Seniors Adventure to Head-Smashed-In-Buffalo Jump and Waterfalls
On the third day of camp, our adventure began bright and early in the breakfast rooms, where we gathered for a hearty meal to fuel our day. The room buzzed with anticipation and excitement as we shared our plans for the day ahead. Our destination was the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Calgary, Alberta.
After breakfast, we hopped onto our bus, our hearts filled with excitement. The bus ride was lively, filled with games and laughter as we all began to mix with new friends, developing new friendships and learning about each other. Our first stop was at the retro war airplane museum where we got to explore the history of the important pilots and see the planes and even go in some. After the museum we went to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains where our teacher, Mikaela, took this opportunity to give us a short history lesson about the Indigenous peoples of Canada and the Blackfoot people of Calgary. She explained how the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump was a significant site used by the Blackfoot people for over 6,000 years to hunt bison.
As we arrived at the site, the vast landscape took our breath away. We walked their land and saw where history was developed, standing on the grounds where countless bison had been driven off the cliff by skilled hunters. Mikaela’s words came to life as we imagined the scene centuries ago. After a profound walk through history, we gathered for a simple yet satisfying lunch of sandwiches, exchanging stories and reflecting on the morning’s experiences.
Post-lunch, our journey continued to Lundbreck Falls, another gem in the Calgary area. The sight of the beautiful falls was awe-inspiring, with water cascading down in a powerful yet graceful display. Some of us even took a daring dip in the refreshing waters, adding a splash of adventure to our day. The laughter and joy shared during this time were unforgettable.
Next, we took a short 20-minute drive to the Frank Slide, a monumental site where the Turtle Mountain partially collapsed in 1903. The massive rockslide covered the valley, creating a rugged landscape that was both eerie and fascinating. We climbed up and down the rocks, exploring the remnants of the natural disaster, and just as we finished, the sky began to threaten rain. We were lucky to make it back to the bus just in time to avoid getting soaked.
Our final destination of the day was Chain Lake Provincial Park, where we set up tables and barbecues for a delightful evening. The park provided the perfect backdrop for an array of activities. We played soccer, football, and volleyball, reveling in the camaraderie and the spirited competition. Some of us even took the opportunity to swim in Chain Lake, enjoying the cool, clear water after a day full of activities.
As the sun began to set, we gathered for supper, sharing food and stories, and learning more about each other. The sense of community and connection we felt was incredible, turning a group of campers into a close-knit family. After cleaning up our space and packing up the bus, we made our way back to Sait, tired but exhilarated from a day packed with learning, adventure, and friendship.
Reflecting on the day, it was clear that this camp experience was more than just a series of activities; it was a journey through history, nature, and human connections. Each moment, from the historical lessons to the playful games, contributed to a deeper understanding of the world and each other. As we settled into our seats for the ride back, the chatter began to talk about the day well spent.
