Four couples from Chateau Elan—Gary and Kay Walker, Tim and Sharon Padden, Steve and Amy Poe, and Cindy Howell-Nedza and Chris Nedza along with their friends Greg and Katherine Sloan—embarked on an extraordinary 6,000-mile journey, exploring some of the most stunning landscapes and iconic destinations across the United States. This epic adventure was more than just a road trip; it was a journey of faith, friendship, and unforgettable moments that brought them closer together.

The adventure began with a collective route that took the group through Mississippi along the river and onto Oklahoma City. From there, they traveled to Capulin, New Mexico, before reaching Colorado Springs. A highlight of their time there was the Cog train ride up Pikes Peak, which was stopped by 12 feet of snow near the top. Manitou Springs, with its challenging 2,700-foot steps, served as their base for exploring Pikes Peak. While in Colorado, the group enjoyed a memorable concert at Red Rocks Amphitheater, featuring the band Need to Breathe.

The journey continued to Utah’s Moab, where the group took Jeep tours and hiked the stunning landscapes of Arches National Park. One memorable moment occurred when they stumbled upon a wedding photo shoot in Moab. In a spontaneous and touching gesture, the group prayed over the couple’s marriage and shared their personal marriage advice, turning the chance encounter into a moment of faith and encouragement.

Next, they visited Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks, where they biked, hiked, and marveled at the breathtaking views. The Walkers, Paddens, and Sloans reveled in the hiking trails, while the Poes and Howell/Nedza families spent their days shopping, biking, and exploring the rugged terrain in Jeeps.

Their route also took them through the majestic Grand Tetons, the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park, and the western charm of Jackson Hole. In Wyoming, they encountered a bull moose that emerged from the brush to walk right along the main trail during one of their hikes—a thrilling and unforgettable wildlife encounter that left everyone in awe.

The journey continued to Wyoming’s Devil’s Tower before they moved on to see Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Monument in South Dakota. Sioux Falls marked their final group stop, where the families shared stories and reflected on the miles traveled and memories made.

Evenings around the campfire became a cherished tradition, as the group gathered nightly to relax, share stories, and strengthen their bonds. Amy Poe, ever the beacon of faith, took every opportunity to witness to those they met along the way, spreading positivity and encouragement.

As the journey unfolded, the group’s shared love of travel led them to create a community of like-minded adventurers through their Facebook group and Instagram page, @ourtrekkingtribe. Connecting with others who share their passion has enriched their experiences on the road, forging new friendships and deepening existing ones.

Sharon Padden shared “As we said our farewells, the men in our group gathered together to pray, reflecting on the incredible journey we had shared. It was a beautiful reminder of why we love RV life: the thrill of the adventure, the awe of exploring new places, and most of all, the joy of traveling with incredible people who make every trip unforgettable.”

This journey was more than just a road trip for the Chateau Elan neighbors and friends; it was an incredible adventure that highlighted the power of community and the joy of shared experiences. From scenic drives and outdoor activities to heartfelt moments of faith and friendship, the memories created during this trip will be cherished for years to come. 

Already planning their next adventure, the five couples are currently in Hershey, Pennsylvania, attending the largest RV show in America as we write this article. During the show, the Walkers were presented with an irresistible deal and decided to upgrade to a 2025 Keystone Cougar, offering them extra space and comfort for their future travels together.