The EKU Challenge Course is a state-of-the-art facility where groups are given learning opportunities anchored in experiential education and the opportunity to move outside their comfort zone. We offer a variety of programs and workshops to help you: Learn effective communication, build confidence, form relationships, understand the power of team, try new things, be adventurous, improve problem solving skills, gain trust, and most importantly Have Fun!
Courses Offered
Aerial Team Course (ATC)
The Aerial Team Course (ATC) is the newest addition to EKU’s course and is an amazing addition. This course allows groups to collectively conquer their fears, support each other and work cohesively as a unit to get through these new specifically designed elements. This course features two levels and at its highest is about 30 feet tall. The ATC also offers 3 unique exit points: a 600 ft. zipline across the lake, the breath taker swing, and a Trueblue auto belay device. If you are looking for adventure and want to create a strong team this is the course for you. The ATC can take 4-8 hours depending on the size of the group and it can comfortably accommodate 40 participants. Participants much be at least 12 years old and within 90 – 250 pounds.
Low Ropes Course
The Low Ropes Course which is designed with team building and group cohesion in mind. This course features 13 unique elements that are close to the ground and require groups to effectively communicate and problem solve to complete the tasks. This course is great for adults and children 12+. The Low Ropes Course can take anywhere from 2 – 4 hours and can comfortably accommodate a maximum of 50 participants.
Tango Tower
The Tango Tower is a self-contained high ropes course that has pair and individual free hanging elements, a rappelling area and one climbing walls. The Tower allows participants to conquer their fears and reach the top. The Tower is approximately 40 feet tall and can have up 6 people climbing at once. This course allows for groups to support each other from a distance and for certain groups the opportunity to metaphorically “put your life in someone else’s hands”. This course takes 3-6 hours and can comfortably accommodate a maximum of 50 participants.
All of EKU’s Challenge Courses are designed to promote communication, trust, and problem solving. Group members gain confidence and build relationships as they gradually discover the intrinsic power of teamwork. Our clients include:
- EKU Student Organizations and Departments
- Church Youth Groups and Military Groups
- Small Business and Corporate Employees
- Sports Teams
- Youth Service Organizations
Our course offers something for people of all fitness levels and a majority of our elements can be adaptable to accommodate certain physical limitations. Our facilitators are focused on safety and enjoyment of all our participants and encourage participation through a “Challenge by Choice” approach. Participants are encouraged to participate in all activities but neither our facilitators nor the group will force participants to do something that they are not comfortable doing.
If you are interested in any of our facilities please feel free to give us a call and we will be happy to speak with you about our courses and tailor fit a challenge course program specifically for your group.
For all other inquiries regarding the challenge course please contact Dakota McClendon by email, or by phone at 859-622-5251.
Challenge Course
Location
- Coming from I75 take exit 87 and head towards EKU and away from the Richmond Center Mall.
- Head towards EKU and when you see the sign for EKU and reach the first main intersection that will be Lancaster Road.
- Turn right onto Lancaster Road and head past the EKU Center for the Arts and the Hummel Planetarium (located on your left).
- Go through the light and take your first left (after the chain link fence) on Carnes Road. There is a maroon sign that says Challenge Course.
- Carnes Road resembles a residential driveway. Continue to the gate and onto the gravel road. Please drive slowly down the road it is steep and only one lane.
- Park in the large gravel parking lot at the end of the road. If you cannot make it down the gravel road, participants can be dropped off in the parking lot behind the Stratton Building. That parking lot can be reach by taking the small access road just past the Stratton Building. (Please do not park back there as it is strictly a drop off area. If you wish to drop off, you can park in the lot by the Perkins Building and walk across the road.
- If you have any additional questions please contact Dakota McClendon by email, or by phone at 859-622-5251.
FAQs
Q: What is the challenge course?
A: The EKU Challenge Course is a state-of-the-art facility where groups are given learning opportunities anchored in experiential education and the opportunity to move outside their comfort zone. We offer a variety of programs and workshops to help you: Learn effective communication, build confidence, form relationships, understand the power of team, try new things, be adventurous, improve problem solving skills, gain trust, and most importantly have fun!
Q: How do I register for a challenge course program?
A: Submit your request by completing a reservation request.
Q: What is the cost of a challenge course program?
A: Program fees are based on the nature and size of your group, as well as the length of the desired program. For a personalized quote, please fill out one of our reservation requests.
Q: Where is the challenge course located?
A: Get directions and GPS coordinates.
Q: What should participants wear?
A: Wear what you are okay getting dirty in. Some activities may require you to be on the ground. If your program is in the summer, you will sweat!
- Comfortable, close-toed shoes
- Long Shorts or pants – the harness is prone to chafe with direct skin contact
- Rain gear (jacket, slicker, etc.) if rain is in the forecast
- No dangling jewelry or ring (this includes earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or anything that could be broken)
Q: What should I bring to a program?
A:
- 1-2 Liters of water
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Hat, baseball cap, or some sort of sun protection
Q: Can I get hurt at the challenge course?
A: Being outside and interacting with nature comes with all sorts of interactions with various flora and fauna. Listed below are possible occurrences:
- Poison Ivy: Leaves of three, let them be! The leaves of poison ivy plants release urushiol when they’re bumped, torn, or brushed against. (When the resin is released, the leaves may appear shiny or you may see black spots of resin on them) Once released, urushiol can easily get on skin and provide irritation.
- Fire ants, redbugs, wasps, etc.: We will be outdoors and with that comes the critters. Our staff makes it a point to do a course inspection for every program to minimize potential incidents.
Q: What should I leave in the car?
A: Cellphones, headphones, or anything that might be distracting to the group, or get lost or broken.
Q: Is lunch included?
A: No, but your group is welcome to bring a bagged lunch. We recommend eating before or after your scheduled program time as time spent eating during your scheduled program time will not be rescheduled or added onto the program.