“ FIRING ARROWS INTO THE SUNSET ” Once we had our bows , we learned how to place an arrow on it . Each arrow had three feathers ; one of them was a different color , which indicated the direction to insert the arrow into the bow . The instructors recommended that we pull the string with our hand to the side of our face , aim , and then release .
Tina prepares to fire an arrow . PHOTO BY JEFF CHIU
We honed our skills over seven rounds of target shooting ; each round consisted of three arrows . After we all got into our spots and clicked our first arrows into our bows , we waited for our signal to shoot . Each participant shot their arrows , celebrating their victories and lamenting their misses . At the end of each round , we then placed our bows back on the stand and safely retrieved our arrows from the target ( two guests per target ).
It was a very fun activity , and I enjoyed watching the friendly competition from other families . I hope to return with friends and family to discover the best Merida of our group !
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL EXPERIENCE
Reservations are definitely recommended ; however , you can only make them over the phone . I recommend calling right when the phone lines open to avoid long wait times . Like Advance Dining Reservations , you can book the Fort Wilderness Archery Experience 60 days in advance .
The bows come in an array of fun colors . PHOTO BY JEFF CHIU
Arrive about 45 minutes early to the Fort Wilderness entrance . The Bike Barn is located in the middle of Disney ’ s Fort Wilderness Resort and requires internal resort transportation to get to . If you are not staying at Fort Wilderness , park at the front of the resort and take the Yellow or Orange line buses to the Bike Barn .
While this may seem like a fun activity for children , the bow string does require some strength to pull . I will be bringing my boys when they ’ re older and strong enough to enjoy this activity . Until then , an enjoyable screening of Brave from a cozy spot on the couch will have to do .
Tina is ready to give Merida a run for her money . PHOTO BY JEFF CHIU