PIPESTEM, (Hinton News) – Summer weather is setting in, and that means many people are seeking water and other outdoor activities for the whole family. The Adventure Zone, Adventure Lake, Zipline and Splash Pad are all open for the season at Pipestem State Park and Resort. Chief Operating Officer Michael Buechler recently spoke about the activities and what visitors can expect.
According to Buechler, there are multiple unique activities within the Adventure Zone. This list includes laser tag, RC car driving, skeet shooting, 3D archery, axe throwing, and putt-putt golf. However, drones are no longer available. Previously, the Adventure Zone offered drone flying along with RC car driving. Unfortunately, the drones are not returning for the 2023 season.
Each of the activities at Adventure Zone is popular for varying reasons. Every event has a unique and interesting history. Varying levels allow for entertainment for all ages.
For example, axe throwing is a thrilling recreational activity that has gained immense popularity in recent years. It involves participants hurling axes at wooden targets, aiming to hit the bullseye or score points based on accuracy. Safety is paramount, with participants receiving proper instruction and supervision, ensuring a secure environment. Moreover, axe throwing offers a unique way to relieve stress, improve focus, and develop hand-eye coordination.
Putt-putt golf, also known as miniature golf or mini-golf, is a popular recreational activity enjoyed by people of all ages. This scaled-down version of traditional golf focuses on the putting aspect, with players navigating a series of creatively designed holes featuring obstacles, slopes, and other challenges. The objective is to complete each hole in the fewest number of strokes, testing one’s accuracy and strategy. The accessibility and lighthearted nature of putt-putt golf make it a beloved pastime for many.
Skeet shooting is a competitive sport that tests participants’ accuracy and reflexes using shotguns to hit clay targets, also known as clay pigeons. Originating in the early 20th century, it has grown into an internationally recognized discipline, with events held at the Olympic Games and World Championships. Shooters must demonstrate precision, focus, and adaptability to excel in this challenging activity. Skeet shooting promotes camaraderie, discipline, and respect for firearms, making it an engaging and rewarding pastime for enthusiasts worldwide.
According to Buchler, guides can accommodate essentially any age range when it comes to enjoying various activities. He stated, “For the most part, most of our activities are pretty kid-friendly [up to] grandparents. We can do laser tag for just about all ages. With the skeet shooting and handling firearms and our archery, that’s kind of something that tends to be a little bit more of an older age group, but as long as [there is] parental guidance, we’re able to accommodate most ages.”
The Adventure Zone offers guided and non-guided tours. Guides are always available to help groups with the various events. Buchler noted that the guides are encouraged to engage with the activities when they have time so they are better prepared to aid guests with questions or advice. Some employees even go on their days off to practice in the event of their choice.
Different packages in various price ranges are available for guests based on the experience they want to achieve. This list includes an all-inclusive package, individual activities and more. The fun begins around 9 a.m. daily and begins to close up shop around 6 p.m. The last guided tour begins around 4:30 p.m., and Buchler noted that someone remains on-site for non-guided tours between 6 and 8 p.m. Buchler recommends reserving a spot in advance, especially for those who want to be sure they are able to participate in a specific event.
When asked about his favorite events, Buchler said, “Well, as far as the Adventure Zone goes, I really like the axe throwing, I think that’s really fun. I’m really bad at it, to be completely honest with you. But I have a good time doing that. I think the laser tag is about as cool as it gets. We have this software that is really cool, I think Battle Company is the name of the software, and the guns in the software is really cool. You can change the settings from lasers to shotguns to mini guns.”
When talking about what participants should know, Buchler said, “The most important thing is to come with a good attitude and ready to have fun because that’s what we offer. We like to say we sell experience and we sell fun here. So all you got to do is show up, be ready for a good time, and we will make sure that happens. That’s the most important thing.”
In addition to the Adventure Zone, there is also an Adventure Lake, Splash Pad and Zipline experience. The lake has multiple floating additions that participants can use while enjoying the water. Buchler said, “We are always adding new toys and improving every year.” For the younger crowd, the Splash Pad is full of water fun and chairs for the adults to relax. Buchler stated that the Splash Pad often gets school groups. Shuttles run regularly from the Splash Pad area to Adventure Lake. Anyone who wants is welcome to walk the trail, but Buchler noted that many prefer the convenience of the shuttle, especially for the trip back up the hill.
The zipline takes riders over the Bluestone. With nine different zips to choose from, there is something for everyone. Many of the zips top 100 to 150 feet high, while zip seven is upwards of 300 feet, and goes right over the water. Buchler stated, “I’ve done a lot of ziplines, and that’s really the only one where I’ve been that high overtop of water like that. So that’s definitely my favorite part of that zipline.
According to Buchler, the ziplines are incredibly user-friendly. He noted that for best results, it is best for the rider to be between 100 and 250 pounds, and they can accommodate most ages from there. Buchler said riders under 100 pounds often have a difficult time getting all the way across the zip.
For more information or to book a reservation, visit pipestemadventures.com. You can also head to the park and speak with a staff member.
