Challenge Course

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No Group? No Problem! Check out our Special Events page to see what events we have coming up.

What is a Challenge Course?

A Challenge Course is a combination of mental and physical challenges requiring groups to work as a team to accomplish goals. Through a series of fun and unusual activities, participants learn valuable information about themselves, each other, and the group as a unit. By removing people from their usual environment and placing them in a new, unique setting, a challenge course experience fosters shared learning, openness, and cooperation. Click to view photos!

Program Types

Though there are some consistencies to every experience at the COEC Challenge Course, each program is customized by Facilitators to address the specific goals and desires of each individual group. Programs range from two to seven hours in length and are available seven days a week (not including Holidays) General formats include:

  • Ground Level Team Building
  • Tar Heel Towers High Ropes Course
  • Combination Programs

Who can use the Challenge Course?

Groups that utilize the course include UNC organizations (athletics, Greek, academic, student clubs, residence life, staff, and faculty groups), local school groups, youth groups, religious organizations, sports teams, and businesses. Participants come in all ages, shapes, sizes, and levels of physical abilities. Any group that would like to play and have fun together, learn about each other and build a sense of community are likely to benefit from a day on the COEC Challenge Course.

There is no minimum group size. 

Groups generally vary between 15 and 125 people and group size does play a role in determining what type of programs are available for each group. Please call or email us with specific questions about your group.

To ensure program safety, participants under age 13 or over 300lbs. are not permitted to participate on high elements. Any participant under 18 years of age must have a parent signature on the Challenge Course Participant Agreement form.

Fee Structure

Fees range from $17-$100/person based on the format and length of your program, as well as the number of people and UNC affiliation of your group. Please submit a reservation request to receive your custom quote!

How to Book a Challenge Course

Submit a reservation request for your group at the COEC Challenge Course.

Once you have submitted your request, COEC staff will contact you to discuss the feasibility and details of your program request.

No Group? No Problem!

Each semester the Challenge Course hosts several special events that enable interested individuals or small groups to participant in Challenge Course elements without the need to find a larger group. Want to check out events like Outdoor Rec Fest and Full Moon Zipline? Visit the Special Events page and see what we have coming up.

Becoming a Challenge Course Facilitator

Visit our Employment page and contact us at challengecourse@unc.edu if you are interested in working at the Challenge Course.