The Ultimate Experience with Adventure Explorations

I’ll admit it. I’m a bit of a control freak. I’m that person who spends hours researching and planning a trip with a detailed spreadsheet to accompany it (yes, I’m also a huge nerd). While it makes the actual trip go smoother, it honestly gets tedious and I usually end up dedicating more time than I have to the process. Recently, I had the experience to book a trip through Adventure Explorations and for the first time in a long time (dare I say, ever?), I got to sit back, relax and let a local expert handle the details. I’m telling you, I am hooked. Every part of my experience with this new company was flawless and I can’t recommend them enough.

About Adventure Explorations

Adventure Explorations is a custom-tailored adventure company nestled in Boiling Springs, PA. Located only a couple of hours from Philadelphia, a trip with them makes for an easy, fun weekend getaway.

The company and its guides place an emphasis on learning. They want adventure to be fun, accessible, and above all something you can grow from. That’s why they tailor each trip to you and your group. They’ve nailed the combination of pushing you a little out of your comfort zone with making sure you are enjoying yourself so that you truly walk away feeling like you accomplished something.

What sets apart Adventure Explorations from any other company is how they focus on their clients. It’s a luxurious experience where all you have to do is show up and be ready to have some fun. They take care of every other detail, while focusing on your comfort and skill level.

You can either select from one of their packages or send them a note to have them customize an adventure for you. Some of the options are paddling, shooting sporting clay, rock climbing, hiking, and so much more! Check out their full list of options here.

The Process of Designing My Adventure with Adventure Explorations

Designing my adventure with Adventure Explorations was one of my favorite parts of the process. As I mentioned, when I book a trip I spend hours researching the area, figuring out what to do, and making reservations. With the wealth of information out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. This trip was completely different.

I had a quick phone call with Cody, co-founder and lead guide who wanted to ensure that I had the best tailor-made experience possible. I gave him an overview of what I like and my adventure level. He suggested kayaking and clay pigeon shooting and then walked me through what each would look like. While shooting seemed a little out of my comfort zone, he assured me I’d love it. After giving him my necessary details, I was booked. Nothing could be easier. Cody also made the hotel part of this easy and recommended the Pheasant Field Bed and Breakfast. I truly didn’t even have to do a google search on the area.

But wait, it gets better! A few days before the trip, Cody sent a detailed email with where we were meeting and then gave suggestions for the rest of the day. He suggested checking out a local brewery, Evergrain Brewing Company, and then heading next door to dinner at this lovely Italian restaurant, Cork & Fork Osteria. He even made us dinner reservations!

My Experience with Adventure Exploration

Saturday: Paddling

We drove to Carlisle (where Pheasant Field Bed and Breakfast is located) Saturday morning and checked in to the lovely inn. The main house is over 200 years old but has been maintained extremely well with all the comforts you’d need for a stay. Taking a stroll around the property was one of my favorite parts as it’s not only picturesque but they have quite a few animals! We also had the chance to meet Kit and Robin, the lovely owners who recommended a nearby spot for lunch.

Next up was paddling! We met Cody at the Yellow Breeches River where he had everything we needed ready: dry bags for our belongings, water shoes, life jackets, etc. He walked us through some techniques for paddling and then we were ready to get on the water.

True to the experience I had thus far with Cody and Adventure Explorations, the paddling trip did not disappoint. I’ve been on a lot of different guided trips and have never had one so personalized with the utmost attention to detail. We enjoyed our afternoon being pushed a little out of our comfort zones (I fell out twice and still had so much fun!), learning about the different wildlife, seeing some historical bridges, and getting to know Cody. By the end of it, we felt like we had known him much longer than an afternoon! His easygoing nature and flexibility makes for not only a wonderful tour guide but also someone you enjoy spending time with.

After our paddling adventure, we headed back to the inn. We followed the rest of Cody’s suggestions after we cleaned up. Dinner and the brewery were an absolute hit and it was obvious that Cody had taken into account our preferences.

We ended the day in a massive food coma and more than excited to continue our adventure the next day!

Sunday: Sporting Clay Shooting

First we had a delicious breakfast made at Pheasant Field Bed and Breakfast. I seriously could have eaten two plates of these waffles!

We then met Cody at Orvis Hill Country for our sporting clay shooting. I’m not going to lie, I was a little nervous and did not know what to expect. Of course, I should have known better. Cody and the team at Orvis Hill Country first had us fitted for our guns and then walked us through basic safety protocol and stances. We then did a few test shots so we could get used to the guns and I quickly felt any nerves evaporating. Cody and the team made it such a seamless learning experience for beginners that I felt comfortable almost immediately.

It may have taken me awhile but I did manage to hit a few clays! There’s really nothing like that feeling when the clay explodes. The adrenaline rush makes all the failed attempts worth it.

This was something I probably would not have considered doing before and that only served to make it the perfect adventure. And, it was fully customized! Cody helped us decide which courses to do and pushed us while making sure we still had a blast.

I truly loved every minute of it and didn’t think it could get any better. Boy was I wrong. Cody announced it was time for lunch after a few hours of shooting. We went to a beautiful picnic spot on the property and he cooked us a locally sourced lunch (every ingredient was from within a 30 mile radius). He even made sure to accommodate my dietary restrictions. I’m pretty sure I had one of the best veggie burgers I’d ever had, cooked right in the back of his truck!

I almost didn’t want the day to end but we still had a drive back to Philadelphia. Luckily, Cody sent us with leftover bread, cheese, and apple cider for the ride. Food = the way to my heart.

Bottom Line

I can’t rave enough about Adventure Explorations (and Cody!). If you live in Philadelphia, DC, and even Pittsburgh, you’re just an easy drive away. Can only do a day trip? They even have a “Staycation” package that includes a beautiful room for you to relax in when you’re not on your adventure. If you’re looking for an adventure trip in Pennsylvania that is fully customizable, luxurious, and above all, fun as hell, then this company is for you!