Young children on the course

Build stronger bonds while conquering challenges

Building a sense of team can be challenging when groups are only together for a short period of time, or meet for a few hours each week! We can help you to expedite the “getting-to-know-you” process by bringing your group to the course at the beginning of their camp week, abroad experience, or school year. Or, use the course as a way to dive deeper into leadership skills you are already encouraging.

Girl and Boy Scout troups, after-school programs, student councils, school groups, sports teams, religious youth groups, (and more!) can benefit from being together in a new setting! As group members take risks and see others take risks they open themselves up to their full potential as individuals and as a group. 

Our activities empower youth to:

  • ​​​Get to know each other in meaningful ways. 

  • ​Development self-confidence as they take healthy risks.  

  • Develop positive and patient means of communication in a digital age. ​

  • Look to their peers for help and support. ​Explore what leadership looks like. 

  • Think creatively and work together to solve problems.

Past and present clients include:
Upward Bound, South Burlington Parks and Recreation Camps, Mahana Magic, PH-International, YMCA Summer Camps

 

 

  • FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

    Hopefully, we've answered some of your questions below! We'd love to hear what else is on your mind. Please be in touch. 

How do I book a program?

Fill out our contact us form or call Megan at 802 656 – 9111. We will get back to you as soon as possible.

What should I wear to the course?

Wear clothes that you can move in and comfortable close-toed shoes. Layers are helpful as it is often cooler in the forest. If your program is in the warmer months make sure your shorts are a little bit longer so that the harness is comfortable on your legs. Ultimately, you are going to be at your best if you are comfortable and able to move well. 

What should I bring?

• Completed and signed Liability and Medical Information form (Your group’s coordinator may collect these in advance)
• Snacks/lunch (Please note, any trash you bring into the course must be packed out)
• A full water bottle (We have no running water on the course)
• Extra layers (It’s always cooler in the forest)
• A raincoat (Our programs run rain or shine)
• Bug Spray and Sunscreen
• Any special medications you may need, such as bee sting kits or inhalers
• Please do not bring any valuables out to the course. We do not assume responsibility for items left on our course. Our course is located in the woods in South Burlington. People use the trails around our course for walking.

What if I am afraid of heights?

We all have different fears and fear of heights is extremely common. Please do not let heights be the reason you decide to stay home. We encourage individuals to take risks that are healthy for them. Some people who are afraid of heights may find it empowering to try to climb while on belay and encouraged by a supportive team. Others may choose to be supportive by learning to belay or help holding the ladder. It’s important to remember that the high challenge is only part of the day.  You have the freedom to make the choices that are best for you at the course. 

As a parent/guardian/mentor/teacher, it is helpful to prepare your child in advance for that moment of anxiety. You can talk to them about challenging themselves to step out of their comfort zone and try something new, but make sure that they are not overly stressed or panicked.
 

Are ropes courses safe?

Adventure activities all carry inherent risk. Our course and equipment is managed by well-trained staff and inspected on a regular basis in order to minimize risk. Our goal is to create an environment where participants can challenge themselves while staying physically and emotionally safe. 

I'm coming to the course for a program. What should I expect?

Be ready to have fun, be engaged and to challenge yourself! Expect to learn something new about yourself and about your group. Every program at with UVM Center for Adventure and Teambuilding is unique. It may be focused on fun and teambonding or have a more specific focus such as working on communication or leadership skills. We may utilize low and high elements, or just be focused on ground work.  

“Thank you so much for your time.  The students had a great time and still talk about some of the activities.  We had a great time and were very impressed. We hope to bring a new group of students there next year.” 

- Andrew, Teacher, Essex Middle School

Email:

ropes@uvm.edu

Phone:

802.656.9111