Trip Day Safe Returns
I’m happy to report that all 9 chartered buses have safely returned to camp. Tired and sleepy, but happy campers and counselors disembarked and made their way to bed after a full, fun day. Our day began with an early wake up around 6:30. Not a person complained as everyone jumped out of bed eager for the day’s adventure. After a quick breakfast of scrambled eggs, grits, and toast at 7, buses began orderly loading processes in order of departure times.
The Hunters (rising 3rd and 4th grades) loaded their bus for a day full of fun activities in Chattanooga. First stop: Rock City, atop Lookout Mountain in Georgia. Our good friends, the Chapins,have been providing memories in this iconic Southern spot for generations. From there it was down the Mountain to Coolidge Park on the banks of the Tennessee River to enjoy some Chick-Fil-A sandwiches. The Hunters then spent the afternoon rock climbing at High Point Climbing & Fitness, and finished the afternoon by watching an IMAX movie adjacent to the Tennessee Aquarium. After their IMAX experience, the Hunters enjoyed some delicious pizza from Mr. T’s Pizza, a local Chattanooga favorite, and headed home. By the way, High Point is one of the largest indoor climbing gyms in the country with a multitude of walls belayed by auto belay devices for ease of use.
The Hunters weren’t the only ones who had a full schedule of trip day plans. The Trappers (rising 5th) took off to Atlanta. First stop: the College Football Hall of Fame. While I’ve never been, I heard great reports of interactive exhibits and hands on games. After also enjoying a Chick-Fil-A sandwich, the Trappers headed to tour the World of Coke. They were able to open happiness as they entered the vault of the Coca-Cola secret formula, got a behind the scenes glimpse of the bottling process, and were able to taste different soft drinks from around the globe. If you have a Trapper, be sure to get his thoughts on the Italian drink Beverly. From the World of Coke, they walked next door to the Georgia Aquarium. The boys were amazed at the big size of the whale sharks and beluga whales. And they took in a live sea lion show, viewing some amazing tricks and acrobatics of these creatures. After the aquarium, the Trappers enjoyed a delicious pizza dinner on the way home at Pizza Hut in Cartersville, GA.
The Scouts (rising 6th) spent the day in the Great Smokey Mountains of Tennessee as they enjoyed their day at Dollywood, seeking all sorts of fast thrills. Rides like the Tennessee Tornado and the Wild Eagle were sure to provide a rush of adrenaline. For those wanting more chill vibes there were plenty of games and entertainment to enjoy. Food passes were prepurchased for enjoy meals from one of the many concession restaurants in the park.
It was off to white water raft for our older age groups. The Warriors (rising 7th grade) headed to the Nantahala River for their rafting trip. After enjoying a sack lunch, they were briefed with safety instructions and off they went. The Nantahala is near Murphy, NC and is a perfect beginner rapids course. The river is cool and refreshing and Nantahala Falls, at the end, provides a big thrill. On their way home they enjoyed a piping hot pizza dinner at a park provided by a local pizza restaurant in Murphy.
For the Braves (rising 8th) and first year Chiefs(rising 9th), it was down the Ocoee River. They enjoyed floating down the river, surfing the rapids, and riding the waves. The Ocoee is a dam controlled river of the TVA with more adventurous runs. After their rafting run, they headed to The McCallie School in Chattanooga for some swimming and Mr. T’s pizza (a local favorite in Chatty).
Our Chief 2’s are probably the most thrilled to be back at camp after their 4 day adventure out. A warm shower and catching up on the week’s mail will be a great relief. They will definitely sleep well tonight tucked in their beds. We can’t wait to hear more about their adventures!
