The NEST Challenge Course

Play Together. Grow Together.

The NEST (Nurture, Empower, Support, Thrive) Challenge Course brings 23 dynamic activities together to foster trust, leadership, and connection. Sitting just across from the Orchard Hill Residence Halls, this one‑of‑a‑kind course, complete with a sky park and thrilling zip lines, is set to open on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, for limited use.

What's The NEST?

The NEST is UMass’s new challenge course: a mix of high and low team-based elements that bring communication, leadership, and problem-solving to life. Programs are facilitated for student groups, classes, departments, and community partners—and we’ll also host open hours for individual experiences.

A challenge course blends low-to-ground initiatives with elevated obstacles, giving participants the chance to collaborate, communicate, and lead through real-time problem solving. At the NEST, low elements are spread across the area (with some you can walk up to anytime), while high elements carry you into the trees for shared challenges and memorable breakthroughs.

Total Challenges

Team-based elements

Low elements

Sky-park elements

Elements Overview

Low Elements (8)

Spread out for exploration.
Two walk-up options available anytime.
Perfect for warm-ups and debriefs.

High Ropes (Team-Based, 9)

Modular routes, multiple entry points.
Many combinations and challenges.
Accessible sequence with a small zip.

Sky Park (12, Self-Guided)

Choose-your-own-adventure
For individuals or groups

Two students riding the zipline on the NEST

Hours, Programs, and Booking

The NEST will be available for:

Individual/Free-Play
Group and Team-based challenges
Special Events and Reservations

Inquire Here

Book the Sky Park

We will be open to the public for challenge course programming and Sky Park use starting July 1st
Students, faculty, and staff with a RecWell membership will be able to register for a time that works for them HERE.
During summer session, programs will be available by request only.
All Sky Park sessions are 45 minutes. Sessions will start every 15 mins beginning at 3 p.m.
During the academic year, the Sky Park will be open from 3–5 p.m. every Wednesday and Friday.