There is a buzz of excitement amongst all the students. The early morning has yet to catch up with these amazing young adults... can't say the same for the chaperones or teachers. Biggest hurdle complete with boarding the plane, negotiating the Denver airport and getting on the bus, with a bus driver named Ray. Only one hiccup so far was someone misplacing their airplane ticket. Next stop the Mt Princeton Hot Spring in Nathrop Colorado.  

After traveling on the bus for 2 hrs we arrived the Hot Springs.  Everyone was hungry and curious of the difference in a Hot Spring and a regular pool.  Most enjoyed the 400 ft water slide, but I think Mrs. Korus enjoyed it more than anyone.  The stay was brief but students learned few things about altitude and the intensity of the UV rays.  It is estimated that for every 1000 ft there is a 4% increase in the intensity of the rays; and the Hot Springs were at 7689 ft.  Some of the students even found it difficult to breathe when exerting themselves.  They noticed the air is thinner and had to take it a bit easier.  

   We then spent the next 4 hours on the bus headed toward Durango Colorado.  A beautiful drive over some amazing terrain to include crossing over the Continental Divide.  Most of the students were wiped out because of their experience at the Hot Springs and the early wake up.  You could hear a pin drop in the bus for over an hour. Arrived Durango to get a quick bite to eat and a short walk to stretch out the legs before we drive for an hour to get to Crow Canyon Archeological Center.  Mrs. Korus did an amazing job keeping everyone entertained with her True/False quizzes and the Fun Fact quizzes.  The students have been amazing and have done such a great job for such an epic first day.   Everyone was spent after traveling for 17 hours, not including when they woke up to be at the Airport.  

   Day 1 complete and truly a success.  Well planned and executed.

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