Adventure Ropes Course
University of Vermont Adventure Ropes Course
Department of Student Life   Billings Student Center   Burlington, Vermont 05405-0040
802-656-2060  ropes@zoo.uvm.edu

Leslie Schreiber
Ropes Course Coordinator
802-656-2060

What to Expect on the UVM Adventure Ropes Course (ARC)

About Our Program:
Our Ropes or Challenge Course programs consist of a planned progression of
physical and mental activities for individuals and groups. One of our instructors will
facilitate this progression. They will help you and your group to learn from your experience
and to have fun! Our group size is limited to twelve people. If you are coming with a
larger group you will be divided into smaller groups for most of your day.

What Will Your Day Look Like?
Your day may begin with warm-up and trust activities, then move into
problem-solving initiatives, and low and/or high challenge course elements. Specific activities
your group undertakes will depend on goals set by the person coordinating your
program as well as by the way your group progresses through the early activities.
After most activities, instructors will spend time debriefing them and the team
dynamics observed. Time for reflection offers participants the opportunity to examine
their role in the learning process.

What is Challenge by Choice?
We subscribe to the philosophy of Challenge by Choice. That is, we encourage
participation in all activities, but no one is forced. Individuals choose the
level and extent of their participation. Healthy risk taking is an integral part of the
learning process. We will adapt our activities to meet the needs of individuals and
groups.

What is a Ropes Course?
Our Ropes Course consists of elements, constructed of cables, ropes and wood,
attached to trees at our site.
o Our Low Challenge Course contains challenges close to the ground. Activities
on the Low Challenge Course are designed to help participants gain insight into
group process and how individuals perform in team situations. They consist of
physical and mental problems that the group must work together to solve.
o Our High Challenge Course is built up to forty feet above the ground. Those
who choose to participate are outfitted with harnesses and helmets and are clipped
into ropes and belay systems that allow them to climb and participate in a variety
of challenges safely. Participants can safely take risks while navigating physical
challenges highlighting trust and support within teams.


What is Unique About the UVM ARC?
We custom design all of our programs to meet the individual needs of each
group. No two programs are exactly alike. Some program incorporate both high and low
challenge course elements, some do not. If you have any questions on your program please
give us a call and we will be happy to answer them.
Be Prepared for Your Day on the Challenge Course!

1. Come prepared with lots of energy, an open mind, and a willingness to learn!
2. Remember to bring your lunch and a water bottle. You will have an active,
full day so pack a big, healthy lunch.
3. Please wear closed shoes, such as hiking boots or sneakers. You may not be
allowed to participate if you are wearing sandals.
4. Remember to dress for the weather and the weather changes a lot! Wear layers
and dress more warmly than you think you will need. We will spend much of our
time in the woods, which can be quite a bit cooler. We will be spending all of
our time outside so be prepared with rain gear. Being comfortable outside will
enable you to have fun and learn more!
5. We do not assume responsibility for items left on our course.
6. Remember to bring any medications you may need, such as bee sting kits or
inhalers.
7. Let us know in advance of any medical condition or disability that may
affect your participation on the course.
We look forward to working with you and your group!

University of Vermont Adventure Ropes Course
Department of Student Life Billings Student Center Burlington, Vermont 05405-0040
802-656-2060  ropes@zoo.uvm.edu