Western North Carolina is a popular hiking destination with many national and state parks in our backyard. Hidden on the trails awaiting to be discovered are endless learning opportunities.
Clyde A. Erwin Middle School (CAEMS) offers a unique club for students to explore the great outdoors. The Hiking club meets quarterly on a Saturday where students and staff set out on a trek in the surrounding area. Language Arts/Social Studies teacher Benjamin Urfer’s aspiration for the club is about more than enjoying the great outdoors.
“This club provides a unique opportunity for students and staff to grow relationships outside of the school setting,” he said. “I hope each hike sparks a love for the outdoors with everyone as it’s the perfect time to unplug from modern technology.”
One of the rules with the hiking club is that students cannot use their devices while they are on the trail. Mr. Urfer said this helps them get to know each other and interact more authentically.
“I love seeing the kids unwind and unplug,” he explained. “They have the ability to be themselves in this club, and focus on being in the moment. I’m fairly confident that research shows that time spent in the woods has a positive impact on people.”
This school year the club hopes to visit Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, Fairview, and the Great Smokies National Park.
