The following post features student writing on our time in the Outback. Enjoy!
My analog clock illuminates to read the numbers 4:39 a.m. as I peep my head through the small opening of the canvas-covered mattress our guides call a “swag.” After a second glance at my watch I remember it is nine minutes fast and I still have a luscious hour to sleep before our 5:30 wakeup call. The morning wakeup call is harsh, but the accents of our local guides Duff-man and Ben make it bearable. We all manage to get up and into the bus by 6, but the sun has still not arisen, making the trail nicknamed “Heartattack Hill” even more intimidating. After a quick pep talk from Duff-man and a couple of protein bars, it seems most of us are ready to conquer the 3.5 mile canyon walk, even at the frigid 35 degree mark. After about half an hour of walking the sun starts to peer over the peaks of the mountaintops, the rising sun projecting a deep tangerine color on our silhouettes.
The group at sunrise.
After another hour of walking we reach the “Garden of Eden,” a jungle that has mysteriously formed between the cracks of the canyon. The many ladders and stairs allow us to explore almost every inch of the odd terrain. We walk along the steep cliff of the canyon, capturing the amazing views with many group photos. Finally after the finish of a satisfying hike we return to camp, fresh fruit, and oddly red hot dogs (turns out to be an Australian thing). After a quick lunch we are back on the road on our way to a true bush camp, without bathrooms (unless you count a hole), outlets, or lights. We watch the sun set on our own private dune while roasting marshmallows around a burning fire to end a good day.
– Harrison C.
In the Garden of Eden.