By: Oliver Bunker, University of Montana
06:20 – Rise and Shine!
The alarm chirped me awake at precisely 6:20 a.m., and I sprang out of my sleeping bag like a mountain marmot greeting the dawn. Today was no ordinary day, it was glacier day! The Calluqueo Glacier awaited, along with a gaggle of curious schoolchildren eager to learn about the magical mechanics of nature.
07:00 – Packing up!
By 7:00 a.m., I was bustling about, helping gather equipment, food, and supplies for our fun-filled expedition.
07:15 – Group-up!
At 7:15 sharp, the Round River crew assembled in a cheerful huddle. We divvied up roles, cracked a few jokes, and made sure everyone knew their duties.
07:30 – Drive there!
By 7:30, we were off! The drive to Calluqueo Glacier stretched about an hour and twenty minutes, winding through valleys and past rivers that sparkled like spilled diamonds. Some folks snoozed, others watched movies on their phones, but I chose the soundtrack of the road: music in my ears, scenery in my eyes, and a heart buzzing with anticipation.
09:10 – Prep Time!
Once we arrived, I was assigned the noble duty of food prep. Thankfully, a few teammates joined in, and together we chopped, sliced, and laughed our way through the morning. The glacier loomed beautifully nearby, a silent guardian promising a day of wonder and beautiful memories.
11:40-13:00 – Lunch!
Lunch was a lively affair! Around 11:40, we set up a spread for about thirty hungry adventurers. On the menu: Completos (Chilean-style hot dogs), fruity sides, and juice to wash it all down. By 1:00 p.m., bellies were full, spirits were high, and the glacier echoed with the chatter of satisfied explorers.
14:30 – Cleanup and packing!
After the whirlwind of activities with the children, it was time to pack up. At 2:30, we gathered equipment and trekked it back to the cars. Despite the distance, everything went smoothly, and we managed to keep the mood light with jokes and laughter.
14:40-16:00 – Boat trip to the Glacier for hands-on learning
Ah, the grand finale! At 2:45, we boarded boats and glided across icy waters toward the Calluqueo Glacier. The ride was equal parts serene and exhilarating, with hands-on learning moments sprinkled in like confetti. The glacier towered above us, shimmering in shades of blue that looked almost unreal. A living textbook of natural history.
16:50 – Driving back to Aquasol
By 4:50, we piled back into the vans for the return trip to Aquasol. The ride was a mix of giggles, conversations, and well-deserved naps.
18:40 – Dinner!
At 6:40 p.m., dinner duty was underway. Tonight’s menu: rice, chicken, and a medley of veggies.
20:30 – Free time!
By 8:30, I retreated to my tent for some much-needed solitude. With a movie queued up, I let myself sink into the cozy cocoon of my sleeping bag. Free time is a gift. A chance to process the day, reset the mind, and savor the quiet after the storm of activity.
22:30 – Bed time!!!
At 10:30, bedtime rituals began: brushing teeth, washing face, setting the alarm for tomorrow’s off-day. Finally, I nestled into my sleeping bag, the hum of the glacier still echoing in my ears. With a smile, I drifted off, ready for whatever adventures awaited next.