I was excited to try out this aerial adventure park when my friend and I read about it in Boston Magazine, but I could never have anticipated how much fun I would have running around like a kid again after completing my first trail at Ramblewild.
My friend and I chose to sign up for the Moonlight tour, under a full moon in late August. Our group included a bachelor party and families with children, and I think every one of us had a blast. Outfitted with our gear and headlamps, and serenaded by a wonderful guitarist singing songs by the likes of Neil Young and Bob Dylan, we ran, swung, trapeze'd, and zipped through the treetops of the Berkshires. The staff is knowledgeable, engaged, and always making sure you're having the time of your life. The atmosphere was great and pretty special. Even if you weren't up in the tree tops, you had your own little concert and bonfire to enjoy!
When you arrive, you'll check-in and leave in a group from the main cabin to hike a short distance to where you'll get your gear and practice using it before heading to "The Hub" where all the trails start. There are 8 trails total ranging from two beginner trails to a double-black diamond trial. I always felt safe when I was up in the trees thanks to the staff and my equipment. The "smart" clasps you use do not allow you to be completely unhooked from the cables unless you are on the ground because only one clasp can be opened at a time. Trails take about 30 minutes to complete and you can do several within the 3 hours that your ticket is good for.
During the few minutes I remained on the ground to grab some water (you can bring your own water bottle, but I assume you'd leave it on the ground at the Hub as you really need to be hands-free in the trees. The staff also has a large water cooler and cups on hand), I had the opportunity to chat with Paolo Cugnasca, the founder of the Ramblewild's parent company, Feronia Forests, which aims to preserve woodlands. On Ramblewild's website there are links the Feronia Forests under the 'About Us' tab, where you can read about the organization and its other operations besides the park, and its Foundation. Paolo and Feronia Forests' idea of Sustainable Full Forestry allows us to enjoy and preserve the forests while getting value (i.e. loads of fun, confidence, fitness, etc.) out of the woodland, in ways we haven't tried before on a large-scale effort.
So whether its the fun, challenge, or mission behind Wildramble that draws you to the Berkshires, you won't be disappointed! read more