Nestled within Mount Michael’s campus lies a secret treasure many of us pass by without truly appreciating: the Gullies. This natural heaven is more than just trees and trails; it’s a living, breathing creation of God, waiting for students to explore, reflect, and connect with nature.
Once a hub of outdoor adventure and a gathering place for students, the Gullies are now quieter than ever. Fewer and fewer students are taking the time to wander its winding paths. And yet, this magical space offers something that no classroom or screen ever can: peace, inspiration, and memories with other Mount Michael classmates.
The Gullies’ lower numbers of visitors is a side effect of a smaller boarding program. Much of the time spent in the Gullies by students after classes and after night study hall. According to a student survey, a majority of students who board have been to some spot in the Gullies, while many who are day students have not stepped further than the two academic buildings.
Senior Paxton Chamberlain, a day student, said “I first heard about it [the Gullies] back in 8th grade, and everyone said it was an incredible experience. Ever since then, I’ve been excited to finally experience it for myself in high school. But with that said, I am now a senior and still haven’t had the chance to go down there with others leading me the way.”
The fact that a senior does not know his way around the Gullies is alarming. This shows that the past classes and the current classes have lost their pride and responsibility in passing on traditions and special locations within the Gullies. The Gullies have served many classes in the past with the opportunity to grow their brotherhood. This experience should be preserved by the current classes attending Mount Michael, so that classes to come don’t completely lose the opportunities of the treasure the Gullies offer.
Senior Cole Poutre, a boarding student, said “The greatest part of Mount Michael is the Gullies. It’s a place where you can go to decompress or have fun with your friends. Being out in nature with no one around but the Knights is really an incredible experience, and boarding gives you plenty of time to explore.”
His words remind us of what the Gullies are truly about- connection. Not just connection to nature, but to each other. It’s where memories are made and friendships grow stronger. The Gullies play a big role in helping the students grow in their Benedictine value of community. They give students a chance to step away from stress, schoolwork, and screens, to just be present. Whether it’s hiking the trails, setting up capture the flag games, or just praying with the blessed Mary, it’s those moments that shape the Mount Michael experience.
English teacher and alumnus Mr. John Elster ‘07 said, “Me and my friends had some of the best times in the Gullies…exploring, finding ancient artifacts from the 70s and 80s, hanging out by the busted-up cars and hoping there might be something left inside. I remember taking band photos at those cars. I found something down there that inspired some lyrics I wrote, too. I loved, and still do love, the adventure the Gullies represent. No matter how often you go out, you’ll get lost, discover a new area, and find some new piece of history. And it’s the perfect setting for an adaptation of ‘The Most Dangerous Game.’”
The Gullies are calling us back, inviting every student to pause, breathe, and take a chance to bond with our brothers outside the classroom. Let us not allow this gift to fade into the background. Whether for quiet reflection, or an adventure with peers, the Gullies are here for us, and they’ve been waiting all along. Step outside, explore, and rediscover one of Mount Michael’s greatest treasures.
