Challenge Area
Welcome to the Challenge Area
The Challenge Area at Camp Sequassen is where Scouts push past limits, conquer fears, and discover the strength of teamwork and resilience. Featuring climbing, rappelling, team-building initiatives, and the COPE course, this area is designed to deliver hands-on adventure while promoting leadership and personal growth.
Climbing
One of the core elements of the Challenge Area is the 35-foot climbing and rappelling tower. Built to Scouting America safety standards and operated by trained instructors, this structure allows Scouts to learn proper harnessing, rope work, and belay techniques. Whether it’s their first time scrambling up the wall or they’re mastering different climbing routes, Scouts learn trust, focus, and self-confidence.
The Climbing Merit Badge is a key offering here, requiring Scouts to complete multiple ascents and descents, demonstrate knot proficiency, and understand the safety principles of the sport. For many, it’s a physically and mentally rewarding highlight of the week.
COPE Course
The COPE course (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience) is a signature high-adventure program designed for Scouts 13 and older. It includes low course elements that build communication and trust, and high course elements like zip lines, rope bridges, and elevated challenges that test problem-solving and courage.
COPE focuses on collaboration over competition. Scouts learn the value of group support, persistence, and creative thinking. Whether navigating the Low COPE challenges or riding the zipline, participants learn to overcome their fears, build stronger bonds and sharpen their leadership skills.
Cycling and BMX
Sequassen’s BMX trail winds through wooded terrain and includes features like banked turns, natural obstacles, and small jumps—perfect for Scouts looking for adventure on two wheels. Scouts can ride recreationally during open program or test their skills during timed challenges.
Scouts can also work on the Cycling Merit Badge, which requires longer-distance rides, bike maintenance, and safety instruction. For those who enjoy speed and strategy, the BMX trail offers a unique outlet within the camp environment. Trained staff provide guidance on gear use, braking techniques, trail etiquette, and proper safety practices, including helmet fitting and pre-ride inspections.
The Challenge Area often intersects with Older Scout Adventure programming, offering experiences that go beyond traditional camp activities for older Scouts. COPE and climbing are frequent components of these specialized tracks, which may include off-site trips or extended day activities. These offerings help retain the interest of experienced Scouts and provide meaningful high-adventure opportunities.
Merit Badges
*Eagle Required
Not all merit badges may be offered and merit badge offerings are subject to change. See the Leader’s Guide for the most up to date information.
Check out our other program areas!
