In the beautiful Colorado wilderness, High Trails is a beloved destination for high school students and middle schoolers anxiously awaiting their upcoming trip. However, this cherished experience faces hardships threatening its future for students who want to become explorers. Shorter trips are the most significant change to the High Trails experience. What was once a 3-day/2-night trip has been reduced to a long 2-day/1-night trip.
Due to financial concerns, this programming change is part of an ongoing re-evaluation of the experience from the district level. Tacy Killingsworth, Director for Curriculum and Instruction, explained at a recent High Trails parent night that “A big piece of the change in High Trails over the past few years is that we’ve continually looked at that financial piece; the impacts and sustainability it has on our budgets.”
In addition to shorter trips, there is waning hype surrounding the High Trails experience. Aniyah Green (11) said the publicity surrounding it is much lower than last year when it was “the big thing.” Less enthusiasm about the trip could be due to the shorter trips.
However, this hasn’t eliminated interest in participating altogether, as students are still enrolling to become High Trails counselors. Several sophomores who couldn’t go in middle school due to the COVID-19 pandemic or not attending a participating school are excited to have the opportunity.
Zeke Ramiez (10) said, “It was a really great opportunity to be a leader and try it out.” High Trails remains a key part of many students’ school experience, offering exposure to leadership, teamwork, and nature. A new group of 6th graders and high school counselors are preparing to attend, anxious to reminisce on their adventures.
Although the future of High Trails is uncertain, there is still time to apply for counselor positions this season. They are especially in need of more male leaders. If you want to become a student counselor at High Trails for the upcoming sessions, there are posters around the school with QR codes. You can also contact the Pine Creek High Trails Coordinator, Ms. Hoffman. The last day for applications is Sept.25.
