When Matt Baker decided to put on his first Valentine's Day Couples Adventure weekend at Savage Mill in 2010, he didn't factor in Snowmaggedon.
The historic weather event that dumped more than 2 feet of snow in many parts of Maryland left Baker scrambling — and shoveling — to get ready.
"What was I thinking? I was thinking, 'I'll never get this done,'" Baker recalled. "It took me three days to shovel out the course."
It didn't deter a hearty bunch of adventurous couples looking for what Baker, the CEO of Terrapin Adventures, calls "a nice change of pace instead of the traditional dinner and flowers."
The event sold out its 150 spots that year, and again last year. Baker said Saturday that he had sold 50 spots so far, and hopes he will sell out again for this year's event, which runs next Saturday and Sunday. (There are two sessions each day, the first from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and the second from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The adventure (which costs $79.95 per couple) includes a 330-foot zip line, a giant two-person swing with a 40-foot drop and 2 G's of force, a three-level-high ropes challenge course and a 43-foot-high climbing tower with 10 ways to get up and down — including a headfirst-down route.
"You're always under a safety tether," Baker said. "It's a unique experience and people like to try it."
Baker said participants are given hot chocolate and Hershey'sKisses on the course. There is also a raffle with giveaways from local merchants. For those interested in a post-adventure meal, the Rams Head Tavern offers an optional special dinner on its menu for $29.95 per couple plus tax and tip.