Top of the Pines offers a low-ropes course that is perfect for team-building and outdoor adventure programs. The course offers a variety of elements that are suitable for children and adults of all abilities, to foster a sense of teamwork and self-discovery. The low-ropes course is available to all Top of the Pines visitors from May 15 - Oct. 15. Please treat the equipment with respect and follow the rules that are posted on site.
Reserve your spot by filling out the TOP Reservation Request Form
LOW ROPES COURSE FAQ:
Q: What is a low ropes course?
A: A series of cables, ropes and obstacles strung between trees or poles 12-18 inches above the ground, low rope elements present tests of physical strength, stamina, agility, balance and flexibility, and invite participants to confront such emotional issues as the fear of falling, the fear of failure and the fear of losing control. Risk is managed by group members who assume critical spotting roles.
A: A series of cables, ropes and obstacles strung between trees or poles 12-18 inches above the ground, low rope elements present tests of physical strength, stamina, agility, balance and flexibility, and invite participants to confront such emotional issues as the fear of falling, the fear of failure and the fear of losing control. Risk is managed by group members who assume critical spotting roles.
Q: Is there an age limit?
A: The course is appropriate for users ages 8 (3rd Grade) and up.
A: The course is appropriate for users ages 8 (3rd Grade) and up.
Q: Is the ropes course available for everyone to use?
A: Yes, provided they are at least 8 years old. Groups must provide their own facilitator for the low ropes course.
A: Yes, provided they are at least 8 years old. Groups must provide their own facilitator for the low ropes course.
Q: Do you have to make a reservation to use it?
A: Yes; reservations for group use must be made in advance. Reserve your spot by filling out the TOP Reservation Request Form
A: Yes; reservations for group use must be made in advance. Reserve your spot by filling out the TOP Reservation Request Form
Q: Do you have to sign a waiver to use it?
A: Yes. Please print out, sign and scan the TOP Indemnification Form (or you can fill it out on your computer; it is an interactive PDF form). Email signed form to [email protected].
A: Yes. Please print out, sign and scan the TOP Indemnification Form (or you can fill it out on your computer; it is an interactive PDF form). Email signed form to [email protected].
Q: Do you have a list of recommendations/ guidelines for use?
A: For liability reasons, TOP cannot provide specific recommendations and guidelines, but there are plenty of resources available online.
A: For liability reasons, TOP cannot provide specific recommendations and guidelines, but there are plenty of resources available online.
Q: Are there special guidelines for large groups or educational organizations that want to use the Low Ropes Course?
A: No more than 10 people at a time on the equipment. All user groups must provide their own facilitator.
A: No more than 10 people at a time on the equipment. All user groups must provide their own facilitator.
Q: Is use limited to May 15 - Oct. 15?
A: These dates are approximate and may be adjusted depending on snow conditions. Email [email protected] for more information.
A: These dates are approximate and may be adjusted depending on snow conditions. Email [email protected] for more information.
ACTIVITIES
Low ropes courses can be sorted into different types of activities:
Cooperative Game, Socialization Activity, Ice-Breaker: A fun activity designed to reduce inhibitions and break down barriers. These activities are often not based on a defined task but on a sequence of events. Users are often placed in positions where they are encouraged to try new things that may place them outside their normal comfort zones. Examples include: name games, people to people, raccoon circle.
Group Initiative: Problems involving real and imaginary ground-based obstacles (either natural or constructed) that challenge a group to pool their resources and work together to find solutions. Success is achieved only when all members have contributed to the outcome.
Trust Building Games: Activities designed to provide members the opportunity to demonstrate their trust in other members of the group through a series of sequenced actions. Examples include: Trust Fall & Burma Bridge.
ABOUT THE ELEMENTS
The Top of the Pines low ropes course currently offers nine low elements: Burma Bridge, King's Ring, Mohawk Walk, Trust Fall, Spider's Web, Wild Woozy, Trolleys, Islands, and All Aboard.
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*Temporarily Unavailable* Burma Bridge: Using the hand ropes, participants walk on the foot cable and cross the bridge. Ideal for very young participants and can easily be modified for people with disabilities.
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King’s Ring (or Giant Finger): The group, working in unison, places or removes the giant ring from the 8' - 10' high finger. Proper planning, safety and spotting must be implemented in order to assure success. It is suggested to wear gloves/proper attire to prevent splintering from the post.
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Mohawk Walk: A cable is installed between 4-6 zigzagging trees 12"- 18" above the ground. The objective of this element is for the group or parts of the group to join hands forming a human chain, and attempt to walk from one end of the cable to the other.
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Trust Fall really does demonstrate the importance of trusting one another. It is a platform about 4' off the ground. From a standing position on the platform, a team member falls into the arms of eight teammates. It sounds simple, but it is one of the most mentally challenging elements we have... so much so that only high school and above may do it. Try it with a Catch net!
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Wild Woozy: Cables are installed between three trees in a narrow “V” about 12” from the ground. The objective is for two people, each on a separate cable, starting at the narrow end of the "V", to stand facing each other. They must support each other as they walk towards the wide end of the “V” without falling. An alternate method for this element is to have people cross each of the three cables using ropes attached to the trees.
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Spider's Web: The group must get each team member to the other side without touching any part of the web. To make it more complex, each opening can only be used once (or twice --depending on the size of the group). This element requires communication, planning, and trust among team members.
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Trolleys are a collaborative element consisting of two long skis with hand ropes. Each member of the team stands with one foot on each ski and one rope in each hand. This test of co-operation requires an entire team to move perfectly in sync. Together, the group must attempt to traverse over a set distance.
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Islands: Islands are a series of platforms where a small group of people stand on each and use boards to travel from “island” to “island” without touching the ground. This challenge focuses on planning and communication.
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All Aboard: Can the whole group fit? A group is challenged to use creative problem-solving to fit an entire group on the platform at once. All Aboard is a great early-on problem solving activity, which helps individuals get used to sharing their ideas AND their personal space! This will require creative thinking and a comfort with the rest of your team.
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