Fourth Graders Connect With Nature at Frost Valley Adventure

Last week, Berkeley Carroll fourth graders embarked on the second annual overnight trip to Frost Valley Camp in the Catskill Mountains—and made our community proud every step of the way. Full of adventure, discovery, laughter, and friendship, the experience gave students a chance to connect with nature while building resilience, independence, and teamwork.

A highlight of the trip was the release of 40 trout into Biscuit Brook as part of the Trout in the Classroom program. Over the school year, students raised trout from eggs, learning about lifecycles, freshwater ecology, and the Catskill watershed—home to the source of New York City’s drinking water. Releasing the fish into the brook was both a celebration and a culminating experience, helping students see the real-world impact of their learning.

Upon arrival at Frost Valley, students met with educators who guided them through the trout release. From there, they made their way to their lodges, thrilled to discover their home for the night. After a hearty lunch in the dining hall, adventure groups set out for an afternoon of hiking, shelter building, outdoor games, and crossing a cable bridge—all under perfect blue skies and sunshine.

The excitement didn’t stop after dinner. Students were treated to a thrilling falconry presentation, where they met a gyrfalcon, turkey vulture, eagle owl, red tail hawk, and kestrel. The appearance of the eagle owl swallowing a mouse in one gulp was met with a mix of awe and horror—a true “nature is wild” moment!

The evening wrapped up with a peaceful sunset walk, a cozy campfire, marshmallow roasting, and, of course, some solid sleep, thanks to a full day of activity. The next morning, students dove into more nature-based learning, exploring water ecology and creating nature-inspired art.

Throughout the trip, the fourth graders impressed their chaperones with their curiosity, collaboration, and boundless energy. Their adventure at Frost Valley was more than just a night away—it has become a rite of passage for these soon-to-be middle schoolers, and a hands-on learning experience they’re sure to remember.

View The Frost Valley Photo Gallery