Eastside Catholic’s Annual Senior Pilgrimage Retreat: A Tradition of Reflection and Community

Eastside Catholic’s Senior Pilgrimage Retreat encapsulates 41 years of tradition in a transformative 12-mile journey along the Snoqualmie Valley Trail. This retreat fosters self-reflection and unity among students with each step and story added to its historic cross.

Reprinted from EC Magazine, Summer 2023

For over 41 years, Eastside Catholic School has proudly upheld the tradition of the Senior Pilgrimage Retreat, a transformative experience for our senior students. This beloved annual retreat, typically held in September, is designed to foster self-reflection, personal growth, and community as students prepare for their final year on campus.

During the retreat, students are led by their peers on a 12-mile pilgrimage from Snoqualmie Falls to Carnation. The journey includes moments of prayer, discussion, engaging activities, and fun games that encourage bonding and introspection.

A unique tradition on this pilgrimage is the carrying of the Senior Pilgrimage Cross. This cross, which resides in the Eastside Catholic School Chapel throughout the school year, symbolizes the unity of the senior class. It is adorned with a pendant from every graduating class that has completed the pilgrimage since 1982, marking the very first retreat.

More than 4,500 students have participated in this powerful, community-building experience, making lifelong memories and deepening their connection to the Eastside Catholic School community.

At Eastside Catholic School, retreats offer students a transformative experience. They step beyond the traditional school setting to explore personal growth and deeper connections in the world around them. These immersive retreats provide a unique opportunity for students in grades 6-12 to reflect, bond and learn in an enriching environment outside the classroom.

Discover the full range of our retreat programs here.