Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu is pleased to offer outdoor adventure opportunities to our guests. Low and high ropes challenge courses were designed by Sylvia Shirley and built by a group of volunteers from the College of William and Mary in Virginia. A waterfront program (involving canoes and kayaks) at Abiquiu Lake is also ready to become part of your Ranch experience! Trained facilitators will help you create a program for your group, or for an afternoon on the Ranch while you are attending another seminar.

We have also included a number of new and exciting outdoor adventure courses in our summer program. We welcome everyone to try an enriching and fun outdoor adventure guaranteed to encourage teamwork and problem solving, be thrilling, and provide an opportunity to test your personal limits. Our outdoor adventures have been shared with individuals and groups of all ages ranging from school groups to Elderhostel programs. For more information and fees, contact the Outdoor Adventure Supervisor at 505.685.4333, ext. 130 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Low Ropes Challenge Course

On a low ropes challenge course, groups work together to tackle initiatives, games, and elements. Some of these activities are based on physical abilities and skills, but most rely primarily on problem-solving and cognitive skills. As the group moves through various activities, they are asked to display certain levels of risk, trust, and teamwork. Activities involve the use of dynamic "props" (including bean bags, stuffed toys, hula hoops, blindfolds, and more)! Facilitators will encourage group members to take a step outside their "comfort zone," because it is our belief that learning arises when individuals challenge themselves to go beyond what they normally would.

High Ropes Challenge Course

When you step onto the course you will immediately be surrounded by numerous challenges suspended by cables and ropes from 50-foot telephone poles. As you look around, you can decide what challenge you will present yourself. Will you traverse a wobbly wooden bridge? Will you stand on top of a pole and jump for a trapeze? Will you enjoy a ride on a giant swing? Perhaps your challenge will be to climb up a pole or climb up a pole and walk out onto a cable. Perhaps you will try these things with a blindfold on. Facilitators will help you choose your challenge, and all elements can be tailored to your level. All participants wear safety harnesses and helmets and are attached to a belay system, or safety ropes, while climbing.

At the Waterfront

We have 6 canoes and 9 kayaks to use across the highway at the Abiquiu Reservoir. Our introductory lesson will include learning basic strokes and parts of the boat, addressing safety concerns, and discussing environmental topics. Enjoy an afternoon of paddling around the cove with your friends and family. Paddling provides an ideal chance to appreciate the brilliant colors, diverse life, and dynamic landscape around us. Explore rocks, critters, and birds along the shoreline. Find relaxation and rejuvenation as you float across the water in the early morning or afternoon.

All equipment provided.