Former Bio4Climate intern Adrianna Drindak recently led an off-trail backpacking trip in Kings Canyon National Park through her college’s outing club. Over the course of eight days, the group traversed rocky passes, explored vibrant meadows, enjoyed the incredible mountain views, and spent many hours alongside blue alpine lakes. Below, Adrianna shares a special moment from her travels. Photos and words by Adrianna Drindak.
It was our last night in the alpine zone. We reached our destination, Moose Lake, in the early afternoon, and had the rest of the day to enjoy our last night at elevation. I was chatting with a friend, and many of the people on my trip were sitting by the lake, taking naps and reading books. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a sleek figure meander along the shore. The shape of the creature came into focus, and before I knew it a Black Bear was wandering only twenty feet from those resting. I shouted, managing to get the attention of those down by the water, and we all stared in awe as the bear walked by, barely looking our way as it scrambled along the shore. We watched as it continued along the water’s edge before disappearing on the far side of the lake. The bear was at peace, so unattuned to human presence and entirely unfazed by the group of people sitting nearby.
Posted: October 18, 2025