Mountain Day, a long-standing SKS tradition that dates back to the early 1930s, was realized once again on Wednesday, August 29, 2018, when students and faculty made the scenic, hour-long trek up Storm King Mountain and gathered at the summit. This annual hike has become a highlight of Orientation Week with the aim of boosting school unity and spirit.

 

 

It was Storm King’s sixth Headmaster Anson Barker who 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 later culminated in a picnic feast. The event proved to be so successful that its tradition has endured until today.

 

 

To beat the warm temperatures this year, the determined group of students and faculty set out early wearing their white, blue and gold t-shirts. With the seniors leading the way, and a lot of extra water, the groups slowly made their way up to Butter Hill – the summit of Storm King Mountain – where they 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 151st year off to a great start. Many thanks go to the faculty members who organized the day and kept the students safe and hydrated throughout the hike. A special thank you also goes Chefs Andrew and Gil and the dining hall staff who served the delicious feast to the hungry hikers upon their return.