Explore outdoor trips!
Join the Outdoor Program on a day, weekend, or extended outdoor trip! Our experienced guides will facilitate all aspects of the trip to one of our world class program areas in Minnesota or across the United States. Whether you are new to outdoor activities or bring a wealth of experience, our trips are a great opportunity to meet new people, experience awe-inspiring destinations, and develop your outdoor living skills.
No previous outdoor experience is required. Our trips are open to U of M students, alumni, staff, faculty, and the general public.
If you’re looking for information about our indoor Climbing Gym, check out the facility and membership as well as our Climbing Clinics and Events.
Outdoor Trips Information
Trip Difficulty
We offer trips with varied levels of challenge so you are sure to find the adventure that is right for you. Learn more about our difficulty classification.
Gear and Equipment
The Outdoor Program provides all activity-specific and group gear needed for the trip at no additional cost. Participants are responsible for bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and personal items. A detailed packing list will be provided in advance of the trip. Check out this packing list for a weekend backpacking trip as an example.
Travel Information
Transportation is provided from the U of M Outdoor Program Office for all participants in a University Vehicle. Outdoor Program Guides are responsible for all driving in a University Vehicle. Participants who wish to arrange their own transportation must notify Outdoor Program staff at least three days in advance of the trip. Trip cost is not discounted for individuals who arrange their own transportation. Participants who arrange their own transportation must arrive at the correct location, on time. Failure to do so may result in forfeiting participation in the program with no refund.
Refund and Cancellation Policy
A full refund will be given in the event that the Outdoor Program cancels a trip or clinic due to lack of registration, weather, or other extenuating circumstances. Canceled trips or clinics will not be rescheduled to an alternate date.
Cancellations within 7 days of the scheduled trip departure date for day trips and clinics or 7 days from the scheduled pre-trip meeting for multi-day trips will not be refunded.
Cancellations prior to 7 days before the scheduled trip departure date for day trips and clinics or the scheduled pre-trip meeting for multi-day trips are eligible for a 50% refund.
Registrations canceled within 72 hours from the time of registration are eligible for a full refund provided the 72 hour period falls outside of 7 days prior to the scheduled trip departure or pre-trip meeting date.
Cancellation and refund requests should be directed to [email protected].
Trips
| Trip Name | Dates Offered | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|
Learn To Mountain Bike 
| Saturday, Sept 26, 2026 (Registration closes Sept 24) Sunday, Oct 18, 2026 (Registration closes Oct 15) | Student Cost: $60.00 Non-student Cost: $80.00 | Experience the thrill of the trail as you flow over any obstacle on a mountain bike. During this trip you will learn the basics of bike handling, shifting, braking, and finding your line. You will have the option to ride trails of a variety of difficulty from novice to expert to match your skills and confidence. No prior mountain biking experience required, but must be competent in riding a bicycle. Moderate Trip Difficulty |
| Trip Name | Dates Offered | Cost | Register and Trip Description |
|---|---|---|---|
Bear Head Lake State Park Cabin Weekend 
| Saturday, Nov 14 to Sunday, Nov 15, 2026 (Registration closes Nov 5) | Student Cost: $150.00 Non-student Cost: $215.00 | Escape the hustle of everyday life with a relaxing weekend retreat at Bear Head Lake State Park, where you’ll enjoy the beauty of the North Woods without sacrificing comfort. Depart Friday afternoon for a cozy cabin getaway filled with hiking, canoeing, wildlife viewing, campfire evenings, and time to reconnect with nature before returning Sunday evening refreshed and restored. Relaxed Trip Difficulty |
| Trip Name | Dates Offered | Cost | Register and Trip Description |
|---|---|---|---|
Explore the North Shore Camping Trip 
| Friday, Nov 6 to Sunday, Nov 8, 2026 (Registration closes Oct 29) | Student Cost: $145.00 Non-student Cost: $175.00 | The North Shore of Lake Superior is one of the most scenic destinations in Minnesota. From hilltop vistas, to waterfalls, to the ocean-like shore of the largest freshwater lake in the world, this destination has something for everyone. Easy Trip Difficulty |
| Trip Name | Dates Offered | Cost | Register and Trip Description |
|---|---|---|---|
Stand-Up Paddleboard Day Trip - Minneapolis Chains of Lakes 
| Saturday, Sept 12, 2026 (Registration closes Sept 11) | Student Cost: $40.00 Non-student Cost: $50.00 | Learn the basics of this enjoyable paddle sport.We will spend a few hours learning the balance and strokes needed to enjoy the local Minneapolis lakes in style on a SUP (stand up paddleboard)! Swimming proficiency required. You will get wet, so bring a swimsuit and towel. Relaxed Trip Difficulty |
Canoeing Day Trip - Minneapolis Chains of Lakes 
| Sunday, Sept 27, 2026 (Registration closes Sept 24) Saturday, Oct 10, 2026 (Registration closes Oct 8) | Student Cost: $40.00 Non-student Cost: $50.00 | Spend the afternoon paddling through Minneapolis’ Chain of Lakes and experience urban outdoor recreation at its finest. This is an excellent introduction to canoeing and canoe strokes, or just a great opportunity to spend some time outside on the water. No previous experience is required. Relaxed Trip Difficulty |
BWCA Canoe Weekend 
| Friday, Oct 16 to Sunday, Oct 18, 2026 (Registration closes Oct 8) Friday, Oct 23, to Sunday, Oct 25, 2026 (Registration closes Oct 15) | Student Cost: $170.00 Non-student Cost: $235.00 | Explore the beauty and solitude of Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) on a weekend canoe camping adventure through pristine lakes, forests, and portages. Depart early Friday morning to paddle, camp, and learn essential wilderness skills including canoeing, portaging, and backcountry camping before returning Sunday evening with unforgettable memories from the North Woods. Moderate Trip Difficulty |
| Trip Name | Dates Offered | Cost | Register and Trip Description |
|---|---|---|---|
Rock Climb - Interstate Park 
| Sunday, Sept 13, 2026 (Registration closes Sept 11) Sunday, Oct 11, 2026 (Registration closes (Oct 8) | Student Cost: $75.00 Non-student Cost: $95.00 | Enjoy high quality climbing at Interstate State Park on the scenic Saint Croix River. This trip provides an opportunity to learn the fundamentals of outdoor climbing at a highly revered crag. You will learn the skills of rock climbing with a wide variety of routes to incorporate novice and veteran climbers alike. No previous experience necessary. Moderate Trip Difficulty |
Rock Climb - Sandstone 
| Sunday, Oct 4, 2026 (Registration closes Oct 1) | Student Cost: $80.00 Non-student Cost: $100.00 | Take your rock climbing to the next level with the Sandstone Rock Climbing Trip. You will experience the climbing at historic Robinson Park in Sandstone, MN which features many high quality routes that are sure to challenge and inspire beginner, intermediate, and advanced climbers alike. Climbers will have the chance to top rope a variety of climbs and learn some of the fundamentals of outdoor sport climbing. No previous experience necessary. Moderate Trip Difficulty |
| Trip Name | Dates Offered | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|
Superior Hiking Trail Backpacking Weekend 
| Friday, Sept 18 to Sunday, Sept 20, 2026 (Registration closes Sept 11) Friday, Oct 2 to Sunday Oct 4, 2026 (Registration closes Sept 24) | Student Cost: $150.00 Non-student Cost: $180.00 | Escape to the North Shore for a three-day backpacking adventure on Minnesota's Superior Hiking Trail. Here you will learn the fundamentals of backpacking (beginners are welcome!) while hiking through forests, ridges, and scenic overlooks. Leave early Friday morning and return Sunday evening with new outdoor skills, great memories, and a deeper appreciation for Minnesota's wilderness. Moderate Trip Difficulty |
Hiking at Willow River State Park 
| Sunday, Nov 1, 2026 (Registration close Oct 29) | Student Cost: $25.00 Non-student Cost: $40.00 | Spend some time checking out the natural areas in Wisconsin! Just across the Saint Croix River is home to Willow River State Park with a beautiful waterfall, forested trails, and an exciting natural environment to explore. This day hike is an excellent opportunity to explore a Wisconsin State Park just outside the urban metro area. No previous experience is necessary. Moderate Trip Difficulty |
Hiking at Afton Alps State Park 
| Sunday, Nov 15, 2026 (Registration close Nov 12) | Student Cost: $25.00 Non-student Cost: $35.00 | Spend some time checking the bluffs and valleys of Afton State Park located along the scenic Saint Croix River. This day hike is an excellent opportunity to explore a local State Park just outside the urban metro area. No previous experience is necessary. Moderate Trip Difficulty |
Backpacking the Ozarks of Arkansas 
| Thursday, Nov 26 to Sunday, Nov 29 (Registration closes Nov 5) | Student Cost: $495.00 Non-student Cost: $595.00 | Spend Thanksgiving Break exploring Arkansas's scenic Eagle Rock Loop, one of the premier backpacking routes in the Ouachita National Forest. Depart early Wednesday morning for the drive south, spend three days backpacking through rivers, bluffs, and mountain vistas while learning essential backpacking skills, and return Sunday evening after an unforgettable wilderness adventure. Difficult Trip Difficulty |