This past summer, instead of hiking the mountains at Philmont or sailing the seas at sea base, we decided to canoe the Shenandoah River in Virginia. The fish were plenty, the rapids thrilling, and the boys elated as we whisked past plains and prairies in our simple canoes. We experienced many things throughout this trip. From the subtle sound of a stream branching out from the river near our campsite to the electrifying sound of a thunder storm. The warmth of the sun on our faces as we paddled downriver was the perfect therapy for the morning chills. In lieu of these simple pleasures, there was no uncomfortableness throughout this trip as everyone paddled with the hopes of complete accomplishment. Of course, the food was good too.

– Evan G.