Wynchemna Wonders: A Week of Laughs, Lakes, and Lifetime Memories! 🏕️
Day 1: Let the Adventure Begin!
The air was buzzing with excitement as the first day of our camping trip kicked off! Bright and early, everyone was packing their bags—cramming in sleeping bags, water bottles, rain gear, and, of course, their favorite snacks. Laughter and chatter echoed as we loaded up the truck with camping supplies, backpacks, and bins stacked high with gear.
Before hitting the road, we made a much-needed fuel stop: Tim Hortons! Everyone enjoyed a warm, delicious breakfast sandwich, and whether it was sausage, bacon, or egg, the gooey cheese and buttery buns hit the spot.
We then boarded the bus and headed toward the mountains. Even though the sky was overcast and raindrops dotted the windows, the views were absolutely breathtaking. Mist curled over rolling green hills and tall evergreens as we made our way deeper into the wilderness. The ride was full of music, games, and wide-eyed amazement as we climbed higher into the Rockies.
Upon arrival at the campsite, we quickly got to work setting up our tents. Some were pros; others had a bit of a “learning experience”—but teamwork won the day! With tents pitched and bags unpacked, we prepared a cozy supper, huddled around the camp kitchen as the evening fog rolled in. After a warm meal and a few good laughs, we headed to bed early, ready for a big second day.
Day 2: Pancake Power & Elbow Lake Views
We woke up bright and early to the smell of pancakes sizzling on the griddle. Everyone gathered around for a hearty breakfast complete with fluffy pancakes, fresh fruits, and plenty of syrup. Add in some juice and snacks, and we were ready to roll.
After breakfast, the group split into teams to play some friendly games of volleyball and badminton. The light drizzle had cleared up, and while it was still cool out, spirits were warm and high! After we’d worked up an appetite, we made tasty sandwiches for lunch and enjoyed them picnic-style.
Next came a highlight of the day: a hike around beautiful Elbow Lake! The path was lush and green, and as we rounded the trail, we were treated to stunning views of turquoise waters surrounded by towering peaks. Cameras were snapping, and the peaceful vibe of the lake made it a moment to remember.
Back at camp, we bundled up for a chilly evening. Everyone got cozy in their warmest clothes as we prepared a comforting supper, shared stories, and crawled into our sleeping bags early once again, ready for the next day's adventure.
Day 3: Horses, Icefields & Banff Fun
This morning was a quick one! We grabbed a light breakfast of buttery croissants and juice before heading out on a day filled with adventure. Some of the group went horseback riding around Lake Louise, taking in the serene alpine views from the saddle. The kids loved riding through the forest trails, with the lake’s emerald glow in the distance.
The rest of us explored the Icefields Parkway, gazing at massive glaciers and snow-capped peaks that felt straight out of a postcard. Some even got to taste fresh glacier water—ice cold and incredibly refreshing!
We stopped midday for a classic hotdog lunch, complete with all the fixings. After returning to the bus, we made our way to Banff for a special treat: supper at Edo Japan, followed by an hour to shop and explore the local mall. From souvenir t-shirts to sweet treats, everyone found something fun. By the time we returned to camp, everyone was happily exhausted and fell into bed, totally “poofed.”
Day 4: Sleeping In & The Wynchemna Olympics
Today we got to sleep in a little—a well-deserved luxury! Brunch was served with all the goodies: fruit, breakfast sandwiches, mini muffins, and plenty of snacks to keep the energy up.
With the sun finally peeking through the clouds, we spent the afternoon playing more sports with the kids. Soccer balls flew across the field, laughter filled the air, and the weather was finally working in our favor.
Later in the day, we kicked off our Wynchemna Olympic Games! Campers competed in tent groups, going head-to-head in fun challenges like frisbee throws, the mighty log toss, soccer shootouts, tightrope walking, and more. The competitive spirit was fierce but friendly, and we may have spotted a few future Olympians in the making! It was all cheers, hoots, and high fives.
As the sun began to set, we played a few exciting rounds of capture the flag, with kids darting across the field under fading golden light. Supper was followed by a crackling campfire, complete with camp songs, marshmallow roasting, and a sky full of stars.
Day 5: Lake Day & a Thunderstorm Twist
We woke up to a bright and sunny morning—a perfect start to Lake Day! Breakfast included French toast, fruit, and all kinds of morning snacks to get us energized.
After packing up our swimsuits and towels, we headed about 20 minutes from camp to a nearby lake where the real fun began. The kids spent hours swimming, paddleboarding, and floating in rubber boats, soaking up the sun and laughing with their friends. The clear blue water shimmered under the sun, and it truly felt like summer had arrived.
Lunch was something new—ramen by the lake! Warm noodles, flavorful broth, and toppings of your choice made it an unexpected but perfect lakeside meal.
We returned to camp for a burger feast—complete with every side you could want: fries, fruit, veggie trays, and tasty appetizers. That evening, the senior group joined us for even more fun and games. However, as dusk fell, so did the weather. Thunder rumbled in the distance, lightning lit up the sky, and before long, we were in the middle of a full-on downpour! Kids were safely tucked into their tents early as the rain poured down outside, adding a wild touch to the day’s ending.
Day 6: Bittersweet Endings!
There was a bittersweet feeling in the air today as we woke up for our final morning. The sun was shining again as we worked together to pack up the campsite—tents, foamies, liners, sleeping bags—everything neatly folded and stashed away.
Breakfast was a quick but cheerful meal of cereal, fruit, and grab-and-go snacks. Once we were back at SAIT, everyone pitched in to unload the truck, do laundry, and take well-earned showers.
Our final evening was one to remember: we went out for supper at Denny’s, where the kids enjoyed everything from burgers and chicken fingers to veggie skillets and milkshakes. Full and happy, we ended the night at Loose Moose, a hilarious comedy show that had everyone in stitches. The laughter just wouldn’t stop!
As we returned to SAIT one last time, tired but smiling, it was clear this trip had been something truly special.
From misty mountaintops to sparkling lakes, horseback rides to Olympic games, this week with the juniors at Wynchemna was packed with unforgettable moments. The laughter, the friendships, the memories—these are the kinds of days that stay with you for a lifetime.
