By Stephen C. Schultz
Angie came running into the cafeteria at Discovery Ranch South with a big smile on her face.
“I just rode for the first time!” she exclaimed.
The reddened, raw scars on her arms—the result of compulsive rubbing from a pencil eraser—were finally beginning to heal.
“That’s great,” I said. “It must feel good to finally ride after so much work with the horse on the ground.”
She tipped her head to the side and, with a twinkle in her eye, replied, “Yeah… it does.”
A bit later, I changed the subject.
“Are you planning on going hiking tomorrow? I heard Jared has planned a fun trip to Zion National Park.”
“Yeah, I plan to go. Most of the girls are going,” she said. “Are you going with us?”
“I am,” I replied.
“People come from around the world to visit Zion,” I added. “It should be a great time.”
The next day arrived, and all the girls gathered by the vans to load up for the hike. I was genuinely impressed by the organization, safety planning, and sheer logistics involved in preparing 25 teenage girls for a full-day outing. Soon, we were on our way to the red rock country of Southern Utah.
Once there, I was reminded—again—of the healing power of nature. There were no problems, no teenage drama, no bad attitudes. It was simply an enjoyable, grounding experience for everyone involved.
For readers who have never been to Zion National Park, I’ve included photos here that I hope you enjoy. If you ever have the opportunity to visit, I highly recommend it. I’ve also included the day’s activity plan below for those who may want to explore or research the area further.
Activity Plan: Hiking
Location: Zion National Park
Date: Friday
Assigned Therapists
Marliett / Jenneil and Josh
Suzette and Hope / Tim / Jack
Itinerary
9:00 am — Load vans and drive to Zion National Park
10:00 am — Arrive at Zion and board shuttle
10:30 am — Exit at Zion Lodge shuttle stop; hike to Emerald Pools
11:45 am — Lunch
1:30 pm — Return hike to shuttle
4:00 pm — Depart for the ranch
5:00 pm — Arrive back at DRS
Packing Lists
Girls
Water bottles or hydration bladder (minimum 2 quarts)
Hiking shoes or tennis shoes
Quick-dry shirt and shorts (no jeans or cotton T-shirts)
Hat (optional)
Sunglasses
Camelback backpack (check out from Recreation Director or bring your own)
Staff
All items listed above, plus:
Aloe vera
Sunscreen
Hand sanitizer
Trash bags
Medications, inhalers, EpiPens
Recreation Director
First aid kit
National Parks pass
Lunches for girls, staff, and therapists
Safety Considerations
First Aid:
Girls and staff will be briefed on the location and contents of first aid kits and how to use them.
Dehydration:
Hydration is critical. Each girl must bring at least 2 liters/quarts of water or will not be able to participate.
Sun Exposure:
Sunscreen should be applied before hiking and reapplied every two hours.
Allergic Reactions:
Staff will carry EpiPens for insect stings or other allergic reactions.
Injuries:
There is potential for sprains, falls, or fractures. Girls and staff should watch their footing, avoid jumping, and down-climb when necessary.
Wildlife:
Rattlesnakes are present in the area. If one is seen, back away slowly and notify staff. Do not approach or attempt to harm wildlife.
Staff Assignments
The Recreation Director will carry the main first aid kit.
Each staff member or therapist will supervise four girls at all times.
Staff will ensure all girls have water, medications, and sunscreen readily available.
Emergency Response Plan
Site: Zion National Park, Springdale, Utah
Resources: First aid kits; Jared is a Wilderness First Responder. All staff are First Aid and CPR certified.
Communication: Cell phones available; nearest landline is at the Visitor Center.
Nearest Hospital:
Dixie Regional Medical Center
St. George, Utah
In Case of Emergency
Stop and assess the scene:
Number of injured individuals
Mechanism and severity of injury
Scene safety
Alert staff and follow directions
Determine appropriate response:
Treat on site within training, or
Transport to hospital if necessary
If outside help is required, call 911
Notify the school nurse and care for the rest of the group
Follow up with administrative contacts
Driving Directions to Zion National Park
Drive south on I-15 and take Exit 27 (Toquerville).
Turn left onto UT-17 and drive 6 miles.
Turn left on UT-9 / 500 West and continue approximately 20 miles to Zion National Park.
Notes and reflections like these remind me how structure, preparation, and the natural world can work together to support healing—sometimes in ways no classroom or office ever could.
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