Watkins Glen is by far the farthest jungle gym that we regularly go to. There's a reason for this--Watkins Glen has an absolutely amazing gym. The Glen is the best we've seen. It's big, and, more importantly, there are large areas which are suspended well above the ground, so long roof traverses are possible.

The Super Roof: This is the king-daddy of roof traverses. It's long, it's nasty, and there are an infinite number of variations. Here's what it looks like from a distance:

You start on the right of the picture stay underneath it until you get to the slide. Then go back. Fred is hanging to the hardest section of the roof. So far, no one has done the problem yet without hanging on to the vertical boards above the roof there. (You can see Fred hanging on to those in the picture.)

Another hard part is right next to the slide. There's a section where you have to do a fairly long reach to get to the next handhold. Here's Mark demonstrating that section:

Endless entertaining variations are possible. There are, for example, a number of good resting spots along the route. Take them off as you figure out the sequence.

The Tree: There are a few truely unique problems at Watkins Glen. Getting onto and off of the tree is one of them. Here's Mark demonstrating:

The Crimper: Very few problems on jungle gyms involve small crimpers. While those of us with weak tendons think this is great, occationally a good crimp is fun. Off in one corner of Watkins' gym is a low overhang which requires using a small hold.

Send email to Fred or Mark.