Radford University
RU ABLE
Outdoor Challenge Course
Welcome to RU ABLE - Radford University's Adventure Based Learning Experience
Our Mission
RU ABLE is committed to enhancing the physical, social, and emotional well-being of Radford University students and our surrounding community. We offer inclusive, adventure-based programming designed to challenge, connect, and inspire individuals and groups through challenge course activities and team-based experiences.
What We Do
RU ABLE offers year-round programs that include:
- Challenge course and team-building experiences
- Inclusive programs for participants of all abilities
- Custom workshops and specialized training for campus and community group
Since our start, we've served over 50,000 participants, helping them build confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills through adventure and recreation.
Academic and Student Opportunities
RU ABLE is deeply integrated into the Recreation, Parks and Tourism curriculum at Radford University. Students play a vital role in designing and leading programs for both campus and community groups.
- Work toward Student Lead Facilitator certification through our in-house training program
- Earn paid leadership positions while gaining hands-on experience
- Build professional skills in facilitation, safety, and outdoor leadership
Whether you're looking to challenge yourself or lead others, RU ABLE is your gateway to adventure and personal growth.
Contact Us Today!
RU ABLE
P.O. Box 6963
Radford, VA 24142
Email: ruable@radford.edu
Facilities
Pyramid Health New River Valley Residential Treatment Center - 6226 University Park Drive, Radford, VA 24141
Our outdoor challenge course is located on 100 acres of rolling hills near the New River. In addition to the high and low challenge course elements listed below, there is a picnic shelter with plenty of parking that can accommodate school buses.
High Elements
- 800-Ft Dual Zipline
- Vine Walk
- Catwalk
- 3-Line Bridge
- Pamper Pole/Trapeze Jump
- Postmen’s Walk
- Helix Tower (four climbing routes and rappel)
Low Elements
- Mohawk Walk
- Wobbly Woozy
- Three Islands
- Nitro Swing
- TP Shuffle
- Team Wall
Selu Conservancy - 3125 Dry Valley Road, Radford, VA 24141
Radford University’s Selu Conservancy is located just minutes from campus on 380 acres along the Little River. Beautiful views, abundant trails, an impressive retreat center and river front boathouse provide an ideal environment for professional meetings, school field trips, and college groups.
The team-building low ropes challenge course is in a wooded environment near “The Bathhouse,” which has bathrooms and a shelter. Team-building activities can take place inside “The Barn,” a 5,100-square-foot multiuse heated and air-conditioned conference facility. RU ABLE provides canoeing on the Little River and has a large orienteering course.
Low Elements
- Mohawk Walk
- 3-Island
- Giant’s Figure
- Wobbly Woozy/Victory V
- Whale Watch
- Nitro Crossing
- TP Shuffle
- Trust Fall
- Spider’s Web
- Zig-Zag
- Team Wall
Peters Hall Gymnasium - Radford University Campus
Our indoor challenge course is in the Peters Hall gymnasium on the main Radford University campus. This is a great option for Radford University students, classes, and organizations, as well as those visiting campus. RU ABLE also uses this facility for evening programs and team building activities.
High Elements
- Flying Squirrel
- Giant Swing
- Vertical Playground (two-person element)
- Ball Jump and Climbing Wall
- Wobbly Woozy (two-person element)
Low Elements
- Nitro-Crossing
- Swinging Beam
- Bouldering Wall
Course Options
Team Building in Peters Hall Gym
Team Building Programs
Group size 8-300 (does not include high ropes course elements)
Three-hour team building programs include icebreakers and low challenge course elements.
Four-hour team building programs include icebreakers, low challenge course elements, and in-depth processing and discussion.
Programs can be held at either Peters Hall Gymnasium or Selu Conservancy
Mobile Team Building: We can come to you!
Helix Climbing Tower
Outdoor Challenge Course Programs
Group Size 8-40
4–6-hour outdoor challenge course programs include icebreakers, team building, low ropes course elements, high ropes course elements, and dual zipline. Please note there is a 250-pound limit on the zipline.
Indoor Challenge Course Programs
Group Size 8-30
1-3-hour indoor challenge course programs include icebreakers, team building, low ropes course elements, high ropes course elements, and climbing/bouldering wall.
Breakout EDU
Group Size 8-30
In our team building activity with Breakout EDU, participants work together to solve puzzles and unlock a box before time runs out! Look for clues, crack secret codes, and use teamwork to reach your goal. This engaging, hands-on experience challenges teams to think critically, communicate effectively, and collaborate under pressure. Programs typically last an hour.