Day 4 & 5 STEAM in the PARK at Yosemite

Yesterday, we were awakened by a beautiful mama bear and her two cubs and we knew right then the day would begin on a good note.

From there, we spent the morning with Naturalist Chris, who guided us right to the base of El Capitan. Standing beneath that towering granite wall, he showed us the techniques climbers use to scale its face and helped us imagine what it takes to reach the summit. He also shared the Indigenous story of how El Capitan got its name. The Ahwahneechee told of two bear cubs who climbed to the top of a rock while their mother searched for food. When she returned, the rock had risen higher and higher into the sky, lifting the cubs beyond her reach. That great stone became “Tutokanula,” the towering cliff we now call El Capitan. Hearing this story right there at its base gave the mountain a voice and history all its own.

In the afternoon, campers had a free day and took the chance to explore this beautiful place even more. Some wandered through the meadow, some journaled, some simply paused to take in the views—each finding their own way to connect with Yosemite.

Last night, because so many had to leave early, we held our closing circle. It was bittersweet, but it felt right. Together we laughed, cried, and remembered—then said the words we’d been waiting for: We did it.

This morning we are heading home!

STEAM in the PARK 2025 is officially complete.