Mountain Day, a long-standing SKS tradition dating back to the early 1930s, was realized again on Thursday, August 31, 2022, when students and faculty made the scenic, hour-long trek up Storm King Mountain and gathered at the summit. This annual hike is an important tradition rooted in the School’s history and a highlight of Orientation Week aimed at boosting school unity and spirit.

Storm King’s sixth Headmaster, Anson Barker, initiated the first Mountain Day during the fall of 1932, the first year of his 19-year tenure. He excused students from classes on a crisp morning in November of that year and sent them into Black Rock Forest on hiking excursions which culminated in a picnic feast near the Stone House at Arthur’s Pond. The event proved to be so successful that its tradition has endured until today.

This year, the determined group of students and faculty set out early to beat warmer temperatures after a hearty breakfast. With the seniors leading the way, and a lot of water breaks, they made their way up to Butter Hill – the summit of Storm King Mountain – where everyone enjoyed a 360-degree view of the Hudson River Valley, Black Rock Forest, and the Catskill Mountains.  Upon their descent, the hungry hikers were met with a barbecue lunch on Ledoux Terrace.

Keeping up with Storm King tradition, this year’s Mountain Day got the School’s 155th year off to a great start. Many thanks to the faculty and staff who organized the day and kept the students safe and hydrated throughout the hike. A special thank you also goes to Chef Andrew and the dining hall staff who served the delicious feast to the hikers upon their return.