Recently took a larger group to TreeUmph with kids ranging from 7-13 and a bunch of adults. Overall, the visit was worth it - a neat combination of obstacle course and zip-lines that the older kids loved - but I wouldn't go with 7 year olds again. Notes we had for next time were that may help others - arrive earlier (we were on course for 2 hours and had only completed two of the five courses) and have more chaperones for the younger kids (the 7 year olds struggled with the kids course trying to reach things).
The staff gets kudos for refunding the younger kids that never even got past the training course and for the adults that gave up their spots to stay with the younger kids. The staff gets negatives for not being around more out on the courses. The reason we were on the course so long was people in front of us struggling with all the transitions with the clickers - especially at the beginning. Most just kept struggling rather than call for staff - but if staff was around earlier to help them, it may have kept things moving on a bit better than it was.
Other notes are that the location, while it says Bradenton, is way inland. Expect a 40-45 min drive from the beaches of Anna Maria Island and, I can't say it enough, try to get an earlier time. We booked last minute for a noon slot and, after being fitted, the training video AND a training course, we had to leave after 2 courses as we wanted some beach time that day.
I and my family enjoy these types of courses and we'd come here again. Some hiccups on the first visit were frustrating but not fatal for a return.
Response from Host
Apr 2018
Thanks for your visit and review! We appreciate your feedback. Our courses are self-paced and can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours to complete, depending on the how quickly you climb and how many breaks you take. We recommend that everyone come ready for their adventure and not have plans directly afterwards so they can devote as much time as needed to finishing the courses. During the 30 minutes of training before you start your adventure, we teach all climbers how to use their gear and how to call for help if they need any assistance. We always have guides available that can come to assist with questions or problems, you just have to call “Guide, Guide, Guide!” to get their attention. Our park is located in Bradenton, and it can take about 30 to 45 minutes to get there from the neighboring town of Anna Maria Island.
Thanks again for your review, we’re so happy to hear that you’ll be visiting us again in the future. We can’t wait to see you in the trees soon!
- Kelsey M.