An Adventure to the High Desert Center
From May 22 to May 31, 2024, 12 homeschooled teens from Philadelphia embarked on a transformative trip to the High Desert Center (HDC) in Paonia, Colorado. Facilitated by Natural Creativity's staff and HDC's Dev Carey, the journey pushed these teens to live outside of their urban comfort zones, complete challenges, build community bonds, and discover both nature and themselves. The results were transformative for everyone involved. For some it was their first time on a plane, first time in Colorado, or first time away from home for that long.
Before the Trip: Recruiting, Fundraising, and Recruiting
Inspired by the self-directed ethos and programs at the High Desert Center, Narwhals lead Facilitator Tess Liebersohn began planning this trip a year before it happened. The months leading up to it involved fundraising $6K, recruiting 5 additional teens, getting IDs, and planning about what we would do there (while also leaving plenty of space for self-direction).
Arrival and First Impressions
On May 22, we touched down in Colorado, greeted by HDC’s colorful bus, which would become a familiar sight on our outings. Along the 6-hour scenic ride west to Paonia, we experienced everything from a snowball fight to a dip in a hot spring. That evening, we arrived at HDC, settled into our cabins, and shared a cozy dinner of rice and beans. We got acquainted with the rustic cabins, outdoor kitchen, composting toilets, and compost/waste management.
Building Our Community
The next day started with breakfast and a group conversation about responsibilities and food planning, setting the foundation for our shared experience. A food-shopping trip followed, where we tackled budgeting with $4 each—a fun way to get to know each other over shared snacks in a parking lot picnic. The day ended with frisbee games, chicken sightings, and a beautiful sunset.
Adventures, Learning, and Self-Discovery
Our days were filled with adventures, from exploring the neighbor Eric's creative property to sneaky games of Capture the Flag and a night of live folk music at Big B’s orchard. Each stop introduced us to new ideas, including ways of living outside the constraints of material wealth.
One of the our major experiences was a “blindfolded duo” challenge that involved navigating back to town after being dropped off in random locations. Teams were tasked with meeting strangers, snapping pictures of dogs, and ultimately reconnecting with the group. Each team’s journey led to memorable stories that we shared over a potluck dinner in the park.
Hiking the Canyon and Building Connections
The crew rose early to tackle the breathtaking Dominguez Canyon. With petroglyphs, bighorn sheep, and relics from the Old West, the hike provided a connection to the past and an appreciation for the beauty and challenge of the natural world. Later that evening, everyone enjoyed s’mores around a campfire, listening to Dev’s tales of freight train hopping.
Hands-On Learning at Local Farms
We also spent time volunteering at Thistle Whistle Farm, where we milked goats and planted crops. Seeing sustainable farming in action gave us a sense of the hard work and dedication that goes into producing food, connecting us to the land in a meaningful way.
At Basil’s farm, we donned bee suits and learned about bees’ fascinating lives, especially their intricate social structure. Later, the Learning Council welcomed us into their community kitchen, where we prepared a shared Indian meal for the local farmers' market's community dinner and served hundreds of people.
Reflecting on the Journey
Our last full day brought a closing ritual where we reflected on the lessons and memories we’d be bringing back home. We hiked in Black Canyon, with one group bravely tackling the steep SOB Trail, a physically challenging yet deeply rewarding experience. That night, we gathered by the fire one last time to share what we were leaving behind, the things that would stay with us, and to enjoy the final hours in this magical place.
A Bittersweet Farewell
On May 31, our crew packed up, said heartfelt goodbyes, and boarded the bus back to the airport. The journey back was quiet and reflective, with conversations ranging from educational choices to shared dreams.
The trip to High Desert Center was an incredible journey of friendship, self-growth, and immersion in nature. It was enhanced by these teens' willingness to try new things - a skill they've developed well over their years of self-direction.