Nature ’ s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees . The winds will blow their own freshness into you , and the storms their energy , while cares will drop off like autumn leaves . ~ John Muir
family or friends . Happily , many will take what they ’ ve learned here and build upon it with the help of additional influences , like a parent , coach , friend , or coworker .
We believe that every day is a chance for people to be their best , and it ’ s our goal to provide the space and experience to build long lasting memories . Lucky for us , nature does half the work .
With 285 acres along the Potomac River and the C & O canal , the opportunities and options offered at Bretton Woods are unlike anywhere else . We provide adventure programs , summer camps , family outings , school and corporate programs , self-discovery moments , empowerment skills , friendships , and teamwork , all with an environmental responsibility focus based upon leave no trace ethics .
Additionally , we work with special needs children and take them on one-on-one adventures or on small family and group adventures . We might go canoeing , paddle boarding , create nature crafts , or embark on a ropes course . More often than not , these adventures are outside a familiar environment for kids , and often without parent involvement . Nature is their teacher , a friend without judgment or preset limits . The growth we see in this population is unmeasurable . We make choosing one ’ s adventure easy and that ’ s what enables diverse groups to fully partake in the fun . Nature knows no boundaries and it ’ s a privilege to explore that notion in a safe , inclusive , and super fun way .
These days we are seeing more and more people turning to nature as a resource , a creative space , and a beneficial habit , rather than a place full of unknowns . Being outside has been a consistent and safe activity throughout the pandemic , and for many , it has been one of the only places to gather safely with friends , extended family or classmates . People are experiencing a newfound appreciation and comfort in nature and breaking through feelings of separation from it . A light rain that used to discourage people from being outdoors can instead be seen as the perfect time for a slip & slide . Hotter weather means more time in the water or taking on nighttime adventures after the sun has set . Harsh weather doesn ’ t have to be something to shy away from ; it can be a fun challenge to experience .
I want to continue to nurture the idea that time spent out in nature provides tremendous benefits — ones that cannot be found online or in the office , and everyone has the potential to experience it fully . Nature is powerful , available and positive for the body and mind . It ’ s a safe haven for thought , growth , and open to us all .
As we move back to a closer state of normal , I hope that more people establish a new and happier normal by continuing to be active in the wonder of nature and looking forward to their next adventure . At Bretton Woods , we certainly will be .
David Roy Ritter has been Director of Outdoor Education & Team Building at Bretton Woods Recreation Center since 2016 . His outdoor adventure programs have rocketed Bretton Woods into a league of its own with features unheard of in the club industry . With his degree in Outdoor Education from Hartwick College , Dave continues to explore , create , and let the peace of the wilderness keep him steady . He lives in Dickerson , Maryland , with his wife and two kids who keep him just as active when he ’ s away from his “ office .” www . bwrc . org
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