By: Erica salinas, youth odyssey program facilitator
Day 1: Adventure Begins
Youth Odyssey Winter Leadership Camp started 2024 off with their sites set on West Texas wonder. After an early morning departure the campers set off with sleep in their eyes and the spirit of adventure in their hearts as they began the trek to one of the last truly wild frontiers of the great state of Texas, Big Bend National Park. This journey started in the Coastal Plains of our great state, meander through the beautiful Hill County region and end in the foothills of the Chiso mountains. After an 8 plus hour drive filled with anticipation of what majestic beauty and natural wonders lay in store for them, the youth arrived at the campsite just in time to set up tents and get some shut eye for the first day of exploring the wonders of the park.
Day 2: Window Trail
The picturesque Chisos Mountains as the backdrop for the morning’s activities set the tone for the adventure filled day that has yet to unfold. As the morning air of the camp is filled with the aroma of sizzling bacon, brewing of hot chocolate, and eggs cooking on the campfire as the campsite comes to life. The mountain landscape echoes with the laughter of friendship as breakfast is devoured before we embark on the day’s activities.
The trailhead for the first hike is only a stone’s throw away from the campsite and we are whisked away to adventure shortly after dawning our packs and filling our water reserve. As we make our way down the winding trail known as The Window Trail we are immersed in the high desert landscape and the awe inspiring beauty that is presented before us. Wildlife residents of the community make notable appearances which includes Mexican Jays (bird), a road runner (also a bird), as well as a few Mountain Goats. Next on the agenda, After a fun filled day of adventure and nature watching the group returns to the campsite for a hearty dinner and recounts the events of the day that will be immortalized in memory. As the campers are preparing for bed they are treated to a spectacular night sky filled with more stars than ever imagined possible in existence.
Day 3: Boquillas Canyon and the Hot Springs
As day 3 approaches we get ready to embark on some more adventures. The mornings are cold and filled with hot chocolate. After breakfast we pile up in the van and head to our first destination, Boquillas Canyon Trail. Once we arrive and set out on our journey following the meandering path along the Rio Grande river. The youth are in awe by the view of the canyons and river, as well as the pop up shops left there by the locals of Boquillas. The sound of the river, and the rustle of desert plants accompany the echoes of shared laughter and conversations mixed with the sounds of some local cows as we spend some time at the river bed skipping rocks in the Rio Grande River.
It is now time for our next adventure, where we journey to the Hot Springs. We arrive and take a moment to have a quick picnic and get ready for the dip. The Hot Springs reveal moments of relaxation and historical discovery. The soothing waters and the remnants of an old bath house offered a unique blend of nature’s beauty and the culture exploration. The shared experience of the Hot Springs was just the beginning of our historical adventures. Next we head to the ghost town of Terlingua, Tx. that borders Big Bend. Once there we take the time to explore the town’s old cemetery, the remnants of a schoolhouse and even an old mining elevator. The time at Terlingua would conclude our day’s adventures as we head back to camp for dinner and some hot chocolate as we share some camp stories around the fire.
Day 4: Panther Junction
As the sun rises on day four of our West Texas adventure the campsite comes to life with activity. All though this morning is much cooler than previous ones the campers do not let of phase them as they anxiously await what wonders in store for them. After another hearty breakfast accompanied by more cups of hot chocolate, and with full bellies, the group set out on the day’s activities. The first stop of the day is modern day trading post complete with its own post office known as the Panther Junction Visitors Center. The visitor center is full of information about the rich history of both the pioneers of the Big Bend and Ecology of it’s terrain.
After a couple hours of learning about the West Texas Frontier and with a few souvenirs packed away for safe keeping the campers depart Panther Junction for their next destination. The Fossil Discovery Exhibit gives the group a chance to learn about the areas plants and animals dating back almost 130 million years. Fossilized plants, marine life, and the traces of dinosaurs unveil the rich geological history of the region. The visit becomes a blend of education and awe, connecting us with the prehistoric wonders that contribute to the unique story of Big Bend National Park. We wandered over to the playground where we spotted a dog, with the assistance of the park ranger and some bystanders the dog who was dubbed Chisos was rescued and taken to the shelter by the park ranger.
Now the time has come to head back to camp, this will be our last night deep in the Chisos Mountains. Once again we gather around the fire to enjoy our dinner and some hot chocolate under a star filled sky.
Day 5: Heading Home
Our last day in the Mountains of Big Bend arrived, it is filled with mixed emotions. Ready to see our families but sad that these adventures are coming to an end. We wake up before the sun is up and start packing up camp. The group comes together and helps each other pack away tents and personal belongings. We have our last taste of hot chocolate, with a quick breakfast as the sun starts to rise on the walls of the mountains. Departing with a sense of gratitude for the connections made, the beauty of nature discovered, and the collective spirit of our journey in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert. Safe travels, and may the echoes of Big Bend linger in our hearts.
