Adventure Trips

Spring 2026 Outdoor Adventure Trips

2/21 Ski Trip: Timberline, WV 

Date: Saturday 2/21/2026 

Location: Davis, WV 

Estimated Time: 6:00 am to approx. 9:00 pm 

Pre-Trip Meeting: TBD 

Cost: $120 

Join Outdoor Adventures for our annual ski trip!  This year will take us to the slopes of wild and wonderful West Virginia.  Registration includes lift ticket, equipment rentals, and transportation.  If you have your own skis/snowboard, please contact [email protected] for steps to waive the equipment rental fee. 

Difficulty: Beginner – Advanced – Timberline has a variety of terrain to cater to all skill levels, from beginner-friendly easy slopes to expert only black diamonds.  This trip DOES NOT include lessons, though lessons cost $25/hour and information can be found here: https://timberlinemountain.com/ski-snowboard-lessons/  

Amenities: Restrooms, running water, and prepared food at the lodge and base area 

Travel Time: Approx. 3 hours each way 

2/28 – 3/1 Overnight Cabin Trip 

Date: Saturday 2/28/2026 – Sunday 3/1/2026 

Location: Biglerville, PA 

Estimated Time: 9:00 am Saturday 2/28/2026 – 3:00 pm Sunday 3/1/2026 

Pre-Trip Meeting: TBD 

Cost: $50 

Spend the weekend with Outdoor Adventures as we leave campus behind and travel to Michaux State Forest for a weekend of hiking and cabin camping.  We’ll spend most of the weekend hiking the trails around the Appalachian Trail in southern PA and spend the night nestled in a cozy cabin. 

Difficulty: Beginner – This trip requires walking over rocky, uneven ground, and to carry your belongings 1-mile from the parking lot to the cabin.  The hiking distance is relatively manageable for beginners, with the total hiking being less than 6 miles each day 

Amenities: Outhouse located behind the cabin 

Travel Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes each way 

3/7 – 3/12 Spring Break: Canoe Camping on the Suwannee River, Florida 

Date: Saturday 3/7/2026 – Thursday 3/12/2026 

Location: White Springs, FL 

Estimated Time: 7:00 am Saturday 3/7/2026 – 6:00 pm Thursday 3/12/2026 

Pre-Trip Meeting: TBD 

Cost: $250 – $300 

Spend your spring break exploring the Suwannee River, one of the Southeast’s most iconic waterways! Over the course of six days, we’ll paddle through cypress forests, sandy riverbanks, and quiet blackwater channels as we journey downstream. Each night, we’ll set up camp at established river campsites or primitive riverside clearings and enjoy evenings under the stars. Trip leaders will cover paddling technique, river reading, campsite setup, and backcountry cooking. No prior canoe camping experience is required, just a willingness to paddle, explore, and live outdoors for the week. 

Difficulty: Intermediate – Expect to paddle 5 – 10 miles per day while carrying group gear in your canoe. Participants should be comfortable spending multiple days camping outdoors and paddling for several hours at a time. 

Amenities: River campsites vary by location; some offer covered platforms, potable water, and restrooms, while others may have limited or no facilities. Participants should be prepared for rustic conditions. 

Travel Time: Approx. 12 hours each way 

3/21 Caving at Glade Cave 

Date: 3/21/2026 

Location: Bridgewater, VA 

Estimated Time: 9:00 am – approx. 7:00 pm 

Pre-Trip Meeting: TBD 

Cost: $60 

Come venture underground with Outdoor Adventures as we explore Glade Cave. Stalactites, stalagmites, and other cave features abound!  No previous caving experience is necessary, just an adventurous spirit and a willingness to get muddy. 

Difficulty: Beginner – This trip has been designed with beginner cavers in mind.   

Amenities: Restrooms available at a convenience store before proceeding to the cave.  THERE ARE NO FACILITIES AVAILABLE AT THE CAVE 

Travel Time: 2 hours each way 

3/28 Hike to Turkey Run 

Date: 3/28/2026 

Location: McLean, VA 

Estimated Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM 

Pre-Trip Meeting: TBD 

Cost: $25 

Spend the day stretching your legs as we explore one of our region’s scenic spring hiking destinations! This trip offers a refreshing change of pace from campus and an opportunity to take in early-season blooms, forest wildlife, and sweeping views from the trail. Whether you’re new to hiking or just looking to spend a day outdoors, this hike is a great way to enjoy the start of spring. 

Difficulty: Beginner – Expect a mix of gentle inclines and rolling terrain for a total of 4–6 miles. Trails may be muddy depending on recent rainfall. 

Amenities: Vault toilets are located on the trail close to the beginning of the hike 

Travel Time: 30 minutes each way 

4/1: Wandering Wednesday: Intro to Trail Running 

Date: Wednesday 4/1/2026 

Location: Fairfax, VA 

Estimated Time: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm 

Cost: $5 

Curious about trail running but not sure where to start? Join us for a relaxed introduction to the sport as we jog through local dirt paths and forested trails. Trip leaders will cover efficient running techniques, pacing, and how to navigate uneven terrain. Expect lots of encouragement and a fun, supportive environment. 

Difficulty: Beginner – Light jogging at a comfortable pace with opportunities to walk as needed. Total distance 2–4 miles. 

Amenities: 

Travel Time: 10 minutes each way 

4/4 Hike to Signal Knob 

Date: Saturday 4/4/2026 

Location: Strasburg, VA 

Estimated Time: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm 

Pre-Trip Meeting: TBD 

Cost: $25 

Signal Knob is one of the most challenging—and rewarding—hikes in the Massanutten Mountains. This classic ridge loop features sweeping overlooks of the Shenandoah Valley, rocky climbs, and miles of scenic ridgelines. The summit was once a Civil War lookout point, offering historic significance alongside stunning views. 

Difficulty: Advanced – Expect a strenuous 10-mile loop with steep, rocky ascents and long descents. Good physical conditioning recommended. 

Amenities: Portable toilets available at the trailhead 

Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes each way 

4/11 – 4/12 Intro to Backpacking: Sky Meadows State Park 

Date: Saturday 4/11/2026 – Sunday 4/12/2026 

Location: Delaplane, VA 

Estimated Time: 9:00 am Saturday – 3:00 pm Sunday 

Pre-Trip Meeting: TBD 

Cost: $50 

Dip your toes into the world of backpacking on this beautiful overnight trip through Sky Meadows State Park. With rolling hills, open meadows, and quiet forested trails, this location is the perfect beginner-friendly setting to learn backpacking skills like packing, camp cooking, and proper trail etiquette. Enjoy a peaceful night under the stars as you gain confidence carrying everything you need on your back. 

Difficulty: Beginner – Expect to hike 3–5 miles each day while carrying a pack weighing 25–35 lbs. Trails include moderate inclines and grassy paths. 

Amenities: Campsite has portable toilets; no running water 

Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes each way 

4/12 Outdoor Climbing: Sugarloaf Mountain 

Date: Sunday 4/12/2026 

Location: Dickerson, MD 

Estimated Time: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm 

Pre-Trip Meeting: Tuesday 4/7/2026 @ 5 pm 

Cost: $40 

Spend the day climbing on the scenic cliffs of Sugarloaf Mountain! This area offers routes for every ability level, including steep crack climbs and beginner-friendly jug-filled routes. Whether it’s your first day on real rock or you’re an experienced climber looking to push yourself, this outing is a great way to enjoy the spring weather and build your skills outdoors. 

Difficulty: Beginner–Intermediate – Routes range from easy slabs to more technical faces and small overhangs. All equipment provided. 

Amenities: Restrooms available at the parking area 

Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes each way 

4/15: Wandering Wednesday: The Scoop Loop 

Date: Wednesday 4/15/2026 

Location: Fairfax, VA 

Estimated Time: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm 

Cost: $5 

Join us for a fun mid-week bike ride to get moving and unwind! The Scoop Loop is a casual social ride designed to help students explore a local neighborhood route while enjoying great company. We’ll end the outing with a stop for ice cream! 

Difficulty: Beginner.  Total distance 4 miles 

4/18 Intro to Mountain Biking: Laurel Hill 

Date: Saturday 4/18/2026 

Location: Lorton, VA 

Estimated Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm 

Pre-Trip Meeting: TBD 

Cost: $30 

Experience the thrill of off-road biking at Laurel Hill! This beginner-friendly trail system offers wooded singletrack, gentle berms, rolling hills, and plenty of opportunities to build confidence. Trip leaders will teach braking, shifting, handling, and how to safely ride trail features before venturing onto the loop.  The trip registration will include a 30-minute mountain biking skills clinic, bike rental, transportation, and staffing.. 

Difficulty: Beginner – Previous biking experience required; no mountain biking experience needed. Expect roots, small hills, and gradual progression throughout the day. 

Amenities: Portable toilets are available at the trailhead 

Travel Time: 30 minutes each way   

4/19 Beginner Hike to Mason Neck 

Date: Sunday 4/19/2026 

Location: Lorton, VA 

Estimated Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm 

Pre-Trip Meeting: TBD 

Cost: $25 

Mason Neck State Park is one of the region’s most peaceful spring hiking destinations. Explore forested paths, wetlands, and riverfront trails while learning about the area’s rich bird and wildlife habitat. This is a perfect outing for beginner hikers or anyone looking for a scenic, low-stress adventure. 

Difficulty: Beginner – Mostly flat terrain with gentle hills; expect to hike 4–6 miles. 

Amenities: Indoor restrooms available at the Visitor Center 

Travel Time: 30 minutes each way   

4/24 – 4/26 Backpacking to Dolly Sods 

Date: Friday 4/24/2026 – Sunday 4/26/2026 

Location: Davis, WV 

Estimated Time: 3:00 PM Friday to 6:00 PM Sunday 

Pre-Trip Meeting: TBD 

Cost: $50 

Dolly Sods Wilderness is one of the most stunning backpacking destinations on the East Coast. Known for its high elevation bogs, sweeping vistas, and rugged terrain, this trip offers a true taste of backcountry adventure. Expect breathtaking sunrises, quiet forests, and unforgettable nights spent under a vast, star-filled sky. 

Difficulty: Intermediate – Participants should be prepared for rocky trails, wet areas, and elevation changes while carrying a full backpack. Mileage varies (6–8 miles per day). 

Amenities: No restroom facilities; wilderness camping 

Travel Time: 3 hours each way   

4/25 C&O Canal Biking: Great Falls National Park to National Mall 

Date: Saturday 4/25/2026 

Location: Great Falls, MD to Washington, DC 

Estimated Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM 

Pre-Trip Meeting: TBD 

Cost: $30 

Ride along one of the most historic and scenic corridors in the region! We’ll start our ride near Great Falls and make our way down the C&O Canal Towpath toward Georgetown and the National Mall. Enjoy peaceful stretches along the Potomac River, lockhouse landmarks, and a rewarding finish in the heart of D.C. 

Difficulty: Beginner–Intermediate – The towpath is flat and wide, but riders should expect a full day of biking covering 15–20 miles. 

Amenities: Restrooms available at the beginning and along the towpath 

Travel Time: 45 minutes each way 

4/29: Wandering Wednesday: Sunset Standup Paddleboarding  

Date: Wednesday 4/29/2026 

Location: Fairfax, VA 

Estimated Time: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm 

Cost: $5 

Wind down your week with a peaceful evening on the water. As the sun sets, we’ll paddle across calm water and enjoy golden-hour views while learning the basics of SUP technique. This is a relaxed, beginner-friendly paddle perfect for first-timers or anyone looking to decompress outdoors. 

Difficulty: Beginner – Stable boards and calm water make this a great introduction to paddling. 

Amenities: 

Travel Time: 10 minutes each way 

5/2 Hike to Sweet Run State Park 

Date: Saturday 5/2/2026   

Location: Loudon Co., VA 

Estimated Time: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm 

Pre-Trip Meeting: TBD 

Cost: $25 

Celebrate spring by hiking through the State’s newest state park! This early May trip is a great way to enjoy warm weather, vibrant foliage, and relaxing time outdoors before finals season ramps up. Enjoy scenic trails, quiet forests, and plenty of time to recharge. 

Difficulty: Beginner – Expect 4–6 miles on well-marked trails with some mild inclines. 

Amenities: Restrooms available at the trailhead 

Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes each way 

5/2 Outdoor Climbing: Sugarloaf Mountain 

Date: Saturday 5/2/2026 

Location: Dickerson, MD 

Estimated Time: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm 

Pre-Trip Meeting: Tuesday 4/28/2026 @ 5 pm 

Cost: $40 

Wrap up the semester with a full day of outdoor climbing at Sugarloaf Mountain! This crag features a variety of top-rope routes perfect for everyone from new climbers to seasoned regulars. Enjoy a spring day on real rock as you challenge yourself, learn new skills, and take in stunning views of the surrounding forests. 

Difficulty: Beginner–Intermediate – Routes vary widely, with options for new climbers and harder challenges for experienced participants. 

Amenities: Restrooms available at the parking area 

Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes each way