The Miracle Mile, plus 89 or so more!

It was an absolute joy to visit this year’s Leadership Training Team. Future 2018 Expeditioner, McKenzie and I journeyed to Taylor Rocks to meet up with LELT for a couple of days of climbing at Taylor Rocks. We meet the group at Rosy Lane Campground on the banks of the Taylor River. Their was a bit of rain, but smiles were abundant , as the cooks prepared Gado-Gado, other’s tarped the kitchen, Ryan played the guitar and other’s participated in “Stupid Ninja Time”.

The group was fresh off their epic white water rafting journey. Due to the high snow pack and high water levels this year’s trip down the Arkansas River was unlike any in years previous . While the historic runs of Numbers and the Royal Gorge have yet to open this season, the team put-in just above the “Miracle Mile”-an epic mile long of non-stop thrills, Class IV rapids and magnificent canyons. The new course pioneered by this LELTers involved an ambitious and continuous 4-day run that stretched out over 90 miles.  So unusual was this, that 6 -year river guide and LE favorite, Sunshine, reported it was the 1^st time he had ever linked that section together. Working in teams they paddled roughly 20 miles each day, and during the calmer sections, each member was given a chance to learn the professional rafting techniques.  On the river it is known as “Stick Time” and each learned the art of the river guiding. Each night they camped out on the river banks, while the guides prepared delectable treats.

When asked about the rafting trip the entire crew talked about the food nearly as much as the river. The highlight feast involved the following: Dutch oven, biscuits smothered with eggs and cheese, chorizo, bacon, sausage, gravy and I believe maple syrup drizzled on top.  “Food is Love” is a common phrase in Longacre lore and these guides clearly took it to a whole new level.

The LELT Expeditioners also recalled their mountaineering and backpacking section with great pride. Most agreed it was the most intense thing they have ever done. The large snow levels made it equally more challenging and more amazing. On their way down from Mt. Augusta, they kicked steps in single-file formation, with 60 degree slopes and 1000 ft drops off to the side. Leaders Ken and Amanda continued to note that the group really rises to every physical challenge and it really brings out the best of all of them. Next challenge Rock Climbing.