Ropes Challenge Course

What is a Ropes Course?


A ropes challenge course presents a unique experience where individuals and groups come together to create more effective teams. Group communication and cooperation typically show lasting results with a shared positive experience as well as personal enrichment.

Participants have a safe, supportive atmosphere to explore their personal potential and capabilities. Groups can learn the value of encouragement and working together through team building experiences.


Our Facility


  • High ropes challenge course
  • Low ropes challenge course
  • Environmental education

Our Program


Iredell County has operated a ropes challenge course since 1984, when ropes challenge course programming was relatively new. In 1997, we developed facility on Bluefield Rd in Mooresville, on approximately 45 beautiful acres of mature hardwood forest. In 2019, we relocated and opened at our current site at Jennings Park in Statesville.

The Outdoor Education Center has several low course elements, a high course circuit, and a 400 ft zipline.

Our facilitators are trained and experienced  professionals, who are passionate about the groups we serve and the programs we provide.

Through a needs assessment, each program can be custom designed to meet the goals and objectives of the clients, with focus on quality and safety.

Iredell County Parks and Recreation is an institutional member of the Association for Challenge Course Technology, following standards for installation, inspection, and operations.
High Ropes Course
Photo of high ropes challenge course elements: Pirate's Walk, Multi-Vines, and Heebie Jeebie.

What Our Clients Say About Us


"Our department recently went through major change. We had 3 separate business segments that now are 1 team. The OEC staff did an outstanding job in putting together an afternoon of team building activities for us. They researched our company, and asked a considerable amount of questions to us prior to the program. This customized program was a big jump start to building our new team!"

Dan Farley
Newell Rubbermaid

"The staff at the Iredell Outdoor Education Center always go above and beyond for my group. They tailor the program to fit the needs and goals of the group to a tee. They are very creative and always "check in" with me to make sure they are on the right page. Good time had by all!"

Mitzie McCurdy
Lake Norman Regional Medical Center

"First off, it was just great to get the team away from the office. Secondly, I was very impressed about how the problem-solving exercises directly related to some aspect of our jobs. The exercise that stands out is the rope matrix exercise that demonstrated that effective communications could overcome a poor plan. Lastly, everyone had fun - even some who thought it would be a waste of their time. Thanks so much for a great outing!"

Thanks again!

Gene Kaiser
Harvey Holdings Co.


Past & Present Clients


  • Newell/Rubbermaid - Training and staff development group
  • Wake Forest Baptist Medical - 2nd-year residents
  • St. Theresa Catholic Church - Confirmation Students
  • Lake Norman Regional Medical Center - Camp Med Program
  • Starmount High School - Senior football team
  • Harvey Holdings Company - Management team
  • Mooresville Chamber of Commerce - Youth and adult leadership programs
  • Keller Williams - Regional board members
  • Thomas and Godley Attorneys - Paralegal Staff
  • Five Guys Burgers and Fries - Management training program
  • Iredell County Statesville Schools - 5th grade classes from multiple schools


Mobile Initiatives (Portable Group Challenges)


Many of the activities that are done at an actual ropes challenge course may be modified and presented in a classroom setting, gymnasium, or other open space (indoor or outdoor) areas. Our trained facilitators can customize "mobile initiatives" or portable, group challenges for your group or team development by bringing the program to you! For more information regarding content, prices, or requirements, contact the Program Director.