The blackberries are at peak ripeness. The baby’s breath flowers are in full bloom. The afternoon breeze is gently blowing. The warm sunshine and 70-degree temp are near perfect. And cabin songs are scheduled for the night’s evening activity.
It’s no wonder that the Bluebirds rushed to the table to choose “Walk to the Bridge” for their afternoon choice activity.
Why Do Campers Love “Walk to the Bridge?”
I used to find it mysterious that “Walk to the Bridge” was one of the most popular choice activities at Camp Jeanne d’Arc. It is literally a short walk to a nearby bridge. Campers who sign up for “Walk to the Bridge” gather outside of the chalet. Counselors ensure everyone has proper footwear and sunblock. Then off they go along a quiet road to the Narrows Bridge. The walk is short – ¾ mile each way. And while the journey to the bridge could easily take 15 minutes, it often takes more than double that!
Here’s why: Campers stop to sample fresh blackberries. They peruse the wildflowers and assemble handpicked bouquets. They link arms and skip. And they chat. And sing. And laugh. When they get to the bridge, they gaze at the view of Lyon Mountain tucked behind Chateaugay Lake.
On the way back, the Bluebirds will practice their cabin song (a catchy jingle to the tune of a popular song that highlights how awesome the Bluebirds of 2026 are!). They will likely intersperse some light but well-synced choreography. And devise a memorable finale.
Unhurried Time in Nature
While we provide plenty of opportunities to build skills at Camp Jeanne d’Arc – archery, riflery, sailing, canoeing, mountaineering, tennis, horseback riding, waterskiing, etc. – we also leave room for unhurried time in nature. Sometimes it’s these moments – the “Walk to the Bridge” days – that solidify friendships, establish reverence for nature, create community, and allow kids to bask in life’s simplest joys.
By carving out time for the “Walk to the Bridge,” we teach our campers that there is value in open-ended time outdoors and in the connections they make and the joy they find along the way. Whether it’s the sweet taste of a wild blackberry, the sound of laughter echoing through the trees, or the shared rhythm of a cabin song, these are the moments that linger long after camp ends. It’s a gentle reminder that in a busy world, sometimes the most profound growth happens when we simply slow down, look at the mountains, and share the journey together. Maybe it doesn’t seem so mysterious after all!