The time has come to pack my bags for another exciting season of Rock the Park! While looking over my schedule for the next few months, I began to reflect on the journey that has led to this surreal chapter of my life. I wanted to write this piece to express some thoughts I have had on this journey and also extend my heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has supported us on our mission to spread awareness of these incredible national parks.
This experience has shown me the unique connection between people and the natural world. My fascination with nature began on a trip with my family to Yellowstone National Park. I was very fortunate to have been able to travel quite a bit growing up. When I took my first step into Yellowstone National Park I experienced a feeling I had never felt before. As I gazed up the mountains I was overcome by immense feelings of wonder, excitement and a yearning to learn more about this planet (and myself in the process). Once you experience this feeling, it just keeps growing. You desire to protect these places and become an instrument for positive change.
I want to thank anyone who has taken the time to follow our adventures. This past year has shown me just how important these parks are to all of you. There is solidarity in the passion we all share! As television newcomers, it was hard for Colton and I to believe that so many of you could enjoy following us on this journey. Your support has meant the world to us and is even more motivation to keep working hard. As we begin this new season, we're making an effort to not only educate and spread awareness, but to share the positive effect nature has on all of us as human beings. Get ready for more tripping and falling because that is how we learn!
I would also like to extend my appreciation to Tremendous Entertainment and Litton Entertainment for believing in Rock the Park. I could not have dreamt of a better collaboration. Both companies make it their mission to tell stories that are relevant and allow people to learn and grow along the way. In my opinion, those are the best kind of stories. Our producers and staff go to the ends of the earth to make this dream of ours a reality and I want to thank you all for your hard work.
Our crew are some of the most dedicated people I have ever met. These guys and gals have hauled heavy cameras up mountains, through deserts and caves, down rivers, and have even hung from the sides of cliffs! It has been my pleasure to work with some extremely talented people while making some incredible friends at the same time. This has always been important to us. The national park experience is not just a personal one; it’s a shared connection with those you visit the parks with. Our bond as a crew has led to some unforgettable experiences and I can't wait for more!
As a crew, we have been fortunate to meet so many incredible people on this journey. There is something about the national parks that attracts passionate, intelligent and kind people. We've been blessed to work with park rangers that have offered us guidance while spreading their contagious enthusiasm for the parks on to us. Our guides have made daunting tasks not only possible, but also very enjoyable experiences that were eye-opening to Colton, me, and our crew. I want to personally thank all of you for helping us document these amazing stories and pass them along to others.
As I start to collect my gear and mentally prepare for the journey ahead, I am again humbled and grateful for this opportunity. We have some major challenges ahead, but those experiences always prove to be the most worthwhile. We are always looking for new ways to promote and preserve these parks and to inspire and make a difference in people's lives. I look forward to new opportunities for Rock the Park! Thank you all for caring and helping us spread the word about our magnificent national parks.
Adventurers unite!
-Jack