Challenge Adventures is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that is supported through donations, grants and fees. Since 1989, we have provided therapeutic and recreational adventure trips, primarily llama treks, for young people eight and older, persons with developmental disabilities and other organized groups in the high mountains of North Carolina. Most trips take place in the Pisgah National Forest and its Congressionally mandated Wilderness Areas. Our offices are located in Columbia, SC and our base camp is near Waynesville, NC. Many organizations return to us year after year because of our attention to professionalism, our philosophy and our outstanding safety record.

Our Philosophy

We have a firm, but positive approach that is founded on natural consequences and an expectation of each individual's success. We believe that outdoor experiences, structure, and healthy, supportive adult guidance can help all young people learn and grow, especially those who are experiencing problems or challenges. For individuals who have limited experience in the out of doors, such as women and girls, persons with developmental disabilities, and others, we provide supportive outdoor experiences that contribute to learning, confidence and personal growth. Our philosophy is based in a belief that cooperation and caring create success for all.

The Method

The llamas are pack animals, and they can carry the supplies and equipment that allow eight to thirteen year old youth to come with us on adventures or for persons with disabilities and older youth to stay out for a longer period of time. But, more than that, they are gentle and approachable trail companions. Each camper leads a llama and the bond between a camper and "their" llama is a powerful way to help that person learn and grow during their outdoor experience. Llamas make the journey more fun for everyone and they take on a protective role toward "their human," making the campers feel safer and more confident. In addition, the llamas have an obvious cooperative social structure that provides a wonderful example of teamwork and caring, where each member has an important role. Besides, llamas are cool!

The journey itself provides opportunities for "teachable moments," helping campers understand their own behaviors and how they affect others. They learn how to be more comfortable in the woods. They learn outdoor skills and they hike farther or higher than they thought they could. Campers' increased self-confidence is earned through real accomplishments. Challenge Adventures is not a boot camp nor a traditional "wilderness therapy" program. However, our founders are well-versed in adventure therapy techniques and can tailor an outdoor program on request to meet therapeutic goals for particular groups.

Contact us for more information by email at info@challengeadventures.com or call 803-254-7959.