Admittedly when you make that turn off of 37 onto Essig, you're fairly certain you made the wrong turn. You're headed to the Koteewi Archery Range, but this can't be it, right? There are houses, fields, rural street signs... and then you see it down a gravel path - a large tan building off in the distance. You've arrived.

Koteewi Range 1Since their opening last May {as in May of 2015}, Koteewi has been quietly generating buzz among archery enthusiasts and Katniss-wannabees alike. It's a serene atmosphere, with shooting areas divided by practice, recreational and competitive skillsets, a large pro shop packed with everything you'll need for a successful day at the range, and of course, archers on staff ready to show you the ropes - or the crossbows.

Anyone worth their arching sport sense will tell you that archery has surged in popularity in recent years thanks to movies like Disney's Brave and The Hunger Games. Even the recent Summer Olympics played up archery in a primetime spotlight. It's this popularity and interest in which Koteewi thrives.

Is it family friendly? Absolutely. Worthy of a girls trip? Yes. Something to check out? Get there. Never shot before? That's totally okay. They'll teach you.

Koteewi Range 2Here are some tips for your visit:
• Equipment rental is available. There's a $10/hour range fee + an equipment fee of $15 for a bow and 5 arrows.

• Families can reserve two lanes, bows and arrows for $25/hour.

• If you've never shot before, that's okay! Koteewi staff are amazing at helping with stance, recommendations and of course, basics. {You might even get a chance to watch Assistant Manager and female archer Harley Klee shoot and believe me, she's amazing!}

• Determine which is your dominant eye: This will dictate which side you shoot from. Range experts can help you with this if you have questions.

• Respect other archers: Don't tear out onto the course before checking that everyone is finished shooting.

• And finally, once you've picked up some skill, consider the other areas of Koteewi including their 3D archery trail.

As if the archery fun wasn't enough, Koteewi is currently in the middle of a huge recreational addition on the north end of the property due to open in early summer. It will include ziplines, an equestrian barn for horse rental and more rumored in the years to come. So hone your Katniss-like skills now, and keep an eye on the balance for later this summer. Either way, there's plenty for a solo, date, or family outing.

MORE INFO: Koteewi Archery Range is located at 11900 Koteewi Drive in Noblesville. Current hours are 10am-8pm all 7 days of the week. These do alter in the winter. Call 317.776.8472 for additional details.