By Josh Hughes
The AS Outdoor Center (OC) offers a wide array of excursions for students every quarter, ranging from local hikes to ice climbing trips in Canada. While the trips do cost, they’re an accessible way for students to explore some of the wilderness right outside our doorstep. Though some of the trips have already taken place, over half of them will be later on this quarter, and students can register for them up until the day before the pre-trip meeting. Here are some of the upcoming excursions that are open to students of all experience levels.
Women’s Wednesday Mountain Biking, $26, October 26 at 3 p.m.
“This trip is meant for women who have wanted to get into mountain biking, but haven’t due to its high barrier to accessibility,” Assistant Excursions Coordinator Tatsu Ota said. “Both in terms of gear and local trail knowledge, we provide both, included in the trip cost. Included are bike rentals and helmets. Participants are expected to bring water and lots of energy! If you want to squeeze in some adventure during your week, this is the trip!”
Halloween Rock Climbing in Vantage, $102, October 29-30
This annual event is great for students who can think of no better way to celebrate Halloween than by costumed climbing in the desert of Eastern Washington. The OC provides experienced leaders and all of the gear necessary, while the participant must just bring their own shoes, sleeping bag and sense of adventure. Participants on this trip will learn some technical rock climbing skills on some of the best columnar basalt in the state. The pre-trip meeting takes place on October 26 at 6 p.m.
Rock School at Vantage, $145, November 11-13
This is a moderate trip for aspiring rock climbers who want to learn more about knots, grips, and everything possible to do with climbing. The trip leaders will educate climbers on gear, safety skills, and also some specific climbing skills and tactics. Out in Eastern Washington, the two day trip is a perfect opportunity to meet people with a similar passion for climbing and a great way to build your skills with experienced trip leaders. The OC will provide all rock safety equipment, overnight accommodations, transportation and dinner for both nights. All that participants need to bring is rock shoes, personal overnight gear and a learning mind. Perfect for anyone looking to become a self-sufficient rock climber. The pre-trip meetings will be on November 8 and 10 at 6 p.m. in VU 150.
Full Moon Night Hike, $25, November 14 at 6 p.m.
As the most laid-back of the OC excursions, the Full Moon Night Hike is for people looking forward to getting outside and exploring in the spooky nighttime. This is mainly a trip for anyone who wants to hike at night but doesn’t really know where to start, and the OC is providing transportation and route planning. Participants are expected to BYOB (bring your own backpack), and water is always a good idea, but just be sure to expect a beautiful hike lit by the moon and stars.
Eagles and Whitewater Rafting, $60, November 19
“This is for people who want to go rafting and visit the homes of majestic birds of prey,” Ota said of this excursion. “Not only will you have cold water in your face letting you know you are alive, there will be wildlife left and right, soaring above you, creating an amazing experience. This trip is also a great one to go on with your group of friends and learn to see rivers with different eyes. The OC will provide all the rafting gear and participants are expected to bring food, water, and some dry clothes for the car ride.” The pre trip meeting will take place on November 16 at 6 p.m. in VU 150.
Finals Week De-Stress Hike, $35, December 3
Escape the library or your textbook-cluttered room for a day at Oyster Dome in the Chuckanut Mountains. This trip is for anyone really feeling the anxiety of finals coming on, and it’s a perfect atmosphere to go explore one of the most beautiful spots close to campus. Transportation will be provided, and as per usual participants are just expected to bring whatever daypack they’ll need. The pre trip meeting will take place on November 30 at 5 p.m. in VU 150.
In addition to the events listed above, the OC is also hosting a Backcountry Ski Day and a Canadian Ice Adventure in Banff at the end of the quarter. More information on any of the excursions can be found at the Outdoor Center main office located in VU 150, or on their website through the AS. Go outdoors and start exploring through the resources the OC provides!
