Trail Mix, Fall 2002

WLT Trip report

This year’s Wilderness Leadership Trainings rank amongst the most challenging, and most rewarding that we've ever done. We trained 52 youth workers, through 4 trainings (one more than last year). And, we are also particularly proud to report that we utilized more volunteers than ever before.

The spring trainings took place at our beautiful Cherry Lake course area in the north-western corner of Yosemite. We arrived in May to find snow on ground at our first campsite, but with 4 days of great weather, it had all melted by the end of the course. A highlight of the June course was a close encounter with a rattlesnake. Fortunately, no one was bitten, as it headed off for a less populated site. This fall we went back to Tahoe National Forest, to the Grouse Ridge area and had a great time hopping lake to lake with 7 more participants from all over the Bay Area. Finally, it's worth noting that Bonnie Whyte became the oldest participant in a WLT at age 62!

One spring participant summed up her experience this way, “I expected to go through some pain and suffering, but never to the extent that I faced. Although it truly was excruciating for my mind, body and soul, it was worth it. In the end, it went above and beyond any expectations I could have had.” Congrats to all who participated, and thanks to all who volunteered to teach and support these courses. Keep on taking those youth out, and we’ll see you in the gear room!