OUR STORY
Challenge Design Innovations (CDI) began 45 years ago when founder Jim Wall built his first ropes course and zip line with a simple belief, quality products and services are built on quality relationships.
Building a world-class challenge course or aerial adventure park is a high-stakes investment. You need more than a builder, you need a partner who prioritizes structural integrity, innovative design, and strict adherence to safety standards.
CDI transforms land into destinations. Whether you are developing a commercial adventure park, a camp ropes course, a college teambuilding course, or a specialized military or ROTC training site, CDI provides the turnkey solutions required to launch and sustain a successful operation.
Why industry leaders choose CDI
Standards-driven design and build
As an accredited Professional Vendor Member (PVM) of the Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT International), CDI does not only follow industry standards, CDI helps set them. CDI combines creative vision with rigorous engineering, so every installation is built to be durable and exciting.
- Custom aerial adventure design: CDI designs unique experiences tailored to your terrain, target demographic, and budget.
- Precision challenge course construction: CDI builders are industry veterans focused on longevity and minimizing environmental impact.
- Annual inspections and training: CDI provides ACCT-compliant inspections and staff training to help keep your operation running smoothly.
Our story
Innovation in our DNA
CDI’s story is rooted in a passion for the outdoors and a commitment to technical excellence. Founded on the principle that adventure should be accessible and affordable, CDI has spent decades refining its craft.
From early days in course maintenance to today’s role as a leader in adventure parks, CDI’s mission has remained the same, to build the most engaging aerial experiences in the world.
The CDI difference
Engineering peace of mind
When you hire a challenge course company, you are trusting them with your brand’s reputation and your participants’ safety. CDI takes that responsibility seriously.
- Innovative hardware: CDI uses high-performance components, including gear like Rocks Edge Gloves, to support the participant experience.
- Sustainable practices: CDI builds with the future in mind, using materials and techniques that protect the natural beauty of your site.
- Proven results: CDI’s portfolio spans the U.S., serving resorts, educational institutions, and municipalities with distinction.
A timeline of crafting adventure
Key milestones
- 1980: Jim Wall built his first challenge course at San Lee Park in Sanford, NC, marking the beginning of his journey in the adventure industry.
- 1984: Corey Wall, at 6 years old, began helping with the family business, planting the seeds for his future leadership role.
- 1987: Jim launched Walls Outdoor Associates, his first course-building company based in Georgia.
- 2000: Jim co-founded Cornerstone Designs, Inc., which became accredited as an ACCT Professional Vendor Member.
- 2010: The company was reimagined and renamed Challenge Design Innovations (CDI), ushering in a new era of partnership and innovation.
- 2018: Jim and Catherine Tait retired, passing the leadership torch to their son, Corey Wall, who became Owner and President of CDI.
- 2020: CDI celebrated its 10-year anniversary under its current name and 40 years of excellence in the aerial adventure industry.
- 2025: CDI celebrates being part of the industry for 45 years.
Our mission
What guides our work
"Our mission at Challenge Design Innovations (CDI) is to inspire adventure and foster growth by designing and building exceptional challenge courses, zip lines, and adventure parks. With a steadfast commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we empower our clients to create transformative experiences for their participants while prioritizing quality, relationships, and environmental responsibility."
"Our mission at Challenge Design Innovations (CDI) is to inspire adventure and foster growth by designing and building exceptional challenge courses, zip lines, and adventure parks. With a steadfast commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we empower our clients to create transformative experiences for their participants while prioritizing quality, relationships, and environmental responsibility."