Experiential training is more than just fun and games—it’s a proven approach to learning that engages both the mind and body. Instead of passively receiving information, participants are immersed in hands-on challenges that mirror real-world dynamics. They solve problems, communicate under pressure, build trust, and reflect on what works—and what doesn’t—in a supportive environment.
At Venture Outdoor Leadership, we design experiences that spark personal insight and group growth. Our trained facilitators help participants connect the activity to the patterns, behaviors, and roles they bring to work, school, or their team.
We believe, as the Instructors Creed puts it:
"Learning is not a spectator sport. People learn best, not by being told, but by experiencing the consequences of their thoughts and actions. Our role, then, is to arrange experiences that help people learn."
— Training House, 1986
Whether your goals involve communication, leadership, inclusion, or team performance, experiential learning makes those lessons stick—because your group lives them, not just hears about them.
Every Venture program is tailored to your group's goals, so outcomes will depend on your group’s focus, dynamics, and level of challenge. That said, here are some of the most common outcomes groups experience through our programs:
Team & Organizational Development
- Improved team performance and cohesion
- Enhanced collaboration and mutual support
- Process and quality improvement through reflection and feedback
- Adaptability in the face of change or challenge
Communication & Problem Solving
- Clearer, more effective communication
- Conflict resolution and active listening
- Creative problem-solving and group decision-making
Leadership & Personal Growth
- Leadership development across experience levels
- Increased self-awareness and emotional intelligence
- Trust-building in diverse and inclusive environments
- Growth in confidence, resilience, and initiative
Whether you're looking to build relationships in a new group, strengthen an existing team, or challenge experienced leaders, our facilitators will work with you to design an experience that meets your goals—and creates space for real growth.
Start by thinking about your group’s goals, dynamics, and comfort level. Are you looking to build new connections, strengthen an existing team, or push your group outside their comfort zone?
Use the program descriptions as a quick guide, making sure to consider how much time your group has and the physical abilities of each individual.
Not sure? That’s what we’re here for! Our staff are happy to help you choose the right program based on your group’s needs, size, time frame, and goals. Just reach out—we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Submit a request and select "Unsure" under program type. One of our staff members will arrange a call to assist you in making the best choice for your group based on your goals and objectives for a successful day.
Many of our programs are designed to be inclusive and adaptable—no special physical training or strength is required. We tailor activities to your group’s comfort level and encourage Challenge by Choice, which means each participant chooses how they engage, with no pressure to go beyond what feels right for them.
Here’s a general overview of the physical requirements by program type:
- Mobile Programs involve light movement such as walking, standing, or light stretching. They’re ideal for groups looking for team building without a physical challenge.
- Team Challenge Course includes ground-based and low elements that involve light to moderate physical activity like balancing, stepping, or assisting teammates.
- High Team Challenge Course requires wearing a harness and helmet and includes elevated elements up to 40 feet off the ground. Participants may need to climb a cargo net or ascend a structure. It involves moderate physical effort and a willingness to try something new.
- Combo Programs combine both Team and High Challenge elements and are best suited for groups ready for a full-day experience with increasing levels of activity.
All programs begin with a warm-up and safety briefing. Our trained facilitators prioritize spotting, safety, and group support throughout the experience. Activities often involve more perceived risk than actual risk, and Venture has maintained an excellent safety record over its 50+ years of operation.
If you or someone in your group has physical limitations or accessibility concerns, let us know in advance—we're happy to modify activities to ensure everyone has a meaningful role and positive experience.
Our Challenge Courses are designed to be inclusive and adaptable, but some activities—especially on the High Course—do have physical and equipment limitations to ensure participant safety.
General Notes
- All activities are Challenge by Choice—participants choose how they engage.
- Programs take place outdoors and involve walking on gravel or uneven terrain.
- We are happy to adjust activities to meet participants’ needs—just let us know in advance.
Team Challenge Course (TC)
- Involves light to moderate activity, such as balancing, stepping, bending, and working with a group.
- Most activities take place on the ground or up to 2–3 feet off the ground.
High Team Challenge Course (HTC)
- Involves moderate physical activity including climbing, harness use, and elevated movement.
- Requires wearing a full-body harness and helmet.
- Participants may need to climb a cargo net or ladder, or balance on elevated elements.
- The zip line has a 250 lb weight limit due to safety equipment standards.
- Helmets and harnesses may not accommodate all body sizes or hairstyles (e.g., high buns or thick braids may interfere with helmet fit).
If you have questions about fit or mobility concerns, please contact us ahead of time. We want everyone to have a meaningful and safe experience—whether on the ground or in the air.
Yes—but we’re flexible! Each program type has its own ideal group size to ensure a safe, engaging, and well-facilitated experience. If your group is larger or smaller than the ranges below, let us know—we’ll do our best to accommodate or recommend adjustments.
Mobile Team Building
- Minimum: 8 participants
- Maximum: 100+ participants
- Great for classrooms, orientations, or spaces with limited mobility or time.
Team Challenge Course (TC)
- Minimum: 8 participants
- Maximum: 50 participants (larger groups can be split up into sessions)
- Ideal for groups who want a blend of ground and low-course challenges.
High Team Challenge Course (HTC)
- Minimum: 4 participants
- Maximum: 30 participants (larger groups can be split up into sessions)
- Due to the intensive nature of the course and safety protocols, smaller groups work best.
Combo Program (TC + HTC)
- Minimum: 8 participants
- Maximum: 30 participants (larger groups can be split up into sessions)
- Best suited for groups ready for a full-day, high-impact experience.
Please contact our office at venture-teambuilding@charlotte.edu.
The first step to set up a program is to request a program through our online form. While we strive to respond to your request within 24 hours, it may take longer during our busy seasons.
If you need to speak with someone in person, please call our main office at 704-687-0697.
To be certain, check with your group or team leader! We may meet in the location described below, but we often make exceptions based on participant transportation, weather, or convenience of the group.
Mobile Team Building - We will meet you at the reserved campus building or at your remote site if you chose an off-campus program.
Team Challenge Course
- Our typical meeting location: Alumni Way gravel parking lot
- GPS Coordinates: 35.302152, -80.742325
- Closest Point of Interest: Lot 27 and the Greenway crossing over Alumni Way
High Team Challenge Course
- Our typical meeting location: Atrium Hospital Overflow Lot
- GPS Coordinates: 35.304023, -80.746476
- Closest Point of Interest: 301E. W.T. Harris, Charlotte, NC 28223
We encourage all groups to sign the waiver before the start of the program. This will expedite the start of the program.
Please note that no one will be permitted to participate without a signed waiver, including a parent or guardian signature for anyone under 18 years of age.
No matter the program, we recommend dressing for comfort, movement, and the weather. Please wear clothes you don't mind getting a little dirty and avoid anything restrictive or overly delicate.
Mobile Team Building (on- or off-campus)
- Dress: Casual, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes (sneakers or trainers).
- Bring: A water bottle and any personal comfort items (e.g., hat, sunscreen, jacket).
- Note: Programs may take place indoors or outside. Your facilitator will confirm ahead of time.
Team Challenge Course (TC)
- Dress: Athletic wear suitable for movement; closed-toe shoes with good tread are required. Avoid sandals, Crocs, or slip-ons.
- Bring: A refillable water bottle, weather layers (we run programs rain or shine!), and sunscreen.
- Note: The course is accessed via a gravel path and takes place outdoors—dress for the elements!
High Team Challenge Course (HTC)
- Dress: Comfortable, athletic clothing that fits under a harness (avoid crop tops, short shorts, or anything too baggy).
- Closed-toe shoes required.
- Hair & Accessories: Long hair must be tied back. Avoid bulky hairstyles or accessories that may interfere with helmets.
- Bring: Water, sunscreen, weather-appropriate layers and a positive attitude.
- Note: Harnesses and helmets must fit properly to participate. Equipment has size limitations; please contact us in advance with any concerns.
- At least 7 days notice: Payment may be applied to a future program within the next 2 months.
- Less than 7 days notice: No refund or transfer of funds.
- If weather causes the program to be cancelled, payment may be applied to a program within 2 months.