The high ropes course of Adirondack Experience, Inc. is not an original concept. The ideas and philosophy behind the ropes course have been developed and utilized since the early 1970’s by programs such as Project Adventure and Outward Bound. Initially these programs used simple, sometimes silly, group problem solving scenarios called “group initiatives” to develop group cohesiveness and teach problem solving skills. In time, these organizations developed more complex initiatives utilizing props, such as ropes, cables and trees. The high ropes course is a collection of initiatives located 35 to 40 feet off the ground. The course is constructed of steel cables, ropes, lumber and hardware. While participants traverse the course they are continuously “belayed” or connected to a safety system.

The Adirondack Experience high ropes course consists of twelve elements, or initiatives, that a participant must complete individually with the help of group support from the ground. These courses have been designed to promote introspection and to challenge individuals to examine personal issues. The elements of the course provide more emotional and mental challenges than physical challenges. Participants are forced to examine pre-set emotional limits and fears. They must often push beyond comfortable limits and take “perceived” physical risks to finish the course. In challenging oneself, the participant enjoys a sense of adventure and the satisfaction of achieving success at something which seemed impossible.

In general, the course fosters increased self-esteem, self confidence and trust. For groups, this is an opportunity to be supportive of other group members, offer encouragement and see direct results of this support. Processing (a discussion of the experience and what was accomplished) is done after the group completed the course. Discussion can focus on a variety of issues depending on the goals of the group. This concept is used effectively in many programs across the country, including in schools, mental health treatment centers, outdoor education centers and counseling programs.

The low ropes course of Adirondack Experience, Inc. was built in the early spring of 1991. The course is used in conjunction with individual and group counseling sessions in our residential program, as well as, our day use program. It is a valuable tool in facilitating discussion of a wide variety of issues. Challenges on the low ropes course cannot be solved individually. Groups find solutions through the use of systematic problem solving skills, a willingness to face challenges individually and by learning to work actively as members of a team.

Course elements are designed in a sequential fashion. Beginning elements require simple problem solving skills and become increasingly more difficult as the course progresses. Also built into the course are opportunities to involve shy, more reserved members of the group into leadership positions. Those who are more outgoing or overbearing are put into the highly dependent role of a follower.

Issues which are addressed include:

• Drawing cause and effect relationships
• Development of systematic problem solving skills
• Identification of strengths and weaknesses
• Promotion of a greater sense of “team,” improve communication skills and build trust
• Importance of remaining light-hearted; reducing negativism
• Discussion of behaviors which increase or decrease self-esteem; skills to promote higher self-esteem

We have devoted much time to developing strategies and “story lines” that relate to each element of the ropes course. Each “story line” relates to issues facing families and young people today. These issues are often easier to address in the low ropes setting than in the traditional counseling setting. Participants are able to apply problem solving skills to immediate challenges. Solutions to challenges on the course can be directly applied to problems participants encounter on a daily basis. These issues include dysfunctional communication patterns, dysfunctional family behavioral patterns, alcohol and drug abuse issues, teen pregnancy and sexuality. Our goal is to effect positive changes in behavior using the low ropes course as a short term intervention tool.

There are lots of options with this activity. In and around Lake Placid are some of the most popular sites in the East. These are rock faces for the beginner as well as the expert; from 20 foot to 140 foot pitches. In addition, we have constructed a 40 foot climbing wall just a stone’s throw from our facility. It has a 12 x 40 foot ‘easy’ side and another 12 x 40 foot side that will challenge even the most experienced climber. This activity is an excellent choice for a large group, as our wall can accommodate up to 4 climbers at a time. AE utilizes Top Rope set-ups only. In the cold winter months, AE is grateful to have access to the climbing wall at Rock and River Guide Service in Keene, just a short drive from AE.

The Tyrolean Traverse is otherwise known as a horizontal crossing of a gorge or glacier. Our favorite site is approximately 12 miles from AE. It is a deep gorge that flows by Whiteface Mountain. Crossing the Ausable River takes a short time, but it is more than exciting to hang 40 feet above the rushing water! An added feature in the summertime is that there is a great swimming hole there, with ledges to jump off of into the pools below.

Often a favorite time for program participants, this activity creates many wonderful memories of sharing the wilderness with friends. The campfire, wildlife and all that comes with the backcountry is often a time of bonding with peers and staff. The summer trips are often combined with canoeing, which allows for lots of swimming time. In the cold winter months, the participants stay warm in our below zero sleeping bags.

This activity is geared to the beginner with easy to moderate terrain. Participants often catch on to the techniques necessary to make this a rewarding experience, but until then, an ability to laugh at one’s self is a plus! Cross country skiing is an activity that many participants can pick up again after returning home.

It stands to reason that the High Peaks are usually blessed with a sufficient amount of snow for this enjoyable activity. Participants are offered a trek through some majestic lowland or a challenging climb up a high peak. Activities are usually geared toward those who have never been provided this opportunity.

Adirondack Experience is located at the base of New York’s highest peak, Mt. Marcy and in the middle of the High Peaks. This allows for numerous hiking options, from strenuous day long hikes to short excursions to some scenic vistas. Hiking helps build stamina and endurance and teaches what rewards can come of some difficult work. AE staff are experienced guides and are familiar with all 46 peaks over 4000 feet. Group size is often limited by state regulations.

The Adirondack lakes and rivers are plentiful. Some bodies of water are only a short distance from local communities while others lead to some of the most remote areas in New York. AE maintains all the equipment for a group of at least 10 individuals. Summer days in the Adirondacks are best spent on the water!

What a great activity to foster trust, confidence and build camaraderie with one’s peer group. Participants are provided instructions on how to use a compass and are then given the opportunity to test out their new skills in the wilderness.