What is a Challenge Course?

Maximize Your Experience

Program Options

Schedule a Program

What is a Challenge Course?  

A challenge course, sometimes referred to as a ropes course, is a series of low and high activities referred to as elements. These elements are designed to challenge participants to optimize their individual and group resources. Success depends largely on the level of individual commitment, team support, and performance. Through action, reflection and discussion, participants develop an awareness of the importance of each group member’s unique qualities.

The low course consists of ground based elements, which develop a foundation of skills related to communication, trust, leadership, teamwork and problem solving.

The high course is a dynamic environment which challenges individuals and builds self-confidence. Under the supervision of trained staff, and aided by group support, participants negotiate high elements that vary from 20 to 50 feet in height.  

The climbing tower is a four-sided freestanding structure with 44 vertical feet of climbing surface. Climbing routes are set using simulated rock holds providing varying levels of challenge. The tower can be used in conjunction with a challenge course experience or programmed for pure recreation.  

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Maximize your Challenge Course experience at Camp Roanoke...

Prior to experiencing the challenge course, outline your group's goals and objectives for the day, which can be set for the entire group as well as the individuals. Staff will assist you in setting goals at the start of the group’s challenge course experience or through session(s) arranged in advance.

Challenge Course Benefits...

• Improve group skills in communication and leadership.
• Develop trust and respect for individual differences.
• Improve grop cohesion and teamwork.
• Create a supportive environment.
• Increase self confidence and self esteem.

Customized Experience... 

It's the details that often make the difference between a good program that is useful and an extraordinary program that is talked about for years afterwards. No two programs are exactly the same, and as a result, every program is customized to meet your needs. Meals, meeting rooms, overnight accommodations, and adventure programs are just a few of the experiences that can be included.

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Challenge Course Program Options for Your Group 

Half Day Low Challenge Course: This is one of the most popular options for groups with limited time. This four hour program includes a mix of field games, initiatives, and low course events.

Full Day Low and High Course Sampler: This fast paced six-hour program includes field games, initiatives, and a wide variety of low course events, plus 1 or 2 of the high course events or the climbing tower.

Low and High Course Combo: Eight full hours of challenge! This program combines all of the group dynamics of the low course with the high excitement and individual challenge of the high course.

Multiple Day Course: For a true retreat and immersion into the experience, choose a program involving more than one day. Much of the learning that takes place on a challenge course comes from reflecting back on the experience. By extending your group's experience, it allows your group a chance to reflect and bring closure to your experience.

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How To Schedule A Challenge Course Session...

• Contact Camp Roanoke at (540) 387-6114 to discuss your group goals, program options and possible dates. Call at least three weeks in advance to reserve a date. Most groups schedule four to six weeks in advance.

• Take a tour. We highly recommend taking a tour of the challenge course and facility prior to scheduling your group.

Once your group is scheduled we will send you a contract with program details, a set of health history and liability waivers, directions to the camp, and a brief description of the challenge course to distribute among your group.

1. Return the contract with your deposit to our offices. Have your group member’s fill out and sign waivers. Collect all the waiver forms and bring them on the date of your program.

2. Anticipate a phone call from us the week before the program date to confirm any last minute details.

3. Come to Camp Roanoke ready to have fun!

For more information about Camp Roanoke's Challenge Course programs, call (540) 387-6114 or e-mail Camp Roanoke.

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