to the map. We bushwack up and down rolling hills, while our students buy into the “explorer mentality”. We stop frequently to admire yet another towering peak while I check to make sure we are on the right track for our lunch spot. Just after noon, we plop down for lunch next to a babbling stream, which inevitably our students ask to drink from because it’s crystal clear and chilled. Water bottles are filled (and purified), sandwiches are made, and spirits are high. Our group marvels at the “Alaska Effect”, which we still haven’t become accustomed to. Due to the sheer size of the mountains and wide open space, destinations seem very close, when in reality, they are miles away. It bonds our group as we feel so out in the middle of nowhere, and so small at the same time.
After lunch, we find a large patch of snow at the perfect pitch for sledding. We slip on our rain pants and jackets, and much like happy penguins, we slide down hill. Alaska is amazing in that it has all of the best parts of winter within the summer season. In no rush to return to camp, as the sun doesn’t set, we look at animal prints, lay in the snow, and play a round of mafia – an Overland favorite. We follow our path back to camp and begin dinner prep; mac and cheese, summer sausage, and peas. We as leaders divide up roles and tasks across cook, journal, special operations, and clean crews to ensure a smooth end to the day. Ravenous from our day of exploring, we quickly devour our dinner and move on to desert circle. We use our bear cans as chairs, a small luxury in the Alaskan backcountry, and one by one reflect on the day. As second year leader, I am so impressed by the profound effect that being in Alaska has on my students. In New England, my students’ highs would be dinner, making new friends, or playing a fun game on trail. In Alaska, my students share how lucky they are to be all the way out here, feeling so liberated from phones, school, and bustling suburbs.
Teeth brushed and eye masks on, we send students to their tents. My co-leaders and I sit on my sleeping pad watching the sun cast a golden hue over the lush green landscape. We listen to “Alaska” by Maggie Rogers for the millionth time, and discuss what went well that day, and what we can improve for tomorrow. One last glance at the beautiful scenery, and it’s off to bed, dreaming of doing it all again tomorrow!
For any student, leader, or parent considering Alaska, I’d encourage you to take the leap. It is simply one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever been. The contrast of jagged rocky peaks, deep green forest, and crystal blue water gives Alaska the most unique appearance. Whether you’re kayaking past glaciers, or watching a moose casually jaunt through your campsite, Alaska will assuredly provide you with a once in a lifetime experience.
How To Choose A Summer Adventure For Your Child
Get first-hand insights into what you should look for when choosing the next summer travel adventure for your child.
