Outdoor Pursuits offers a number of adventure trips each semester to regional destinations! Our goal with our trips is to not only connect you with our local, beautiful places, but also with people!
Spring 2025 Adventure Trips & Events
Looking to get outside and connect with others? Join us for our trips! You can find more information and also sign up for these trips on RecShop.ohio.edu .
| Date | Weekend Trips | Availability |
|---|---|---|
|
February 28-March 2
|
Red River Gorge Rock Climbing | Spots Available |
|
March 21-23
|
Grandma Gatewood Backpacking | Spots Available |
|
April 11-13
|
Oil Creek Backpacking | Spots Available |
|
April 18-20
|
MacAfee's Knob Backpacking | Spots Available |
| Date | Spring Break Trips | Availability |
|---|---|---|
|
March 8-15
|
Everglades Spring Break Canoeing | FULL |
|
March 8-15
|
Cumberland Island Backpacking | FULL |
| Date | Day Trips | Availability |
|---|---|---|
|
March 22
|
Marne Road Day Climbing | Spots Available |
|
March 23
|
Athens Day Bouldering | Spots Available |
|
April 26
|
Athens Day Paddling | Spots Available |
Spring 2025 Special Trips and Programming
Outdoor Pursuits hosts special programming for Family Weekends. Come join us for campfires, ziplining, and day hikes that we are offering! More information can be found on RecShop.ohio.edu .
| Family Weekend | Event |
|---|---|
| February 9 | Sibs Weekend Conkle's Hollow Day Hike |
| February 15 | Conkle's Hollow Day Hike |
| April 4, April 5 | Mom's Weekend Campfire |
| April 5 | Mom's Weekend Conkle's Hollow Day Hike |
| April 6 | Mom's Weekend Day Paddle |
Registration Information
Register for trips on RecShop . You may also register in person at the Member Services desk in Ping Center from 9AM- close.
If you are registering online:
- Log in to RecShop using your MyOhio login, or create an account if you are not an OHIO student.
- Click on the courses link and follow the instructions.
- Once you have completed the transaction, download your confirmation receipt.
- You will receive an email confirmation that includes the address and a google maps link to the meeting location for each trip, and any other pertinent information regarding the trip.
Note:If you are trying to register multiple people, you will need to click on your username at the top right of the page in RecShop, then scroll down and add dependents. After that, go through the entire process and then click "continue shopping" and select the rest of your dependents.
Refund Policy
Due to the intensive planning and various expenses associated with each adventure trip and program, no refunds will be given for cancellations made within fourteen days of the trip or program date, unless the trip or program is canceled by Outdoor Pursuits.
Physical Challenge Scale
What to expect
The physical challenge scale is meant to provide insight into the level of physical exertion you can expect on your trip. And provide ideas to prepare prior to arrival. The designation does not provide insight into recommended experience level, inherent risks on the trip, pre-trip meetings or emotional challenges you may face, such as a fear of heights.
Level 1: Little to no training
This is our lowest level of physical exertion while on a trip. Examples include short hikes of up to 1-2 miles with a light day backpack, leisurely paddling a canoe for two hours, or lifting a maximum of 20 pounds. Getting ready for a Level 1 Program: stretching and normal walking to class. Consider taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
Level 2: Some minimal fitness
We recommend participants maintain or begin a semi-consistent exercise routine prior to participating in these trips. Examples of expected effort might be hikes of 2-3 miles with a day backpack, paddling a canoe for 3-4 hours, or lifting 30 lbs. Getting ready for a Level 2 Program: 15 minutes of light jogging, elliptical or other cardio workout, 2-3 times per week. Consider mixing in one of OU’s Group Fitness classes like Yoga or Cardio Dance.
Level 3: A basic level of fitness
We recommend that participants already have a base of fitness training and continue or increase training to 3-4 times per week. You should not be intimidated by running for 10 minutes without stopping; many participants will experience some physical challenge with this trip. Examples of expected effort might be hiking 4-6 miles with a 30 lb. backpack, paddling a canoe or kayak for 4 or more hours, being able to lift 40 lbs.
Getting ready for a Level 3 Program: 20-30 minutes of running, swimming, elliptical or other cardio workout 3-4 days per week. Consider mixing in one of OU’s Group Fitness classes like Yoga, Indoor Cycling, or Cardio Dance.
Level 4: Above average level of fitness
We recommend that participants already have a solid base of fitness training and continue or increase training to 5-6 times per week. Considered a rigorous trip; you should be comfortable with running for 20 minutes without stopping. Examples of expected effort might be hiking 6-8 miles with a 35lb backpack, paddling a canoe or kayak for 6 or more hours over multiple days, or being able to lift 40 lbs. Getting ready for a Level 4 Program: 30 minutes of running, swimming, interval training, resistance training or other up-tempo cardio workout, 5-6 days per week. Consider mixing in one of OU’s Group Fitness classes like Yoga, Cardio Dance, Boxing, or Indoor Cycling.
Level 5: Elevated level of fitness
We recommend that participants already have an advanced base of fitness training and continue or increase training to 5-6 times per week. This is a physically demanding trip; you should be comfortable with running for 30 minutes without stopping. Examples of expected effort might be 8-10 miles on steep, uneven terrain with a 35lb backpack on, paddling a kayak or canoe for eight or more hours per day over multiple days. Getting ready for a Level 5 Program: 30 minutes of running, swimming, interval training, resistance training or other up-tempo cardio workout, 5-6 days per week. Consider mixing in one of OU’s Group Fitness classes like Boxing, Indoor Cycling or F45 Training. You could also consider Personal Training through Ohio University’s Well-Being and Fitness programs!
Please speak with a staff member or email outdoorpursuits@ohio.edu if you have any uncertainty about your ability to face the physical demands of a trip or clinic. Do not assume you cannot handle a trip without speaking with us.