The New Grotto Trail Gets Its Stairs: A Collaborative Effort by the Simpson Family
By Evan Coulson, Adventure & Group Services Director
It is with immense excitement and gratitude that I share some fantastic news: the Grotto access trail, a project two years in the making, is now fully complete! This new trail will make it easier for campers and staff to access the Grotto for Mass, as well as Opening and Closing Campfires. The final addition installed a few weekends ago, is the beautiful and functional Simpson Stairs.
The stairs were designed and built by longtime friends of Camp Ondessonk, Tracey and Jeremy Simpson, alongside their son, Jack. Both Tracey and Jack have deep connections to Camp—Tracey is a current summer volunteer and Jack a former camper and summer staff member. This past summer, Tracey worked with the OWLs and other volunteers to construct a cedar and earth landing where the new trail meets the Grotto Road. During this time, she mentioned to Jeremy, a professional carpenter, that the only remaining task to complete the trail was to build a set of stairs to ensure safe passage from the Scenic Overlook to the trail corridor.
Inspired by this challenge, Jeremy eagerly agreed to contribute his skills. Before the Simpson family left Camp after their week of volunteering, Jeremy confirmed his commitment to designing and constructing the stairs this fall. His excitement to leave a lasting impact on Camp Ondessonk was infectious.
True to his word, Jeremy reached out to Scott Martin, our Camp Ranger, a few weeks ago to confirm that the first weekend in October would be the time to start construction. To help cover the costs of materials, Jeremy’s mom generously donated $500, and when local vendor Greg Barnes at Barnes Lumber, in Harrisburg, heard the project was for Camp, he offered the materials at half price! With a truckload of tools, lumber, and enthusiasm, the Simpsons arrived at Camp and immediately began their work.
Over the course of just two days, the Simpson family worked tirelessly, donating a combined 19 hours each, to complete the stairway. Their dedication and craftsmanship brought this important project to life, creating a safer and more beautiful way for campers and staff to experience the Grotto.
This stairway is more than just a practical addition to the trail – it represents the hard work and generosity of countless volunteers, campers, and staff over the past two years. The Grotto Trail project is a shining example of the Camp Community coming together to create something truly special.
Please join me in giving a heartfelt HEEPWAH to the Simpson family for their incredible work and commitment to Camp Ondessonk!
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue sharing the story of the many hands that made this project possible.
Click here to learn more about volunteering at Camp Ondessonk.