Challenge Course

The Challenge Course is OPEN for reservations! Kick off a reservation inquiry by filling out a Reservation Interest Form. Most reservations require a minimum of 25 business days of advanced notice.

photo collage of participants in challenge course

About

Bring your team together for an experience that is:

  • Inclusive and empowering:With many options for participation, all members of your group will have the opportunity to choose their level of challenge, give/receive support, and share success. While many activities have a physical component to them, physical fitness strength are not required to be successful. Differences between individuals and their comfort levels are honored and respected.
  • Fun and memorable: In a gorgeous tree-filled setting, your team will share laughter, try exciting new things, and take pride in completing adventurous challenges together.Group types and sizes

The minimum possible group size is 8 people, with a recommended minimum of at least 10 people. The maximum group size is roughly 150-200. Programs are ideal for work team retreats, graduate/professional school cohorts, undergraduate student cohorts, high school students, and youth as young as 10-11 years old.

Location

The UCLA Challenge Course is located on campus at Sunset Canyon Recreation Center, nestled amongst the pine and eucalyptus trees. Unless otherwise instructed, your group should gather on the sidewalk outside the main entrance and call the Challenge Course Manager. A staff person will then escort you to the Challenge Course via a side entrance.

Address: 111 Easton Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90095

Parking

Parking Lot RC is immediately adjacent to the course and has limited daily visitor spots available for purchase at the automated kiosk. Parking Lot 11 and SV are a five-minute walk in either direction and have daily visitor spots also available for purchase at the automated kiosk.

Buses

Chartered buses may drop off and pick up directly at SCRC. You must coordinate bus details when you make your reservation. Busses may not wait at the facility entrance. During your program, buses must either depart campus and find space to wait off-campus or may reserve and pay for one of the limited bus turnout spaces on campus in advance. Ask about this when you coordinate your reservation.

Prices and Date Availability

In order to receive a fee estimate and inquire about date availability, you must submit a Reservation Interest Form. You should submit your request at least 25 business days in advance of your preferred date.

Contact

Challenge@recreation.ucla.edu. For prices and date availability, you must start by submitting a Reservation Interest Form.

Reservations

The UCLA Challenge Course is open for private reservations only. Reservations should be started a minimum of 25 business days in advance of your program date. Programs are available 7 days a week during daylight hours. Refer to the “Policies” tab for more details on policies related to fees, refunds, weather, risk management, and more.

Reservation Process:

START HERE: INITIAL INQUIRY

  1. Submit a Reservation Interest Form
  2. We will respond via email with information about fee estimates, date availability, and next steps to proceed with a reservation.

NEXT: CONFIRM YOUR RESERVATION

  1. REPLY TO OUR EMAIL: Reply to our email response and confirm:
    • Your desired program option, date, time, and group size.
      • Make sure you understand our policies on group size, detailed under “Policies.”
    • Do you wish to additionally reserve space for a picnic? And if so:
      • What time, including time for any setup and cleanup?
      • Will you bring your own food or have pre-made boxed/bagged food delivered? (This is the simplest, recommended route for program picnics, and can be arranged directly with me.)
      • Or, will you cook or prepare food on-site, BBQ or use any open flame (including chafers), have active food service, vendors present, alcohol, or require any additional reservations for folding tables, chairs, tents, or amplified sound? (If yes, you will need to submit your picnic reservation request throughUCLA Recreation Special Events Reservations and Rentals via their reservation system atreserve.recreation.ucla.edu and note that they require at least 20 business days of notice.)
  2. SERVICE AGREEMENT & INSURANCE REQUIREMENT: This is required for non-UCLA entities only (i.e. you/your organization are not acting as a UCLA department or student group). To move forward with this program, a signed services agreement is required between the University and you or your organization. The specific steps include:
    • Electronically sign the services agreement via DocuSign. Please advise as to who is the appropriate contact, their title, and their email address for signing the agreement on behalf of your organization. I will have the agreement sent to them.
    • Provide a certificate of insurance (COI). Your COI must include:
      • Commercial general liability, $2M/$5M, and endorsed to include “The Regents of the University of California” as additional insured. If $2M/$5M is unattainable for your organization, you may request an exception for a lower insurance requirement of $1M/$2M by emailing me.
      • If you are driving company owned vehicles to our site: business auto liability, $1M, and endorsed to include “The Regents of the University of California” as additional insured
      • Workers’ compensation, if you will have any employees present within the facility, whether participating in the program or not
      • Proof of sexual molestation coverage if minors will be present without their parent/guardian. Not applicable to schools.
      • Insurance documents should be submitted a minimum of 10 business days prior to your event.
  3. DEPOSIT PAYMENT:This is required for non-UCLA entities only (i.e. you/your organization are not acting as a UCLA department or student group). A 10% deposit is required after signing the services agreement. The balance is due in full 10 business days before the program. See “Policies” for more details on payment, refunds, and cancellations.
    • For payment via check or purchase order, you may make the check payable to “THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA”. We recommend using certified mail. You should mail the check to the following address:
    • THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA

      Attn: Outdoor Adventures
      2131 John Wooden Center
      Los Angeles, CA 90095

      For payment via credit card, you may email our Sales Team at info@recreation.ucla.edu. They will arrange to take your credit card information over the phone.

  4. WHAT TO EXPECT: Below are the “What to Expect” documents for various program types. As the event organizer, you are responsible for distributing this document to all participants before the program. This document describes what to wear/bring, what the activities will be like, and how to get to our location. Groups enjoy themselves and get the most meaning out of their time when they are informed in advance about what to expect and how to come prepared. Improper attire (e.g. not wearing close-toed shoes) may disqualify a person from participating in some of the activities.
    • Adult programs: Ground-based + high ropes team building program (English version, Spanish version)
    • Adult programs: Ground-based only team building program, no climbing (English version, Spanish version)
    • Youth & high school: Ground-based + high ropes team building program (English version, Spanish version)
    • Youth & high school: Ground-based only team building program, no climbing (English version, Spanish version)
  5. WAIVERS: All individuals present during the event must sign the University’s General Liability Waiver, regardless of anticipated participation level. Note that a parent/guardian signature is required for any participating minors. Once your event date is confirmed, your unique event waiver will be linked here. As the event leader, you are responsible for ensuring that all attending persons have completed a waiver. Waivers can be submitted online via the link provided, or you may print them and collect physical signatures to submit to us in hard copy. Just in case anyone still needs to sign, we have physical copies available on-site at the start of your program.
  6. GROUP SIZE CHANGES:You have up until 2 weeks prior to your program to adjust your reserved group size. This is the number that you will be charged for. See Policies.
  7. PROGRAMS WITH MINORS:Plan to bring enough chaperones to meet our minimum ratio requirement, described under “Policies.”
  8. ABOUT MY GROUP FORM: Due at least 1 week before your program: Submit an “About My Group” Form, so we can best customize your program to match your team and desired outcomes. (If you do not submit, we will do our best to guess and plan a great program for you. But if you would like us to tailor the program to your group, fill this out)
  9. DAY OF YOUR PROGRAM: This information is also printed on the attached “What to Expect” document. Click here for the UCLA Campus Map.
    • PARKING: Parking is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. Parking lot RC (Rec Center) is immediately adjacent to SCRC and typically has a small number of parking spaces available. Parking lots 11 and SV are a short walk from SCRC. Visitors may purchase day passes from the self-service pay stations. For details on parking rates, please visit UCLA Transportation’s Visitor Parking page. For students, staff, and faculty with monthly or quarterly parking passes, consult your parking privileges for cross-parking information. This information can be found on the campus parking website.
    • BUSES: Chartered buses may drop off and pick up from the turnaround located at our address (111 Easton Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90095). They may not wait or park here, however. During your program, they will have to park elsewhere.
    • ACCESSING THE FACILITY:Gather your group outside the front entrance to SCRC (111 Easton Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90095), on the sidewalk of the turnaround. A Challenge Course staff person will come meet you here, outside the entrance at your scheduled program start time. Together, you will all be escorted into the facility and up to the Challenge Course. If an individual arrives significantly late, they should check in with the front entry kiosk and let them know that they are here for a Challenge Course program that began earlier in the day.

Corporate Programs for Employee Engagement and Work Team Retreats

Plan an adventurous bonding retreat for your professional work team. These retreat experiences are ideal for corporate groups, conferences, and teams of working professionals. Your group will have the opportunity to strengthen their connections while sharing a fun and adventurous experience that facilitates leadership, effective communication, trust, and creative problem solving. Whether they knew each other prior to the event or not, groups often feel more strongly connected to one another and reflect positively on what kind of team or community they are becoming. The facilitator staff will customize your program's activities and themes to match your group and achieve your desired outcomes.

Photo collage of participants high fiving, playing a toss game and working together

Recommended program:

  • Half-Day (up to 4 hours) Ground-Based + High Ropes Team Building Program: Through a series of ice-breakers, group games, and team challenges, your group will have the opportunity to strengthen their connections, share a positive experience, and intentionally reflect on what kind of team or community they are and want to be. Activities may incorporate low-ropes structures (i.e. balancing beams, wooden platforms, suspended cables), or props (i.e. traffic cones, balls, or even a rubber chicken). Teamwork, communication strategies, and creative problem-solving will all be put to work throughout these ground-based teambuilding initiatives. After building trust in the team through these ground-based activities, the group will have the opportunity to climb our two signature team-belayed climbs: The Leap of Faith and the High V. Our staff of enthusiastic facilitators will teach the group how to hold the ropes, belaying from the ground for their teammates as they attempt these climbing challenges. We’ll wrap things up with a reflective debrief at the end of the program, celebrating the group and honoring their new shared experience.

Not sure everyone in your group will want to climb? That’s okay! Climbing is optional and is inclusively done all together with the whole group helping to hold the ropes for 1-2 climbers at a time. More info in the “About” tab of this website.

Other program options:

  • Full-Day (up to 6-hours total, including a 45-minute lunch break) Ground-Based + High Ropes Team Building Program: Similar to a half-day program, only in this full-day program the group will get even more time to develop a sense of team, play games, and conquer challenges together. For many groups, the half-day program can feel rushed. So if you have the time to stay and play, 6 hours can be rewarding.
  • Ground-Based Team Building (no climbing): Up to 3 hours of activities on the ground, which may incorporate low-ropes structures no more than one foot off the ground (i.e. balancing beams, wooden platforms, suspended cables), or props (i.e. traffic cones, balls, or even a rubber chicken). Teamwork, communication strategies, and creative problem-solving will all be put to work throughout these ground-based teambuilding initiatives. While many activities have a physical component to them, physical strength and fitness are not a basis for achieving success in our programs.

How much does it cost? And what dates are available?

Start by submitting a Reservation Interest Form and we will get back to you with fee estimates, date availability, and more details for how to move forward with a reservation. Reservations must be requested no less than 25 business days in advance.

Could I see a list of the exact activities that my group will do?

If you sign up for a program that includes climbing, then your group will get the opportunity to climb the climbs listed in your program description. As for the activities that take place on the ground, there are maybe 30+ activities (and variations on those activities) that your group might do. The facilitator staff will plan the exact activities based largely on the answers you provide on the “About My Group” form. We are unable to provide you with an exact list of ground activities in advance. Activities will vary based on group size, activity availability, group abilities, weather, group interests, how any given activity goes, and the assessments/choices made by the staff facilitators in real-time.

High School Student Programs

Bring your high school class, leadership conference, college prep programs, afterschool programs, sports teams, and more. Students will share a fun and adventurous experience that facilitates community-building, leadership development, practice stepping outside one’s comfort zone, and learning about trust/trustworthiness, effective communication, and accountability. The facilitator staff will customize your program's activities and themes to match your group and achieve your desired outcomes.

Recommended Program:

  • Half-Day (up to 4 hours) Ground-Based + High Ropes Team Building Program: Through a series of ice-breakers, group games, and team challenges, your group will have the opportunity to strengthen their connections, share a positive experience, and intentionally reflect on what kind of team or community they are and want to be. Activities may incorporate low-ropes structures (i.e. balancing beams, wooden platforms, suspended cables), or props (i.e. traffic cones, balls, or even a rubber chicken). Teamwork, communication strategies, and creative problem-solving will all be put to work throughout these ground-based teambuilding initiatives. After building trust in the team through these ground-based activities, the group will have the opportunity to climb our two signature team-belayed climbs: The Leap of Faith and the High V. Our staff of enthusiastic facilitators will teach the group how to hold the ropes, belaying from the ground for their teammates as they attempt these climbing challenges. We’ll wrap things up with a reflective debrief at the end of the program, celebrating the group and honoring their new shared experience.

Not sure everyone in your group will want to climb? That’s okay! Climbing is optional and is inclusively done all together with the whole group helping to hold the ropes for 1-2 climbers at a time. More info in the “About” tab of this website.

Other Program Options

  • Full-Day (up to 6-hours total, including a 45-minute lunch break) Ground-Based + High Ropes Team Building Program: Similar to a half-day program, only in this full-day program the group will get even more time to develop a sense of team, play games, and conquer challenges together. For many groups, the half-day program can feel rushed. So if you have the time to stay and play, 6 hours can be rewarding.
  • Ground-based Team Building Program (no climbing): Up to 3 hours of activities on the ground, which may incorporate low-ropes structures no more than one foot off the ground (i.e. balancing beams, wooden platforms, suspended cables), or props (i.e. traffic cones, balls, or even a rubber chicken). Teamwork, communication strategies, and creative problem-solving will all be put to work throughout these ground-based teambuilding initiatives. While many activities have a physical component to them, physical strength and fitness are not a basis for achieving success in our programs.

Youth-Specific Policies

  1. Chaperones must be present to supervise the group at a minimum ratio of 10 minors to 1 chaperone. For minors ages 15 and older, a ratio of up to 20:1 is allowed.
  2. Chaperones shall:
    • Be present, attentive, and prepared to assist with any communications.
    • Manage any direct discipline or misbehavior issues. Should the program facilitators determine that, for safety reasons, a youth participant must be removed, then the chaperone shall be responsible for their removal.
    • Be aware of and responsible for any youth participant who needs to step away from the immediate programming activities. Reasons for doing so are generally bathroom visits, water bottle refills, snack breaks, etc.
    • Be responsible for any communications with emergency contacts of youth participants
    • Be responsible for supervising the youth participants’ arrival to, congregation at, and departure from the location of programming.

How much does it cost? And what dates are available?

Start by submitting a Reservation Interest Form and we will get back to you with fee estimates, date availability, and more details for how to move forward with a reservation. Reservations must be requested no less than 25 business days in advance.

Buses

Chartered buses may drop off and pick up directly at SCRC. You must coordinate bus details when you make your reservation. Buses may not wait at the facility entrance. During your program, buses must either depart campus and find space to wait off campus or may reserve and pay for one of the limited bus turnout spaces on campus in advance. Ask about this when you coordinate your reservation.

Could I see a list of the exact activities that my group will do?

If you sign up for a program that includes climbing, then your group will get the opportunity to climb the climbs listed in your program description. As for the activities that take place on the ground, there are maybe 30+ activities (and variations on those activities) that your group might do. The facilitator staff will plan the exact activities based largely on the answers you provide on the “About My Group” form. We are unable to provide you with an exact list of ground activities in advance. Activities will vary based on group size, activity availability, group abilities, weather, group interests, how any given activity goes, and the assessments/choices made by the staff facilitators in real-time.

Youth (Ages 10-14) Programs

Plan a field trip for your middle school class, afterschool program, scouts troop, sports team, and more. Students will share an adventurous experience that facilitates group bonding, teamwork, shoutouts/appreciations, and working together to solve fun challenges. The facilitator staff will customize your program's activities and themes to match your group and achieve your desired outcomes.

Recommended program:

  • Half-Day (up to 4 hours) Ground-Based + High Ropes Team Building Program: Through a series of group games and team challenges, your group will have the opportunity to play, think creatively, work as a team, and be both physically and mentally challenged. Activities on the ground may incorporate low-ropes structures (i.e. balancing beams, wooden platforms, suspended cables), or props (i.e. traffic cones, balls, or even a rubber chicken). The group will also have the opportunity to climb 2 high ropes elements, including the High V, Vertical Playpen, Leap of Faith, or Giant’s Ladder. While many activities have a physical component to them, physical strength and fitness are not a basis for achieving success. Our team of enthusiastic facilitators will also incorporate age-appropriate reflective conversations to spark learning take-aways and supportive shout-outs to their teammates.

Not sure everyone in your group will want to climb? That’s okay! Climbing is optional and is inclusively done all together with the whole group helping to hold the ropes for 1-2 climbers at a time. More info in the “About” tab of this website.

Other program options:

  • Full-Day (up to 6-hours total, including a 45-minute lunch break) Ground-Based + High Ropes Team Building Program: Similar to a half-day program, only in this full-day program the group will get even more time to develop a sense of team, play games, and conquer challenges together. For many groups, the half-day program can feel rushed. So if you have the time to stay and play, 6 hours can be rewarding.
  • Ground-Based Team Building (no climbing): Up to 3 hours of activities on the ground, which may incorporate low-ropes structures no more than one foot off the ground (i.e. balancing beams, wooden platforms, suspended cables), or props (i.e. traffic cones, balls, or even a rubber chicken). Teamwork, communication strategies, and creative problem-solving will all be put to work throughout these ground-based teambuilding initiatives. While many activities have a physical component to them, physical strength and fitness are not a basis for achieving success in our programs.

Youth-specific policies

  1. Chaperones must be present to supervise the group at a minimum ratio of 10 minors to 1 chaperone. For minors ages 15 and older, a ratio of up to 20:1 is allowed.
  2. Chaperones shall:
    • Be present, attentive, and prepared to assist with any communications.
    • Manage any direct discipline or misbehavior issues. Should the program facilitators determine that, for safety reasons, a youth participant must be removed, then the chaperone shall be responsible for their removal.
    • Be aware of and responsible for any youth participant who needs to step away from the immediate programming activities. Reasons for doing so are generally bathroom visits, water bottle refills, snack breaks, etc.
    • Be responsible for any communications with emergency contacts of youth participants
    • Be responsible for supervising the youth participants’ arrival to, congregation at, and departure from the location of programming.

How much does it cost? And what dates are available?

Start by submitting a Reservation Interest Form and we will get back to you with fee estimates, date availability, and more details for how to move forward with a reservation. Reservations must be requested no less than 25 business days in advance.

Buses

Chartered buses may drop off and pick up directly at SCRC. You must coordinate bus details when you make your reservation. Buses may not wait at the facility entrance. During your program, buses must either depart campus and find space to wait off campus or may reserve and pay for one of the limited bus turnout spaces on campus in advance. Ask about this when you coordinate your reservation.

Could I see a list of the exact activities that my group will do?

If you sign up for a program that includes climbing, then your group will get the opportunity to climb the climbs listed in your program description. As for the activities that take place on the ground, there are maybe 30+ activities (and variations on those activities) that your group might do. The facilitator staff will plan the exact activities based largely on the answers you provide on the “About My Group” form. We are unable to provide you with an exact list of ground activities in advance. Activities will vary based on group size, activity availability, group abilities, weather, group interests, how any given activity goes, and the assessments/choices made by the staff facilitators in real-time.

Undergraduate Student Group Programs

Plan an adventurous bonding retreat for your student leaders, residential hall floor, student club, sports team, fraternity/sorority, and more. Your group will have the opportunity to strengthen their connections while sharing a fun and adventurous experience that facilitates leadership, effective communication, trust, and creative problem solving. Whether they knew each other prior to the event or not, students often feel more strongly connected to one another and reflect positively on what kind of team or community they are becoming. The facilitator staff will customize your program's activities and themes to match your group and achieve your desired outcomes.

3 images, first of student on high ropes course, second of students lined up facing each other playing fast hands, third, two students hugging aftger completing a ropes challenge

Recommended program:

  • Half-Day (Up to 4 hours) Ground-Based + High Ropes Team Building Program: Through a series of ice-breakers, group games, and team challenges, your group will have the opportunity to strengthen their connections, share a positive experience, and intentionally reflect on what kind of team or community they are and want to be. Activities may incorporate low-ropes structures (i.e. balancing beams, wooden platforms, suspended cables), or props (i.e. traffic cones, balls, or even a rubber chicken). Teamwork, communication strategies, and creative problem-solving will all be put to work throughout these ground-based teambuilding initiatives. After building trust in the team through these ground-based activities, the group will have the opportunity to climb our two signature team-belayed climbs: The Leap of Faith and the High V. Our staff of enthusiastic facilitators will teach the group how to hold the ropes, belaying from the ground for their teammates as they attempt these climbing challenges. We’ll wrap things up with a reflective debrief at the end of the program, celebrating the group and honoring their new shared experience.

Not sure everyone in your group will want to climb? That’s okay! Climbing is optional and is inclusively done all together with the whole group helping to hold the ropes for 1-2 climbers at a time. More info in the “About” tab of this website.

Other program options:

  • Full-Day (up to 6-hours total, including a 45-minute lunch break) Ground-Based + High Ropes Team Building Program: Similar to a half-day program, only in this full-day program the group will get even more time to develop a sense of team, play games, and conquer challenges together. For many groups, the half-day program can feel rushed. So if you have the time to stay and play, 6 hours can be rewarding.
  • Ground-Based Team Building (no climbing): Up to 3 hours of activities on the ground, which may incorporate low-ropes structures no more than one foot off the ground (i.e. balancing beams, wooden platforms, suspended cables), or props (i.e. traffic cones, balls, or even a rubber chicken). Teamwork, communication strategies, and creative problem-solving will all be put to work throughout these ground-based teambuilding initiatives. While many activities have a physical component to them, physical strength and fitness are not a basis for achieving success in our programs.

Graduate and Professional Student Group Programs

Plan an adventurous bonding retreat for your graduate or professional student group, cohort, or work team. These retreat experiences are ideal for groups kicking off a graduate program, folding in new team members, or just looking for something fun to do together. Your group will have the opportunity to strengthen their connections while sharing a fun and adventurous experience that facilitates leadership, effective communication, trust, and creative problem solving. Whether they knew each other prior to the event or not, students often feel more strongly connected to one another and reflect positively on what kind of team or community they are becoming. The facilitator staff will customize your program's activities and themes to match your group and achieve your desired outcomes.

students on rope course taking a selfie student participating in leap of fath activity

Recommended program:

  • Half-Day (up to 4 hours) Ground-Based + High Ropes Team Building Program: Through a series of ice-breakers, group games, and team challenges, your group will have the opportunity to strengthen their connections, share a positive experience, and intentionally reflect on what kind of team or community they are and want to be. Activities may incorporate low-ropes structures (i.e. balancing beams, wooden platforms, suspended cables), or props (i.e. traffic cones, balls, or even a rubber chicken). Teamwork, communication strategies, and creative problem-solving will all be put to work throughout these ground-based teambuilding initiatives. After building trust in the team through these ground-based activities, the group will have the opportunity to climb our two signature team-belayed climbs: The Leap of Faith and the High V. Our staff of enthusiastic facilitators will teach the group how to hold the ropes, belaying from the ground for their teammates as they attempt these climbing challenges. We’ll wrap things up with a reflective debrief at the end of the program, celebrating the group and honoring their new shared experience.

Not sure everyone in your group will want to climb? That’s okay! Climbing is optional and is inclusively done all together with the whole group helping to hold the ropes for 1-2 climbers at a time. More info in the “About” tab of this website.

Other program options:

  • Full-Day (up to 6-hours total, including a 45-minute lunch break) Ground-Based + High Ropes Team Building Program: Similar to a half-day program, only in this full-day program the group will get even more time to develop a sense of team, play games, and conquer challenges together. For many groups, the half-day program can feel rushed. So if you have the time to stay and play, 6 hours can be rewarding.
  • Ground-Based Team Building (no climbing): Up to 3 hours of activities on the ground, which may incorporate low-ropes structures no more than one foot off the ground (i.e. balancing beams, wooden platforms, suspended cables), or props (i.e. traffic cones, balls, or even a rubber chicken). Teamwork, communication strategies, and creative problem-solving will all be put to work throughout these ground-based teambuilding initiatives. While many activities have a physical component to them, physical strength and fitness are not a basis for achieving success in our programs.

How much does it cost? And what dates are available?

Start by submitting a Reservation Interest Form and we will get back to you with fee estimates, date availability, and more details for how to move forward with a reservation. Reservations must be requested no less than 25 business days in advance.

Could I see a list of the exact activities that my group will do?

If you sign up for a program that includes climbing, then your group will get the opportunity to climb the climbs listed in your program description. As for the activities that take place on the ground, there are maybe 30+ activities (and variations on those activities) that your group might do. The facilitator staff will plan the exact activities based largely on the answers you provide on the “About My Group” form. We are unable to provide you with an exact list of ground activities in advance. Activities will vary based on group size, activity availability, group abilities, weather, group interests, how any given activity goes, and the assessments/choices made by the staff facilitators in real-time.

Policies

Fee Policies

  1. The minimum per-person fee is for 15 people. If your group is smaller than 15 you will still be charged for 15 people.
  2. Your fees are based on your anticipated maximum participant group size. We staff, plan, and prepare your program, the facility, and equipment according to the anticipated maximum for which you wish the course to be ready. You will be charged for this maximum group size unless you indicate via email that your maximum group size has changed. Changes must be communicated via email no later than 2 weeks prior to your program.
    • If your group arrives with fewer participants than anticipated, you will still be charged for the number of participants for which you reserved the course.
    • If your group arrives with more participants than anticipated, we will do our best to accommodate the increase in group size. However, there is no guarantee that this is possible and, as a result, some participants may be turned away and not be permitted to remain in the facility. You will be charged for any additional participants that are successfully added to your reservation.
  3. If you choose to shorten your program the will fees remain the same.

Facility Policies

Access is limited only to those who are specifically included as a part of your group and only to the areas of our facility that are specifically included in your reservation. Access is not permitted to adjacent field, picnic, pool, or volleyball court spaces unless it is specifically included in your reservation.

UCLA Policy 810 : Smoke and Tobacco-Free Environment (insert link: https://www.adminpolicies.ucla.edu/APP/Number/810)

UCLA Policy 135 : Animals on University Property (insert link: https://www.adminpolicies.ucla.edu/APP/Number/135)

Weather Policies

Weather on the Challenge Course: University shall evaluate weather forecast no earlier than 24 hours in advance of program to decide if the forecasted weather meets or exceeds the cancellation/transfer requirements described here.

  1. Programs are not cancelled nor rescheduled in the event of light or intermittent rain, cold weather, or hot weather.
  2. In the event of heavy or constant rain the program will be cancelled or transferred to another mutually agreed upon date. If cancelled due to heavy or constant rain, you are eligible for a 100% refund.
  3. Climbing activities may be limited in the event of strong winds or lightning. If strong winds or lightning are forecast, you may choose to either cancel your event or reschedule to another date. Rescheduling is subject to availability. If you choose to cancel due to strong wind or lightning forecast, you will receive a 100% refund.

Youth-specific policies

  1. Chaperones must be present to supervise the group at a minimum ratio of 10 minors to 1 chaperone. For minors ages 15 and older, a ratio of up to 20:1 is allowed.
  2. Chaperones shall:
    • Be present, attentive and prepared to assist with any communications.
    • Manage any direct discipline or misbehavior issues. Should the program facilitators determine that, for safety reasons, a youth participant must be removed, then the chaperone shall be responsible for their removal.
    • Be aware of and responsible for any youth participant who needs to step away from the immediate programming activities. Reasons for doing so are generally bathroom visits, water bottle refills, snack breaks, etc.
    • Be responsible for any communications with emergency contacts of youth participants
    • Be responsible for supervising the youth participants’ arrival to, congregation at, and departure from the location of programming.

Cancellations, refunds, and date transfer policies:

For groups that are not subsidiaries of the University of California (i.e. you/your organization is not operating as an employee, program, department, or registered student group of the University of California):

  1. If you provide notice of 30 days or more, you are eligible for a 90% refund and the University shall retain the 10% deposit.
  2. The 10% deposit is non-refundable. If rescheduling to a new, mutually agreed upon date, the deposit is transferable.
  3. If you cancel any or all of your participants providing less than 10 business days of notice, no refunds shall be issued. Transfer to another date is not guaranteed.
  4. A change of date or cancellation may result in the University’s inability to contract with you in the future.
  5. Should the University cancel the program, you are eligible for a 100% refund.

For groups that are subsidiaries of the University of California (i.e. you/your organization are operating as an employee, program, department, or registered student group of the University of California):

  1. You may cancel, reschedule, or change the maximum number of participants for your program up to 10 business days prior to the event.
  2. Cancellations or date changes made with less than 10 business days of notice may result in the Recreation Department’s inability to reserve programs for you in the future.

Risk Management

Our staff are trained in and prioritize safety. However, risk management is everyone’s job (both staff and participants). Challenge course activities, whether on/near the ground or involving climbing, are inherently risky. It is possible to get hurt. Risks include mild injuries (i.e. splinters, scrapes, bruises), moderate injuries (broken bones), severe/life-altering injuries (paralysis, blindness), and even death. Activities can evoke strong emotional and physiological responses. Participants must follow instructions, choose their level of participation, and take part in managing risk.

Participation

Individual choice and empowerment are essential elements of our programs. Our staff will present the group with activities that are designed to be both physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging. Participants choose if and to what extent they wish to engage in any activity. Additionally, there are opportunities for participants to change their minds.

All persons on the challenge course (regardless of participation level) must submit a signed waiver. Minors must have a parent/guardian sign their waiver.

Frequently Asked Questions

participants taking part in team building activities

What is the UCLA Challenge Course?

The UCLA Challenge Course is an adventure-filled tool for team development, group bonding, and learning. Programs on our course incorporate both ground-based activities and high-ropes climbing elements to challenge and inspire groups of all types. Our professional facilitator staff designs a program of activities to match your group’s unique makeup and achieve your desired outcomes. Through collaboration, your group will build trust and cohesiveness while developing skills in leadership, communication, and decision-making. While many activities have a physical component to them, physical strength and fitness are not a basis for achieving success on our course.

Who can use the UCLA Challenge Course?

Challenge Course team building programs are ideal for work team retreats, college student groups, high school students, and middle school students. Any private group, whether affiliated with UCLA or not, may make a reservation for a program on the Challenge Course. Reservations must be started a minimum of 25 business days in advance of the desired program date. Youth under the age of 10 are not suitable for our activities. A group size minimum of 10 is recommended. The minimum fees are for 15 people, even if your group has fewer than 15 people. The group size maximum is around 150.

How can I use the UCLA Challenge Course?

Start by submitting a Reservation Interest Form at least 25 business days prior to your desired program date. During your reservation process, you will select a program that includes either:

  • Ground-based team building only (no climbing) OR
  • Ground-based + high-ropes team building

More details about the reservations process can be found under the “Reservations” tab of this website. We do not offer climbing-only programs. The UCLA Challenge Course is a traditional facilitated course and is not an aerial adventure park. If you are looking for only an outdoor climbing experience then our programs are not the right match for your interests.

I’m not sure everyone in my group will want to climb, but I think some might. What should I do?

It’s super normal for people to feel unsure if they want to do the climbing activities – it can seem scary. If you sign your group up for a program that includes climbing, you should understand that climbing, like all our activities, will be optional and will still incorporate everyone, including those who choose not to climb. The whole group “does” the climb all together, with one or two people climbing at a time while the rest of the group is on the ground cheering the climbers on and holding the ropes which keep them secure. In addition to providing instruction/supervision on how to hold the ropes from the ground, our program leaders facilitate a foundational message of choice and empowerment. We recognize that everyone present will have different physical abilities, mental states, and interests. Each person is encouraged to choose the level of challenge that feels right for them. For some people that might mean trying to climb a few steps up the structure and then coming back down. For others it might mean putting on a harness and taking a group picture, but not actually climbing. And for others, they might see the first few people do the climb and decide that they’d like to try it. Whatever the individual’s choice, it is the rest of the group’s job to support them. There can be so much value in sharing this climbing experience as a team, whether one chooses to be on the ground, climbing, or both. We highly recommend selecting the “Half-Day Ground-Based + High Ropes Team Building Program” – it is our best seller, and many groups return annually for this particular program.

How do I arrange to also have a picnic meal before, after, or during my program?

The broader SCRC facility (where the Challenge Course is located) is an outdoor retreat type of space. Picnic space is not automatically included with your Challenge Course reservation but may be added for additional fees, pending availability. Pre-made individually bagged/boxed food is simplest and recommended. You will need to be the main point of contact coordinating any food deliveries the day of your event. Many places in Westwood deliver food to UCLA’s campus. Picnic space involving simple, pre-made food can be reserved directly with the Challenge Course Manager when making your team building program reservation.

If you would like your picnic to include extras such as on-site cooking, BBQ, active food service by a vendor, alcohol, additional tables, chairs, tents, or amplified sound, then you will need to make your entire picnic reservation through UCLA Recreation Reservations & Rentals at reserve.recreation.ucla.edu. Note that they require 20 business days of notice, at a minimum.

What happens during a Challenge Course program? What can I expect? Is this the right fit for my group?

Learn more about what a typical program involves and can achieve, by selecting from our dropdown menu the group type that best fits your group (e.g. work team retreats and corporate programs, college student programs, high school student programs, and youth age 10-14 programs).

Could I see a list of the exact activities that my group will do?

If you sign up for a program that includes climbing, then your group will get the opportunity to climb as described in your program description. As for the activities that take place on the ground, there are maybe 30+ activities (and variations on those activities) that your group might do. The facilitator staff will plan the exact activities based largely on the answers you provide on the “About My Group” form. We are unable to provide you with an exact list of ground activities in advance. Activities will vary based on group size, activity availability, group abilities, weather, group interests, how any given activity goes, and the assessments/choices made by the staff facilitators in real-time.