We couldn't have asked for better weather on our trip to the Adventure Park at Sandy Spring MD. We met at Lutheran Redeemer early Saturday morning at 6:45am and arrive at 8am to perfect temperatures in the high 60s and overcast skies. Very helpful staff harnessed us up. Safety instructions preceded our 3 hour climb among the zip lines and obstacle courses.
The group of 30 Scouts, 3 siblings and 10 Scouter parents ascended into the trees and eagerly maneuvered through the multiple levels of climbing difficulty. It was truly impressive to watch and cheer on, our adventurous thrill seekers. Each climber maneuvered through various levels and courses, gradually challenging their skills and comfort levels. Some parents and scouts taking a break between courses, watched the spectacle of climbers from the ground level. That in itself was entertaining.
Occasional calls for "STAFF!!" (i.e. Help! Rescue Me!) were needed by young and much older climbers alike followed by sometime dramatic assistance by very skilled and amazing staff, but we all made it back in one piece without bloodshed or serious physical injury.
By noon the groups finished and gathered under covered picnic tables for lunch. 35 campers (29 Scouts and 6 Scouters) were able to check into our campsite early immediately after lunch and started the short trek through the park to our campsite on the other side.
Because of a rain shower the previous evening, making a fire posed to be a bit of a challenge. But the group prevailed. After a good deal of effort and perseverance, a much appreciated fire was produced.
Mike Forrer and some helpful camping Scouters, worked on installing shelving to the new trailer and reorganized the gear that is stored there.
Excellent and delicious hot dinners consisted of foil packets of burger, potatoes and carrots, chili cheese fries, spaghetti and meatballs, pasta and meat sauce. Happy spoonful’s of pasta were in plentiful supply There was eager anticipation for the Dutch Oven peach cobbler and triple chocolate fudge creation.
The evening ended around a roaring campfire and entertainment consisting of skits and a very interesting Q&A session.
Sunday wrapped up with hearty hot breakfasts including bacon, sausage, bagel egg sandwiches, and omelets in a bag. After packing up and MULITPLE treks back and forth through the Adventure Park to get the gear loaded up, we departed by 10:30am.
Every climber came away with personal stories of peril and accomplishment. Many wished for more time to climb. Needless to say, the Adventure Park was a big crowd pleaser.