Things you otter know

08/15/2008

Mount Desert Island is an outdoor enthusiasts dream and group A of the Maine Coast trip has been taking full advantage. After their bus ride up on Monday, they have been going non-stop. They set up camp at Seawall Campground in Acadia National Park and have been heading out every morning for their activities. One of their first activities was to celebrate Matt’s birthday with a cake at one of Acadia’s many scenic overlooks. Quite a way to celebrate your 13th birthday! Tuesday they began by heading to Bar Harbor to pick up their bikes from Acadia Bike. After a brief review of safety procedures and biking basics, the group hit the famed carriage roads. These trails were originally constructed by the Rockefellers but now serve as a path for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Tuesday’s weather was foggy and chilly, but the biking kept everyone warm. They traveled about 15 miles that day with only one spill taken by Carrie who promptly got on her feet, brushed off the dirt, and kept on riding. Wednesday’s weather was much better and the group was feeling great so they pushed a little harder. The campers took turns leading the group that day with Ryan doing a lot it. There was only one point where they got turned around, but managed to bike over 20 miles.

Of course, not everything happens out on the trails. The campsite is a busy place with cooking, fire building, and other things constantly going on. Malo is always bumping around helping people out with the stoves, tents, or anything else he knows about. Scott aparently likes his backpack a lot. He wears it everywhere they go and even wears it while cooking. Sam has been a great motivator and decision-maker, keeping the group moving whenever there is some indecision.

Motivation was of utmost importance on Thursday when the group had their first day of rock climbing at Otter Cliffs. There was a lot of apprehension about this so the kids volunteered Todd to go first which he was happy to do. The interesting thing about climbing at Otter Cliffs is that you often have to repel from the top and then climb back up. Ted (and a lot of other folks) had trouble getting over the edge at first but did a great job coming back up a chimney climb. Melody was all over the cliffs getting in as many climbs as possible. But no one has been as excited for the activities as Ben. He’s always psyched to get out there and do anything. This included a tyrolean traverse set up by the climbing guides. This is where a rope is set up between 2 cliffs. The participant then slides across the gap on the rope which in this case was about 60 feet high. Joe really challenged himself with this and did a great job with the support of the group. Friday should be a marvelous day back at the cliffs before a day off on Saturday when the group will pick a couple of things to do. Check back later for more details and hopefully some pictures.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Zach eigenbrodt

Born and raised in Wisconsin, Zach couldn't keep himself out of the woods when growing up. He started working at a Northern Wisconsin YMCA Camp as a wilderness trip leader while in college and fell in love with getting kids into nature. The smiles on kids faces after returning from a once in a life time wilderness experience is why he is here today. Zach brought his talents to Frost Valley YMCA, in 2014, when he started as the Trips Coordinator and soon was promoted to Adventure Director. Zach loves all forms of Wilderness exploration, though some would say his heart lies most with canoeing.