Outdoor Recreation

Promote greater understanding and appreciation of self, others & the natural world.

The Carolina Outdoor Education Center (COEC) is a 20-acre wooded, green space 10 minutes on foot from the Student Union. COEC includes two main programs: a challenge course which features numerous low elements and two high ropes courses and an expedition program which offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities including rock climbing, sea kayaking, backpacking, day hikes and WAFFYS (a special opportunity for first year students). Both programs offer students, university groups, staff and other community members a variety of invigorating and empowering opportunities through the process of experiential education or "learning by doing." Additional recreational opportunities at the COEC include 8 tennis courts, 3 sand volleyball courts, and an 18-hole disc golf course. 

Carolina Outdoor Education Center challenges participants to reach beyond their perceived personal limits - physically, mentally and socially. It fosters appreciation for the natural environment, develops leadership abilities, and encourages relationship growth.

View/download map, walking directions and driving directions.

For questions about the Challenge Course, please contact David Rogers at challengecourse@unc.edu or 919.843.4632.

For questions about Expeditions, please contact Dave Yeargan at dyeargan@email.unc.edu or 919.843.3233.