Wonder on the River: ELK Urban Rangers’ Unforgettable Rafting Trip
Last month, a group of adventurous Urban Rangers from ELK embarked on a thrilling pack rafting journey through the high desert of Colorado and Utah. As they navigated rivers, climbed cliffs, and gazed at the stars, their experiences and reflections painted a vivid picture of the trip’s magic. Here’s a closer look at their unforgettable adventure and the moments that made it truly special.
Learning the Ropes: Steering and Teamwork
Nadia embraced the challenges of river rafting with enthusiasm. She quickly grasped the importance of both physical strength and technique. Nadia shared, “It takes a TON of effort to continuously power the boat forward,” but she got some great tips from the Colorado Canyons Association guide on the proper form to avoid exhaustion while rowing and steering. She was a natural, and she had the cheers of her fellow Urban Rangers to fuel her. Her progress was a testament to the educational value of the trip and the supportive environment provided by her fellow Urban Rangers.
A Pleasant Surprise: Wildlife Encounters
Hadley’s expectations for the trip were high, but the reality surpassed them. “I had a lot of fun on the short hikes and enjoyed seeing all the animals,” Hadley said. The Rangers were thrilled to spot river otters, bighorn sheep, bald eagles, and pronghorn coming down to the river for a drink. These unexpected encounters added an extra layer of excitement and made the trip even more memorable for many of the Urban Rangers.
Pondering Time and Space: Reflections on the Landscape
Tae found himself contemplating the ancient past as he marveled at the landscape. “I was really trying to imagine what everything would look like thousands of years, and millions of years ago. It was so pretty, and I was pondering what other kind of creatures saw the landscape in its different forms,” Tae explained. Ute pictographs and the beauty of the environment sparked reflections on the passage of time and the ever-changing natural world, offering a profound sense of connection to history and those who lived in and traveled the canyons before us.
A Day to Remember: Playing, Jumping, and Swimming
On day two of their trip, the Rangers arrived at a stunning camping spot with an irresistible swimming hole. Laughter echoed all afternoon as the Rangers splashed each other, extracted clay from mud, and played water polo. Allison and Malik found themselves scaling a 1.7-billion-year-old cliff, then leaping off the ledge into the water below. Allison recalls, “We had an incredibly fun time, and I’m so glad you were able to capture one of the best moments on this trip!” The sheer joy of climbing, jumping, and swimming in such a breathtaking location was a highlight for many of the Rangers.
Water Rights: Reflections on Colorado’s Role
For Roman, the trip brought a new perspective on natural resources. He learned that “Colorado is a headwater state, and other states really depend on our water.” This newfound awareness underscored the interconnectedness of our natural resources and the importance of conserving them for the benefit of all.
Memories Under the Stars: A Night on the Boats
One of Melany’s most cherished memories was the last night of the trip, spent sleeping under the stars on the boats. Despite the chilly air, Melany and Jovanna enjoyed the clear night sky and the expanse of the Milky Way. “I loved being able to see the stars so clearly while I fell asleep,” Melany reminisced. This serene experience captured the essence of peace and connection with nature that the trip provided.
Passing the Torch: The Value of Shared Outdoor Experiences
For Shandiin, the trip was a meaningful chance to expand her outdoor horizons and connect deeply with the land and the people around her. Shandiin eloquently highlighted why support for such trips is crucial. This opportunity is not just for “those physically going on a trip,” but it is also an opportunity for ELK staff and supporters to “understand more of the student perspective in the outdoors,” she explained. Shandiin believes the chance for longtime outdoor enthusiasts and newcomers alike to bond and share experiences enriches the journey for everyone involved. In her mind, this trip represented a “passing of the torch,” with the Urban Rangers gaining insights from seasoned outdoor professionals and stepping into roles as the next generation of leaders and environmental stewards.
In Summary
The Urban Rangers’ river float was a rich blend of adventure, learning, and connection with nature. From swimming holes and boat navigation to starry nights and wildlife encounters, the trip was a testament to the power of outdoor experiences. The Rangers returned with newfound knowledge, cherished memories, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. This adventure highlighted the lasting impact of profound outdoor experiences and the importance of continued support for these transformative opportunities.
About Environmental Learning for Kids: Environmental Learning for Kids (ELK) is a local nonprofit that creates a sense of belonging, self-discovery, and adventure in the outdoors for underrepresented young people of color and their families, transforming youth into environmental stewards and trailblazers that promote equitable outdoor access, sustainable practices, and community uplift. Learn more at elkkkids.org.
About the Author: Lauren Keller is ELK’s Events & Marketing Coordinator. She was born and raised in Miami, Florida but has done meaningful work in Colorado since graduating from Colorado College with a BA in Environmental Studies in 2021. Lauren is passionate about harnessing visual media to share the wonder of the natural world with everyone. She is currently pursuing an MA in Biology with a focus on conservation communications. In her free time, you can find Lauren reading, playing games, cooking new foods, or searching for wild animals to photograph.
