NOMADIC ADVENTURES

Excerpt from Past

“THE FIRST HIKe”

This morning, a quiet buzz stirred among the Nomadic Adventure Club members. In our little chat, a video was shared—a short, unassuming clip that, at first glance, seemed to be just another home video. But as we watched, the realization struck: this wasn’t just any footage. This was history. A piece of our legacy.

Captured on March 16, 2013, this video chronicled the club’s inaugural hike. The scenery, though familiar, had a surreal glow, as if time itself had preserved its golden sheen just for this moment. There they were, the founding members, with bright eyes and even brighter smiles, embarking on what would become the first chapter of the Nomadic Adventure Club’s story. Their laughter, camaraderie, and the crunch of boots against the trail filled the room as we watched.

It wasn’t just a video; it was a time capsule. The origins of something much bigger than any of them could have imagined.

Where it all began
Mount Diablo, located in California, served as the birthplace of the Nomadic Adventure Club. Towering over the East Bay region, its striking silhouette and panoramic views have long drawn nature enthusiasts and adventurers. Known for its rich biodiversity and stunning sunsets, Mount Diablo stands as a beacon of inspiration and remains deeply rooted in the club’s identity.

Thank You, Past and Future Nomadics

Today, we’re not just celebrating a video. We’re celebrating the essence of what makes the Nomadic Adventure Club special. We’re celebrating the past members who dreamed big and took that first step. We’re celebrating the current members who keep that dream alive with every hike, every climb, and every adventure. And we’re celebrating the future members—the ones who will carry this legacy forward and write the next chapters of our story.

So here’s to the Nomadic Adventure Club—then, now, and forever. And here’s to March 16, 2013—a day that may have begun as a simple hike but turned into the cornerstone of something extraordinary.

JANUARY/07/25

"Ascending Through the Mist: Nomadic Adventure Club's Journey to Yosemite's Clouds Rest"

Hiking to Clouds Rest in Yosemite Valley

Nine of us began our journey early in the morning, setting out from Yosemite Valley with the goal of reaching the summit of Clouds Rest. The trail was quiet, except for the soft patter of rain, which accompanied us throughout the ascent. The mist and fog enveloped the forest, creating an ethereal and mysterious atmosphere that added to the beauty of the hike.

Clouds Rest is one of the most breathtaking peaks in Yosemite National Park. Towering at 9,931 feet (3,027 meters) above sea level, it offers panoramic views of the valley below. The name "Clouds Rest" comes from the way clouds often gather and seem to settle around the peak, making it a perfect name for such a lofty perch. The trail itself is approximately 14 miles round trip and offers a challenging yet rewarding experience.

The hike can be divided into two distinct sections. The first two-thirds of the trail meanders through a lush forest of Jeffrey pines, red firs, and white firs, which are typical of the Yosemite high country. The forest was especially serene that morning, with the fog clinging to the trees and lending an almost dreamlike quality to the scenery.

The final third of the trail requires a steady climb toward the summit of Clouds Rest. This section becomes more exposed and rocky, demanding more effort and providing an increasing sense of anticipation as we neared the peak. The ascent offers expansive views of Yosemite’s granite formations as you approach the top.

Clouds Rest is often considered one of the best viewpoints in Yosemite. From its summit, on a clear day, hikers are rewarded with an awe-inspiring 360-degree view, including sights of Yosemite Valley, Tenaya Canyon, and even distant peaks like Mount Conness and Mount Lyell.

As we reached the summit, the clouds and rain that had shrouded our journey began to part. For a brief, magical moment, Mother Nature revealed the iconic Half Dome. Rising at 8,839 feet (2,694 meters), Half Dome is one of Yosemite’s most famous landmarks, and the sight of its sheer face emerging from the mist was a breathtaking reward after our climb.

We paused to take in the majestic view, grateful for this fleeting glimpse of one of Yosemite's most recognizable peaks. The feeling of standing above the clouds, surrounded by the vastness of nature, was humbling and exhilarating.

After soaking in the views and capturing memories, we began our descent. The trail down was much gentler, and we found a quiet spot to enjoy a quick lunch before continuing to the trailhead. The forest seemed to come alive with the sounds of the rain-soaked wilderness, and we reflected on the unique beauty we had witnessed.

Clouds Rest had given us not just a physical challenge, but also an unforgettable experience of Yosemite’s natural splendor.

SEPTEMBER/08/24

Conquering Half Dome: A Milestone Adventure with First-Timers and Veterans Alike!

In the majestic Yosemite Valley, with the roaring Mist Trail waterfalls as our backdrop, we embarked on the Nomadic Adventure Club’s latest—and perhaps most thrilling—Half Dome climb. At 6:00 AM, our team of eight set off from the Mist Trail/John Muir Trail trailhead, the morning air filled with anticipation and excitement. This was no ordinary climb; for over ten years, the Club has conquered Half Dome, a tradition of grit and adventure. Yet this year, there was an added edge of suspense, as three first-time climbers prepared to face the legendary ascent.

As we wound our way up the misty trails, passing waterfalls that sprayed us with icy drops, we knew that this journey would test each of us. When we reached the Sub Dome, Captain T took charge, meticulously checking each person’s gear and briefing us on the safety measures for the final, most daunting part of the climb. The three veterans stood ready, their eyes on the peak they’d conquered before, while the first-timers took a deep breath, gazing up at the massive granite face above.

With everyone prepared and the stakes clear, we began the climb up Half Dome, each step bringing us closer to the summit. The first-timers moved with determination, their grit on full display, as they navigated steep inclines and dizzying heights. Would they conquer the fearsome ascent, or would the mountain prove too much for these newcomers?

Together, we reached the summit, an overwhelming feeling of triumph washing over the team as we took in the breathtaking views. After a grueling but exhilarating 9.5 hours, we safely returned to the valley, fulfilled and inspired. The day was more than a climb—it was a test of courage, trust, and the timeless beauty of Yosemite, leaving each of us changed forever.

MAY/11/24

Captain t'S Lake Sonoma 100K/CFC100K oct/19/24

As the year nears its end, opportunities to secure a spot in the Western States Endurance Run (WSER) lottery diminish. This adds significance to the Lake Sonoma 100K and California Fall Classic 100K events as ideal occasions to earn a coveted entry. For Captain-T, this race marked his fourth 100K effort, following three previous successful finishes.

On race day, participants were greeted with scorching temperatures at Lake Sonoma, an environment that posed a considerable challenge. Despite being a skilled ultra runner, Captain-T faced the relentless heat, which is a known disadvantage for him. Throughout the race, he encountered moments of doubt and struggle, nearly succumbing to the harsh conditions on two separate occasions.

However, giving up was not an option for him that day. With determination and perseverance, Captain-T pushed through the discomfort and fatigue, ultimately completing the race in a time of 17:16:34. This finish not only added another achievement to his record but also served as a testament to his resilience in the face of adversity on the trails.

"Volunteering at the Iconic Miwok 100K: A Behind-the-Scenes Experience"

Being part of the Miwok 100K is not just an experience; it’s a deep dive into the spirit of ultrarunning, marked by breathtaking natural beauty and the powerful sense of community that surrounds such events. The race itself is celebrated for its combination of natural wonder and technical challenge. With an elevation gain of 11,800 feet, the course tests the mettle of even the most seasoned trail runners, demanding both physical stamina and mental fortitude. Yet, it is also described as runnable, meaning that participants are treated to smooth sections that allow for strategic pacing between grueling climbs.

The scenery is one of the standout elements of this race. Starting at Stinson Beach, runners navigate trails that offer sweeping vistas of San Francisco Bay, the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and the rugged coastlines of Point Reyes National Seashore. They pass through diverse landscapes, from open coastal bluffs to the serene canopies of ancient redwoods that echo with the history of the land. Each view acts as a reminder of the natural treasures of the Bay Area, invigorating participants even as they push through fatigue.

Your role at the Tennessee Valley Aid Station—under the guidance of Captain Stan Jensen, a highly respected figure in the ultrarunning community—would have been crucial. Aid stations like this one are lifelines for runners. They provide not only hydration, nutrition, and medical assistance but also morale-boosting encouragement. Assisting there means directly supporting runners as they manage fatigue and doubts, helping them recharge for the next grueling segments of their journey.

Being a part of the aid team also offers a unique perspective on the race. You witness firsthand the determination etched on the faces of runners, the camaraderie among participants, and the unwavering support from volunteers and organizers. This environment embodies the ethos of ultrarunning: endurance, perseverance, and community.

Magda Boulet, as one of the race directors, plays an integral role in upholding the race's reputation and ensuring that every aspect—from the logistics of the course to the safety of participants—is executed flawlessly. Boulet, a celebrated ultrarunner herself, infuses her understanding of what athletes need into the management of the race. Your expression of gratitude to her reflects the appreciation shared by many in the ultrarunning world for leaders who bring these extraordinary experiences to life.

Being part of such an event enriches one’s perspective, fostering a sense of belonging and admiration for the ultra-endurance community. It’s an honor to contribute to something larger than oneself, where each volunteer, supporter, and director plays a part in making the race not just a competition, but a memorable adventure that resonates long after the finish line.

Watch more on Social Media platforms.

MAY/06/24

We ran across the Golden Gate Bridge.

Saturday morning was a perfect start to the weekend as we joined our club members for an invigorating run across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The early morning air was crisp and refreshing, and the sunrise cast a golden glow over the bay, making the scene breathtaking. Although waking up at dawn may be a challenge, the sense of camaraderie and shared motivation made it more than worth it. The rhythmic sound of feet hitting the ground, the laughter, and the encouraging words exchanged during the run created a unique bond among us.

Crossing the bridge as a group, surrounded by panoramic views of the city skyline, Alcatraz Island, and the rolling waves below, felt empowering and almost surreal. The shared experience brought an energy that made every step exhilarating. Finishing the run with fellow members brought a sense of accomplishment, warmth, and joy that made the early wake-up call completely worthwhile. It’s moments like these that remind us why we cherish our community runs — they are not just about fitness but about connecting, uplifting each other, and creating memories that last far beyond the run itself.

Watch more on Social Media platforms.