For more than 135 years, visitors from all over the state and the nation have put their best foot forward, and continue to do so amid the COVID-19 pandemic, at the enchanting world of Panama Rocks.

Garry and Robin Smith of Hamburg and their two children Gabe and Lennon recently stepped on the historic grounds of Panama Rocks Scenic Park in Chautauqua County for the very first time.

With more than a dozen different areas to explore, Panama Rocks is one of the top-rated trails in the state.

"We wanted to find a fun activity for the family and we enjoy hiking,” Gary Smith said. “So, it seemed like a great place to take all the kids to get their energy out."

But before all that energy is released, Executive Director of the park Jonathan Weston runs down the rules, and regulations as well as newly revised safety guidelines to visitors like the Smiths, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The family has owned and operated the park for more than 40 years.

"It's great! Because it is important to be able to do things with your family that's safe,” Weston said. “And we're just very grateful to be that. Be a place like that."

The Smiths decided to stick close to home this year given the state's travel restrictions and quarantine requirements against other states with popular vacation destinations.

"Feeling like we're kind of landlocked has been a challenge for us this summer,” said Robin Smith. “So, we're finding creative ways to explore and venture out in different ways we haven't before."

What better way than to explore a world of towering rocks, deep crevices, hidden passageways, and small caves all part of an ancient forest. The main trail at Panama Rocks is a one-mile loop around a half-mile ridge of rock formations that feature deep tree roots with ferns and moss dotting the landscape.

Discoveries at each twist capturing the attention of Gabe, and at each turn, capturing the awe the wonder for Lennon. Garry also stopped along the way to read the rich and colorful history behind each natural creation.

"It's a lot of fun. These rock formations are incredible,” Gary Smith said. “And the kids are having a great time. I just like being outdoors."

And after a few pictures, Robin found a spot to sit down with the kids and take a quick water break, after all that climbing.

The Smith’s finally reached the end of the trail. It was time for Garry to take a swing at ax throwing, another adventure Weston added to the park after experiencing it first-hand in Montreal.

"I didn't know this could be a business. Oh my gosh, it was so much fun,” Weston said. “And I just immediately said I have to do this at Panama Rocks."

So, after a quick lesson from Jonathan, and a few practice throws, Gary Smith hit the bullseye and got to the ring the bell, a perfect way to end the trip.

"Pretty amazing. I've never thrown an ax before. For lack of a better term, it's pretty exhilarating to like see it like hit the board," he said.

The Smiths also picked out souvenir t-shirts for the kids before heading out from a short trip they surely won’t forget.