ShortStory_ RMNP_HunterEditor’s Note: The Grand Crew program offers kids a different approach to education. Experiential learning that enhances the participant’s engagement in real life positions throughout the community.  The program incorporates the fundamental building blocks of curriculum into a combination of educational experiences throughout the community.

Recent activities spurred a series of writings from Grand Crew student, Hunter Leroux. Hunter recently took a snowshoe tour at Rocky Mountain National Park and wrote:

If you have considered going out on a snowshoeing adventure, it isn’t too late.  Snowshoeing has probably the shortest learning curve of any wintersport and is affordable to most.  

Walking through the trees of Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most peaceful things a person can do.  When you snowshoe through the Park, it becomes awe inspiring. The click of the snowshoes against your boots, the creaking of the trees, the squeaking of the hero snow against itself, the cold on your cheeks and the peaceful setting make for an almost magical setting.  

The eerie stillness of it all makes me feel safe. The bright white of the snow reflected by the sun, the green of the trees with the snow in the background looks like a postcard.

I set out with a group of others on a short hike from Kauwaneechee Visitor’s Center led by Park Rangers.  The rangers were enthusiastic about everything, and they made the experience more educational than if I had been there alone.

As I walked along, the crunch of the snow underneath the shoes was rhythmic and calming. The whole place looked like a postcard; somewhere you can go to escape all the drama of the political world.  All of these sensations are what I felt when I walked through the park.  

If you decide to get out on snowshoes, Rocky Mountain National Park has some great trails that are well packed and range from one mile up to an eleven mile walk. If you plan on going, I recommend wool socks, lightweight snow pants, and warm boots. A ski jacket might be too heavy for warmer days, but it is a good idea to bring in case of emergency. Most of all, bring a desire for adventure and be ready to take away a sense of accomplishment and rejuvenation.

Maggie Michalowski/Grand Crew Program CoodinatorMPHS/970-509-0925

Education must enable young people to affect what they have recognized to be right, despite hardships, despite dangers, despite inner skepticism, despite boredom, and despite mockery from the world. -Kurt Hahn