Mean Snake

That they don't normally move all that fast is pretty common. To assume they can't is setting yourself up for a snake stuck in the couch LOL. They can if they want move pretty darn quick! I swear sometimes when we are handling them they somehow sense any inattention on our part and make the fast dive for the bowels of the couch! LOL

:snake2: I'm not moving...I'm not moving.....:bolt: ....BWHAHAHAHAHAH...I'm a :snake2: in the :couch: !!!!!

I also get really nervous, being new to this, when he climbs up high and sniffs around the top acting like he is looking to get out. I am assuming this is completely normal.

Yep because he is looking for a way out :)
They are very much the escape artists. Make sure everything is very secure.

Where are you in Va?

Just outside of Richmond.

My snake was starting to get more comfortable, but now he just hides out in his shelter. Occasionally he will poke his head out, but he doesn't seem to be coming out anymore. Is this a normal habit for them. I tried to watch to see if he would come out at night, but he still isn't.

They love their hides. He's likely coming out when you aren't watching late in the night. As long as his temps are good and he's got hides on both sides that he fits into nicely I'm pretty sure he'll be using them as most do.