Both of our daughters have attended camps at Wolf Mountain as well. We know firsthand that campers have a wonderful time at Wolf Mountain and return home with a new network of friends, several hours of tales to regale any willing (or captive) audience, and pride in the accomplishments they achieved during their week away from the city.
But despite my second-hand familiarity with Wolf Mountain, I had never seen any of it for myself. True, I had listened to hours of camp stories, looked at hundreds of photographs, signed several registration forms, and could practically recite the rules of “Mission Impossible;” yet, I had not set foot on Wolf Mountain property. All of that changed on March 29, 2008 as I experienced Further ‘08.
I was invited to spend a few days in Arizona with my family for Mom’s 75th birthday bash. When I saw that my youngest could attend a history camp during the time that I would be away, I was thrilled. That would free my hubby from duty for one kiddo, leaving him with his hands full juggling work, pets, and two teens. So, I signed the registration forms and sent Vicki packing to Wolf Mountain while I flew south.
When I returned from Arizona, there was a message on my answering machine from Darrick. He’s now a permanent staff member at Wolf Mountain, working in the kitchen. He was able to visit with Vicki at camp and invited our family to experience Further ’08, a community open house celebration. Even though I was tired from my trip, I was curious about the camp and decided to give it some consideration. I picked Victoria up from her week away and she was excited about the possibility of returning the next day, so we went home and tried to get as much rest as possible that evening.
The following afternoon, both of my girls invited friends to tag along and we made our way back to the camp. It was like hitting Sam’s Club when all the sample carts are set up. All of the activities at Wolf Mountain were available at no cost. We signed registration forms and waivers, boarded a Magic Carpet transport, and we were off on an adventure.
We began with a trail ride. We reviewed safety precautions, were issued helmets and assigned a mount. It had been a couple of years since I had been on a horse, and I was pleased to get a refresher course explaining how to start, stop, turn, etc… I don’t think I’ve ever met a nicer corral full of horses and we thoroughly enjoyed our excursion through the woods.
Next, we tackled the rock climbing wall. This definitely looks easier than it is. Only one member of our group made it to the top and rang the bell, but I came really close. It was a challenge that we all enjoyed and we each felt like we had achieved a personal best.
Shrieks of joy from the zip line had beckoned us while we were on our trail ride, so we made our way to the ropes area. We stopped to watch several participants who were trying the “Leap of Faith” and before long, two members of our group were harnessed, helmeted, and waiting to make this spectacular climb. After ascending 65’, they would shuffle off a tiny platform onto two planks. Perched at the end of these planks, they would crouch and spring forth, arms extended, in an attempt to grab a trapeze bar. It made me so proud to see my sometimes timid twelve year old make the climb and jump with all her might. Even though she missed, I’m sure she’ll make the attempt again and succeed eventually.
Our next stop was the zip line. This was a high speed adventure over a creek and through the trees. We all loved it and were a little surprised at its heart-pounding effects. Then we headed to the archery range where we were humbled by another activity that looks effortless – it’s not! We would not have fared as well as some of our Native American ancestors. Our final activity was pedal carts. The girls raced around the basketball court, legs pumping madly. It was tiring, but very enjoyable.
We had a full day and didn’t even do everything. We did get to visit with Darrick, but needed to get back to town by 6:30. We didn’t have time for the other ropes courses, paintball, the guided tour, the free dinner, music, or the evening program. Further ’08 was a real treat and I must commend the Wolf Mountain administration and staff for making it available to the public. It gave me an even greater appreciation of the amazing growth opportunities available to youth right in our backyard.
Another Further ’08 event is scheduled for June 7th. For more information, see the Wolf Mountain website at www.wolfmountain.org.
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