Seneca Rocks Info- By Jake Z.
The Legend of Seneca Rocks
Purchased by the federal government in 1969, Seneca Rocks is one of the best-known landmarks in West Virginia. These rocks have long been noted as a scenic attraction and are popular with rock climbers.
The rocks are a magnificent formation rising nearly 900 feet above the North Fork River. Eastern West Virginia contains many such formations of the white/gray Tuscarora quartzite. Seneca Rocks and nearby Champe Rocks are among the most imposing examples. The quartzite is approximately 250 feet thick and is located primarily on exposed ridges as caprock or exposed crags. The rock is composed of fine grains of sand that were laid down approximately 440 million years ago, in an extensive sheet at the edge of ancient ocean. Years of geologic activity followed, as the ocean was slowly destroyed and the underlying rock uplifted and folded. Millions of years of erosion stripped away the overlaying rock and left remnants of the arching folds in formations such as Seneca Rocks.
Man has apparently been a visitor to the area around Seneca Rocks for a long time. Some evidence suggests that the Native Americans of the Archaic Period may have camped at the mouth of nearby Seneca Creek. The famous Seneca Trail followed the Potomac River, allowing the Algonquin, Tuscarora, and Seneca tribes to trade and make war.
The first European settlers in the region appeared about 1746. At that time, West Virginia (or western Virginia as it was then) was the edge of the great wilderness. Slowly the area was settled, disturbed by the events of the American Revolution and the Civil War, which pitted brother against brother in these border counties.
It is unknown who the first person was to climb Seneca Rocks. Undoubtedly Native Americans scaled the rocks prior to European settlers reaching the area, but there is no record of their ascents. The historic ascent of Paul Brandt, Don Hubbard, and Sam Moore in 1939 found an inscription of "D.B. Sept. 16, 1908." This has been attributed to a surveyor named Bittenger who was known to be working in the area. (Seneca, the Climber's Guide by Bill Webster).
The documented climbing history of the rocks began in 1935 with a roped ascent of the North Peak by Paul Brandt and Florence Perry. In the 1930's and 40's only a few climbers, mostly from the D.C. and Pittsburgh areas, attempted to climb Seneca Rocks. In 1943-44 the U.S. Army used the rocks to train mountain troops for action in the Apennines. Evidence of their climbing activities can still be found on the rocks. (Webster).
Due to the hardness of the Tuscarora sandstone formation, and the degree of climbing difficulty, Seneca Rocks offers rock climbers a unique opportunity found nowhere else in the east. There are over 375 major mapped climbing routes, varying in degree from the easiest (5.0) to the most difficult (5.12). Only trained and experienced rock climbers should attempt to scale the rocks. There are two climbing schools located in the communities of Seneca Rocks and nearby Riverton who train prospective climbers in beginning and advanced rock climbing. The school in Riverton also offers a climbers rescue course.
Wednesday
Monthly Trip
May 24&24
Philsmont - spring visit and work day.
Hunter, Luke, and Paul came to Philsmont for the first time. Will, Wiley, Matt, Hank, and Jake were all retun visitors. While the Eagles and adults worked on the barn roof, the scouts practiced their skills.
April 26, 2009
Lake Cumberland Trip - as told by Jake Z.
Hank, Colin, Wiley, Matthew, Will, Jake, and Geoffrey went to Cumberland on April 24-26. We left at 5:30 at the scout house on Friday. We arrived at the house in Cumberland around 9:00, and got a full tour by Hank. We took a quick ride around the neighborhood in the golf cart. We then went to bed. In the morning of Saturday, Will and Jake cooked breakfast(pancakes, fruit, and goetta). We had a talk about different lures and fishing tactics with Mr. S. After that, we got our fishing gear ready and cleaned up the rooms. We then got into the cars and went to Lake Cumberland by the dam. Where we started fishing was to crowded, so we went to Wolf Creek National Hatchery. There was a creek that was coming from the hatchery that we fished in. Will got our first fish from a nice lady. Mr. S caught our 2Nd fish. We left the creek and toured the hatchery.
We then went to the house and got ready to swim in the lake. Mr. S caught another one, but it was a bluegill and we couldn't keep it. We went back to the house and packed up and pitched our tents. We then went back to the house and Mr. C was cooking dinner. We went back to our campsite and got ready for bed. We lit the fire, had s'mores, and went to bed. We woke up and had breakfast. We went to a cool cave in walking distance from our campsite. We walked back, got in the car, and started driving home.
April 5, 2009
CVG Airport Firehouse
Brennen, Colin, Jake, and Will went to the Airport Fire Department last Sunday. They got a full tour by a firefighter while the others were playing halo 5. We got a tour of their kitchen, "command station," conference room, workout room, movie room, and the bedrooms. We also got a tour of the tower and we could see the whole airport. Then we got a tour of the garage. The garage had a quick-response vehicle, an ambulance, 2 crash trucks, 1 regular firetrucks, 2 4-wheelers, and a semi that holds a disaster trailer. We got to ride in the huge crash trucks and fire the water cannon on the pile of snow from the winter. Overall, it was an awesome trip!
Philsmont - spring visit and work day.
Hunter, Luke, and Paul came to Philsmont for the first time. Will, Wiley, Matt, Hank, and Jake were all retun visitors. While the Eagles and adults worked on the barn roof, the scouts practiced their skills.
April 26, 2009
Lake Cumberland Trip - as told by Jake Z.
Hank, Colin, Wiley, Matthew, Will, Jake, and Geoffrey went to Cumberland on April 24-26. We left at 5:30 at the scout house on Friday. We arrived at the house in Cumberland around 9:00, and got a full tour by Hank. We took a quick ride around the neighborhood in the golf cart. We then went to bed. In the morning of Saturday, Will and Jake cooked breakfast(pancakes, fruit, and goetta). We had a talk about different lures and fishing tactics with Mr. S. After that, we got our fishing gear ready and cleaned up the rooms. We then got into the cars and went to Lake Cumberland by the dam. Where we started fishing was to crowded, so we went to Wolf Creek National Hatchery. There was a creek that was coming from the hatchery that we fished in. Will got our first fish from a nice lady. Mr. S caught our 2Nd fish. We left the creek and toured the hatchery.
We then went to the house and got ready to swim in the lake. Mr. S caught another one, but it was a bluegill and we couldn't keep it. We went back to the house and packed up and pitched our tents. We then went back to the house and Mr. C was cooking dinner. We went back to our campsite and got ready for bed. We lit the fire, had s'mores, and went to bed. We woke up and had breakfast. We went to a cool cave in walking distance from our campsite. We walked back, got in the car, and started driving home.
April 5, 2009
CVG Airport Firehouse
Brennen, Colin, Jake, and Will went to the Airport Fire Department last Sunday. They got a full tour by a firefighter while the others were playing halo 5. We got a tour of their kitchen, "command station," conference room, workout room, movie room, and the bedrooms. We also got a tour of the tower and we could see the whole airport. Then we got a tour of the garage. The garage had a quick-response vehicle, an ambulance, 2 crash trucks, 1 regular firetrucks, 2 4-wheelers, and a semi that holds a disaster trailer. We got to ride in the huge crash trucks and fire the water cannon on the pile of snow from the winter. Overall, it was an awesome trip!
Thursday
Weekly Troop Meetings
Trrop Meeting from 05/07/09
Tonight was a combined cub and boy scout night!
Troop meeting minutes 02/17/09
At this weeks meeting we talked about the skiing trip. There was a speaker from the council who talked about how we were an active troop and if there was anything the council could do to help. There was a committee meeting so most of the parents were gone. Hank, Willy, Will, all had their board of review, they all passed. Then we worked on knots.
Tonight was a combined cub and boy scout night!
Troop meeting minutes 02/17/09
At this weeks meeting we talked about the skiing trip. There was a speaker from the council who talked about how we were an active troop and if there was anything the council could do to help. There was a committee meeting so most of the parents were gone. Hank, Willy, Will, all had their board of review, they all passed. Then we worked on knots.
Saturday
Sunday
Day 8-Home Again
Day 8 – Little Big Horn and the trip home.
When we last left our Scouts they were sleeping peacefully under the stars. Perhaps if you knew our itinerary you were asking yourself “Wait – what happened to Little Big Horn?” Well, despite a very early departure from Madison Arm, we encountered some traffic, a lot of fun, and several seemingly angry snowballs. Therefore, we did not have enough time to visit Little Big Horn and the Custer Battlefield on Day 7 as planned, so it got pushed to the morning of Day 8.
Most of the tours of Little Big Horn are given by Indians and amateur historical buffs. The battle of LBH occurred on June 25-26 1876, only one day and a hundred some years ago, but it came alive for us as we toured the site. We met the grandson of the Indian Chief Gall at the site who told us of his grandfathers’ experiences, and related a bit of his life. He told us that although the US Calvary casualties were always marked with tombstones, the Indian ones were not. In fact, until the late 1950’s historians were not aware that the Indian families knew the location of their casualties, and had marked them with rock cairns. Only recently did 10 of these warriors get granite markers where they fell.
He also told how in the mid-1980’s the US government remunerated the families of the Indian warriors in the only manner they could calculate. Each family such as his received a check for $700 – the value of the warriors’ horse which was killed in the battle.
We also met an amateur historian, Hank Pangione, who shared with us a vivid re-telling of one part of the battle. Hank was careful to cite many references by name and book, and was clear when he was injecting his own personal theories and interpretations of the action as it befell that day. You could tell he was passionate about the site and accurately depicting its history with his colorful storytelling. Each year for many he has travelled from his home in Massachusetts to explore the site, meet with other enthusiasts and historians, and to freely share his time with others.
When we last left our Scouts they were sleeping peacefully under the stars. Perhaps if you knew our itinerary you were asking yourself “Wait – what happened to Little Big Horn?” Well, despite a very early departure from Madison Arm, we encountered some traffic, a lot of fun, and several seemingly angry snowballs. Therefore, we did not have enough time to visit Little Big Horn and the Custer Battlefield on Day 7 as planned, so it got pushed to the morning of Day 8.
Most of the tours of Little Big Horn are given by Indians and amateur historical buffs. The battle of LBH occurred on June 25-26 1876, only one day and a hundred some years ago, but it came alive for us as we toured the site. We met the grandson of the Indian Chief Gall at the site who told us of his grandfathers’ experiences, and related a bit of his life. He told us that although the US Calvary casualties were always marked with tombstones, the Indian ones were not. In fact, until the late 1950’s historians were not aware that the Indian families knew the location of their casualties, and had marked them with rock cairns. Only recently did 10 of these warriors get granite markers where they fell.
He also told how in the mid-1980’s the US government remunerated the families of the Indian warriors in the only manner they could calculate. Each family such as his received a check for $700 – the value of the warriors’ horse which was killed in the battle.
We also met an amateur historian, Hank Pangione, who shared with us a vivid re-telling of one part of the battle. Hank was careful to cite many references by name and book, and was clear when he was injecting his own personal theories and interpretations of the action as it befell that day. You could tell he was passionate about the site and accurately depicting its history with his colorful storytelling. Each year for many he has travelled from his home in Massachusetts to explore the site, meet with other enthusiasts and historians, and to freely share his time with others.
We only got a whirlwind tour of the site, but I think we all came away with a good understanding of the history of the battle, the conditions the Calvary and Indians encountered, and an appreciation of the amount of research and preservation that has gone on at the site.
We left after a final look at the National Cemetery where many of the soldiers for LBH and other Indian battles of the Northwest were interred. Whether from reflection or exhaustion, the drive to the airport was the quietest we had in several days.
Now, airports can be chaotic places. We didn’t help. Imagine two rental vans screeching to a halt beside the curb, one of which has a big blue tarp and several oversize duffels strapped to the top. A cascade of boys and men pile out of the vehicles with backpacks in hand and start hauling bags, duffels, and even boxes of food to the side of the building. Next everyone starts stripping of their shirts and putting on bright yellow ones that all match each other. Another set of boys starts to nosily crash through the interior of the vans tossing out odds and ends, banging the seats up down and forward to make sure nothing is left behind.
Next all the bags are dragged down to the close end of the building and restacked in the shade, while two adults go into the terminal, only to return shaking their heads and pointing clear down the line of buildings. Two more adults go inside to return the vans to the rental company. While those two are inside, the caravan of bags and boxes gets carried all the way down the terminal to the departure gates.
I don’t think the “white zone” has seen anything like this in a while.
After we were checked in, we returned to the shade in the front of the building now only carrying our backpacks and three boxes of food and drinks. We quickly made an interesting lunch of burrito shells, peanut butter and jelly/cheesy-its/string cheese (yes, I saw all of those combinations), lemonade, a few leftover ham slices, and some apples. For dessert it was again an interesting mix of cold smores or peanut butter and grahams and I don’t want to know what else.
While we were eating a Skycap in a red shirt came out obviously on break, but I thought he looked like he also had other things on his mind. He sat down from us for a bit until Pete (of course) struck up a conversation with him, and he slowly wandered into our circle of activity. We each noticed that he was eying our activities and food with a mix of interest and hunger, until one of us invited him over to formally join in lunch, which he gladly did.
As we packed up to leave we offered him our leftovers of burrito shells, peanut butter, jelly, a few cheesy-its, 3 apples, and some other tidbits (Congrats to Luke and Laura who planned the food that close!). He was very grateful for the items, and I sensed there was much more to his story that we will ever know, for as we departed he said from his heart “God Bless You. This means more to me than you could possibly know.”
We finally went through security, although Mr. Zimmerman got a lot closer scrutiny than anyone. He got scanned, wanded, patted down, then wanded again. Of course, Jake had to patiently stand by and wait. The rest of us showed our support by standing at the top of the stairs above the security area laughing and taking pictures…. Real supportive huh?
And now gentle reader, our tales come to a close. I leave you with an extra slide show of our sleeping angels, some young, and some old. We had a great trip, a great time, and we embraced the scout mottos of being brave, thrifty, kind, cheerful, and friendly. We created friendships and memories that should last a lifetime, and learned lessons and stories that perhaps will be passed down to the Scouts children. For this we should feel proud and grateful.
The parting words of the Skycap ring in my ears, as I belive there is more to this trip than the pictures or words on this blog. We are blessed, and this time with our children does mean more than we can possibly know.
Sleeping Angels
Heading Home
Postscripts
The total trip involved 8 Scouts, 5 fathers, 1430 miles driven, 5 States (MT, WY, UT, MN, KY)4+ grocery carts of food, many families and Scout supports, and literally thousands of pictures taken.
By the way, the technically correct answer to the poll was "0" miles the scouts DROVE, but 1430 miles they RODE!
Finally, here is a brief video of the area surrounding Old Faithful, and a few seconds of Faithfuls eruption. The main plume was likely 25-30 feet into the air (the rest taller), but the scale is hard to tell from the video. I was most surprised by the surrounding area, and all the other thermal pools and hot springs we saw.
By the way, the technically correct answer to the poll was "0" miles the scouts DROVE, but 1430 miles they RODE!
Finally, here is a brief video of the area surrounding Old Faithful, and a few seconds of Faithfuls eruption. The main plume was likely 25-30 feet into the air (the rest taller), but the scale is hard to tell from the video. I was most surprised by the surrounding area, and all the other thermal pools and hot springs we saw.
Saturday
Day 7 recap
Day 7 Recap
Written by Kevin R. Crush
We woke up to a cold morning. Shivering, we ate our usual breakfast of pop-tarts, oatmeal, and cold cereal, all the while taking in last views of the mountains around us. After a hurried pack-up, we set forth from our campsite to Yellowstone and from there to Billings.
We took the northwest road out of the park, and proved to be a good choice. Fewer cars traveled along this road than on the others, and the scenery, at least in my opinion, was more beautiful than anywhere else we’ve driven through. To start, there were far fewer patches of recent forest fire, so that the expanse of trees was more uniform and whole.
After a few miles in some higher mountains, the road dipped into a rather large valley. This area was rather unlike anywhere else in the park. The valley was immensely broad, and a slow and broad river wound its way through it. For the first time, I saw leafy trees, perhaps birch, growing alongside the river’s bank in Yellowstone, and it was a welcome contrast to all the lodge-pole pines growing everywhere else. The most notable feature of the valley, however, was the number of bison. The largest herds we have seen thus far congregated one after another as we drove by them, bringing the spirit of the Old West with them.
We took a turn from the main valley and started to head up a smaller one, with the mountains pressing closer on each side. The road became windier as we reached the northwest entrance of Yellowstone, and still we climbed higher. Then I noticed something curious: it felt as though we were heading backwards in time. In the valley, it was a warm and balmy June. At the base of the mountains, we reached May. As we went higher, April unfolded, followed by March, and here were large quantities of snow, much of it streaked with ski and snowmobile trails. A lake was partially covered in ice. Still we went higher. The temperature dropped dramatically as we kept ascending, until we passed into February.
Lakes were completely frozen over. Canyons of snow, some three or four feet higher than our cars, surrounded the road at some points. A winter wonderland revealed itself to us, all traces of green frosted away. The tree line dipped below us. And still we went.
At 10,947 feet, somewhere in mid-February, the scouts got out of their cars and entered into a foreign world. The hardiest of plants lay brown and dormant where they could be seen, while the rest of the landscape was smothered in several feet of snow at least. After yet another photo-op, the finest and fiercest of all our snowball fights ensued, with an endless amount of ammunition at our disposal.
As might be expected, the fight ended in exhaustion, with all but the hardiest (including yours truly) panting for breath several minutes after we re-entered our vehicles and went down the mountains from the other side. This part was much steeper, and through the winding way we could easily see the bottom of the valley below.
The land leveled as we reached the bottom, and the mountains slowly receded behind us as we headed for Billings. Open prairie began to dominate the landscape, with cows and llamas replacing the bison and elk in the mountains. Not much changed for several hours until we entered our original KOA campground.
At KOA, Jacob passed his board of review for Tenderfoot, several scouts played ultimate Frisbee, we all swam at the pool, and we looked with boredom upon the cliffs that awed us the first time we saw them. For dinner, we ate pizza at Mackenzie River, which left little to be desired. The day ended without incident as the stars slowly spun above us.
Written by Kevin R. Crush
We woke up to a cold morning. Shivering, we ate our usual breakfast of pop-tarts, oatmeal, and cold cereal, all the while taking in last views of the mountains around us. After a hurried pack-up, we set forth from our campsite to Yellowstone and from there to Billings.
We took the northwest road out of the park, and proved to be a good choice. Fewer cars traveled along this road than on the others, and the scenery, at least in my opinion, was more beautiful than anywhere else we’ve driven through. To start, there were far fewer patches of recent forest fire, so that the expanse of trees was more uniform and whole.
After a few miles in some higher mountains, the road dipped into a rather large valley. This area was rather unlike anywhere else in the park. The valley was immensely broad, and a slow and broad river wound its way through it. For the first time, I saw leafy trees, perhaps birch, growing alongside the river’s bank in Yellowstone, and it was a welcome contrast to all the lodge-pole pines growing everywhere else. The most notable feature of the valley, however, was the number of bison. The largest herds we have seen thus far congregated one after another as we drove by them, bringing the spirit of the Old West with them.
We took a turn from the main valley and started to head up a smaller one, with the mountains pressing closer on each side. The road became windier as we reached the northwest entrance of Yellowstone, and still we climbed higher. Then I noticed something curious: it felt as though we were heading backwards in time. In the valley, it was a warm and balmy June. At the base of the mountains, we reached May. As we went higher, April unfolded, followed by March, and here were large quantities of snow, much of it streaked with ski and snowmobile trails. A lake was partially covered in ice. Still we went higher. The temperature dropped dramatically as we kept ascending, until we passed into February.
Lakes were completely frozen over. Canyons of snow, some three or four feet higher than our cars, surrounded the road at some points. A winter wonderland revealed itself to us, all traces of green frosted away. The tree line dipped below us. And still we went.At 10,947 feet, somewhere in mid-February, the scouts got out of their cars and entered into a foreign world. The hardiest of plants lay brown and dormant where they could be seen, while the rest of the landscape was smothered in several feet of snow at least. After yet another photo-op, the finest and fiercest of all our snowball fights ensued, with an endless amount of ammunition at our disposal.
As might be expected, the fight ended in exhaustion, with all but the hardiest (including yours truly) panting for breath several minutes after we re-entered our vehicles and went down the mountains from the other side. This part was much steeper, and through the winding way we could easily see the bottom of the valley below.
The land leveled as we reached the bottom, and the mountains slowly receded behind us as we headed for Billings. Open prairie began to dominate the landscape, with cows and llamas replacing the bison and elk in the mountains. Not much changed for several hours until we entered our original KOA campground.
At KOA, Jacob passed his board of review for Tenderfoot, several scouts played ultimate Frisbee, we all swam at the pool, and we looked with boredom upon the cliffs that awed us the first time we saw them. For dinner, we ate pizza at Mackenzie River, which left little to be desired. The day ended without incident as the stars slowly spun above us.Little Big Horn
Day 7- Back to Billings
Today's blog is by Colin C and Omer D on June 27
Today we started out started out at 5:30-6:00 and had the usual breakfast with cereal and hot cocoa. Then we packed our gear and headed out northwest to Billings. On our way we drove up a mountain, and we saw to our great surprise that there was snow,snow, and more snow!
Then when we reached the top we stopped and took a picture at another sign! 
Then we had a huge snowball fight, the snow was about 4 feet deep! After the long fight we headed to the cars. Omer, Matthew, and Jack started to walk back and we kept falling through the snow and every time jack fell all the other people pelted Jack. 
Eventually we made it to the cars. after that we were all freezing cold, after about 10 minutes of trying to heat up then we were fine. We finally reached Billings at the KOA station. Then put up our tents and headed to the pool. When we were done swimming we headed out to dinner for pizza. Then we came back and played some Frisbee and football. then we headed off to bed, some of us slept out in the stars.
Today we started out started out at 5:30-6:00 and had the usual breakfast with cereal and hot cocoa. Then we packed our gear and headed out northwest to Billings. On our way we drove up a mountain, and we saw to our great surprise that there was snow,snow, and more snow!
Then when we reached the top we stopped and took a picture at another sign! Then we had a huge snowball fight, the snow was about 4 feet deep! After the long fight we headed to the cars. Omer, Matthew, and Jack started to walk back and we kept falling through the snow and every time jack fell all the other people pelted Jack. Eventually we made it to the cars. after that we were all freezing cold, after about 10 minutes of trying to heat up then we were fine. We finally reached Billings at the KOA station. Then put up our tents and headed to the pool. When we were done swimming we headed out to dinner for pizza. Then we came back and played some Frisbee and football. then we headed off to bed, some of us slept out in the stars.
Friday
Day 6PM-Rafting and Forest Service
Day 6 as told by Hank, Will, and Jake.
EDITORS NOTE: yesterday was a very busy and long day, so this did not get posted, nor are there many pictures because we all took waterproof cameras that have –gasp- film in them!
We woke up and had home fries, eggs, cereal, pop-tarts and oatmeal.
After breakfast, we headed out to Earthquake Lake. This lake was formed when a huge earthquake knocked down a mountain which dammed the Madison River and made it flood. This all happened in 1959 and 29 people were killed by either the earthquake or the flood. There were some 80 Million tons of rubble which came down.
We then headed up to Big Sky area, and Geyer Whitewater Expeditions. After checking in we got to rock climb until it was time for our raft trip. During our climbing safety training we learned that a 20 lb belayer can actually belay a 140 lb person. We also learned some of the spoken commands and acknowledgements like “belay/belay on”, “climb/climb on”, and “belay off/belay off”. Each scout was wearing a harness and an automatic locking cannoner with a 4000 lb rope. All the scouts took turns climbing or belaying.
We had lunch in the parking lot while the final trip preparations were made.
Now it was time to get suited up for the rafting since it was so cold. We had to put on booties, wetsuit, splash jacket, a life jacket, and a helmet. We rode the bus upstream on the Gallatin River, to our put-in spot. We had final safety training, where they emphasized the possible dangers of rating when the water was flowing at 6000 cfs (cubic feet per second). 1 cubic foot is about the size of a basketball, so imagine 6000 basketballs per second flowing by you! At the end of last seasons rafting, the flow was down to only 275 cfs, so we knew we were in for a good trip!
Our group broke into two different boats, with a guide in each boat. One guide was Helen and other was Whitney. Whitney told a joke “Do you know the difference between a rafting guide and a mutual fund? Eventually the mutual fund matures and earns income”
While we were rafting, there were several splashing wars started by the “trouble boat” against the defenseless “kind boat”. We will let the reader’s imagination decide who was in each boat. We learned about different places on the river and animals that can be seen in the park. Whitney quickly figured out who the scout was who most needed to get wet, and after he accidently splashed the guide, the boat mysteriously turned sideways in time to douse Jack in a big wave. We went under several bridges where we had to duck way down to get under them. At another spot, the front of the boat was pitched up in the air, and Jack came down rolling over his tube and into the bottom of the boat. At the end of the trip Will said he did not feel wet enough, so the guide showed him where he could jump in. No one ever actually fell out of the boat, so the guides did not have to practice their rope techniques.
While we were driving we saw one large herd of 111 bison and claves. One park center claimed there were 3000 head of bison in the whole park, but we think we saw at least 2999 of them!
After our whitewater adventure, we met up with Veronica Gooding and Marianne Baumberger to learn about fire prevention and management in the park.
Veronica and Marianne are Rangers with the US Dept. Agriculture Forestry Service. Hank got the opportunity to get field dressed with all the gear that a firefighter might wear during a fire. He had on: a helmet, fireproof jacket, gloves, and a very heavy backpack. The backpack contained fuse-ezs (flares), food and water for 24 hours, an emergency fire shelter, and bear spray. The whole pack weighed 35-45 lbs but Hank thought it was a lot more! Hank also held the chainsaw and the “Polaski” fire axe. 
We also saw their firefighting truck, which had a 300 gallon water tank and pump, with a variety of nozzles, a compartment full of hand tools, and a tank of fuel to start fire lines with. The tank could be used with a drip torch, but most interestingly, the fuel is very attractive to the park bears! The bears are known to try to drink the fuel or chew on the cans and chainsaw!
We also learned the difference between Park Rangers and Forest Rangers – Forest Rangers are all about conservation, and Parks are about preservation. So in a forest, you can take a few rocks, cut personal lumber, allow for selective commercial logging, and actively manage the forest. At least one scout learned that standing on logs while a ranger speaks to us CAN be dangerous (to his pride if not his bottom!). The presentation was GREAT and very informative! Thanks Veronica and Marianne.
Now we headed back to camp for the infamous “Big Burrito Pig Out”. Mr. Cummings had skipped the ranger presentation to have dinner ready for us when we retuned, which was good because shortly after dinner started, our camp was hit with gale force winds. Everyone had to wear coats and hold down their plates. Despite the winds, the burritos were “muy magnifico”. Lastly, since we need to head out early in the morning, we took some time to organize and pack up as much of the camp as we could.
Day 7 will come soon (I hope)!
EDITORS NOTE: yesterday was a very busy and long day, so this did not get posted, nor are there many pictures because we all took waterproof cameras that have –gasp- film in them!
We woke up and had home fries, eggs, cereal, pop-tarts and oatmeal.
After breakfast, we headed out to Earthquake Lake. This lake was formed when a huge earthquake knocked down a mountain which dammed the Madison River and made it flood. This all happened in 1959 and 29 people were killed by either the earthquake or the flood. There were some 80 Million tons of rubble which came down.We then headed up to Big Sky area, and Geyer Whitewater Expeditions. After checking in we got to rock climb until it was time for our raft trip. During our climbing safety training we learned that a 20 lb belayer can actually belay a 140 lb person. We also learned some of the spoken commands and acknowledgements like “belay/belay on”, “climb/climb on”, and “belay off/belay off”. Each scout was wearing a harness and an automatic locking cannoner with a 4000 lb rope. All the scouts took turns climbing or belaying.
We had lunch in the parking lot while the final trip preparations were made.
Now it was time to get suited up for the rafting since it was so cold. We had to put on booties, wetsuit, splash jacket, a life jacket, and a helmet. We rode the bus upstream on the Gallatin River, to our put-in spot. We had final safety training, where they emphasized the possible dangers of rating when the water was flowing at 6000 cfs (cubic feet per second). 1 cubic foot is about the size of a basketball, so imagine 6000 basketballs per second flowing by you! At the end of last seasons rafting, the flow was down to only 275 cfs, so we knew we were in for a good trip!
Our group broke into two different boats, with a guide in each boat. One guide was Helen and other was Whitney. Whitney told a joke “Do you know the difference between a rafting guide and a mutual fund? Eventually the mutual fund matures and earns income”While we were rafting, there were several splashing wars started by the “trouble boat” against the defenseless “kind boat”. We will let the reader’s imagination decide who was in each boat. We learned about different places on the river and animals that can be seen in the park. Whitney quickly figured out who the scout was who most needed to get wet, and after he accidently splashed the guide, the boat mysteriously turned sideways in time to douse Jack in a big wave. We went under several bridges where we had to duck way down to get under them. At another spot, the front of the boat was pitched up in the air, and Jack came down rolling over his tube and into the bottom of the boat. At the end of the trip Will said he did not feel wet enough, so the guide showed him where he could jump in. No one ever actually fell out of the boat, so the guides did not have to practice their rope techniques.
While we were driving we saw one large herd of 111 bison and claves. One park center claimed there were 3000 head of bison in the whole park, but we think we saw at least 2999 of them!
After our whitewater adventure, we met up with Veronica Gooding and Marianne Baumberger to learn about fire prevention and management in the park.
Veronica and Marianne are Rangers with the US Dept. Agriculture Forestry Service. Hank got the opportunity to get field dressed with all the gear that a firefighter might wear during a fire. He had on: a helmet, fireproof jacket, gloves, and a very heavy backpack. The backpack contained fuse-ezs (flares), food and water for 24 hours, an emergency fire shelter, and bear spray. The whole pack weighed 35-45 lbs but Hank thought it was a lot more! Hank also held the chainsaw and the “Polaski” fire axe. We also saw their firefighting truck, which had a 300 gallon water tank and pump, with a variety of nozzles, a compartment full of hand tools, and a tank of fuel to start fire lines with. The tank could be used with a drip torch, but most interestingly, the fuel is very attractive to the park bears! The bears are known to try to drink the fuel or chew on the cans and chainsaw!We also learned the difference between Park Rangers and Forest Rangers – Forest Rangers are all about conservation, and Parks are about preservation. So in a forest, you can take a few rocks, cut personal lumber, allow for selective commercial logging, and actively manage the forest. At least one scout learned that standing on logs while a ranger speaks to us CAN be dangerous (to his pride if not his bottom!). The presentation was GREAT and very informative! Thanks Veronica and Marianne.
Now we headed back to camp for the infamous “Big Burrito Pig Out”. Mr. Cummings had skipped the ranger presentation to have dinner ready for us when we retuned, which was good because shortly after dinner started, our camp was hit with gale force winds. Everyone had to wear coats and hold down their plates. Despite the winds, the burritos were “muy magnifico”. Lastly, since we need to head out early in the morning, we took some time to organize and pack up as much of the camp as we could.
Day 7 will come soon (I hope)!
White Water Rafting
Thursday
Day 6AM-Ready for Rafting
Today we will be headed out in small rafts to conquer the rivers of Yellowstone! I'm not sure you will get that many pictures from the actual trip as I rather value my digital camera, but we will see what, ahem, develops.
We had our first rain last night. Fortunately we were souvenir shopping during the torrential part of it, and our tents (even the He-man zipperless model) remained predominately dry. We had a few other brief encounters during the night and early morning, but again, we didn't seem to have any real troubles.
We had our first rain last night. Fortunately we were souvenir shopping during the torrential part of it, and our tents (even the He-man zipperless model) remained predominately dry. We had a few other brief encounters during the night and early morning, but again, we didn't seem to have any real troubles.
We need to give a couple shout-outs here:
1. Thanks again to all the people who are commenting on the blog. We have a lot of fun reading these out loud - especially anything coming out of the Myth Busters entry.
2. Thanks to Wills mom and sibs for sending the cookie care package. You can tell Will has several siblings, because he immediately shared a dozen of the cookies, then squirreled the rest away for future meals. One year during finals week, this same gal sent me a freshly baked Cherry Pie via fedex. I think even then it cost her $30 to do that, but I'm pretty sure that was the day I decided I would have to eventually marry that wonderful women.
By the way, has any blog yet mentioned that the sun comes up here at like 5:30 AM? It then proceeds to shine directly into my tent (but I think others have the same issue). Somebody should write a letter or something about that.
On to the Wallet poll, the one guy who got no votes is the one who found out if his wallet floats:
Day 5-Teton National Park
Hello readers! I will be telling you about Wednesday June 25th.
Written by: Hank Hehman
Typed by: Matthew Stark
The exciting events of the Hehman’s
It was a great night last night of being in the wilderness, riding horses, and eating dinner at the K.O.A. campsite. When we got back to the campground, my dad and I were about to get into the tent, and we saw that the tent zipper was busted. There was a terrible thunder-storm coming, so we had to hurry and try fixing the zipper, but all ideas failed. The only solution to our problem, was sleeping in the car, and worrying about fixing it in the morning.
For breakfast, we had cereal, pop-tarts, omelets, and home fries. After breakfast, we performed the flag ceremony with Colin and Jake hanging the flag. Around 11:30 in the morning, we jumped into the car, and drove to the Grand Teton National Park.
When we got there, we went souvenir shopping at Grant Village on Yellowstone Lake, and at Flagg Ranch. After that, we traveled five more miles, and had lunch at a picnic area. That was around 4:00P.M., and I was starving!!!
When we were finished with lunch, we went down to Jackson Lake, that was right down the hill from where we were eating, and put our feet into the water.
On our way back to base camp, there were a lot of people on the side of the road looking at something, so we stopped to see what it was. It was a GRIZZLY BEAR and her two cubs eating!!! 
After taking pictures of the bears, we stopped at the Continental Divide to get our picture taken. We wound up having a SNOWBALL FIGHT!
Written by: Hank Hehman
Typed by: Matthew Stark
The exciting events of the Hehman’s
It was a great night last night of being in the wilderness, riding horses, and eating dinner at the K.O.A. campsite. When we got back to the campground, my dad and I were about to get into the tent, and we saw that the tent zipper was busted. There was a terrible thunder-storm coming, so we had to hurry and try fixing the zipper, but all ideas failed. The only solution to our problem, was sleeping in the car, and worrying about fixing it in the morning.
For breakfast, we had cereal, pop-tarts, omelets, and home fries. After breakfast, we performed the flag ceremony with Colin and Jake hanging the flag. Around 11:30 in the morning, we jumped into the car, and drove to the Grand Teton National Park.
When we got there, we went souvenir shopping at Grant Village on Yellowstone Lake, and at Flagg Ranch. After that, we traveled five more miles, and had lunch at a picnic area. That was around 4:00P.M., and I was starving!!!
When we were finished with lunch, we went down to Jackson Lake, that was right down the hill from where we were eating, and put our feet into the water.On our way back to base camp, there were a lot of people on the side of the road looking at something, so we stopped to see what it was. It was a GRIZZLY BEAR and her two cubs eating!!! After taking pictures of the bears, we stopped at the Continental Divide to get our picture taken. We wound up having a SNOWBALL FIGHT!Jackson Hole
Day 5-The break of dawn...
Wednesday, June 25th Early Early Morning
The Adventures of Crush and Cobb
It was around five-thirty when Kevin “The Crusher” woke up his adventurous partner, Jack “The Cobb.” The waters were angry this day my friends, very angry indeed. They were off to face the giant mountain that mocked them every day in the face as they woke up.
So we got dressed and took a canoe (of course we asked the lady in the office the day before I mean come on, would we do that).We set sails and paddled for about maybe twenty minutes across the sleeping lake when it was most safe. The sunrise was beautiful, but we had seen nothing yet. Once we got to the shore of the mountain we just then realized how massive this mountain really was, (well actually I realized it about halfway up the hill when I was completely out of breath and my legs felt like rubber and my heart pounding through my chest, but we kept going.) When we had reached the summit, we sucked in the victory.
At the top was a sight to hard to describe in just regular words so I’ll try my best. It had endless mountains with the peaks draped with snow and the lake with the sun reflecting onto it and the lake in full view with the fog just gliding on the water. It was a sight I’ll never forget. On our way down we saw two antelopes pouncing happily through a field outside a wood. We rowed back to the campsite boasting heartily about what we have done and seen. If there is anything I have learned today, it’s if I want to do accomplish something, I can with the right tools, friends, and the right set of mind and heart.
The End
The Adventures of Crush and Cobb
It was around five-thirty when Kevin “The Crusher” woke up his adventurous partner, Jack “The Cobb.” The waters were angry this day my friends, very angry indeed. They were off to face the giant mountain that mocked them every day in the face as they woke up.
So we got dressed and took a canoe (of course we asked the lady in the office the day before I mean come on, would we do that).We set sails and paddled for about maybe twenty minutes across the sleeping lake when it was most safe. The sunrise was beautiful, but we had seen nothing yet. Once we got to the shore of the mountain we just then realized how massive this mountain really was, (well actually I realized it about halfway up the hill when I was completely out of breath and my legs felt like rubber and my heart pounding through my chest, but we kept going.) When we had reached the summit, we sucked in the victory. At the top was a sight to hard to describe in just regular words so I’ll try my best. It had endless mountains with the peaks draped with snow and the lake with the sun reflecting onto it and the lake in full view with the fog just gliding on the water. It was a sight I’ll never forget. On our way down we saw two antelopes pouncing happily through a field outside a wood. We rowed back to the campsite boasting heartily about what we have done and seen. If there is anything I have learned today, it’s if I want to do accomplish something, I can with the right tools, friends, and the right set of mind and heart.The End
Wednesday
Day 4 PM-Horseback and more
Tuesday, June 24th Evening
Today’s blogging is written by Jack Cobb
It was around four thirty when we arrived at the Diamond P Ranch where all thirteen of us rode on our very own horses.
When we arrived they made us sign these papers that pretty much meant if we die or fall off a horse (Hank) we can’t sue them for all the money there worth. If so I would get my very own horsey. But anyway once we signed the papers the instructor showed us how they trained the horses and they showed us how to stop, turn, and make the horse move forwards and backwards, which was quite easy. The next step was sizing us up to a horse that we could fit on. 
We were finally off. My horse’s name was Ammon, he was beautiful. We then started going on a trail that was already planned out. About halfway through the trail Hank’s Horse bent down for food (my kinda horse) and Hank dropped the reigns and the horse walked off the trail to eat, Hank then yelled and said it was going “crazy”. Our guide then brought the horse and Hank to calm and all was well. 
When we got out of the woods there was a beautiful view of a seemingly never ending valley and horses along with mountains in the background. Once we arrived back at the ranch we put the horses back in there resting spots for the night and we were off to one of my favorite events of the day……dinner!
Dinner was at the K.O.A. campgrounds and it consists of an absolutely divine steak, a side of baked beans, a roll and potato salad, corn on the Jack (Cobb)and for desert vanilla ice cream. Once we finished eating we set off for some photo ops and that was a great end to our night. Until tomorrow that’s it for now good night and I hope you respond to what a great blog this was goodbye!!!!
Today’s blogging is written by Jack Cobb
It was around four thirty when we arrived at the Diamond P Ranch where all thirteen of us rode on our very own horses.
When we arrived they made us sign these papers that pretty much meant if we die or fall off a horse (Hank) we can’t sue them for all the money there worth. If so I would get my very own horsey. But anyway once we signed the papers the instructor showed us how they trained the horses and they showed us how to stop, turn, and make the horse move forwards and backwards, which was quite easy. The next step was sizing us up to a horse that we could fit on. We were finally off. My horse’s name was Ammon, he was beautiful. We then started going on a trail that was already planned out. About halfway through the trail Hank’s Horse bent down for food (my kinda horse) and Hank dropped the reigns and the horse walked off the trail to eat, Hank then yelled and said it was going “crazy”. Our guide then brought the horse and Hank to calm and all was well. When we got out of the woods there was a beautiful view of a seemingly never ending valley and horses along with mountains in the background. Once we arrived back at the ranch we put the horses back in there resting spots for the night and we were off to one of my favorite events of the day……dinner!Dinner was at the K.O.A. campgrounds and it consists of an absolutely divine steak, a side of baked beans, a roll and potato salad, corn on the Jack (Cobb)and for desert vanilla ice cream. Once we finished eating we set off for some photo ops and that was a great end to our night. Until tomorrow that’s it for now good night and I hope you respond to what a great blog this was goodbye!!!!New episode of "Myth Busters"
While we were in Virginia City Monday, we happened onto the film crew for the TV show "Myth Busters". Unknowingly, the Troop stood in as extras while the crew explored the myth of dancing ghosts at the Calliope Museum...
Day 4 AM - Waterfalls
Kevin R. Crush blogging for June 24, 2008:
There was a beautiful sunrise this morning, though most were not up at 5:30 to see it properly. Instead, they bided their time patiently until the aroma of pancakes wafted in their general direction. As might have been guessed, both the aroma and its source soon vanished, falling prey to Troop 820’s ceaseless appetite.
While driving to Painter's Point in Yellowstone, scouts in the silver (read: cool) car were studying for the Nature Merit Badge, greedily gobbling any snippets of facts I and Mr. Seibt were able to distribute, ranging from Moon cycles to the food chain. While on the way, we spotted a crowd of tourists who had spotted at least one bear, and possibly three. Below is a picture of the blond bear, which came closest to the road.
Upon arriving to Painter’s Peak, I had complete ignorance of what I was to see. We went first to the Lower Falls, and my pulse literally quickened with what I saw. The canyon, plunging more than a thousand feet below the edge at some points, was draped in hues ranging from rusty red to chalky white and yellow, the colors were caused by dust washed by rain down the slope. Granite cliffs burst from the general slope, shaped bizarrely by the wind over many eons. Among all this, pine trees that knew no better were growing straight from the stone. A blue and swollen river at the bottom offset the fiery colors, completing a vista that does not abuse the word “awesome,” as tired a word as that is. 
I cannot say the same for several tourists. A road paved wide enough for a Hummer allowed any number of people to witness this handiwork of God. While it did allow physically disabled persons to access the place, it also permitted a number of those who were probably not as appreciative. 
“They ought to knock down these trees right here,” declared one, gesturing to a cluster of gnarly pines that had lived through dozens of Yellowstone winters and had rightfully earned their place in existence. He, however, ignored the fact that he could have taken three or four steps on a path someone else paved for him in order to get a sufficient view of the canyon.
After a steep hike down to the Lower Falls’ base, we went to the Upper Falls. We arrived at this one from above, and could clearly see the water rushing into the river below. Madly it went; the mindless fury with which the foam and water tumbled down below was frightening. A slip from the rails would certainly not to be to one’s benefit.
A Limerick of Old Faithful and Its Gift Shop
There once was a faithful old geyser
When compared to her spectators, was the wise
For when she did stop,
They went off to gift-shop
At a store that could make poor a miser.
Editors note - you will have to hold your breath for the rest of today's entry and the pictures - the Internet was especially poor all day long, so I am now posting this from my tent it is so late!
There was a beautiful sunrise this morning, though most were not up at 5:30 to see it properly. Instead, they bided their time patiently until the aroma of pancakes wafted in their general direction. As might have been guessed, both the aroma and its source soon vanished, falling prey to Troop 820’s ceaseless appetite.
While driving to Painter's Point in Yellowstone, scouts in the silver (read: cool) car were studying for the Nature Merit Badge, greedily gobbling any snippets of facts I and Mr. Seibt were able to distribute, ranging from Moon cycles to the food chain. While on the way, we spotted a crowd of tourists who had spotted at least one bear, and possibly three. Below is a picture of the blond bear, which came closest to the road.
Upon arriving to Painter’s Peak, I had complete ignorance of what I was to see. We went first to the Lower Falls, and my pulse literally quickened with what I saw. The canyon, plunging more than a thousand feet below the edge at some points, was draped in hues ranging from rusty red to chalky white and yellow, the colors were caused by dust washed by rain down the slope. Granite cliffs burst from the general slope, shaped bizarrely by the wind over many eons. Among all this, pine trees that knew no better were growing straight from the stone. A blue and swollen river at the bottom offset the fiery colors, completing a vista that does not abuse the word “awesome,” as tired a word as that is. I cannot say the same for several tourists. A road paved wide enough for a Hummer allowed any number of people to witness this handiwork of God. While it did allow physically disabled persons to access the place, it also permitted a number of those who were probably not as appreciative. “They ought to knock down these trees right here,” declared one, gesturing to a cluster of gnarly pines that had lived through dozens of Yellowstone winters and had rightfully earned their place in existence. He, however, ignored the fact that he could have taken three or four steps on a path someone else paved for him in order to get a sufficient view of the canyon.After a steep hike down to the Lower Falls’ base, we went to the Upper Falls. We arrived at this one from above, and could clearly see the water rushing into the river below. Madly it went; the mindless fury with which the foam and water tumbled down below was frightening. A slip from the rails would certainly not to be to one’s benefit.
A Limerick of Old Faithful and Its Gift Shop
There once was a faithful old geyser
When compared to her spectators, was the wise
For when she did stop,
They went off to gift-shop
At a store that could make poor a miser.
Editors note - you will have to hold your breath for the rest of today's entry and the pictures - the Internet was especially poor all day long, so I am now posting this from my tent it is so late!
Roosevelt Tower
Tuesday
Survey says.....
Wow! You guys know these scouts! Yes indeed, Hank is the least showered scout. Will was pulling a close second, due to a little white lie to his dad that he had taken a shower the first night, when in fact he had not.
This morning we are off to Roosevelt tower, Painter Point, and the lower falls. Talk to you soon!
This morning we are off to Roosevelt tower, Painter Point, and the lower falls. Talk to you soon!
Monday
Adding Comments
Editors Note: We love the comments we are getting! Please however, identify yourself in the comment. We are getting a chuckle from "Grandma and Grandpa" who have commented a few times. However, we are not really sure which Grands you are - please add a last name! ;)
We will try to post twice a day if wifi and cell signals allow. You wouldn't believe the time we spend saying "who has a picture of _____, I don't have one" then trying to connect any one of 6 digital cameras. Ah, technology!
We will try to post twice a day if wifi and cell signals allow. You wouldn't believe the time we spend saying "who has a picture of _____, I don't have one" then trying to connect any one of 6 digital cameras. Ah, technology!
Day 3-old faithful/hiking
Editors Note: since we were in Yellowstone all day we had neither wifi nor cell signal to post with. Due to popular demand, we will try to post twice a day from here out!
Omer Donmez and Colin Cummings Monday, June 23, 2008
This morning after we woke up we had an egg breakfast. Then we had the flag ceremony and discussed what we were doing today. Then, when we were getting ready we saw a pair of otters chasing ducks in the lake by our campsite. We got a few pictures and they will be posted.
Now we are on our way to Old Faithfull. Every day before we go into the cars two people pick who goes in there car. Today in our car it is Will, Colin, Hank, Omer, Mr. Zimmerman and Mr. Seibt. In the other car it is Jack, Jake, Kevin, Mathew, Mr. Stark, Mr. Cummings, and Mr. Hehman. On the way to old faithful we saw lots of bison, and we saw a bird that looked like a Crain. Hank fell asleep once again on the ride to old faithful. Colin took a very good picture of him.
When we got there Old Faithful had already erupted so Jack, Kevin, and Jake went to get some information. The next eruption was in about an hour and a half, so we took a walk around the place. There was a boardwalk path winding around all sorts of other geysers, some small, some big. A couple of them were just as clear as a swimming pool. When we were about finished with the walk we saw a musk rat swimming in a little stream. Then we got back and Old Faithful erupted at last. The eruption was huge and seemed to last for about two minutes..jpg)
After Old Faithful performed, we went to the old Faithful gift shop. Everyone bought at least something. After we went back to the cars we left to go to solider bridge and ate lunch. We stopped by a river and pulled the coolers out of the van and feasted on ham, salami, turkey and bologna. Jack chose to ease some of the local organic cuisine..jpg)
There were several hot springs next to the river where we enjoyed lunch.
Afterwards we went on a 3.9 mile hike to freight road trail head. Hank threw up about half way through. While we were walking we saw an elk, bison and even a detached bison leg.
We also found a hot springs called “oje Caliente” which is “hot eye” in Spanish. We stopped at a waterfall and got a few pictures. We went to fire-hole road and relaxed in the river. We headed back to camp and on the way back we saw a couple of elk on the side of the road and one had a radio collar on. We stopped at a market to get our dinner and it took forever!
P.S. King Louie my glasses are transitions.
Omer Donmez and Colin Cummings Monday, June 23, 2008
This morning after we woke up we had an egg breakfast. Then we had the flag ceremony and discussed what we were doing today. Then, when we were getting ready we saw a pair of otters chasing ducks in the lake by our campsite. We got a few pictures and they will be posted.
Now we are on our way to Old Faithfull. Every day before we go into the cars two people pick who goes in there car. Today in our car it is Will, Colin, Hank, Omer, Mr. Zimmerman and Mr. Seibt. In the other car it is Jack, Jake, Kevin, Mathew, Mr. Stark, Mr. Cummings, and Mr. Hehman. On the way to old faithful we saw lots of bison, and we saw a bird that looked like a Crain. Hank fell asleep once again on the ride to old faithful. Colin took a very good picture of him.
When we got there Old Faithful had already erupted so Jack, Kevin, and Jake went to get some information. The next eruption was in about an hour and a half, so we took a walk around the place. There was a boardwalk path winding around all sorts of other geysers, some small, some big. A couple of them were just as clear as a swimming pool. When we were about finished with the walk we saw a musk rat swimming in a little stream. Then we got back and Old Faithful erupted at last. The eruption was huge and seemed to last for about two minutes.
After Old Faithful performed, we went to the old Faithful gift shop. Everyone bought at least something. After we went back to the cars we left to go to solider bridge and ate lunch. We stopped by a river and pulled the coolers out of the van and feasted on ham, salami, turkey and bologna. Jack chose to ease some of the local organic cuisine.
There were several hot springs next to the river where we enjoyed lunch.Afterwards we went on a 3.9 mile hike to freight road trail head. Hank threw up about half way through. While we were walking we saw an elk, bison and even a detached bison leg.
We also found a hot springs called “oje Caliente” which is “hot eye” in Spanish. We stopped at a waterfall and got a few pictures. We went to fire-hole road and relaxed in the river. We headed back to camp and on the way back we saw a couple of elk on the side of the road and one had a radio collar on. We stopped at a market to get our dinner and it took forever!P.S. King Louie my glasses are transitions.
Old Faithful
Recap of Day 2
Good afternoon everyone! This blog covers Sunday 22, 2008
Today the blog is written to you from Matthew Stark
We woke up this morning around 6:30 - 7:30. We had a wide variety for breakfast such as cereal, pop-tarts, oatmeal, and hard-boiled eggs. After breakfast, we had a pleasant and enriching prayer service lead by Mr. Stark with a reading from Mt 19:13-15. At 9:00, we headed over to the rangers’ station to receive directions on what to do for our service project.
When we got there, the park ranger, Veronica, told us that they would like us to collect all the garbage in an area of woods. The area that we covered was about 100yds X 880yds, and we averaged at least two and half bags per person. The amount came out to be around 33 bags of garbage, which was about 115lbs. When we were finished, we then collected some fire wood so that we could have a campfire during and after dinner. After that, we headed back towards our campsite, but stopped back at the rangers’ station first for a quick photo opp.
.jpg)
Arriving back at the campsite, we prepared our lunch, which consisted of lunchmeat and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. The accompaniments to this meal were chips, cheese sticks, carrots, pickles, and Kool-aid. After we finished lunch, we had little time for recreation, so we spent time on the beach trying to skip rocks across the water. Around 1:30 in the afternoon, we headed out for a historical trip, and look around at the local ghost town.
Once we got there, we visited many stores that were very unique to this town. The stores and buildings were very old and rustic looking, and it appeared that we were walking through an old wild-west movie, or walking through a time warp..jpg)
Some of the stores there were an old ice-cream shop, a candy store that makes their own products by using the old-fashioned methods. There were many souvenir stores, and many museums that showed the local history of the town, which was very interesting
.jpg)
The ride home was very long, especially in the car that I was in. Everyone had gone to the bathroom before we left, but twenty minutes into the drive home Jake said he had to pee like a race horse, and kept reminding us every ten seconds. So, we told him not to think about the lake, babbling brooks, the ocean, water in a water bottle swishing back and forth, so that he would. When we finally got to the entrance road of the camp ground, we stopped to let him go to the bathroom. While he was still going we all decided to drive the car forward a little so that when he turned around he would freak out because the car was going away. He started running to the gravel road where that car was, but when he got close to the car, about 10ft away, we started going forward another 10ft so that he would have to go further to the car. Jake finally got close to the back of the car, and hopped onto the back bumper so we had to stop to let him back into the car. The best part about it was that his father was driving! From then on, Jake will now be drinking a lot less water when we go on an on car ride.
Before we fully started dinner, Kevin, Jake and I went for a walk around the shoreline. We walked about a mile from when we started to when we got back. On the way back, we saw an otter swimming a few feet away from the shore. A few minutes after that, we saw 11 swans flying across the lake. When we got back we had dinner, in which we prepared chicken, home fries, and baked beans, which was very delicious.
After said dinner, a crowd of clouds emerged behind some mountains from the north. It was a thunderstorm; the lightning inside it highlighted the shape and length of the clouds, but they did not come towards us. When people started to go to bed we star gazed, looking at the Big Dipper, Little Dipper, Cassiopiea, and the Milky-Way. Good night and we will talk to you tomorrow. Hello Mom, and Family!
Today the blog is written to you from Matthew Stark
We woke up this morning around 6:30 - 7:30. We had a wide variety for breakfast such as cereal, pop-tarts, oatmeal, and hard-boiled eggs. After breakfast, we had a pleasant and enriching prayer service lead by Mr. Stark with a reading from Mt 19:13-15. At 9:00, we headed over to the rangers’ station to receive directions on what to do for our service project.
When we got there, the park ranger, Veronica, told us that they would like us to collect all the garbage in an area of woods. The area that we covered was about 100yds X 880yds, and we averaged at least two and half bags per person. The amount came out to be around 33 bags of garbage, which was about 115lbs. When we were finished, we then collected some fire wood so that we could have a campfire during and after dinner. After that, we headed back towards our campsite, but stopped back at the rangers’ station first for a quick photo opp.
Arriving back at the campsite, we prepared our lunch, which consisted of lunchmeat and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. The accompaniments to this meal were chips, cheese sticks, carrots, pickles, and Kool-aid. After we finished lunch, we had little time for recreation, so we spent time on the beach trying to skip rocks across the water. Around 1:30 in the afternoon, we headed out for a historical trip, and look around at the local ghost town.
Once we got there, we visited many stores that were very unique to this town. The stores and buildings were very old and rustic looking, and it appeared that we were walking through an old wild-west movie, or walking through a time warp.
Some of the stores there were an old ice-cream shop, a candy store that makes their own products by using the old-fashioned methods. There were many souvenir stores, and many museums that showed the local history of the town, which was very interesting
The ride home was very long, especially in the car that I was in. Everyone had gone to the bathroom before we left, but twenty minutes into the drive home Jake said he had to pee like a race horse, and kept reminding us every ten seconds. So, we told him not to think about the lake, babbling brooks, the ocean, water in a water bottle swishing back and forth, so that he would. When we finally got to the entrance road of the camp ground, we stopped to let him go to the bathroom. While he was still going we all decided to drive the car forward a little so that when he turned around he would freak out because the car was going away. He started running to the gravel road where that car was, but when he got close to the car, about 10ft away, we started going forward another 10ft so that he would have to go further to the car. Jake finally got close to the back of the car, and hopped onto the back bumper so we had to stop to let him back into the car. The best part about it was that his father was driving! From then on, Jake will now be drinking a lot less water when we go on an on car ride.
Before we fully started dinner, Kevin, Jake and I went for a walk around the shoreline. We walked about a mile from when we started to when we got back. On the way back, we saw an otter swimming a few feet away from the shore. A few minutes after that, we saw 11 swans flying across the lake. When we got back we had dinner, in which we prepared chicken, home fries, and baked beans, which was very delicious.
After said dinner, a crowd of clouds emerged behind some mountains from the north. It was a thunderstorm; the lightning inside it highlighted the shape and length of the clouds, but they did not come towards us. When people started to go to bed we star gazed, looking at the Big Dipper, Little Dipper, Cassiopiea, and the Milky-Way. Good night and we will talk to you tomorrow. Hello Mom, and Family!
Service Project-Ghost Town
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