Forestry Crew Week Seven and Final Goodbyes

Our Forestry Crew completed the last week of hitch for the season at Circle Peak. We enjoyed breathtaking 360º views of the Cascades while working our way together through the trail! The wildflowers and berries were in full bloom, and the sun beamed through the tree canopy all week long. Everyday, we worked hard in the heat, brushing the meadow and lopping foliage that was taking over the trail. We also had fun using water filters to collect river water near the beginning of the trail. It was a much-needed break from the elevation of the hike; the water cooled us down from the intense heat! The crew mentioned that this was one of the most beautiful hikes they’ve ever done. Circle Peak was the perfect trail to end our season!

While we greatly missed our Forestry Crew Intern Keathley this week, we were lucky enough to be accompanied by Steven, the GPI Trail Ambassador, on hitch. He helped us brush up on our Leave No Trace (LNT) guidelines and Recreate Responsibly principles all week long. He was full of great information, and he was the perfect boost to morale when the heat and the elevation got intense on the trail. Steven mentioned, “my favorite part of the week was walking down the freshly tidied trail, while seeing the great North Cascades”.

This week was full of so much joy in the outdoors, however, we sadly had to say goodbye to the crew as our time together came to an end. We laughed and reminisced about the long season together while huddled around the stove cooking our last few dinners. Each crew member brought their own unique interests, perspectives, and stories this season, and I am going to miss each one of them as our time together concluded. Two crew members, Taylor and Gabe, shared something valuable they learned, and their favorite part of the season:

Crew member Taylor Ledford

Taylor: “I learned that it’s important to always have fun while you’re working so you don’t get bored. My favorite part of the season was when we hiked up to circle peak to see the amazing views of Glacier Peak”.

Crew member Gabe Blanco

Gabe: “I learned that the view is always worth it. My favorite part was the reactions at the summit of Circle Peak”.

As for me, this season taught me about patience, resilience, and to never take for granted how incredible it is to work in the outdoors. I loved watching each crew member flourish into hard workers and citizen scientists. I am very excited to see the great things each member will accomplish as their school year begins! I am grateful for everyone who made this season successful and enjoyable.

Alyssa Clifton, Forestry Crew Lead