av Biology

Location: Gibraltar
Gibraltar International Airport is unique becausethe main road, Winston Churchill Avenue, crosses the active runway.This allows pedestrians and cyclists to walk or ride across the runway when it's not in use.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Pai, Thailand
Pai is about two hours from Chiang Mai—or three if, like us, you decide to take mopeds (highly adventurous, mildly questionable). This tiny mountain village is surrounded by waterfalls, hot springs, and national parks—basically an outdoor lover’s dream.But honestly, the drive is the real star of the show. Winding through lush, green mountains with jaw-dropping views at every turn? Unbeatable.That said... there are a lot of hills. And let’s just say mopeds might not be built for that kind of terrain. Mine broke down halfway home and had to be abandoned at a gas station. Luckily, the local people were incredibly kind and did their best to help.
Definitely a trip to remember—and a killer story for later.
Contributor: Alison Scruggs

Location: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Sticky Waterfall, or Bua Thong Waterfall, is located in Sri Lanna National Park. It is primarily formed from limestone, and the water comes from a spring rich in calcium carbonate. As the water flows down, it leaves mineral deposits behind, creating a grippy surface that you can walk up barefoot.
I had the chance to meet up with fellow biology student Faith Ing, who served as our tour guide through Chiang Mai. We were told a local legend that long ago, a princess was forced to marry at a very young age and move away from her family. She cried so much each day that her tears eventually created the waterfall.
Contributor: Alison Scruggs

Location: Koh Samui, Thailand
Wat Phra Yai is also known as the Big Buddha Temple, depicted in the Mara posture, which means enlightenment. This temple is on its own island, accessed by a strip from Koh Samui. Shoes were to be removed as a sign of respect to the holy site before walking up the 100 or so stairs.
Contributor: Alison Scruggs

Location: Barcelona, Spain
Catedral de Barcelona is known for its Gothic-style architecture. The Cathedral consists of 3 naves and one apse and an ambulatory. This is the typical structure used in Catalan Gothic constructions, which allows for the use of the spaces in-between to have smaller chapels in the Cathedral. There are 2 chapels in each of the naves with 2 large bell towers on both ends without any side chapels. One tower lies above the door of Saint Ivo, while the other is above the entrance to the Cloister. From the terrace of the Cathedral, you can get a close look at the octagonal shape of the bell towers. Large windows adorn the walls of the Cathedral, illuminating the chapels within.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Gibraltar
- Location: The Windsor Suspension Bridge is located in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve of Gibraltar. It's an integral part of the network of trails and attractions within the reserve, often visited in conjunction with other sites like St. Michael's Cave, the Apes' Den, and the Skywalk.
- Engineering Marvel: Opened in June 2016, this bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering. It spans 71 meters (233 feet) across a 50-meter (164 feet) deep gorge, connecting two former World War II artillery batteries along the Royal Anglian Way.
Contributor: Daniel Howard

Location: Barcelona, Spain
Basilica de la Sagrada Familia is a church devoted to the Holy Family. One of Antoni Gaudi’s most famous works, the church is perhaps best known for still being under construction since 1882—with works funded purely by donations. Take a lift to the top of the towers for a panoramic view of the city
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Barcelona, Spain
Casa Mila, popularly known as La Pedrera, is a most unusual building, constructed between 1906 and 1912 by the architect Antoni Gaudí (1852–1926) and declared UNESCO World Heritage in 1984.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Barcelona, Spain
Casa Batlló is a building in the center of , Spain. It was designed by, and is considered one of his masterpieces. A remodel of a previously built house, it was redesigned in 1904 by Gaudí (but the actual construction works hadn't begun at this point) and has been refurbished several times since. Gaudí's assistants, Josep Canaleta and also contributed to the renovation project.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Koh Madsum, Thailand
Koh Madsum, or more popularly known as Pig Island, is exactly as it sounds: an island full of roaming pigs. The island has over 50 pigs ranging in age and size. They were incredibly cute and fun to play with for an afternoon.
Contributor: Alison Scruggs

Location: Ko Tao, Thailand
Alison Scruggs' favorite island in Thailand is currently Ko Tao, at only 7 km long, you can travel from tip to tip in 30 minutes via moped. Aow Leuk Beach is one of the most famous beaches on this island because of the frequent sightings of black tip sharks.
Contributor: Alison Scruggs

Location: Tossa del Mar, Spain
Standing proudly on the north coast of Catalonia (in Spain), the historic city of Tossa de Mar is a treasure. The town offers panoramic views across the Mediterranean Sea and is famous for its sandy beaches, lighthouse and, of course, historic fortified medieval village.
But Tossa de Mar is much more than just a medieval city. It’s home to beautiful coves with endless snorkelling possibilities and hiking trails that wander through green pine forests.
Also, as a cool fact, Tossa de Mar was the first place in the world to declare itself anAnti-Bullfighting City in 1989.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Valencia, Spain
A unique leisure, science, and cultural complex designed by Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava. With futuristic architecture and experiences for all tastes, it stretches across more than 2 kilometers of the former Turia riverbed.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Valencia, Spain
Built between 1482 and 1533, la Lonja is composed of three parts (plus the Orange Garden - a walled courtyard). The main hall,Sala de Contratación (The Trading Hall), is a large lavishly decorated space supported by gorgeous twisted columns.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Allas - East Timor
Vision Mission Trip 2025 to East Timor
Medical Team - Photo of Medical Team with local team at the end of the day
Contributor: Paulo Dias

Location: K41 East Timor
Contributor: Paulo Dias

Location: K41 - East-Timor
Free day at the end of the Vision Mission Trip 2025 to East Timor.
Snorkeling at K41
Contributor: Paulo Dias

Location: Outside Granada, Spain
Highest road in Europe.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: N/A
The Rock of Gibraltar is a dramatic and iconic limestone promontory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, in the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar. It rises sharply to a height of 426 meters (1,398 feet) and overlooks the Strait of Gibraltar, the narrow waterway that separates Europe and Africa and connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Malaga, Spain
The Roman Theatre of Málaga is a 1st-century AD amphitheater built under Emperor Augustus, making it the oldest monument in the city. Located at the foot of the Alcazaba fortress, it features classic Roman architecture with tiered seating and a central stage. Abandoned by the 3rd century, it was later buried and forgotten until rediscovered in 1951 during construction. Restored and reopened in the 1990s, it now serves as a cultural venue and includes an interpretation center showcasing artifacts and Roman history. It's a key link to Málaga’s Roman past and a popular tourist site today.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: N/A
If you're anywhere near Plaza de la Encarnación (in the northwest corner of El Centro), the Metropol Parasol is impossible to miss. Its towering presence, consisting of six wooden mushroom-like shapes standing around 90 feet tall, was constructed in 2011, making it the newest major attraction in the city and purportedly the largest wooden structure in the world. Locals fondly refer to the lattice structure as "Las Setas" or "The Mushrooms" given its quirky shape.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Seville, Spain
The Plaza de España (Spain Square) is one of Spain's most iconic and breathtaking architectural masterpieces, particularly the one in Seville. While there are other "Plaza de España" squares in various Spanish cities, the one in Seville is by far the most famous and universally recognized.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Rhonda, Spain
Despite its name, the house itself dates from the early 18th century, long after the Moorish period in Spain. The name comes from a ceramic tile painting of a Moorish king on the facade and, more importantly, from the ancient Moorish water mine that is a central part of the property.
The most historically significant element is the 14th-century Muslim-era water mine. This impressive feat of hydraulic engineering was crucial for Ronda's defense during sieges, allowing the city to draw water from the Guadalevín River below. Christian slaves were historically used to operate the large waterwheel (noria) and carry water up the steps.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Ronda, Spain
The Arab Baths (Baños Árabes) in Ronda: Located directly within the town, these are the best-preserved bath complex you'll find. While built by the Moors (13th-14th centuries), their design was based on Roman bath principles, featuring cold, warm, and hot rooms with sophisticated heating systems. They are a popular tourist attraction for their excellent condition and historical insight into Moorish life.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: N/A
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Spring City, TN
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Gruetli-Laager, TN, United States
Collins Gulf, part of Savage Gulf State Park located in Grundy and Sequatchie counties, boasts one of Tennessee’s most breathtaking wilderness areas, encompassing nearly 19,000 acres of the Savage Gulf State Natural Area. The diversity of flowering plants along the Collins Gulf trailhead to Horse Pond Falls is truly remarkable. If you walk this trail from early spring to June, you'll witness the forest transform from brown to white with trillium, turn purple with phacelia, and experience a delightful change in the fragrance of the woods week by week. Personally, I identified over 120 species of flowering plants in just one day in April 2023. This count does not even include the various ferns, mosses, fungi, and salamanders found in the area. I often take small groups of family, friends, and students to explore and appreciate the wonders of Tennessee.
Ben Thornton, Ph.D.
Professor of Biology
av Biology Man
On April 20, 2025, I (Andrea Sabbatini Jason) hiked with General Biology II students. We explored various species of flowers and classified leaves. Additionally, we searched for fungi, lichen, slime mold, and invertebrates.
We stopped for lunch at Horsepound Falls, the larger of the two waterfalls we explored. From this vantage point, we had a clear view of the waterfall's crest and the surrounding wildlife. As we approached the falls, we noticed an increasing number of flowers, particularly trilliums and violets.
Contributor: Andrea Sabbatini Jason

Location: Gruetli-Laager, TN, United States
Collins Gulf, part of Savage Gulf State Park located in Grundy and Sequatchie counties, boasts one of Tennessee’s most breathtaking wilderness areas, encompassing nearly 19,000 acres of the Savage Gulf State Natural Area. The diversity of flowering plants along the Collins Gulf trailhead to Horse Pond Falls is truly remarkable. If you walk this trail from early spring to June, you'll witness the forest transform from brown to white with trillium, turn purple with phacelia, and experience a delightful change in the fragrance of the woods week by week. Personally, I identified over 120 species of flowering plants in just one day in April 2023. This count does not even include the various ferns, mosses, fungi, and salamanders found in the area. I often take small groups of family, friends, and students to explore and appreciate the wonders of Tennessee.
Ben Thornton, Ph.D.
Professor of Biology
av Biology Man
On April 20th, I went on a hike with the General Biology II students. We explored different species of flowers and various classifications of leaves. Additionally, we searched for fungi, lichen, slime mold, and invertebrates.
One of the highlights of the trip was Suter Falls, the smaller of the two waterfalls we visited. It was located just across from a narrow bridge and was easy to access.
Contributor: Andrea Sabbatini Jason

Location: Columbia, Maryland
Over spring break, I visited the Robinson Nature Center in Columbia, Maryland. The center is surrounded by scenic nature trails lined with native plants and thoughtfully designed rain gardens that showcase the local ecology. One of the trails leads to the Middle Patuxent River and the historic Simpsonville Mill, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the area's rich history. The nature center also provides access to a variety of landscapes, including forested areas, wetlands, and open meadowlands. Each trail is both educational and accessible, with informative signs along the way that explain the surrounding ecosystems.
Contributor: Haley Ko

Location: Kirindoni, Kenya
The Maasai Mara National Reserve is a conservation area of savannah wilderness in southwestern Kenya. It is home to many beautiful creatures, including lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebra, hyenas, and hippos. My family had the opportunity to serve in this region over spring break--delivering filtering buckets that provide the Maasai people with clean water for years. This photo, taken in March 2025, features my dad and two future av students: my brother, Kai Knowlton, and his friend, Casey Morrison.
Contributor: Malia Knowlton

Location: Kenya Africa
This photo features the future biology student, Zorik Bouz - the brother of current biology student, Elliana Bouz. This was taken on his mission trip to Mara West - Kenya. It was taken on March 28th. Zorik was excited to attend a safari and got a great photo out of it!
Contributor: Elliana Bouz

Location: Hamilton County, TN
Caleb Kim visited the Harrison Bay State Park on March 25, 2025 just in time for a breezy sunset on the waters of the bay. The reddish sand and pieces of rock littering the shore in contrast to the blue cloudless sky resulted in a relaxing spot to enjoy the setting sun.
Contributor: Caleb Kim

Location: Loma Linda, California, United States
The Loma Linda Hills have been a staple location for avid mountain bikers and hikers to enjoy over the course of many years. The hills consist of multiple peaks and valleys that contribute to a dense network of fun trails that are up kept by members of the community. Wildlife like coyotes, rabbits, and rattlesnakes can be observed in the Loma Linda Hills.
Contributor: Jaiden Skoretz

Location: Park City, Utah
Jordan Vance is standing on top of the tallest peak of the Park City ski resort after a snowstorm that added 10 inches of powder overnight in March 2025.c
Contributor: Jordan Vance

Location: Redlands, CA, USA
Sami Reynolds is featured in this photo standing in front of a lookout in Prospect Park. This photo was taking during a nature walk during Spring Break. Prospect park features many native California plants and a historic orange grove. Prospect park also has sever lookout spots that offer great views of the city of Redlands.
Contributor: Sami Reynolds

Location: Redlands, CA, USA
Sami Reynolds is featured in this photo standing in front of the Kimberly Crest Mansion. The 125-year-old architecture is well preserved and surrounded by acres of Italian-style gardens. Kimberly Crest now serves as a museum and is open to the public, free of charge. The house is a beloved part of Redlands' heritage and is also registered as a California Historical Landmark.
This photo was taken on March 28, 2025.
Contributor: Sami Reynolds

Location: Dessert Hot Springs, California, United States
Alejandro robles standing in front of a Joshua Tree at Joshua Tree National Park, where it is known for its rock climbing, Joshua Trees, and beautiful views. March 15, 2025
Contributor: Alejandro Robles

Location: New York, New York
This photo was taken during my spring break on March 21, 2025. I’ve visited New York City twice before, and both trips were filled with great memories. On this trip, I got to explore some places I had never seen before, one of which was the Brooklyn Bridge. I learned that this bridge was the first steel-wire suspension bridge, completed in 1883. Overall, this was an incredibly exciting trip for me!
Contributor: Liliana Lippard

Location: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Sophia Uriostegui and Vittoria Patrick visiting Myrtle Beach for spring break on March 17th, 2025. Myrtle Beach was named for the native shrub, the av Wax Myrtle, that grows there. In addition, Myrtle Beach is apart of a beach strip along the Atlantic Ocean called The Grand Strand that stretches 60 miles across the coast of South Carolina.
Contributor: Sophia Uriostegui

Location: Richmond, Kentucky
av Biology Flag takes a quick pit stop to meet the Buc'ees Beaver. It is a cool evening night in Kentucky, and the gas station is warmly bustling with curious travelers.
Contributor: Isaac Collier-Freed

Location: Yarinacocha, Peru
This is a photo of Benjamin Chun, taken on March 16, 2025, in Yarinacocha, Peru, on the Ucayali River near Pucallpa. The Ucayali River, one of the main tributaries of the Amazon, flows through eastern Peru and supports rich biodiversity, including pink river dolphins and manatees. It is vital to the city of Pucallpa, which sits along its banks and relies on the river for transportation, commerce, fishing, and daily life. As a key link between the Amazonian interior and the rest of Peru, the Ucayali serves as both an economic lifeline and a cultural cornerstone for the region. Benjamin was in Peru as part of the 2025 SAU Medical Mission Trip, and this photo was taken on the Sunday before a week of clinics began. Throughout the week, the team served the people of Pucallpa by providing family medicine, pediatrics, cardiology, ultrasound, dental, and vision care. This experience deepened Benjamin’s commitment to compassionate service and reinforced his calling to use medicine as a tool for meaningful impact in underserved communities.
Contributor: Benjamin Chun

Location: Salzburg, Austria
Over spring break, my family went to Burghausen, Germany and travelled around its neighboring cities. This picture was taken on March 15, 2025 and is featuring the downtown area of Salzburg, Austria on the mountain of Mönchsberg which is found at the border of Germany. The person in this picture was my dad, Eplan Mun.
Contributor: Siyeon Mun

Location: Portal, Arizona United States
Chiricahua National Monument is home to the Southwestern Research Station and beautiful rock formations. Nestled in the Chiricahua Mountains, this high altitude desert is inhabited by a wide range of reptiles, insects, vagrant birds from Mexico as well as rumors of the last American jaguar.
Contributor: Daniel Baldwin

Location: Kimball County, Nebraska, United States
Panorama Point is the tallest point in the state of Nebraska. At an altitude of 5,429 feet above sea level one can see across the Nebraskan plains and may even see a wandering bison.
Contributor: Daniel Baldwin

Location: Cartago Province, Costa Rica
Rancho Naturalista is one of the premier birding locations in Costa Rica. It is home to rare and exotic hummingbirds, parrots, motmots, and toucans.
Contributor: Daniel Baldwin

Location: Madre de Dios, Peru
The Travels of Dalton Baldwin
Manu National Park, located in Peru, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a biosphere reserve celebrated for its incredible biodiversity. Spanning over 17,000 square kilometers, the park encompasses a variety of ecosystems, including lowland rainforests, cloud forests, and Andean grasslands.
The park is home to an astonishing array of wildlife, including jaguars, giant otters, over 1,000 species of birds, and countless amphibians and reptiles. It also boasts a rich diversity of plant life, with over 4,000 identified species. Manu National Park is divided into zones for restricted research, recreation, cultural activities, and ecological recovery.
Its remote location and protected status make it a pristine haven for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike. Accessible from Cusco, the park offers a unique opportunity to explore the Amazon's wonders.
Contributor: Daniel Baldwin

Location: Collegedale, Tennessee, USA
The Sabbath Trail, part of av’s Bauxite Ridge Trails, explores the history of the Sabbath and emphasizes God’s role as both Creator and Lawgiver. Its centerpiece is a monument of the Ten Commandments, which serves as a powerful reminder that just as nature operates according to His physical laws, our lives are governed by His moral law.
Contributor: Luke Kwon

Location: Loveland, Colorado, United States
This photo was taken of Gwen Loney during a ski trip to Loveland, Colorado during spring break of the 2024-2025 school year. The weather was really nice and the snow conditions made it an ideal time to learn!
Contributor: Phil Hoxie

Location: Sebring, Florida, United States
The 12 Hours of Sebring is a 12 hour endurance race which takes place on top of a World War 2 air base.
It is an international race which happens every year in my home town of Sebring.
Joseph Chen is the one in the photo
Taken on March 15, 2025
Contributor: Joseph Chen

Location: Lajas, Puerto Rico
My family and I went on a 4-day trip to Puerto Rico, where we got to experience the island’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. One of the highlights of our trip was swimming with the bioluminescence at La Parguera Bioluminescent Bay in Lajas. The glowing effect in the water is caused by tiny organisms called dinoflagellates, which light up when they’re “activated” by movement around them—it was magical to watch the water sparkle with every splash. During our stay, we spent time in both San Juan and Mayagüez, enjoying the local food, exploring historic sites, and soaking in the tropical weather.
Contributor: Isaac Lopez

Location: Valladolid, Yucatán, Mexico
Valladolid, a city in Yucatán, is famous for its rich Mayan culture. Cenotes, a natural sinkhole formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock, surround this city. This photo was taken on a day off of a mission trip with ERC during spring break in 2025. The members preached at 20 different locations for a week, and many people got baptized. Paul Shibata is holding the flag in this photo.
Contributor: Paul Shibata

Location: Ucayali, Peru
This photo was taken on March 20,2025 of Natalie, Esther, and Laura before setting up for clinic. During our mission trip we had the privilege to provide both medical and dental care to the people of Peru. Not only did we bring physical healing but we tried to bring spiritual healing as well by praying with each patient and hosting VBS for the kids and teaching them about the love of Jesus. This trip was truly a memorable experience and a tremendous learning opportunity and was a great reminder to me of why I want to be a doctor one day!
Contributor: Esther Cruzado

Location: Palmas, Puerto Rico, United States
This is a photo in Palmas Beach in Puerto Rico. This was the first beach my family and I visited during our trip to Puerto Rico. This photo was taken on March 15, 2025.
Contributor: Adrian Mego

Location: Rurrenabaque, Beni, Bolivia
A favorite hike of the locals of Rurrenabaque, Bolivia, and student missionaries at Familia Feliz, the hike to the cross "Mirador de la Cruz" never fails to amaze with its beautiful view of this small town. During Spring Break 2025, a group of former and current student missionaries reunited while enjoying this beautiful scenery amidst humidity and heat. Featured in this photo is Emilie Updegrave, Minha Yang, Katie-Jane Emde, Emilianne Cross, and Ryan Wolfe.
Contributor: Minha Yang

Location: West Nyack, NY
On March 21, 2025, my family and I walked the Nyack Pier and enjoyed our afternoon at the Village of Nyack Memorial State Park after having lunch in the nearby area. The Nyack Marina is a public marina that is along the western shore of the Hudson River and has played an important role towards the Nyack Village's development beginning from the 19th century. It served initially as a navigational center for a burgeoning stone quarry industry and then as a transportation area for carrying passengers/freight between Nyack, Westchester, and New York City before the original Tappan Zee Bridge was built. The bridge can be seen in the background of the photo. The Tappan Zee Bridge was demolished and rebuilt starting in 2017, and it is now called the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. The image captures Christine Choi holding the flag, and the photo was taken by Leah Choi.
Contributor: Leah Choi

Location: Pucallpa, Peru
Jordyn Jamison in front of Iglesia Adventista del Séptimo Día La Clínica the Amor project location in Pucallpa, Peru. This photo was taken after the students arrived from their 24+ hour travel day. Behind those doors is where the final clinic of the trip takes place for the locals in the area. After this photo was taken, the students unpacked their bags and met in the clinic for Sabbath worship.
Contributor: Jordyn Jamison

Location: Washington, D.C., United States
This photo, taken on 3/23/25, pictures the Lincoln Memorial, an iconic monument located on the western end of the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Built to honor the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, it was dedicated in 1922 and stands as a symbol of unity and equality. The massive structure, designed by architect Henry Bacon, features 36 Doric columns representing the states in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death. Inside, a towering 19-foot marble statue of Lincoln, sculpted by Daniel Chester French, gazes over the Reflecting Pool. The Memorial has been the backdrop for countless historic events, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963.
Contributor: Ethan Tran

Location: Brian Head, UT, USA
This photo was taken on a snowmobiling tour with my family through the mountains surrounding Brian Head Utah. The photo is of Aaron Kirk on “High Mountain” on 3/20/25.
Contributor: Aaron Kirk

Location: California
Off the coast of Long Beach, CA, we went on a boat to watch a sailing race, one of the destinations of SailGP. SailGP is a professional sailboat racing league that travels all around the world racing at different venues. We took out a boat from a near by dock and watched the race from the water on March 16, 2025.
Contributor: Jason Lee

Location: Pickens, South Carolina, USA
My family and I went on a 5-day long backpacking trip thru the Carolinas. On March 19, we visited Table Rock State Park in South Carolina. Throughout the 8 mile hike through 3,083 acres of woods and trails, we saw lots of wildlife as well as a beautiful overview of Pinnacle Mountain Falls.
Contributor: Izzy Mendoza

Location: St. Joseph, Michigan, United States
Went for a walk with my family and dog at the beach near my house on March, 23, 2025. Lake Michigan and the St. Joseph lighthouse are seen in the background.
Contributor: Jasmine Patterson

Location: Nara Park, Japan
During our tour of Nara park, one of the infamous bowing Sika Deer tried to eat the flag as we were trying to take the picture. They really do bow like crazy in front of you, especially when you have food. This photo was taken on March 19, 2025 with Rylan Yamamoto holding the flag.
Contributor: Rylan Yamamoto

Location: Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
The floating Torii Gate of the Itsukushima Jinja Shinto Shrine on Miyajima (Itsukushima) Island. Rylan Yamamoto and Chris Yamamoto (off screen) holding the flag. Taken March 20, 2025. This picture was taken during a tourist trip around Japan.
Contributor: Rylan Yamamoto

Location: Barcelona, Spain
Alison Scruggs hiked up to the beautiful temple above Barcelona, offering stunning views on March 17, 2025.
Contributor: Alison Scruggs

Location: Valencia, Spain
Every year from March 1-19, thousands of people from all over Spain and the world come to celebrate Las Fallas in commemoration of Saint Joseph. Artists will spend a whole year preparing their Mascletà, and 400 will be displayed around the city, ranging in size dramatically. On March 19, 2025, Alison Scruggs had the opportunity to join her friends from Spain and the hundreds of thousands of people present for La Crema, where they lit the Mascletà on fire and watched it burn in all it's glory.
Contributor: Alison Scruggs

Location: Kennesaw, Georgia, United States of America
This photo was taken at the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. I(Sarah Barnaby) and my family visited the mountain on March 22, 2025 for a day trip. The battle of Kennesaw Mountain took place during the Atlanta campaign, which was a series of battles. The Union attacked the Confederate’s well armedpost, and though the Confederates were defeated in this battle, the Union eventually claimed victory in the Civil War.
Contributor: Sarah Barnaby

Location: 12 Pleasant St Taunton, MA 02780
“Taunton Public Library is the public library of . It is located at 12 Pleasant Street, in an architecturally distinguished Beaux Arts building built in 1903 with funding support from , to which a modern addition was made in 1979. The building is listed on the as a particularly fine local example of Beaux Arts architecture.” (Wikipedia).
Contributor: Jasmine Umipeg

Location: Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
Ethan Vitorovich
spring break
March 19, 2025
This photo was taken in a recently discovered ice cave in the Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland. Formed by the melting of the largest of Iceland’s glaciers which is roughly 700 years old.
Contributor: Ethan Vitorovich

Location: 8,40180° S, 74,58999° W
During our mission trip we did VBS for the local kids and it was such a blessing to make connections with them. On this day, one of the girls told me that she "wished to be born in America and be white". I was speechless. This made me think about how much I am blessed and how life is easy compared with what these people go through... It also shifted my perspective on classes and how much these kids would love to have the opportunity to go to college. This mission trip was filled with more experiences on the medical side of things, but this conversation was definitely something that I will have in mind before complaining about school and the life I have in America.
on 03/21/2025 with Natalie Pak, Benjamin Chun, Annabelle McCully, Jordyn Jaminson, Ethan Lee, and Jhonathan Loh
Contributor: Laura Prado

Location: Cabazon, California
I am standing in front of the T-Rex statue located on an Indian Preservation in Cabazon California. It is known for having the largest concrete building dinosaurs in North America!
Contributor: Alex Coronado

Location: Ronda, Malaga, Spain
The Puente Nuevo is an 18th-century bridge that goes over the El Tajo Gorge, connecting the old and new parts of the city. It stands around 98 meters high. On Sunday, March 16, 2025, wewent down an inclined path called el Desfiladero del Tajo to get a beautiful view of the bridge and waterfall.
Contributor: Nadia Cortes

Location: 200 Northeast Water Street, Peoria, IL 61602
History:
The city of Peoria itself was established as a village by French explorers in 1691, and was named after the Peoria Native American tribe. After the War of 1812, Americans settled in the area pushing out the Native Americans and the French. The Riverfront was the site for trading and business, occurring alongside and down the river. As the riverfront business decreased over the years, in 2012 the Peoria Riverfront Museum was established to commemorate its glory days. The Riverfront is also home to the Caterpillar Visitors Center, as Peoria used to be home to the Caterpillar Headquarters, a construction manufacturer company. While the “Spirit of Peoria” a riverboat, used to carry passenger along the Illinois River it has since moved it location. The Peoria Riverfront holds festivals, including its annual Fourth of July fireworks display. Overall, the Peoria Riverfront is a beautiful location to take an afternoon stroll and immerse yourself into the Midwest city.
Location Significance:
The Riverfront is located in downtown Peoria, between two of Peoria’s most popular bridges, the Murray Baker Bridge and the Bob Michel Bridge. The Murray Baker Bridge is named after Murray Baker, the former vice president of Caterpillar. The bridge itself is essential in connecting residents from Peoria to East Peoria along Interstate 74 and Illinois Route 29. The Bob Michel Bridge carries Illinois Route 40 across the river. This bridge specifically allows pedestrians and bikers to cross, and was named after the later congressman Robert H. Michel, who was born in Peoria.
If you’re ever in Peoria, be sure to stop by and explore the stores downtown, the museum, and walk the Riverfront!
Contributor: Savannah Rice

Location: 299 Pocket Road, Chickamauga, GA 30707
The Shirley Miller Wildflower Trail is a beautiful 0.8-mile out-and-back trail located near La Fayette, Georgia. It's known for its stunning display of nearly 50 varieties of wildflowers, especially during the spring months of March and April. The trail features a wooden boardwalk that leads through a lush forest, alongside Pocket Branch, and ends at a picturesque waterfall. The waterfall's flow varies depending on the season, making it a delightful spot for nature lovers.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Maricao, Puerto Rico
I am standing in front of Couroupita guianensis also known as the cannonball tree. This cauliflorus tree produces fruit the size of bowling balls on the trunk! The fruit, while edible, is not eaten as it does not smell or taste good. This photo was taken at my friend Bryan Brunner's place. Bryan has been growing tropical fruits on his farm for the last 40 years while teaching at the University of Puerto Rico. On his farm, he grows durian, mangosteen, rambutan, jackfruit, coffee, and over 10 different varieties of cacao. This photo was taken on 3/16/25.
Contributor: Ryan Jo

Location: N/A
- Trail Details: The Waterfalls Trail is about 2 miles round trip and includes a steep descent into the canyon, featuring over 600 metal stairs. It's a challenging hike but well worth the effort.
- Hemlock Falls: This waterfall is the second one you'll encounter on the trail. It cascades beautifully into a clear pool, surrounded by lush greenery and steep canyon wall.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA
This state park is on Lookout Mountain and displays beautiful views and a couple large waterfalls. At the highest points near the beginning of the hike to the falls, the canyon reaches approximately 2000 feet. The lower points near the base of falls sits at about 800 feet.
Contributor: Brennan Filiberto

Location: 13 miles north of downtown Folkston on US Route 1/GA Hwy 121
Kingfishers Landing is the starting point for the red and green trails in the Okefenokee.
Kingfisher Landing to Bluff Lake is eight miles along a channel originally cut for peat mining and across open lakes and a waterway lined with pitcher plants and spatterdock.
Kingfisher Landing to Maul Hammock is a long day of paddling 12 miles through scrub-shrub, marsh, and small lakes. the non-mile stretch between Maul Hammock and Big Water goes through marsh, a narrow/closed channel, and into a wider river channel surrounded by cypress.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: 4155 Suwanee Canal Road
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The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is located in the southeastern corner of Georgia, along the Florida border, and covers approximately 402,000 acres.
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Establishment:The refuge was established in 1937 to protect the Okefenokee Swamp, a large and unique freshwater swamp ecosystem.
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Ecosystem:The Okefenokee Swamp is characterized by a variety of habitats, including wet and dry prairies, cypress swamps, winding waterways, and forested uplands.
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Biodiversity:The refuge is home to a wide array of plant and animal species, including over 850 plant species, over 200 bird species, 64 reptile species, 50 mammal species, 39 fish species, and 37 amphibian species.
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Threatened and Endangered Species:The refuge provides habitat for threatened and endangered species, such as the red-cockaded woodpecker, wood stork, and indigo snake.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: 2700 Suwannee Canal Rd Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, Folkston, GA 31537-7906
Located at the end of the Chesser Island Boardwalk, the observation tower in the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge provides a panoramic view of the vast swamp and surrounding nature.
I spent most of a rainy day here, under tornado warnings, instead of putting in for a three-day backcountry canoe trip I had planned in March 2025.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: 299 Pocket Rd, Chickamauga, GA 30707
The Shirley Miller Wildflower Trail contains nearly a quarter of a mile of boardwalk to prevent enthusiasts from overrunning the myriad of wildflowers. It then extends for several hundred yards beyond the end of the boardwalk and up along the creek to a wonderful waterfall.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Providence Canyon State Park, Lumpkin, GA
Vincent Yang visited providence canyon state park in Lumpkin Georgia on March 16 2025. This park is often called the “Little Grand Canyon” and has incredibly vibrant canyon walls formed by erosion due to poor farming practices.
Contributor: Vincent Yang

Location: N/A
Bluff Lake is one of the least visited areas of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, offering a true sense of solitude and a pristine wilderness experience. Campers often report memorable wildlife encounters, such as hearing alligators bellowing during courtship season and spotting various bird species. The landscape around Bluff Lake is a mix of mature prairie and shrub swamp, providing a unique and picturesque setting.
This was a 16-mile paddle - Ben Thornton
March 2025
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: 2080 Scotts Gulf Rd, Sparta, TN 38583
Biology and Allied Health students at Virgin Falls in Virgin Falls Pocket Wilderness.
The natural area is named for Virgin Falls, which is formed by an underground stream that emerges from a cave, then drops over a 110-foot high cliff before disappearing into another cave at the bottom of the sink. The area is noted for its unique geological features and several other waterfalls including Big Laurel, Sheep Cave Falls, and Big Branch Falls.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: 2080 Scotts Gulf Rd, Sparta, TN 38583
Biology and Allied Health students at Sheep Cave in the Virgin Falls Pocket Wilderness, March 2025.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: 2080 Scotts Gulf Rd, Sparta, TN 38583
Biology and Allied Health students at Big Laural Falls. March 2025.
Big Laurel Falls is actually a huge sandstone rock house or rock shelter. The water from the falls sinks at a couple of different places near the rear wall of the rock shelter. This same water eventually turns up in Sheep Cave and later Virgin Falls Pit. This presents an enticing puzzle for cavers and speleologists: where does the water go?
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: 2080 Scotts Gulf Rd, Sparta, TN 38583
Biology and Allied Health department hike in Virgin Falls Pocket Wilderness.
In the early 1970s, Bowater Pulp and Paper Corporation (later Bowater av Division) began setting aside tracts of land within its timberlands for preservation in their natural state.
These areas were designated as "pocket wilderness" and were managed with no logging or development other than hiking trails and, in some cases, primitive backcountry campsites.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: 498 Foster Falls Rd, Sequatchie, TN 37374
Foster Falls is a stunning 60-foot waterfall that cascades into a deep pool below. The area is adorned with mountain laurel, azaleas, and hemlocks that thrive above the falls, along the sandstone overlook, and in the gorge below, enhancing its natural beauty. An easy hike leads to the top of the falls, where a trail descends into the gorge. This trail crosses a suspension bridge over the creek, providing access to the base of the falls for a delightful view and experience.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: N/A
The Greeter Falls loop in Savage Gulf is a must-do hike in early spring, specifically in February and March. The waterfall shown in the photo is what I refer to as Lower Broadtree Falls. So far, I haven't been able to find its official name on any maps. This photo was taken by Dr. David Nelsen and Dr. Ben Thornton during a hike with biology students in February 2025.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: N/A
Laurel-Snow is a 2,259-acre natural area located in Rhea County. The natural area occurs on the Walden Ridge of the Cumberland Plateau and contains a section of gorge that is deeply dissected by Morgan, Henderson, Laurel, and Richland Creeks. The site is named after two scenic waterfalls, Laurel Falls (80 feet) and Snow Falls (35 feet), and features two prominent overlooks, Buzzard Point and the Bryan Overlook.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Hard Bargain, Bahamas
Adventures of Field Ecology at Captain Bill's Blue Hole. Captain Bill Blue Hole is located in the Central Andros Bluehole National Park. The spectacular waterhole is 440 in circumference and 100 feet deep.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Nicholls Town, Bahamas
This area is the highest point on North Andros, situated along the northeast coast at the tip of the island. It provides a spectacular view of both the Northeast and Northwest Providence channels, as well as the Tongue of the Ocean. Here, the deep blue water seamlessly transitions into the light turquoise of the lagoon, which is separated from the ocean by the Andros Great Barrier Reef.
This location is named after the famous buccaneer and pirate, Sir Henry Morgan. He utilized this elevated vantage point to strategize the capture of French and Spanish galleons that were loaded with treasures from the New World, bound for Europe. It is believed that he hid the spoils from his plunders in the caves located in this area.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Andros, Bahamas
Adventures with Field Ecology in the Bahamas, 2017.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: N/A
Field Ecology - 2017. Uncle Charlie's Blue Hole, also called Little Frenchman Blue Hole, is an inland blue hole 300 yards off Queen's Highway in North Andros. It is about 40 feet in diameter and approximately 120 feet deep. This blue hole was explored in the early 1960's by the world-famous Jacques Cousteau. Here, Field Ecology students take a break from the ocean and enjoy some fresh water. It's a challenging class, but someone has to take it.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Staniard Creek, Andros, The Bahamas
Snorkeling with Field Ecology in off of Andros, Bahamas. This video depicts a "normal" day of a student in Field Ecology with Dr. Ben Thornton.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Andros, Bahamas
Dr. Ben Thornton took his students in Field Ecology to Forfar Field Station, on Andros in the Bahamas, for many seasons. They studied island and marine ecology there and took in the local culture and traditions.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: 1183 Stone Door Rd, Beersheba Springs, TN 37305
Great Stone Door trail offers amazing views from multiple exposed bluffs along with the namesake feature, a 10ft wide 100ft deep crack in the rock along the gorge rim. Belinda Thornton.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: A
A short loop leading to a beautiful 25-foot waterfall behind the Stone Door Ranger Station. The trail begins to the right of the Stone Door Ranger Station.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Savage Gulf State Natural Area
Boardtree Branch empties into Firescald Creek downstream of the falls, and the combined stream then flows into Big Creek.
I filmed this in 2017 and have just now put the video together. Savage Gulf State Natural Area is a true sanctuary, rich with natural wonders. Once you hike a few miles from the trailheads, you'll discover a sense of solitude. I (Dr. Ben Thornton, av Arboretum Director) prefer to visit when it's cold—the colder, the better—because no one else will be on the trails. This video features Broad Tree Falls, which is part of a loop trail that also includes Greeter Falls. In a previous video, I shared footage of a lesser-known waterfall located just below Broad Tree Falls, which has no designated trail leading to it. Filming Broad Tree Falls was quite challenging due to the numerous trees stretching into the gap created by the falls, all in search of sunlight. On the day I filmed, it had snowed, leaving no tracks in the snow except for my own. I wish I had someone walk across the suspension bridge while I was filming, as it would have added to the scene. Please enjoy the solitude. Dim the lights, turn up the music, and allow yourself to be immersed in the experience.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: N/A

Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Av. 71 215, Limón, Cahuita, Costa Rica
Ben Maxson went out on a "trunk" for this photo. Forgot the flag. This was taken during our hike along the coastal parameter trail around Cahuita National Park. Some found themselves out of breath because of the elevation.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: P235+CMG, Provincia de Alajuela, Guatuso, Costa Rica
2019 Field Ecology class at Rio Celeste, Costa Rica.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Fofar Field Station, Andros, Bahamas
I’ll admit right from the start that you won’t find a photo of a av Biology flag here. This picture was taken at the field station where I brought my students for the Field Ecology course in 2019. I woke up well before dawn, anticipating an approaching storm, and set up several GoPro cameras for time-lapse photography in the upper intertidal zone. Then, I went back to bed.
The next morning, during breakfast, I suddenly remembered my cameras and rushed out of the dining hall to find them submerged. I quickly returned to my cabin, rinsed them off with fresh water, dried them, and removed the memory cards. As soon as I caught a glimpse of the images, I started hooting and hollering. Dr. Trock, the co-sponsor, said he could hear me from the dining hall!
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: 1388 Tracys Ferry Rd, Folkston GA 31537.
The Ecology class has occasionally camped at Traders Hill, GA, before heading to Cumberland Island. It's a beautiful setting surrounded by ancient life oaks but the facilities are poor.
According to WikipediA:
In 1793, Trader's Hill was the site of several murders by.
Fort Alert was constructed at Trader's Hill in 1812. After theended, the fort was unmanned, but became active again from 1817 to 1819 during a time of heightened alarm mostly due to Creeks, but also due to the takeover ofby various rebel factions.
In 1854,was created out of Camden County. Trader's Hill was selected as the first county seat. During the Civil War, Trader's Hill became a refugee site for local people, including residents of St. Marys, seeking to get away from the coast.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Steven C. Foster State Park, GA
Ecology class, 2019. After driving seven hours, getting ready to canoe down through the narrows.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego Province, Argentine
Paulo Dias... exploring God's creation, November 2024.
It is a fantastic hike with stunning scenery and beautiful glaciers during the midnight sun season.
Contributor: Paulo Dias

Location: Sloans Crossing Pond Walk, Smiths Grove, KY 42171
Ecology class (2024) doing a macroinvertebrate study at Mammoth Cave.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Kentucky, USA
Ecology class exploring cave Ecology at Mammoth Cave National Park.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Cobh (Cork), Wales, United Kingdom
Dr. Norskov takes av Biology to Cobh (Cork), Wales, United Kingdom
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Stonehenge, Wiltshire, England, United Kingdom
Dr. Norskov takes av Biology to Stonehenge.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Queens University of Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
Dr. Norskov brings av Biology to Queens University.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Olsburg, KS
On August 21, 2024, students of the Class of 2026 from Midland Adventist Academy were at Broken Arrow Ranch during the second week of the school year to worship and fellowship together.
Contributor: Jonathan Born

Location: Mount Rushmore Unorganized Territory, SD 57751
Dr. Snyder with fellow bone diggers.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Mastro Village – Autuzes, Amazon, Brazil
Front row (right to left) Sunika, Aly, Stephanie
Back row (right to left) Dr. Joel Davis (Alumni – Bio SAU), Arabella, Heaven, Jackson, Midrene, Bradley, Leo, Kayla, and Paulo
Contributor: Paulo Dias

Location: Manaus
Vision Mission Trip - Amazon 2024 Group arriving at Manaus, Brazil Airport
Contributor: Paulo Dias

Location: Fort Morgan, Alabama
Ornithology class of 2024 inside of Fort Morgan at Fort Morgan Alabama
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Dauphin Island, Alabama
Keith Snyder leading Ornithology students on their annual trip to Dauphin Island.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Dauphin Island, Alabama
Part of the 2024 ornithology class at the campground on Dauphin Island, Alabama.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Porter's Creek Trail Great Smokey Mountain National Park
Emily Olson, Steven Olson, Hannah Escamilla, Kailey Schroer, and Jasmine Zavala on a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains on April 5, 2024.
GSMNP day-trip for General Biology II
Contributor: Kailey Schroer

Location: Gatlinburg, TN, USA
Cambria Donato and friends hiking on the Porter’s Creek Trail during the General Biology Campout in 2024. Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Contributor: Cambria Donato

Location: Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, United States
From left to right, Elizabeth Baldwin, Tavimbawanashe Tskirai, Allison Kim, Zoei Toh, and Tamupiwanashe Tskirai on a hike on Porter's Creek Trail on April 5, 2024. Stopped along the way to the waterfall on a little bridge to snap a quick picture!
Contributor: Elizabeth Baldwin

Location: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Our group photo on the hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park on April 5, 2024.
Pictured:
Nathan Turner, Carrie White, Alexa Trevino, Carren Rodgers, Melany Castillo
Contributor: Nathan Turner

Location: Gatlinburg, TN, USA
Stephanie Kim, Cambria Herbert, Yunseo Ahn, and Emma Davis at Great Smoky Mountains on their way up to a waterfall on April 4, 2024.
Contributor: Yunseo Ahn

Location: Great Smoky Mountains
Abigail Gilliland, Abigail Tching, Jimin Kim, Soobin Jeon, and Young Min Kim at the waterfall at the Great Smoky Mountains for the Gen Bio II field trip.
Contributor: Jimin Kim

Location: Mount Saint Helens, WA
Keith and Beth Snyder on top of Mt. Saint Helens. March, 2024. Keith has been a fearless leader of the Biology department for decades.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Chattanooga Convention, Chattanooga Tennessee
Research students of av Adventist University attend the 2024 session of the association of Southeastern Biologists.
Contributor: Benjamin Thornton

Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee USA
av Biology students attend the 2024 session of the Association of Southeastern Biologists in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: 265-283 Boylston St, Clinton, MA 01510
Contributor: Kimberly Pereira

Location: collegedale, Tennessee USA
Tata Tsikirai enjoying a walk on the SAU Bio Trails. The variety of trails and short hikes on campus provide a perfect place to relax and take in nature.
Contributor: Tata Tavimbanashe Tsikirai

Location: Ontario, California, United States
Visiting my ھԳé and her family in Ontario, California, was my destination after a lengthy flight from Nashville. Despite the crowds in the streets, I couldn't be happier.
Contributor: Luke Perkins

Location: Miamisburg, Ohio, U.S.
Hughbrey Arroz visits the Cox Arboretum MetroPark in Ohio.
Contributor: Hughbrey Arroz

Location: Nashville, Tennessee, United States
Ashton McClure
Nature hike over spring break
3-16-2024
I went on a natire hike to radnor lake state park to observe the wildlife and take photos.
Contributor: Ashton McClure

Location: TN
Emily Castillo hiking at Bauxite Ridge Trailhead then taking a picture by the Wilkerson Branch River at the Student Park. March, 17, 2024
Contributor: Emily Castillo

Location: Mi.
“The globe” at Andrews
Contributor: Caleb Bowman

Location: Stanislaus National Forest, Tuolumne County, CA, USA
Biology student Sadie Elias and a snowy friend enjoy the crisp mountain air at Pinecrest Lake, a reservoir in the Sierra Nevadas. In the late snows of March over spring break 2024, it makes a beautiful spot for snowshoeing with her mom. Sadie loves the wintry scene, but she can’t wait until that snow run off fills the lake to full again and she finds herself jumping from the cliffs into its chilly clear waters with a “I survived Biology 101 & 102” sticker plastered and already peeling from her water bottle, waiting in the kayak below.
Contributor: Sadie Elias

Location: Pensacola, FL, USA
Yunseo Ahn at Pensacola Beach on March 10th to spend time in Florida as part of Spring Break.
Contributor: Yunseo Ahn

Location: Tennessee
I was the only one in the event (José Sarabia) As an international I was not able to go outside of campus, so i did a small hike in the outskirts of southern the wednesday and Friday during spring break.
Contributor: Jose sarabia

Location: Marin County, California, USA
Meagan Shields went to San Francisco for spring break 2024 and visited Muir Woods National Monument.
Contributor: Meagan Shields

Location: Naples, Fl
Hannah Bergmann on a beach in Naples, Fl on a trip with her family for spring break on 3/20/24.
Contributor: Hannah Bergmann

Location: Silang, Philipines
Took a trip to the Philippines for a dental mission trip for the week!
Contributor: Bty dental

Location: Duluth, Georgia
Contributor: Emily Kim

Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Carter Boskind in front of the Bellagio hotel on spring break.
Contributor: Carter Boskind

Location: Brevard, North Carolina
Grassy Creek waterfall, a short hike into the middle of the forest.
Contributor: Anna Schneider

Location: Orlando, Florida
SeaWorld over spring break. Stingray overhead.
Contributor: Nathan Turner

Location: Canaveral National Seashore, Florida
I went to this national seashore over break
Contributor: Nathan Turner

Location: Sequatchie, TN
Fiery Gizzard Trailhead at South Cumberland State Park.
I backpacked with a couple of my friends. It rained a lot.
Contributor: Cyrus Cho

Location: Pensacola, Florida, USA
Yunseo Ahn visited Pensacola Beach on March 10th to spend time in Florida as part of Spring Break.
Contributor: Yunseo Ahn

Location: Dragoon, Arizona
Dana Robinson in Arizona for spring break 2024.
Contributor: Dana Robinson

Location: Washington DC, Virginia, United States
I went to Washington DC with my cousins this spring break.
Contributor: Amani Wang

Location: Orlando Florida
Contributor: Marlett Romero

Location: Winter Park, Colorado
Beth de Fluiter, a Biology graduate of 1996, with her daughter Abbie. Abbie will graduate in 2026 with a degree in Biology.
Contributor: Abbie Fluiter

Location: Tennessee
Weongyu Lee, Danny An, at UTC.
Contributor: Weongyu Lee, Danny An

Location: Redlands, California
Noah Saesim
Spring break travels
3-16-24
Short hike to a nice lookout of the inland empire .
Contributor: Noah Saesim

Location: Duluth, Georgia, USA
Stephanie Kim during spring break on March 14th, 2024!
Contributor: Stephanie Kim

Location: Collegedale Tennessee
Walking with Jared at the park.
Contributor: Diane Feliz

Location: Collegedale, TN, USA
Allison Kim
Taking a hike on White Oak Mountain
March 17, 2024
Contributor: Allison Kim

Location: Mt Shasta Ski Park, McCloud, CA
3-15-24
Contributor: Spencer Kim

Location: Pucallpa, Peru
Members of the Pucallpa, Peru Vision Trip took a picture in Pucallpa after a tiring day of providing medical and dental services to the locals in the area on March 11, 2024. Members of the group include Biology Department members: Michael Ken Hongo, Melissa Lee, Caroline Wagner, Isabel Genovez, Hannah Bahri, Elina Khan, Claire Elias, Allison Conelly, Josep Figueredo Garcia, David Lazcano, Camille Badger, and Jorge Cordero-Jimenez.
Contributor: Michael Ken Hongo

Location: Petoskey, MI, USA
Hannah Escamilla on Spring Break, March 15th at Sunset Park, visiting the lake in Petoskey, MI.
Contributor: Hannah Escamilla

Location: New York
David Park at the American Museum of Natural History
2024-03-11
Contributor: David Park

Location: Cleveland, Tennessee
I took an afternoon hike on March 17th at this park that brings awareness to Cherokee Nation history and is likely where the Trail of Tears began.
Contributor: Jasmine Zavala

Location: Snowmass, Colorado
Andrew Murphy skiing in Snowmass Colorado during spring break.
Contributor: Andrew Murphy

Location: Pigeon Forge, TN, USA
Abby and Clarissa Tching befriending tropical birds on 3/11/24 (for spring break) at Parrot Mountain and Gardens.
Contributor: Abby Tching

Location: Santa Monica, CA 90401
Donghyuk An in Santa Monica
Contributor: Donghyuk An

Location: Torrey, Utah, United States 84775
This image was taken over spring break on 3/12/24 on the Cassidy Arch Trail in Utah. The photographer was Jeffrey Yaste.
Contributor: Lincoln Yaste

Location: Truckee, CA, USA
Sabrina Yoo
Skiing over Spring Break
March 17, 2024
Contributor: Sabrina Yoo

Location: South Cumberland State Park, Tennessee
Joseph Chung backpacking the Fiery Gizzard trail at South Cumberland State Park on March 15, 2024. There was an intense thunderstorm but it was ok since he had gummy worms.
Coordinates: 35.18819° N, 85.70026° W
Contributor: Joseph Chung

Location: Brevard, NC
Ashley Austin went to Triple Falls in DuPont State Forest, NC with her family on Sabbath afternoon March 16, 2024. It was an enjoyable end to her Spring Break back home in North Carolina.
Contributor: Ashley Austin

Location: Houston Texas
Spring break
Contributor: Adrian Dorame

Location: Loma Linda, California
Nicole Seheult visiting family over spring break 2024
Contributor: Nicole Seheult

Location: San Diego, California
Gabby Lewis - Spring Break March 9, 2024
Contributor: Gabby Lewis

Location: Redlands, California, United States
Ryan Ro Hills outside my house
Contributor: Ryan Ro

Location: Soddy Daisy, Tennessee, United States of America
Dana Grakov during spring break 2024 on a hike with friends on the 16th of March.
Contributor: Dana Grakov

Location: Weyers Cave, Virginia, United States
Emma Davis
Road Trip
March 16, 2024
One of two statues. This one is on the southern side, while the other one resides in Timberville, Virginia.
Contributor: Emma Davis

Location: Folsom, California United States
Folsom Parkway Rail Trail, March 16, 2024, Adrian Serna
Contributor: Adrian Serna

Location: Morristown, TN, USA
Ellie-Rose Emde at Panther Creek State Park, Morristown, Tennessee. Sabbath afternoon hike on March 16, 2024. Favorite childhood hike around Cherokee Lake during Spring Break.
Contributor: Ellie-Rose Emde

Location: Berrien Springs Michigan
Jessy Hajaj back at home during spring break! The Globe represents the diversity found at Andrews University. March 15, 2024.
Contributor: Jessy Hajaj

Location: Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area, Florida 33469
Kailey Schroer in Jupiter, Florida
Contributor: Kailey Schroer

Location: Ontario, CA
Lilli Bilbao - Spring Break, 2024
Spring Break
03/16/2024
Lunch in Ontario

Location: South Korea
William Kim, spring break trip to Korea, 3/16/2024, I took a trip to South Korea to see family and learn more about my culture.
Contributor: William Kim

Location: Whistler, Canada
My name is Aiden Lee, and I went to Whistler/Blackcomb for Spring Break from March 10-17. I went with my mother and father (Jenny and Donald Lee), Bryson Pak, Caleb Park, James Ahn, and Noah Choi. My family and have gone to Whistler annually since I was 3 years old (16 years!). Skiing, swimming and eating has become our spring break ritual. I couldn’t imagine a spring break without whistler!
Contributor: Donald Lee

Location: College Place, WA
Abigail Gilliland; I went on a walk on the trails that are by my neighborhood on March 15, 2024.
Contributor: Abigail Gilliland

Location: Santa Monica, California
Donghyuk An at Santa Monica Beach, Spring Break, 2024
Contributor: Donghyuk An

Location: Suches, Georgia, USA
People: Brian Lee
Event: Camping trip
Date: 3/8/24
Short summary: A quick camping trip in the Chattahoochee National Forest for Spring break
Contributor: Brian Lee

Location: Oak Ridge, Tennessee, U.S.
Seoyeon Moon hiking at Oakridge Forest and Arboretum during spring break (03-15-24)
Contributor: Seoyeon Moon

Location: Miami, Florida
Haley Fulton in downtown Miami on 3/15 spending time with family in the warm Florida heat.
Contributor: Haley Fulton

Location: Danbury, NC USA
Cambria Herbert at Hanging Rock State Park for Spring Break on March 15, 2024
Contributor: Cambria Herbert

Location: Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Soobin Jeon on a week-long (3/10/24 - 3/15/24)dental mission trip to the Philippines. Got to meet a lot of new people and learn and experience new things.
Contributor: Soobin Jeon

Location: Snoqualmie Pass, WA
Rebecca Santiago on Spring Break 2024
Contributor: Rebecca Santiago

Location: Carlsbad, CA
Kaylyn Rhoads at the flower fields in Carlsbad, CA on March 14, 2024 during a family beach trip.
Contributor: Kaylyn Rhoads

Location: El Castillo, Costa Rica
Elizabeth Baldwin
A brief hike on Tuesday, March 12, 2024 along Butterfly Conservatory Arenal’s Rainforest River Walk. Many amazing trees and even strawberry poison dart frogs were seen along the way!
Contributor: Elizabeth Baldwin

Location: Loma Linda, CA
Zoei Toh on a hike during spring break.
Contributor: Zoei Toh

Location: Chattanooga Tennessee
Jaeeun Shin studying over spring break off campus… with friends :)
Contributor: Jaeeun Shin

Location: Mammoth lakes, California, United States
This image was taken at the peak of mammoth mountain on 3/13/24. The event was snow skiing and the individual in the photo is Trevor Cain. The photographer was David Cain.
Contributor: Trevor Cain

Location: El Paso Texas
Eating some snow in dessert. March 12, 2024 (George Imuro)
Contributor: George Imuro

Location: Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
Yewon Kang on March 13, 2024. I came back home for spring break and this is a near my house at a cliff with ocean view.
Contributor: Yewon Kang

Location: Duluth, GA, USA
YoungMin Kim, Connor Grant
Exploring Downtown Duluth
3/10/24
Contributor: YoungMin Kim

Location: Frederick, Maryland, United States
Contributor: Brendan Koilpillai

Location: Útila, Honduras
Grace Kim, scuba diving off the coast of Útila on March 13, 2024 during spring break.
Contributor: Grace Kim

Location: 600 Douglas St, Chattanooga, TN 37403
Studying General Biology 2 at UTC Library during spring break!
Contributor: Danny An

Location: Anna Maria Island, Florida
Spring Break! Sebastian Nieto

Location: Napa, CA. USA
Soren Pang on March 11, 2024 on some hills near his house.
Contributor: Soren Pang

Location: Folsom, California
Spring Break
Contributor: Amy Wong

Location: Seattle, Washington
Kayla Kwon, duringSpring Break 2024, visited the Space Needle in Seattle, Washington.

Location: Munising, Michigan
Contributor: Steven Olson

Location: Loma Linda, California, USA
coordinates
(34.0392402 N, -117.2439111 W)
Afternoon hike on spring break
March 10

Location: Duluth, GA
Jimin Kim exploring a new town on 3/10 and enjoying the vibrant community.
Contributor: Jimin Kim

Location: Duluth, GA
Youngmin Kim, Connor Grant
Exploring a new city
3/10/24
Contributor: Youngmin Kim

Location: New York City, New York
Peter Ni
Spring Break
3/10/24
Spring Break at New York

Location: Munising, Michigan
Contributor: Emily Olson

Location: Sperryville Virginia, United States
My family and I (Duane, Tammy, Carrie, and Caden White), went on a picnic on the path to Thornton gap in Shenandoah National Park on March 9, 2024.
Contributor: Carrie White

Location: Fresno, California, USA
My dog Buddy and I
Event: Spring Break
3/9/2024
The first day starting spring break.
Contributor: Matthew Recalde

Location: Rurrenabaque Ariport
Contributor: Sierra Anderson

Location: Snoqualmie, Washington, United States
Aleena Hurd at the peak of a pathway, showing Snoqualmie Falls, one of Washington's scenic attractions on March 8, 2024.
Contributor: Aleena Hurd

Location: Athens, Attica, Greece
Bethany Howard visits Athens, Greece with the Biology Flag
Contributor: Bethany Howard

Location: Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, Metro Washington, DC
Tim Trott shown
At Gaylord National conference center.
Contributor: Tim Trott

Location: Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Ornithology class on Dauphin Island. David Holly - class instructor.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: 6915 Maurer Rd, Shawnee, KS 66217
The annual Physical Science Egg Drop at Midland Adventist Academy. Students are pictured with their projects after the drop. Four were successful.
Contributor: Jonathan Borne

Location: 1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108 USA
On February 21, 2024, the students from Midland Adventist Academy visited the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, MO. This year, 2024, is the 100th anniversary of the first Negro Leagues Baseball World Series.
Contributor: Jonathan Borne

Location: Franklin, North Carolina
Contributor: Ben Thornton
Location: Selina Monteverde, Monteverde, Costa Rica
Field Ecology, 2023, outside of Selina Monte Verde.

Location: Reliance, TN
Ecology, 2019, on their yearly canoe trip down the Hiwassee River

Location: Manaus, Brazil

Location: Sousse, Tunisia
Cyril Asok, niece of Dr. Abhishek, is studying business in Tunisia.

Location: Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
Beena and Asok, sister and brother-in law of Dr. Abhishek, outside of their office where they do property evaluations.

Location: Fire tower on top of Mt. Cammerer.
Breanna and Ben Thornton at the fire tower on top of Mt. Cammerer. January 2024.

Location: Lower Mount Cammerer Trail
Breanna Thronton. Viewpoint along the Lower Mount Cammerer Trail. January 2024.

Location: Junction of Lower Mount Cammerer Trail and the Appalachian Trail.
Breanna Thronton at the junction of Lower Mount Cammerer Trail and the Appalachian Trail.

Location: Sutton Ridge Overlook
Ben Thornton at Sutton Ridge Overlook on the way up to Mt. Cammerer.

Location: Lower Mount Cammerer Trail
Breanna Thornton on a log bridge over Toms Creek

Location: Cave City, KY 42127
Ecology, 2023, at the Frozen Niagra in Mammoth Cave National Park at the end of a four-mile hike underground.

Location: 900 Carmichael Rd, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259
Ecology, 2023, underground at Mammoth Cave National Park with ranger Rachel.

Location: Cave City, KY 42127
Ecology, 2023, studying cave ecology with rangers Shannon and Rachel. This is where we came out of the cave after hiking four miles.

Location: 900 Carmichael Rd, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259
Ecology class, 2023, at Mammoth Cave National Park with Rangers Rachel and Shannon studying cave ecology. This is the location where we went underground for four miles.

Location: av Adventist University, Student Park, Collegedale, TN
Biology faculty and students, November 2023, gather at the student park for a sundown social on Friday evening.

Location: GFRV+3XG Roxana, Limón Province, Costa Rica
KC and Olivia, Field Ecology2023, watching howler monkeys in Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica.

Location: F76C+FPQ, La Fortuna, Alajuela Province, El Castillo, Costa Rica
Field Ecology, 2023, at Arenal Volcano.

Location: 60 Congress St, Boston, MA 02109
Biology Alum in Boston, Ma.

Location: Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Cherokee, NC 28719
Dr. Tim Trott and Biology students, 2018, on the Appalachian Trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Location: Ichetucknee River, Fort White, FL 32038
Chandler Bozarth & Madison Carter tubing down the Ichetucknee River.

Location: Lokon Volcano, Manado, Indonesia
Tropical Biology, 2016, Lokon Volcano.

Location: Tangkoko Nature Preserve, Manado, Indonesia
Tropical Biology, 2018, Tangkoko Nature Preserve.

Location: Rurukan, Tomohon Timur, Tomohon City, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
Tropical Biology, 2016, Mahawu Volcano.

Location: Airmadidi Atas, Airmadidi, North Minahasa Regency, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
Tropical Biology, 2016, climbing Mt. Klabat.

Location: Jl. Arnold Mononutu, Airmadidi Bawah, Kec. Airmadidi, Kabupaten Minahasa Utara, Sulawesi Utara 95371, Indonesia
Tropical Biology, 2016, Klabat Univeristy.

Location: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Tropical Biology, 2018, Jl. Monkey Forest. Jennie Wheeler and _____________.

Location: Bali Bird Park, Bali Indonesia
Tropical Biology, 2016, Bali Bird Park.

Location: Lokon Volcano, Manado, Indonesia
Tropical Biology, 2018, climbing Lokon Volcano

Location: Manado Bay, Manado, Indonesia
Tropical Biology, 2016, Manado Bay boating to Bunaken.

Location: Mahawu volcano, Manado, Indonesia
Tropical Biology, 2019, on the rim of Mahawu volcano.

Location: Okefenokee Wildlife Refuge, GA
Ecology, 2019, Okefenokee Wildlife Refuge, GA
After driving seven hours, we are all ready to get out of the vans, and some of us are ready to explore swamp ecology; others are still releasing their couped-up stress.
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Okefenokee Wildlife Refuge, GA
Ecology, 2019, Okefenokee Wildlife Refuge, GA; Boardwalk Trail

Location: Sea Camp, Cumberland Island, GA
Ecology, 2019, Cumberland Island, Sea Camp, GA

Location: Myrtle, Point, Mt. Leconte, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, TN
Ecology class, 2016, at Myrtle Point on Mt. Leconte on Great Smokey Mountain National Park, TN

Location: Twin Lakes, Washington
Emma Cannaday, 2018, on top of Winchester Mountain in the North Cascades, WA. Dr. Ben Thornton, Director of av Arboretum, taught a class at Rosario Beach Marine Laboratories in which students survey the plant and animal kingdoms from the intertidal zone to the top of glacier-covered mountains.

Location: Loma Linda, CA
Graduates of av Biology at Loma Linda University, 2019, celebrating another milestone.

Location: Fort Montagu, Nassau, Bahamas
av Biology Man, Dr. Thornton, with Field Ecology students, 2019, at Fort Montagu, in Nassau, Bahamas.

Location: Bunaken, Indonesia
Tropical Biology students, 2019, diving and snorkeling off of Bunaken, Indonesia.

Location: Pico de Orizaba, 75529 Puebla, Mexico
av Biology, 2018, on top of Mr. Orizaba, 18,491 ft, in Puebla, Mexico.

Location: Mt. La Malinche, Puebla, Mexico
av Biology, 2018, on the summit of Mt. La Malinche, in Puebla Mexico, 14,636 ft.

Location: Ungasan, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Tropical Biology, 2016, at Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park.

Location: Okefenokee Wildlife Refuge, GA
Ecology students with Dr. Ben Thornton, on Billy's Island in the Okefenokee Swamp.

Location: Cliff Tops View Point, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN
General Biology students on top of Mt. Leconte, 2023. Cliff Tops View Point

Location: Steven C. Foster State Park, GA
Ecology students, 2016, studying in the Okefenokee Swamp.

Location: Steven C. Foster State Park, GA
Ecology students, 2016, studying in the Okefenokee Swamp.

Location: Charlton County, GA 31537
Ecology students, 2016, at the Chesser family homestead in the Okefenokee Swamp.

Location: Okefenokee Swamp, Fargo, GA
Ecology students, 2016, at the Cedar Hammock canoe shelter in the Okefenokee Swamp.

Location: Collegedale, TN
Biology students, 2018, participate in preparing food for "Feed My Starving Children."

Location: Steven C. Foster State Park, GA
Ecology students, 2016, studying in the Okefenokee Swamp.

Location: Steven C. Foster State Park, GA
Ecology students, 2016, studying in the Okefenokee Swamp.

Location: Steven C. Foster State Park, GA
Ecology students, 2016, studying in the Okefenokee Swamp.

Location: Okefenokee Wildlife Refuge, GA
Ecology students, 2016, studying in the Okefenokee Swamp, GA.

Location: Steven C. Foster State Park, GA
Ecology students, 2016, studying swamp ecology in the Okefenokee Swamp.

Location: Ocoee, TN 37361
Ecology class, 2016, studying fish diversity in the Conasaugua River which has more species of fish than the entire Colorado River basin.

Location: Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Ornithology students, 2017, on Dauphin Island, AL, with their faithful leader, Dr. Keith Snyder.

Location: 300 Bibb St, Montgomery, AL 36104
av Biology Research attended the 2016 meetings of the Association of Southeastern Biologists in Montgomery, AL

Location: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN
General Biology annual trip to Great Smoky Mountains Park
2019
Appalachian Trail
Icewater Spring Shelter

Location: Zion National Park, UT
The Narrows, 2018
av Biology Faculty and Spouses:
Ben and Belinda Thornton
Aaron Corbit
Tim and Selina Trott
Keith Snyder

Location: C. 468, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Field Ecology, 2023
Dinner at Soda Viquez

Location: Sendero Coladas, Provincia de Alajuela, San Carlos, Costa Rica
Field Ecology
2023

Location: Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, NC
Ecology Field Trip
2023

Location: Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, NC
Ecology Field Trip
2023

Location: Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, NC
Ecology Field Trip
2023

Location: Provincia de Alajuela, Poás, Costa Rica
Field Ecology
2023

Location: Cumberland Island, GA
Ecology Field Trip
2021

Location: Savage Gulf, TN
Principles of Biology
Collins Gulf Trail
2021

Location: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN
General Biology,2023
The freshmen year ends with a trip for General Biology students to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

Location: Cumberland Island, GA
Ecology Field Trip, 2021 to the Okefenokee Swamp and Cumberland Island

Location: Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
Ecology Field Trip
2022

Location: Tanzania
David Callender and Gabriel Brown on top of Kilimanjaro, the highest point on the African continent and the tallest land-based mounting from its base to its summit in the world.

Location: Monteverde Biological Preserve, Costa Rica
Field Ecology, 2023

Location: Cabeceras, Guanacaste Province, Tilarán, Costa Rica
100% Adventure
Field Ecology, 2023
Longest Zipline in Central America, over one mile long.

Location: Katira, Alajuela Province, Guatuso, Costa Rica
Field Ecology, 2023

Location: Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica
Field Ecology
2023
Sendero Coladas, Provincia de Alajuela, San Carlos, Costa Rica

Location: La Fortuna, Alajuela Province, San Carlos, Costa Rica
Field Ecology, 2023
La Fortuna Waterfall

Location: Provincia de Alajuela, Tabacon, Costa Rica
Field Ecology, 2023

Location: Aqaba Governorate, Jordan
Ben Thornton, 2021

Location: Aqaba Governorate, Jordan
Ben and Belinda Thornton, 2021

Location: Petra District, Jordan
2021 Where will av Biology show up next?

Location: Israel, Jerusalem
Temple Mount, 2021
Dana and Brendon Brockman
The Temple Mount is the holiest site in Judaism
Contributor: Ben Thornton

Location: Tortuguero Lagoon, Limón Province, Costa Rica
Field Ecology,2023
Photos were taken at the boat dock in Tortuguero after paddling through the canals in Tortuguero National Park and watching the howler monkeys, and green macaws...

Location: Tortuguero Lagoon, Limón Province, Costa Rica
Field Ecology,2023

Location: Tortuguero, Limón Province, Costa Rica
Field Ecology
2023
Jaguar Trail

Location: Noland Divide Trail, Great Smoky Mountains, NC
Noland Divide Trail
Ecology Field Trip
2023

Location: Savage Gulf, TN
Stone Door
Overlook
Ecology Field Trip
2023

Location: Grundy County, TN
Stone Door
Ecology Field Trip; 2023

Location: Laurel-Snow Pocket Wilderness, Dayton, TN
Ecology Field Trip, 2023 to Buzzard Point

Location: Laurel-Snow Pocket Wilderness, Dayton, TN
Ecology field trip 2023 in Laurel-Snow Pocket Wilderness

Location: Noland Divide Trail, Great Smoky Mountains, NC
Ecology, 2023
Noland Divide Trail
Students study changes in flora as a function of elevation along the Noland Divide Trail. The trail begins at 5895 ft and ends at 1847 ft.