A-OK at the KOA

On Sunday, after completing a very successful, 18-day hike expedition in the Gila Wilderness, Sonoran Year students transitioned to climbing camp at Cochise Stronghold.  Spirits are high at Cochise, as well as along the Rio Grande and deep within a remote cave, where Fall Semester students continue to hone their leadership skills.   

Down here at the NOLS Southwest, course transitions are sometimes referred to as a “road show.”  We accomplish the gear swapping, equipment cleaning, laundry washing, and first-showers-in-weeks at a host location.  As you can well imagine, said location will inevitably be graced with the presence of a very special blend of dirt, odor, and, of course, energetic students.

For several years now, we have been grateful guests of the Silver City KOA, where we regularly manage such "road show" transitions.  Jackie Blurton, who owns and runs the campground with her husband, Jim, truly rolls out the red carpet for us.  We consistently arrive to smiles from campground staff and even a signboard that reads “Welcome NOLS.” Jackie has become famous with both instructors and students for her stuffed French toast and her above and beyond hospitality.  Jackie, herself an avid backcountry traveler, has become an important part of a Southwest course. 

On behalf of all of us:  Thank you Jackie (above, left) and everyone at the Silver City KOA!