Mt. Hood and The Gorge, Nothing but epic

 Report from the Field- Trip Leader Greg
    After an epic three days of frothy whitewater our next adventure brought us to the mighty Mount Hood.  We strapped on our skis and snowboards and rode the lift to what seemed to be a fantasy, a snow covered mountain with people of all ages riding in t-shirts and shorts.  We soon realized after a couple runs that we were over-dressed and we ended up riding in t-shirts screaming down the mountain like everyone else. Our skiers Daniel, Eli, Sara, Max, Isabel, and Jake S. put away there pizza slice technique and screamed down the mountain with precision and skill. Meanwhile our snowboarders Jake R., Emma, Greg, Miranda and Alec quickly improved their skills.  Our fearless ski and snowboard instructor Miranda helped all the kids take their skiing and snowboarding to the next level.  Run after run we blazed down the trails until we realized that the mountain had closed, however the lift operator graciously gave us the last ride up.  After a long day of riding we ended up staying at the beautiful Trillium Lake which boasts a beautiful view of Mount Hood off the calm waters.  Needless to say there wasn't much talking in the tents.
     The following day we rallied the troops and began to prepare for backpacking.  The campers learned about the seven principles of Leave No Trace, packing techniques, the ever amusing bathroom clinic, and everything needed for three days of backpacking.  Everyone learned the hard skills necessary as we enjoyed a nice campfire and told jokes and exchanged laughs with one another.
    Knowing the skills necessary for hiking we approached Eagle Creek trail head with confidence.  Along the trail we swam in the blustery waters of Punchbowl Falls and enjoyed the abundance of waterfalls we passed along the trail.  Seven miles later with zero blisters, the tired but stoked kids arrived at our first campsite along a stream bed.We had our first back country dinner and not a moment too soon, PIZZA BAGELS!!  Day 2 of backpacking kept us amused which different terrain and views of the valley.  We crossed streams, encountered strange birds, and walked uphill virtually the entire time.  Despite the uphill battle, the scenery and thought of an epic new campsite inspired the troops to walk at a strenuous pace led by the fearless Emma and Isabel.  We arrived at camp in what seemed like no time at all and had an amazing "Group" and prepared the Longacre classic backcountry meal, Ramen Bombs.  The EPIC Ramen bomb consisted of Ramen Noodles, Instant mashed potatoes, and velvetta cheese.  Okay sounds gross we know, but it is an explosion of flavor in your mouth.  After dinner everyone quickly faded and we look forward to day three of backpacking in the gorgeous Hood River Gorge.