Challenge Center FAQs
What is a ropes course?
A ropes course is an outdoor structure built with low and/or high elements 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 a variety of high and low elements, including a rock wall, a catwalk, a multi-line, and the popular dive. Many of our elements can be viewed here.
How much does it cost?
Our pricing is variable and customized depending on the group, activities, and time. (just like our programming).
What will we be doing?
A typical event begins with an icebreaker, followed by energizers to engage and warm up the group. Next, the facilitator will begin initiatives that utilize the low elements of the course. Initiatives are tools made up of games, trust-building exercises, 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 event will conclude with a final activity and a wrap-up of the group’s accomplishments.
Each of our events is tailored to achieve your personal goals, from planning and development to implementation. The above description provides a basic overview but may vary based on your group’s objectives.
Is it safe?
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 high-quality events and to recognize potential hazards before they become issues. We proactively teach all our participants to make good decisions about their involvement and cultivate a culture in which participants support one another.
What if it is raining?
The Challenge Center is outdoors and operates rain or shine. We have some covered areas that we’ll use during certain ground activities. Everyone is encouraged to dress for the weather so they’re comfortable when they can’t be under cover. 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.
What if I’m afraid of heights?
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.
What do I wear?
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!
What is a Team Lead?
A Team Lead is the staff member who develops and facilitates your customized event. 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.
What if I Have a Disability?
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 discuss any necessary accommodations confidentially, if applicable.
Where do we park?
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.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations made three weeks (21 days) before the scheduled event are entitled to a refund of all fees paid. Cancellations made between one and three weeks (7 and 20 days) before the scheduled event will forfeit the program deposit amount. Cancellations made within one week of the scheduled event will forfeit the entire program fee. A $100 Rescheduling Fee will be applied to any contract that reschedules their program within three weeks of the program date. For more details on Peak Adventures’ cancellation and refund policy, please visit our Returns and Refunds page.
What is the minimum age?
The minimum age for all Challenge Center events is 8 years. Please visit the Minimum Age page for more detailed information.
What is the weight limit?
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 sufficiently secure. 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 is 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