The UI Challenge Course is designed to enhance personal and group growth through team challenges that improve communication, cooperation, and problem-solving skills. Fun brings the experience to life and keeps people focused, engaged, and connected. All of our programs use an experiential education approach, meaning that individuals and teams will learn by actively participating and reflecting on their experiences.
We offer a variety of program options to meet your group’s needs. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact Steve Campbell for more information.
Course Information
Our facility is comprised of both low and high elements. Elements are similar to obstacles you might find on a military obstacle course, yet are approached differently. Most elements are inherently physical, yet do not require a person to be physically fit in order to participate. We strive to include everyone in our programs and adapt activities to meet the needs of our participants.
Our philosophy towards participation is based on the concept of “challenge by choice,” meaning individuals choose the level at which they participate. We encourage all participants to challenge themselves and step outside of their comfort zones, but no one is required to do anything they don’t want to do!
Location information:
Address:
2960 Hawkeye Park Rd., Iowa City, IA 52242
Low Elements
Low elements range from being directly on the ground to 10 feet high.
- Teams must work together to overcome various challenges, with activities that are designed to elicit different methods of problem-solving and critical thinking.
- Some elements are physically challenging, while others require more of a mental effort to be successful.
- Our course has eight unique low elements, each requiring different strategies for completion.
High Elements
High elements are tiered at 13 and 25 feet.
- These elements are intended to give individuals a chance to step outside their comfort zone and offer a different challenge for everyone. While personal achievement is a large component of the high elements, the group still plays a critical role in supporting its members as they work through the elements.
- We provide all personal protective equipment (harnesses, helmets, ropes, hardware), and our trained staff facilitate the experience.
- We have 22 exciting high elements, including a zip line!
Portable Team Building
- Our Portable Team Building program is available year-round and is a great option for groups looking for a shorter program or during the winter months when the challenge course is closed (November - March).
- Using portable initiatives and activities, we are able to recreate the low element experience quite nicely indoors, in a condensed 2-hour format, at one of our Recreational Services facilities.
- Can’t come to us? We’ll bring the fun to you if you’re within 15 miles of campus!
- Contact the Assistant Director to discuss space and other logistical requirements if requesting a traveling program.
Program Rates
UI Challenge Course Pricing - Effective January 1, 2025
| Portable Team Building | 2 Hours | Rec/non-Rec Facility |
|---|---|
| UI Affiliated (Student/Faculty/Staff/Dept.) | $20/$25 per person |
| Community/Non-profit groups | $30/$35 per person |
| Corporate groups | $40/$45 per person |
| Low elements only | 3 hours | |
|---|---|
| UI Affiliated (Student/Faculty/Staff/Dept.) | $30 per person |
| Community/Non-profit groups | $40 per person |
| Corporate groups | $50 per person |
| High Elements Only | 3 hours | |
|---|---|
| UI Affiliated (Student/Faculty/Staff/Dept.) | $35 per person |
| Community/Non-profit groups | $45 per person |
| Corporate groups | $55 per person |
| Low and High Elements | 4 hours | |
|---|---|
| UI Affiliated (Student/Faculty/Staff/Dept.) | $40 per person |
| Community/Non-profit groups | $50 per person |
| Corporate groups | $60 per person |
| Low and High Elements | 6 hours | |
|---|---|
| UI Affiliated (Student/Faculty/Staff/Dept.) | $60 per person |
| Community/Non-profit groups | $70 per person |
| Corporate groups | $80 per person |
Registration
When you are ready to reserve your day at the course, please:
- Fill out the Program Request Form at least four weeks prior to your desired program date.
- When completing the form, please list at least two dates and times that will work for your group. While we will make every effort to accommodate your preferred choice, we cannot guarantee your first choice will be available.
- We are happy to host smaller groups, but please note that there is a minimum charge of 12 participants. If your group size is greater than 60, please contact Steve Campbell to discuss programming options.
Frequently asked questions
To secure your date, we require that you pay 25 percent of your anticipated balance in advance. University of Iowa groups may provide an MFK. Groups not affiliated with the university will need to provide a check or pay their deposit by credit card. If you cancel your event within 21 days of your scheduled date, your deposit will not be returned. An invoice for the remaining balance will be sent to you after your program.
- Completed Waiver Forms - Our facilitators will collect waivers at the beginning of the program and review them. If you have any medical conditions or other information that we need to be aware of, please make sure to speak with your facilitators prior to the start of your program.
- Sun Protection
- Weather appropriate clothing
- Closed toe shoes are required
You should dress comfortably for the weather. Wear clothing you don't mind getting dirty. There is climbing involved on the high elements, so we recommend wearing pants or shorts (no-shorter than mid-thigh). Open-toed shoes and sandals are not allowed on our course.
We use a "challenge by choice" approach, so participants measures success by their own aspirations. There are levels of physical demand for the high and low ropes course, but in no way does one have to be an "athlete" to participate. If a participant chooses not to attempt an event, we respect this decision and offer other ways in which the person can participate including providing support through coaching to their group mates, or spotting, and continued team problem-solving.
If someone is afraid of heights, simply climbing up a ladder or walking up the stairs to one of the decks can be a major accomplishment and source of pride. If a participant chooses not to attempt an event, we respect this decision and offer other ways in which the person can participate including providing support through coaching to their group mates, or spotting, and continued team problem-solving.
During low elements, the focus is on the team. These activities draw on the knowledge and ideas of every group member and require the participation and cooperation of the entire team for success. The high elements provide further opportunities for teamwork with an additional emphasis on individual challenges. The high elements provide opportunities for participants to expand their comfort zones, sometimes dramatically, and to overcome fears that can block personal development and achievement.
To help ensure the safety and enjoyment of our participants, individuals must be at least 12 years old or in grade 6 to participate in the UI Challenge Course. This is due primarily to maturity level needed and the size of the participants in relation to the size of the elements and safety equipment.
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