Pine Valley Recreation Area and Team Building

Low Ropes

Low ropes are used as a great way for a group to come together and become better acquainted. Activities are facilitated by our staff to meet goals set by your group. The elements range from 0-8 feet off the ground. Goals are typically focused on, but not limited to, the following:

• Verbal and Nonverbal Communication
• Identifying Problems
• Problem-Solving
• Leadership
• Team Building
• Trust
• Fun

Islands

Whale Watch

Minefield

High Ropes

This course builds off of the group development and low elements. Activities are facilitated by our staff to meet goals set by your group. The elements are 30+ feet of the ground and may include catwalk, multi-vine, giant’s ladder, pamper pole, flying squirrel, zipline, and more! Goals are typically focused on, but not limited to, the following:

• Communication
• Problem-Solving
• Confidence
• Leadership
• Group Cohesion
• Empathy
• Trust
• Fun

Giant's Ladder

Zipline

Note: Use of the Ropes Course does not necessarily mean exclusive use of the entire Pine Valley recreation area due to the fact that student organizations may be using the area for training or recreational purposes.

Can't make it out to the ropes course? We can come to you! 

Our staff can visit your site prepared with a variety of team building games and initiatives that can be adapted to fit your space and needs. Goals are typically focused on, but not limited to, the following:

• Verbal and Nonverbal Communication
• Problem Solving
• Leadership 
• Teamwork
• Trust
• Fun

We are now able to offer team building programming in a virtual format!

Some examples of potential team building sessions are:

• Bank Heist: Your team, who works for “Rich Goldman” to protect against possible threats, has suspicions that a vigilante organization plans to steal from your employer. Your mission is to stop these criminals and protect the money rightfully earned by “Rich Goldman” by hacking into their accounts and disabling their server remotely. 
• Plane Crash Survival Mission: You and your team were flying across the Atlantic Ocean on a business excursion when things went terribly wrong, causing your plane to crash, and stranding you on a deserted island somewhere in the middle of the ocean.You must work together to discover a plan to survive on the island using your resources for the foreseeable future!

Technology will be utilized for this type of programming, so in order to have the best experience possible we recommend ensuring that:

• You have access to a consistent wifi connection.
  • There are many outdoor wireless locations on each UNG campus that can provide this if you do not have access otherwise.
• You have access to a computer. Although there are phone applications for various video conferencing servers, having a computer will allow you to see more of your fellow group members as you work through the activities.
  • If you do not have a computer and are affiliated with the university, you can check out a laptop through the IT service desk.
• You have access to a microphone attachment for your phone or computer, so that you can verbally communicate with your group.
  • Many types of headphones or earphones have one included, so plugging those in or connecting those to your device will enhance the communication experience.

If you are interested in a virtual team building session, select "Virtual" under program type when you complete reservation request form and we will be happy to assist you in creating a virtual program that fits the needs of your group!

Please read the following information to prepare yourself for your upcoming program. We look forward to working with you and your group and thank you for your interest in Pine Valley.

Please mail all checks to:

Campus Recreation and Wellness
Attn: UNG Outdoor Pursuits
198 Church Street
Dahlonega, GA 30533

Forms

A Health History Form and Waiver must be read, understood, and signed by all participants. If a participant is under the age of 18 years old, a parent/legal guardian must read, understand, and sign the required forms for the participant. These forms must be turned in no later than the day of the program. Both forms must be completed in their entirety or you will not be allowed to participate in any activity offered by Outdoor Pursuits. There will be no exceptions. As a group leader, please make sure that each member of your group has completed the Health History Form and Waiver. 

Cancellations

Group cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the reservation date. Failure to cancel at least 24 hours prior to the reservation will result in a non-refundable fee of 25% of the group’s total payment. The fee should be paid at the time of cancellation. Until payment is received, the group will not be able to schedule a new reservation date. 

Extenuating circumstances will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

Inclement Weather

Programming may be canceled due to rain, snow, excessively wet conditions, thunder, lightning, and/or tornado. If a group’s reservation is canceled due to weather, NGOP will work with the Group Leader to reschedule the group’s program.

Low challenge course programming may be able to move to an indoor location. If inclement weather is anticipated for low challenge course programming, NGOP will contact the Group Leader to attempt to move the program indoors before rescheduling.

Choose Your Challenge, Effort & Encouragement

At Outdoor Pursuits, we practice “choose your challenge.” This means that you, as an individual, choose your level of participation; it is not chosen for you by facilitators or other group members. No one is ever forced to do something they are not comfortable doing, and the majority of our activities are easily modified to resolve individual problems, concerns, or physical limitations. We only ask that you be prepared to put forth 100% to get the most out of your program.

On our course, we try to foster an environment that encourages participants to look for the strengths in others. We strive to provide programming that is challenging, fun, and safe.

What to Bring

• Closed-toe shoes are required. Shoes must have a rubber sole and must be athletic in nature. Participation is not allowed without proper footwear. No exceptions will be made.
• Clothing should be comfortable and loose to allow free movement. Athletic clothing, jeans, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and shorts are all acceptable. Participants are expected to wear a shirt that covers the midriff at all times regardless of weather. Large jackets or the like may need to be removed for risk management purposes.
• Loose or excessive jewelry is not allowed.
• Long hair should be tied back.
• Hats may need to be removed for risk management purposes.
• Participants should bring a water bottle.

What Not To Bring

• Personal gear including, but not limited to, harnesses, helmets and other climbing gear will not be permitted for use by participants on the course for risk management and liability purposes.
• The use of alcohol, illegal recreational drugs or any form of tobacco while participating in an NGOP Program is strictly prohibited.

Pavilions

The pavilions at Pine Valley provide a great location for picnics and gatherings. The first pavilion has 10 picnic tables as well as four serving tables. During cooler weather, this pavilion can be enclosed by lowering the doors surrounding it. There is also a large stone fireplace that can be used. The second pavilion is stocked with a full kitchen and a spacious area to set up for events.

UNG Groups can use the pavilion for free. Please contact the Student Center at 706-864-1643 to make arrangements.

Outside Groups can rent the pavilion by contacting Professional & Continuing Education at 678-717-2377 to make arrangements.

Note: Use of the pavilion does not necessarily mean exclusive use of the entire Pine Valley Recreation area due to the fact that student organizations may be using the area for training or recreational purposes.

Leadership Reaction Course

The Leadership Reaction Course is used by the University's Corps of Cadets for training purposes. For more information or to reserve, contact the Commandant at 706-864-1786.

Note: Use of the Leadership Reaction Course does not necessarily mean exclusive use of the entire Pine Valley Recreation area due to the fact that student organizations may be using the area for training or recreational purposes.