• Expedition: Apr 22-27, 2012
  • New Leaf: A Sustainable Living Collaborative
  • Yosemite National Park: Old Big Oak Flat Road Trail

Students from New Leaf: A Sustainable Living Collaborative in Martinez, CA braved four days of mid-spring rain in the wild backcountry of Yosemite National Park. After a first day spent getting outfitted for backpacking, the group headed up to the historic Old Big Oak Flat Road (now a trail), helping each other across exciting river crossings, up some steep sections of trail, and in setting up camp in the rain. Despite the conditions, the students of New Leaf showed grace and poise, keeping positive attitudes and smiles throughout the expedition. Here are some of their thoughts about the trip's impact.

April 23, 2012

Curry Village
Sunny, 85°

Today, we (New Leaf) enjoyed our stay here in the Yosemite Valley for the second day of our expedition. After a delicious and fulfilling breakfast in the restaurant, we went out for a saunter at the lake. As a team, we created the shape of the "Golden State" California, paying close attention to the shape of the Sierra Nevada. We got oriented on the rules of backpacking.

Group California Map
Group Gear Prep

25 of April

  • Body is a temple! So take care of it!
  • Rona was suffering from barking spiders as we were ascending. Cheyanna pipes in, "Make it echo."
  • Sasha hurt herself.
  • Sophia tried to help but made a mess!
  • Everyone is barking spider infested!
  • Best LUNCH EVER!!!
  • Sophia and Indiana lead backpacking today!
Distance Group Shot

The group takes a well-earned break on the Big Oak Flat Road Trail.

Today Sasha had to stay in camp and wait for a helicopter. The rest of the group back tracked and crossed the RIVER! again...It was intense!

Snowplant

Snowplant!

Sign

The Old Big Oak Flat Road Trail - home, sweet home for four days.

WildLink is a proud partner of the National Park Service, National Forest Service, and Nature Bridge.