There are a lot of really wonderful things about being here on Orcas Island. There's the opportunity for adventure in the woods, mountains, and sea. We have astounding views of the Salish Sea right here at camp. That's just to name a couple of the features we value so much about this island. We can't mention these merits without highlighting one of the greatest things one can find here: An abundantly welcoming and vibrant island community. The people, businesses, schools, organizations, and sense of place all come together to make Orcas Island the gem that it is.

This week, we're excited to be hosting many local groups from the Orcas Community. Here's a big shout-out to Orcas Island School District (including specialty groups Outdoor Adventures and Marine Science), Orcas Christian School, Kaleidoscope Preschool and Childcare Center, and the Salmonberry School for coming to learn and play with us this week. See you at Fall Fest!

Spring OEE takes to the Trail!

When students come to Orkila for the spring and fall OEE seasons, all of camp becomes the classroom. It doesn't stop there, though! Really, the natural world here on Orcas Island is the learning environment. This week, Oregon Episcopal School (Portland, OR) took their experience all the way to the top of Mt. Constitution. Hats off to these 54 5th-graders and their chaperones for conquering the hike!

Spring Mentor Group Outings

In addition to our overall Spring 2016 Outdoor and Environmental Education team, we're spread among several "Mentor Groups." These smaller groups, each made up of 6-7 instructors and a member of the Leadership Team, act as a community-within-a-community. Yesterday, we had our annual Mentor Group Day. Folks enjoyed activities on 3 different islands such as hiking, games, cycling, milkshakes, enjoying wildlife, and visiting alpacas. Check out some group photos from the day!

Twin Day

Seeing double? Well, that's probably because today's "Theme Day" theme has us many of us twinning. Readers, allow me to introduce you to Larly, Chalex, Jemoey, Jeverty, Malanatt, Marchelle, Thumpyle, and...Joe.

Letty and Carly, "Larly"

Chex and Alex, "Chalex"

Joey and Emily, "Jemoey"

Jessie, Flaherty, and Eva, "Jeverty"

Matt and Alana, Malanatt

Margaret and Richelle, "Marchelle"

Joe Davidson-Curry

Springtime, especially here on Orcas Island, is often marked by interesting weather. Today, we had the chance to see an impressive system of heavy fog that rolled through camp from early morning until just after lunch. Even familiar places, like the challenge tower and zip line, took on a new, foggy appearance. Check it out in the photo below. The only thing cooler than riding the zip line is riding the zip line through a cloud!

A foggy view of the zip line from the top of the tower.