Challenge Course

Step Outside Your Comfort Zone & Grow Together

The Challenge Course at Camp Mack is a series of low and high elements designed to challenge groups of people to work together, solve problems, develop leadership, trust one another, and work to meet individual and group goals. Passive spectators become active participants as they face events with varying degrees of physical and/or mental challenge.  

While the Challenge Course naturally addresses many areas of individual and group development, group leaders are asked to share their specific goals when setting up an experience. Our facilitators then work to tailor the day to meet those goals through the events selected, as well as opportunities to debrief the group’s experiences and apply learning to other areas in their lives.

There Are Multiple Parts to the Challenge Course:

Team-Building Exercises

Investing in Camp Mack’s capital projects helps strengthen the spaces where lives are changed, faith is nurtured, and community is built. Your generosity makes it possible to maintain and improve lodges, meeting areas outdoor spaces, and essential infrastructure, helping the camp remain a safe, welcoming, and inspiring place for generations to come. Every gift directly supports the long-term mission and ministry of Camp Mack.

Low Ropes Course

A low ropes course is a hands-on adventure that builds teamwork, confidence, and communication in a fun, supportive setting. Designed close to the ground, it’s challenging without being intimidating, making it perfect for all ages and abilities. Groups work together to solve problems, encourage one another, and celebrate shared success. Trained facilitators guide each activity to ensure safety and meaningful reflection.

Elements may include pirate’s crossing, nitro crossing, swinging log, wild woozy, and whale watch.

Climbing Wall

Reach new heights on our climbing wall — perfect for beginners and experienced climbers alike. With multiple routes and difficulty levels, there’s a challenge for every age and ability. Our trained staff are on hand to keep climbers safe, supported, and confident. Climbing builds strength, problem-solving skills, and courage in a fun, encouraging environment.

Our Climbing Wall has three sides of varying degrees of difficulty (Straight Up, Cargo Net, or Wedge) and is attached to the High Ropes Course. Participants are secured in harnesses and belayed by our experienced staff.

High Ropes Course

The high ropes course is a test of courage, teamwork, and fun. Participants climb, balance, and zip their way through obstacles high above the ground, all while safely harnessed. It’s a thrilling way to build confidence and trust, whether you’re with friends, coworkers, or a youth group. No experience is needed — just a willingness to challenge yourself. Every step brings a sense of accomplishment and an unforgettable view. Ready to rise above your comfort zone?

Our High Ropes Course consists of two levels, each containing multiple elements and platforms about 35 feet up on poles and trees. Participants are secured to a special safety harness and carefully supervised by trained facilitators throughout the experience. Each experience includes an orientation to the equipment, methods for doing the events, and a safety briefing.

Zipline

Soar above the ground on our zipline adventure. After getting geared up, you’ll glide through the air. Your friends will be waiting at the bottom to help you safely get down. The zipline is reached by stairs, making it perfect for first-timers and experienced adventurers alike. Trained staff are with you every step of the way to keep the experience fun and safe.

It’s a fast ride, but the memories last a whole lot longer.

Flying Squirrel

Get ready to take flight on the Flying Squirrel! This exciting challenge course element sends a participant soaring through the sky, trusting teamwork and timing to glide through the air. It’s a powerful test of communication, courage, and cooperation — perfect for building confidence and connection. Campers will feel the rush of flying through the air while safely supported by trained staff and secure equipment.

How to Get Started

Contact our Outdoor Education Director Pieter by emailing him at pieter@campmack.org or calling camp at 574-658-4831. During the initial conversation we will talk about group goals, timeframe, and availability. If you don’t have a clear idea of what you want to do yet, we can make some recommendations based on these parameters.