​Day 2 | Glacier National Park: STEAM in the PaRK

Our morning belonged to Ranger Lindsay, who somehow managed to make all of us appreciate beavers even more than we already did. Two of our campers became honorary beavers as Lindsay dressed them for the part and helped us discover why these remarkable animals are often called nature's engineers. We learned the difference between a beaver lodge and a beaver dam, bushwhacked through an active beaver complex, and examined wildlife camera photos that revealed just how many creatures depend on these incredible wetland builders.

Then it was our turn to think like beavers. Using baking pans, rocks, sticks, mud, and other natural materials, teams designed and built their own miniature dams before putting them to the test with flowing water. Some held strong. Some...well...provided valuable engineering lessons. Every group walked away with a better understanding of just how much planning, persistence, and problem-solving goes into every dam a beaver creates.

The afternoon took us into the cool waters of Big Creek, where campers searched for and identified macroinvertebrates—tiny aquatic creatures that tell us a great deal about the health of a stream. It's always amazing how quickly a small insect can become the most exciting discovery of the day.

One of our favorite activities followed: our Adaptation Auction. Each team received a budget and had to strategically "bid" on animal adaptations like camouflage, sharp claws, waterproof fur, powerful wings, venom, or incredible eyesight. The catch? You couldn't buy everything. Teams had to decide which adaptations were worth spending their limited budget on before creating a brand-new animal perfectly suited for its habitat. The creativity was unbelievable, and every creature came with its own story and survival strategy.

After another incredible dinner, we mixed our own natural paints using materials from around camp. It's been fun watching everyone's confidence grow with this activity. Each day the colors become richer, the techniques become bolder, and the artwork becomes even more personal.

We wrapped up the evening continuing our CCC Legacies, reflecting on the lasting impact of the Civilian Conservation Corps and considering the kinds of legacies each of us hopes to leave behind.

One thing has become abundantly clear after just two days: this place is special. The Glacier Institute staff has welcomed us like family. Their knowledge, enthusiasm, kindness, and willingness to jump into every adventure alongside us have made this week even more meaningful. We are pretty sure we've gained at least 13 new best friends.

Tomorrow we head up the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the most spectacular drives in America. And yes...every time someone says the name, at least one person can't resist thinking, "Heeere's Johnny!" We have a feeling tomorrow is going to be unforgettable.