Challenge Center FAQs

A ropes course is an outdoor structure built of low and/or high elements and is used to facilitate team-building and personal development programs. Low elements take place on or just above the ground. High elements are often built in trees or utility poles and require a safety system including harnesses, ropes, and hardware. Here at Peak Adventures, we have various high and low elements, including a rock wall, catwalk, multi-line, and the popular dive. Many of our elements can be viewed here.

Our pricing is variable and customized depending on the group, activities, and time. (just like our programming). 

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A typical program begins with an ice breaker, followed by energizers to get the group engaged and warmed up. Next, the facilitator will begin initiatives that utilize the low elements of the course. Initiatives are tools made of games, trust sequences, and communication activities used to achieve your requested team-building results. The group then moves to the high elements (i.e., rock wall, cargo nets, the dive, etc). The program will end with one final closing activity and a wrap-up of the group’s accomplishments.

Each of our programs are specifically tailored to achieve your personal goals and is customized in its planning, development, and implementation. The above description shows a basic overview, but may fluctuate based on your group objectives.

Physical and emotional safety is our number one priority. The Peak Adventures Challenge Center fully complies with all current Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT) standards. It undergoes an annual inspection by an ACCT professional vendor member and daily inspections by Peak Adventures staff members. Our staff receives extensive training to deliver quality programming and recognize potential hazards before they become an issue. We proactively teach all of our participants to make good decisions regarding their involvement and cultivate a culture where participants support one another.

The Challenge Center is outdoors and operates rain or shine. We have some covered areas that we’ll utilize during some of the ground activities.  Everyone is encouraged to dress for the weather to be comfortable when they can’t be under a covering.  If weather conditions are deemed unsafe (i.e., high winds or lightning), a Peak Adventure representative will call the group coordinator to cancel or reschedule the program. If it is raining the day of your program and you DO NOT receive a call, your program is still happening! Refunds will not be provided to groups who do not attend due to the weather.  See our refunds page for more details. 

No problem! Challenge Center activities are centered on the concept of challenge by choice. Our staff will encourage people to step outside their comfort zones and challenge themselves at their chosen level. We’ll also guide the group to understand the differences between healthy support and peer pressure. Many people use this opportunity to face their fear of heights in a controlled environment.

Everyone at the Challenge Center must wear secure, closed-toed shoes. Those wearing inappropriate shoes such as flip-flops, sandals, or Crocs will not be allowed to participate. Beyond that, wear comfortable clothes that you feel comfortable moving around and climbing in, like athletic wear. Also, consider the weather. Since we operate rain or shine, we encourage layers!

A Team Lead is the staff member who develops and facilitates your customized program. Our Team Leads have over 500 hours of hands-on experience facilitating and leading groups through challenges and transformational activities. Their training includes technical ropes course safety management, CPR, first aid, advanced facilitation, debriefing methods, and group dynamics.

If you or someone in your group has a disability, we are happy to provide services and accommodations to ensure every participant has a great experience. Our goal is to make materials and activities accessible to all participants. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with either the Peak Adventures office or your Team Lead to confidentially discuss any necessary accommodations, if applicable.

Please see the map. You must pay for parking 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can pay on campus at the automated kiosks and information booths, or via the PayByPhone website or mobile app, available for iPhone, Android, and Blackberry. If arriving by bus, please refer to the bus parking map or discuss your options with your Team Lead.

For details on Peak Adventures’ cancellation and refund policy, please visit our Returns and Refunds page.

The minimum age for all Challenge Center programs is 8 years. Please visit the Minimum Age page for more detailed information. 

The Peak Adventures Challenge Center does not currently have a weight restriction. As long as the harness fits appropriately (as determined by staff), you can climb. Importantly, our facilitators may refuse to allow participants to climb if they do not feel the conditions are secure enough to do so. For any concerns or further clarification, please feel free to call our office at 916-278-6321 or email the Challenge Center Manager directly at Gratton@csus.edu. Below you will find information on the Universal size harness we use. Description: “Headwall’s most popular harness is constructed with strong and light 2-inch and 1-inch webbing. The Universal Ropes Course Harness is equipped with double back safety buckles to adjust the fit at the waist and thighs. This harness is extremely versatile with its two overly durable belay loops at the front and rear.” Size: X-Large (Fits Waist: 42″ – 60″) Meets or exceeds the following standards: EN 12277 Type C