Preparing for a Day on the HMHI ROPES Challenge Course
As you prepare for your time on the challenge course please be aware that we plan to be outside. Dressing in layers and anticipating the weather will add to your comfort and enjoyment. Please dress to be active in clothes and shoes that are comfortable and durable. Sun, wind, rain, heat, or cold can all be part of a day on the course—please be prepared.
What to Wear
- Shoes: closed-toed with rubber soles; tennis shoes are great!
- Loose, casual, comfortable clothing that covers you and lets you move; t-shirts, longer shorts, and or long pants are all good choices depending on the weather and you.
- Layer clothing for the weather and bring rain gear if it looks like rain.
What to Bring
- Release form (if you did not submit it online)
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Bee sting kit (if you are allergic to bees), inhalers
What to Leave at Home or in the Car
- Jewelry and valuables—please remove jewelry before arriving at the course; rings, earrings, and necklaces can be broken and or pose a hazard to you or a peer.
- Gum or candy
To further optimize your experience for your group please arrive on time, and consider leaving your cell phone in your bag or car so that it will not be a distraction to you or others!
Group Packet & Paperwork
Thanks for scheduling a ROPES Group with us, we are looking forward to serving you! Please fill out the appropriate paperwork either electronically or in paper, so we can adequately plan your group and maximize your time on the Challenge Course.
For the individual planning your group, please fill out this online form.
Everyone planning to be on the ROPES Course, regardless of participation level, must fill out our release form.
Share!
If you are sharing pictures of your experience to social media, we would love it if you use #hmhiropes, #uofu and/or tag @uofuhmhi.
Please let us know what questions, concerns, or issues you may have. We look forward to seeing you on the challenge course!
HMHI ROPES Challenge Course
501 Chipeta Way
Salt Lake City, UT 84108
Phone: 801-587-3148
Email: ROPES@hsc.utah.edu
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the course open?
The Outdoor Course is available for scheduling seven days a week during daylight hours and good weather. The Indoor Course is available evenings and year-round, regardless of weather.
What is the price of participation?
Challenge Course fees are on a sliding scale and vary depending on the size of the group, duration, and complexity. Courses are designed to meet your organization's needs and can vary in length. Optimal courses range from four to eight hours. To schedule a course and discuss training design and cost, call the Challenge Course Coordinator at 801-587-3148 or request a consult through the Schedule section.
Why is the course at HMHI?
Huntsman Mental Health Institute (formerly UNI) is part of University of Utah Health, and the HMHI ROPES Course is on the grounds of HMHI. The course was originally built to be used exclusively by UNI groups. Over the years community interest in the course has grown and the program has changed to accommodate groups from the community.
Who can participate?
All types of groups are welcome and encouraged to attend. Work groups, youth groups, sports teams, faculty, staff, and students are all welcome. We will customize a course for your group and make the most of your time investment.
How many people can be in a group?
A minimum of eight participants and a maximum of approximately 50 can be accommodated on the Outdoor Courses. Large groups are often divided into small groups of 10–15. During the winter or bad weather, groups of approximately 20 or less can be accommodated on the Indoor Course.
Do I have to be super fit to participate?
No, varying levels of ability are expected. Experiential education activities at HMHI can be physical without requiring top physical fitness. Each course is customized for the group based on the information provided in the goal sheet, and there is a role for everyone on team activities.
Is there an age requirement?
Participants must be age nine or older. Please contact us if you have questions about younger participants or a group with a mix of ages.
Who facilitates the experience?
Our facilitators are nationally trained professionals with backgrounds in the field of therapeutic recreation, outdoor recreation, education, and other health care professions.
How do I schedule a group?
Submit a pricing request form. Scheduling can be completed weeks to months in advance and early reservations are recommended for dates in June through August.
I’ve scheduled or am part of a group coming to the course, now what?
Read Preparing for a Day With ROPES to learn about appropriate dress and complete the appropriate paperwork. Leaders will need to complete the goals form ASAP and encourage all members of their group to complete the release form. You must complete the release forms online or bring them completed on the day of the course. Participants under 18 will need a parent/guardian signature.
Questions? Schedule a Tour?
If you have any questions or would like to see the course prior to scheduling, please contact us at:
HMHI ROPES Challenge Course
501 Chipeta Way
Salt Lake City, UT 84108
Phone: 801-587-3148
Email: ROPES@hsc.utah.edu