LOCALadk Magazine

26 Spring 2017 LOCALadk Magazine LOCALadk The Adirondacks have long been recognized as a playground – a place to retreat and enjoy the splendors of nature. With countless mountains to climb, lakes and rivers to paddle, and scenery to take in, there is never a lack of terrain to explore and adventures abound. High ropes courses and zip line centers are emerging throughout the region. They fill the niche of guided outdoor adventure in a park-style setting and offer a playground for the entire family. They are an exciting, controlled, and safe way to enjoy nature from a whole new perspective – the air! These centers provide the gear, routes, and guides – and it's a quick transition from car to the climbing adventure. Previous experience is not necessary. Have a sense of adventure? Want a great workout for all ages without going to the gym? Step into a harness and head out for some fun. Here is an account of some of the attractions my husband and our three sons previewed: Established in 2007, this park is one of the first of its kind in the nation, and designed for participation, not observation. Driving in, you pass some of the treetop bridges and platforms and it appears that you have landed in a Robinhood /Tarzan dreamland. Guests are measured, issued a harness and gear, and sent over to the training area, where all guests are told about the structure of the park and how to safely use the equipment. The boys were anxious to get out on the course, but we soon learned that the course is self-guided, so paying attention to the safety standards is paramount. Before heading out, you are observed and tested by staff on a training course that, once passed, gives you the green light to climb into the trees for hours. There are over 1.5 miles of aerial features including mobile bridges, climbing aparatuses, rope swings, ladders, cargo nets, zip lines, and platforms. When navigating any of Harnessing Family By Mim Frantz Adirondack Extreme

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