June 29, 2011

Daily Report from the Journalism Committee

Climbing Exit Glacier by Olivia

Today we climbed to the Harding Ice Field right by the Exit Glacier. It was one of the most amazing things I have ever experienced in my life. When we got to the top we could see everything! It was a truly spectacular adventure, however it did not come easily.

From the start, the climb was very challenging. It was very steep and rocky. Although it was rough, it had some really fun parts such as the bridges over streams and near waterfalls. Besides waterfalls some groups also saw bear cubs and beautiful wild flowers. The hike up was great but the top was most rewarding.

When we got to the top we were able to see everything! We could see the rivers, snow topped mountains, and my personal favorite, Exit Glacier. The glacier was beautiful. We were even able to see the hundreds of cracks that are in the glacier. They started of white, and then darkened into deep shades of blue. Then to top it off, The Harding Ice Field. Miles of gleaming white, untouched, snow and ice sheets. The view was beautiful, but unfortunately, we soon had to begin the hike down.

The hike down was actually pretty difficult, but still fun. It was extremely steep and rocky. We all had to slow down until we passed the big, slippery rocks. However, there were some snow shoots we could slide down, but you have to be sure to stop before the rocks, unlike me.

When we got to the bottom, we all concluded that the view was worth the hike.This day was one of those we will never forget.

Exit Glacier, Sea Life Center, and Seward Shopping by Maddie

Today was a very adventurous day for everyone, because today was the day we climbed Exit Glacier! The hike was about 5-6 miles round trip, so it took a couple of hours to accomplish. We started off hiking in a hot "rainforest-y" area, but the overall climate changed fairly quickly as we got into some snow patches. The hike ended at The Harding Ice field right above Exit Glacier. As soon as we got to the top, we ate lunch, took some pictures, and headed back down the mountain so that we would have enough time for dinner and The Sea Life Center.

The Sea Life Center was an incredible experience just by itself. We saw seals, sea lions, puffins (as well as some other aquatics birds), jellyfish, and other random species of fish.There was a touch tank where you could touch sea animals such as hermit crabs, starfish, sun starfish, sea urchins, and some sea anemones as well!After about 2 hours at the Sea Life Center, the vans were allowed to do whatever they wanted for a couple of hours (shopping in old-town or new-town, taking showers, heading back to camp, etc.) before meeting up at camp again to get ready for hug time and then bed.

It was a day of accomplishments, almost everyone made it successfully to the top of the mountain, and that is something we are very proud. It also goes to show you how far you can go when you have people to help you and guide you towards some of your "highest goals".