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One of the most powerful parts of a summer at Miniwanca is watching campers step into challenge by choice, an essential philosophy in adventure education that encourages individuals to stretch outside their comfort zones, but always on their own terms.

We use this idea every day on our high-ropes course, where the challenge is real and the choice is always theirs. Whether it’s reaching the top of the climbing wall, stepping out onto a swinging beam, or choosing to cheer on a friend from the ground, every camper is invited to participate in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to them.

We believe growth happens when we choose to challenge ourselves — not when we’re pushed or pressured — and our ropes courses are designed to offer that opportunity in a supportive and empowering environment.

Our high-ropes programming includes both an indoor and outdoor course, and each one brings its own unique adventure. Indoors, we feature a climbing wall, Burma bridge, Tarzan vines, and a high beam, all ideal for all-weather climbing and year-round use.

Outside, our course expands into the treetops with elements like the X-Wing, floating islands, traverse lines, and more that have campers laughing, leaping, and leaning into trust.

Safety is a top priority, and our staff are highly trained in both high-ropes technical skills and experiential education. Before any camper leaves the ground, they learn to put on their harness and helmet properly and are triple-checked by our facilitators. Every climb begins with a pre-climb ritual: helmet, harness, and human are checked, followed by a clear communication cycle: “On belay?” “Belay is on.” “Climbing?” “Climb on.” It’s both safety protocol and a ritual of intention, signaling the camper’s choice to take on the challenge ahead.

And while climbing may look like a solo experience, it’s one of the most collaborative activities at camp. Every camper is a part of the belay team and plays a vital role. Our backup belay keeps the climber double safe. The rope coiler ensures our ropes are managed well and tangle-free. The goal setter works with the climber to define their personal goal and announces to the team when it’s been reached so we can all celebrate together.

Campers learn that success isn’t just about making it to the top. It’s about setting an intention, showing up for your team, and honoring the effort it takes to grow. That’s the kind of adventure that sticks with you long after the harness comes off.