Riverside, Calif. (March 6, 2020) – Community Life at California Baptist University coordinated a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park on Feb. 29. Ten students and three recreation interns hiked 1.5 miles to the summit at Ryan Mountain.

Jakob Hartt, a psychology senior and a recreation intern, said the Outdoor Adventure trips are opportunities for students to enjoy God’s creation and make friends in the process.  

“One of the goals of the Outdoor Recreation program is building a community of people from different backgrounds for the purpose of enjoying the outdoors together,” Hart said. “We try and get a diverse range of activities throughout the year with the intention of providing something for everyone.”

Students also walked along the Cholla Cactus Gardens and climbed boulders at Jumbo Rocks Campground. While hiking to the summit, they also stopped to have a picnic.

Carissa Rivette, a communication junior, said she signed up to meet new people and enjoy a hike.

“From great conversation on the car ride there to the friends I made to the amazing hike that I accomplished, I enjoyed the entire day there,” Rivette said.

Natalie Codding, a graphic design junior, loved jumping across the Jumbo Rocks.

“It was a great opportunity to enjoy nature alongside others within the CBU community,” Codding said.

The Outdoor Adventures program provides opportunities for students to enjoy various outdoor destinations and national parks. Community Life furnishes, for a nominal fee, transportation, appropriate gear for the adventure and most of the food.