The Wilderness Adventure of Big Bend National Park By: Whitney Theriot

The sovereignty of Big Bend National Park really struck my fancy. This three day back packing trip is an experience I will remember for a long time. Making the decision to change groups and push my comfort zone might be the best decision I make this semester. I have never had a chance to fully explore the west coast and I jumped at this opportunity for a once in a lifetime experience. I was shocked by the radiance of the many sunrises and sunsets we witnessed. As the group watched the sunrise we saw bright colors of orange, pink, and sometimes purple light up the dark blue sky. Living outside New York City, I hardly ever get to see the millions of stars that fill our night sky. Every night I laid back and observed the brilliance of the stars with awe. I also enjoyed the natural beauty of the mountainous views, and was pleasantly surprised by how far you could see on a clear day. We also saw many types of flora and fauna. I found it interesting that the park became alive with fauna at night, instead of during the day. During these particular three days I learned a lot about myself. I can do anything I put my mind to as long as I persevere through the initial struggle. I also learned that when I hike in front of the group I could complete a hike with strength, accuracy, and ease. The best part was that the group was there for me to lean on when I needed support. During the Big Bend hiking trip in particular, I felt the group was coming together as a strong unit instead of as a group of individuals. I witnessed this along the trails and in the campsites. The way the group encouraged each other to achieve their personal best was an impressive thing to witness. There were also numerous jokes, games, and songs that were passed among the group. When people became heated, these three strategies seemed to lighten and change the overall mood of the group. The beauty and solemnity of Big Bend Natural Park brought out a side of me that I have never felt before. The overall experience of the hiking trip added a whole new level to our Texas Expedition.