Typical Day in the Backcountry

Rise as the sunlight peeks over the canyon wall. The first order of business is
breakfast. If you have time, cinnamon rolls might be in order; pancakes are the
choice if time is short. A cup of tea or hot chocolate complements the breakfast.

Take your turn as the “Leader of the Day” who works with the faculty to plan and ead the day’s hiking route. You will use these leadership skills all the time on ampus and back home.

By 9:30, the first hiking groups leave camp. Arrive at your next camp on the mesa above the Colorado River by 2:00 and take an hour to set up camp and eat snacks before meeting for an afternoon class.

At 3:00, discuss the English assignment: an Edward Abbey novel set in the Utah desert. The 1,000-foot canyon walls tower above you. It is your turn to lead the discussion.

After class, spend a few hours hanging out around the stove and cooking a great
dinner. In the early evening, get together one more time to debrief the day, plan for tomorrow, play games, and tell stories.

As the stars come out, it is time for bed.