UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Outdoor Adventures’ spring break trips at Penn State are returning this semester, after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with two explorations for students who are looking for a unique spring break experience.
From March 5 to 11, Penn State students may choose between mountaineering and ice climbing in the Adirondacks or rock climbing in the Red River Gorge in Kentucky. Students who travel to the mountains will have the chance to trek above the tree line to the exposed summit of New York’s second highest peak — Algonquin — in the Adirondack High Peaks. Weather permitting, there will be a day of ice climbing as well as a day for exploring the scenic and historic town of Lake Placid.
Participants who travel south will experience some of the nation’s best climbing and some of the Midwest’s best views. Students will have the opportunity to climb on iconic routes as well as learn and implement various vertical climbing techniques. Participants will also explore around the Gorge, hiking to the natural sandstone arches and bridges, and spend a day (weather permitting) swimming in the Red River and Indian Creek.
Both of the weeklong trips are led by student trip leaders and Campus Recreation professional staff. Each trip cost $395, which includes equipment, lodging, travel, food and instruction.
Visit the registration page to sign up by Feb. 18 as well as view other offerings for the spring semester.
No previous experience is required for the rock climbing trip, although participants are encouraged to take a lesson at Campus Recreation’s indoor rock climbing wall at the Intramural Building if they have never climbed before. Some winter hiking or camping experience is recommended for the mountaineering and ice climbing trip. Students looking to gain experience may rent snowshoes and other equipment from the Outdoor Adventures Rental Center, located in the basement of the Intramural Building. Knowledgeable staff can provide instruction and advice on local destinations.
Campus Recreation, a unit of Student Affairs, runs Outdoor Adventures — a program that offers a wide range of services and opportunities for indoor and outdoor adventure to students, faculty/staff and organizations. Groups can book customized virtual or in-person group programs, including a high ropes course located at Stone Valley Recreation Area.