Each fall and spring semester, University of Missouri’s (MU’s) Venture Out offers a free afternoon of climbing fun on their obstacle courses called Happy Hour at the Alpine Towers. The event occurs rain or shine, and free pizza and beverages are provided. This fall, the event occurs today, Thursday, September 24, 2014, from 4-7 pm.

The two main structures available during this event are the original course, The Alpine Tower, and the newer Odyssey High Ropes Course, which opened at the fall 2013 event. The Alpine Tower is more for individual effort, and the Odyssey often relies on group/team effort, or non-group people helping each other. Before starting, staff will get you a safety harness to wear while climbing. The Alpine Tower, you climb as far as you are comfortable or able, and then you drop off the edge and a staff person lowers you slowly on the safety rope that you are attached to. The Odyssey has a practice area for getting used to connecting to and sliding along the ropes, then you climb the rope ladder, negotiate the ropes and platforms between the ends of the structure, and finish by descending the rope ladder on the other end. Everyone signs a disclaimer before climbing.

They do not specify age requirements—kids are allowed to try the course. Keep in mind: Really young kids will not be able to reach some of the steps, and the descent can also be scary for younger kids. Please keep this in mind if you are bringing kids. Kids can usually manage the lower levels of The Alpine Tower, but will need help with the Odyssey. Otherwise, everyone is welcome to try, and no experience is necessary. Staff are on hand to assist people as needed.

Venture Out is located on Epple Field just off of Providence Road next to The Green Tennis Center and Reactor Field, or see the map/directions on the Venture Out page. Do not expect parking at the facility. Options: There will be a bus shuttling people from the MU Student Center. Or, after 5 pm, you can park for free in a nearby MU faculty/staff parking lot.