The Backcountry Monkeys returned today from three days and two nights at the Battle Mountain group site in Rocky Mountain National Park.
After two days hiking in Boulder, the group was eager to hit the high country trails. Packed and ready, the group left AO base camp at Whittier Elementary on Wednesday morning, and arrived ready to go at the Longs Peak trailhead.
With 2.8 miles and 1800 vertical feet behind them, the group arrived at tree line to find their camp site for the next two days. The Backcountry monkeys set up camp, LNT style and established a cook site, and after a delicious meal of bean burritos, called it a night, knowing with first light, they would be again taking to the trail.
At 6AM the group awoke to hot cocoa and oatmeal, and hit the trail. They ascended further up the Longs Peak trail, topping out at over 12,500 feet on Granite Pass! At the top of the pass the group was treated to a map reading lesson with Jess and a few snacks before heading back to camp.
Some personal reflection time ensued before the group camp back together to create their group code, and go over LNT principles with Tom and Jess. A delicious dinner of macaroni and sauce cooked completely by the kids followed, before everyone turned in for the night.
The trip concluded today with a short hike back down to the waiting van, a ride back to Boulder, the creation of our group shield and some cleaning and debrief. All said and done, a wonderful trip!