BY MICHAEL JOHNSON
Summer is in full swing and it’s time to get out and about. Get the oxygenated rush of being outside with the family this season. Come along as we are taking your mind’s eye on a journey of some terrific outdoor activities to experience as soon as possible!
Splish, Splash
Tanglewood Pool
If you have never graced the gates of Tanglewood Park in Clemmons, you should hurry and go. It is a picturesque destination of hiking and biking trails, golf, horseback riding, tennis, and so much more. One of its crown jewels is the Brunstetter Aquatic Center. Located in the heart of Tanglewood Park, the Aquatic Center features four sections for all members of the family to enjoy! A zero-depth entry wading pool with three large water features, a splash pad featuring water features for the little ones to enjoy, a large main pool with two diving boards and two slides, and a winding tubing river.
Rates: It costs $2 to get into the park; although they do sell very reasonably priced yearly gate access passes at the park. The pool’s daily admission fee is $8. Children 3-5 and Seniors 55+ receive a $1 discount on General Admission Rates. Admission is FREE for Children 2 & Under.
The Quarry at Carrigan Farms
About 45 miles away in Mooresville is the Quarry at Carrigan Farms (www.carriganfarms.com). This gem is located between Forsyth County and Charlotte. Swimming in a deep, refreshing natural quarry is the perfect way to cool off in the summer. Participating in the open swim hours at the Quarry at Carrigan Farms is an unforgettable adventure. There is a sheltered section to get into the shade and out of the sun if so desired, and there is a restaurant located at open swim serving all the usual farm fresh favorites, as well as items that change daily.
Please note that no outside food or beverages may be brought to open swim. Lifeguards are on duty during open swim, but children aged eleven and under are required to wear a life-vest at all times while swimming in the quarry. Life-vests are provided or you may bring your own. Children that are under two years old or who weigh less than thirty pounds are not advised to swim in the quarry.
Rates: Admission ranges anywhere from $20 up to $35 per person depending upon weekday, weekend, or holiday time slots.
Taking a Ride
Kersey Valley Zip Line
On your zip line adventure, you depart from a tower at 58 feet high, overlooking the Maize Adventure corn maze. Attire included with the experience are gloves, a helmet, and a full-body harness. You push off the platform and fly along the cable from tower to tower. You are anywhere from 40 to 100 feet off the ground and literally will be flying through the woods and across the Maize Adventure corn maze. All fliers must be at least 10 years old and weigh between 70 and 250 lbs. A minimum of two participants is required per group and an adult has to be participating with anyone under the age of 18.
Rates: $79 for first class flight (14-line flight). $69 for coach flight (10-line flight).
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster is North Carolina’s first alpine roller coaster, providing thrilling outdoor adventure in Banner Elk, a little under two hours away from Forsyth County. Wilderness Run was built by Germany’s top alpine coaster company and modeled after popular coasters in Europe. The track’s length of 3,160 feet includes three circular loops, a series of waves, and several twists and turns for plenty of excitement. Guests navigate the track in individual carts that are designed to accommodate up to two people. Each ride begins with a cable-pulled ascent of 770 feet to the top. At that point, the alpine coaster differs from a roller coaster because the remainder of the ride is gravity-fed with the rider grasping two handles that serve as brakes. Riders can use as little or as much braking as they like. The top speed is 27 miles per hour, and the average ride takes about five minutes.
Rates: Ranging in price for a single ticket from $5 to $16 depending on age of the participant.
Picnic-apalooza
Miller Park
Miller Park (400 Leisure Lane, Winston-Salem) is an idyllic spot for an outdoor dining experience. Bring your blankets, pasta salad, and snacks and dine al fresco. Miller Park is a Winston-Salem city park with natural areas, bocce courts, six picnic shelters, a playground, two softball diamonds, four lighted tennis courts, walking trail, restrooms, and horseshoe pits.
Reynolda Gardens
Gardens, large stretches of lawn, shops, and restaurants at Reynolda Village all contribute to the expanse of beauty at Reynolda Gardens. Pull into the entrance at 2201 Reynolda Road in Winston-Salem and experience all the grandeur of Reynolda’s outdoor wonders. It’s the perfect place to share a picnic with family and friends!
