The Challenge Course

The SSM Ropes Course has eight high elements and seven stationary low elements. The high elements include a zip-line, four traverses, the Giant Swing, the Giant Ladder, and the Power Pole. These elements all require a belay system (harnesses, rope) to keep participants safe. The Giant Ladder, which is climbed by two participants together, and the Power Pole are belayed by the participants themselves, which make them good options for group development. The Giant Swing also requires the whole group to participate in the challenge. The zip-line and traverses are more individual challenges, though they are surmounted with the support of the team below. The low elements are used to promote group development in a variety of ways, depending on the emphasis requested by the participants. A number of portable elements and initiatives are also available.

Pricing is based on group needs. Full-day and half-day packages are available - including both high and low course elements, just low or just high. Please email amy.cox@s-sm.org for detailed pricing tailored to your group.  

It depends on what you want to do and the size of your group. Estimate one facilitator for up to twelve people. It is possible to have only one facilitator on low ropes, though you should have two if you have more than twelve people. You will need at least two facilitators for any group that wants to do high ropes.

Park in front of the SSM Sports Complex and walk out behind the soccer dome to meet your facilitator at the entrance to the course. You can either walk through the Sports Complex and exit through the door next to the dome entrance or walk outside around the dome.

Please wear comfortable clothing that is appropriate for the weather. Long pants are preferable if it is not too hot, since they prevent scrapes, slivers, and insect bites. Jeans, khakis, and athletic wear are all acceptable. Closed-toed, tie-on shoes are a requirement for your safety.

You will need to bring your completed and signed health and release forms. You may also wish to bring a water bottle, bug spray, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Note: You will need to remove jewelry and anything in your pockets, so leave home anything that you would not feel comfortable leaving in a bucket in the ropes course shed.

Shattuck-St. Mary’s Challenge Course adheres to the “Your Challenge, Your Choice” philosophy. You are in control of your level of participation. We encourage you to try things that may be somewhat outside of your comfort zone as part of the personal challenge involved in the course, whether that means climbing five feet in the air, or climbing thirty-four feet. However, we will not pressure you into doing anything that makes you feel truly uncomfortable. If you choose not to climb, you will still be an important part of the experience, involved in supporting your group members from the ground.