Oct. 25, 2014—Ringwood, NJ: Sometimes it is easy to forget how wonderful hiking during the fall can be. No humidity, mild temperatures with a hint of brisk, cool air, beautiful vibrant hues of browns, oranges, reds and yellows filling the landscape everywhere you turn, and no mosquitoes help make this one of the best times to get outdoors. These were the prime conditions that greeted 15 ELLIS Preparatory Academy and KAPPA International students on the October 25 trip to Wyanokie High Point in the Norvin Green State Forest in New Jersey.
Upon an 8:45am arrival to the high school in Marble Hill all of the kids, volunteers and staff were geared up, excited and ready to go. It had been six months since my last ICO trip with ELLIS (English Language Learners and International Support, led by Krisy) and I was eager for our adventure into unchartered New Jersey territory.
After maneuvering the hilly and wooded back roads near Ringwood, NJ thanks to the combination of a trusty handheld and Google map, we arrived to a bustling parking lot of the former Weis Ecology Center. Any questions of what type of topography laid in front of us to High Point were immediately answered by a toweringly steep hill at the start. Led by Ray’s trusty dog Jasper, first-time hikers like Bronx-native Mahamadou and seasoned vets alike attacked it with excitement and energy, and before you knew it, we were on our way.
A gradual ascension yielded a couple beautiful overlooks of scenic New Jersey. One viewpoint was punctuated by the happy arrival of volunteer Justin, led by Craig who had kindly stayed behind. When we finally reached the top, full panoramic views of colorful undulating hills and a large lake allowed for the perfect lunch spot and selfie-backdrop. “This is so beautiful,” said one KAPPA (Knowledge and Power Preparatory Academy, led by Andy) International student. “Just think that I’d be home right now playing video games”. While many were enjoying the sun’s warmth and breathtaking views on top of this giant rock, volunteer Tom used this opportunity to brush up on his French with Ginette, an ELLIS student who recently moved from Togo.
Although we left the summit and the fantastic views, the fun and excitement continued as we came upon a shored up old mine (which Jasper did not hesitate to wade into the pond of mud) and a small, trickling waterfall. By the time we came upon a fork in the road, we had hiked for cumulatively for a couple hours. It would have been understandable if tired legs yearned to head straight back to the oddly comfortable bus seats. However, without any qualms, students happily chose to continue hiking along the longest route!
When we returned to the trailhead, we concluded the trip with a great closing circle where everyone reflected on his or her favorite moments of the day. For me, it was great to get back out and see again what the money we all helped fundraise at the Adventure Film Festival NYC will go to. There is nothing like leaving the confines of the city for the uninterrupted views of a completely forested, colorful landscape. And hearing nothing but the bus engine hum on the way home and seeing everyone wiped from a wonderful hike, I’d guess to say the students would have agreed.
Until the next one!