Elon Outdoors Overview

Whether the trip is to our local rivers, trails, or climbing areas, Elon Outdoors invites outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels to participate in exciting adventure-based learning opportunities. Our program offers a wide range of outdoor pursuits providing a diversity of rich experiences for our students. The program fosters the development of leadership skills and outdoor ethics in our student leaders and participants. The outdoors belong to everyone, and with Elon Outdoors everyone belongs!

Trip Registration

How do I register for an Elon Outdoors Trip?

Registration for all Elon Outdoors trips and events are done on the Elon RecWell app or on recwell.elon.edu and opens on the first day of each semester. Once you are on the homepage, click on the All Programs tab and select “Elon Outdoors Trips” in the dropdown menu to find all the current trip offerings. Participants must pay online when they register in order to confirm their spot. Registration closes 5 days before each trip or when the trip fills. Once a trip fills, it will no longer appear on the registration system. You can email elonoutdoors@elon.edu to be added to a waiting list for a trip that is already full.

In general, refunds are not offered for participants who withdraw since we enter into contracts on your behalf for vendors, lodging, and other costs.

In order to confirm your spot, both registration and payment must be completed before the registration deadline. Any participants who have not completed paperwork or payment by this time will be removed from the roster and open up spots from the waiting list. All overnight trips will  include a mandatory pre-departure meeting to help with logistics and preparation.

All Elon Outdoors programming is intentionally drug- and alcohol-free. Any participant or staff found to be in possession or under the influence of alcohol or drugs (other than prescribed medication used correctly) will be removed from the trip immediately and will be sent through the Student Conduct process.

Please direct any questions about trip registration, financial aid, or payment to elonoutdoors@elon.edu

Fall 2023 Trips Schedule

Dates Trip Registration Deadline Skill Level
Fri. August 25th Hike and Swim August 23rd Introduce
Fri. September 8th Introduction to Mountain Biking September 5th Introduce
Sat. September 9th-Sun September 10th Introduction to Camping September 4th Introduce
Sun. September 10th Horseback Riding September 7th Introduce
Fri. September 15th Sunset Paddle September 12th Introduce
Sat. September 16th-Sun. September 17th Bike and Camp (“Bikepacking”) September 11th Learn
Fri. September 22nd Bike to Burlington

(In collaboration with the Office of Sustainability)

 Registration Through the Office of Sustainability Introduce
Sat. September 23rd Goat Yoga September 20th Introduce
Sun. September 24th Kayaking Saxapahaw September 21st Introduce
Sat. September 31st-Sun. October 1st Kayak and Camp September 26th Learn
Sat. October 7th Waterfall Mindfulness Hike October 4th Introduce
Sun. October 8th Chapel Hill Day Hike October 8th Introduce
Thurs. October 12th-Sun. October 15th Fall Break: Grayson Highlands Backpacking October 2nd Learn
Thurs. October 12th-Sun. October 15th Fall Break: Paddle & Explore Charleston October 2nd Introduce
Fri. October 27th Foliage and ‘Falls Hike October 24th Introduce
Sat. November 4th-Sun. November 5th Backpack and Stargaze October 30th Introduce
Fri. November 10th Cane Creek Mountain Day Hike November 7th Introduce
Sun. November 12th Introduction to Rock Climbing November 9th Introduce

Trip Levels

Elon Outdoors aims to involve participants of all skill levels–everyone is welcome! To help participants make decisions about which trip is right for them, we refer to trips in three levels. The level refers to the specific skill of that trip (kayaking, rock climbing, backpacking, etc), although other skills will likely be needed during the trip (setting up a tent, outdoor cooking, etc). The levels are meant to provide an insight into the trip, however we welcome anyone of any skill level on our trips.

Introduce a Skill
Trips in the ‘Introduce’ category are usually shorter in length (generally a few hours) and feature a basic introduction to a skill. Participants are not expected to have any prior knowledge and will have an opportunity to learn basic components of the skill. Significant time will be spent teaching the skill during these trips.

Learn a Skill
Trips in this category are generally longer (full-day) and expect some prior knowledge. Participants will have the opportunity to put skills to use and gain higher-level knowledge. Staff will focus time on reviewing the skill and adding additional components, rather than teaching basic facets.

Practice a Skill
These are our highest level trips and are generally the longest (usually multiple days). Participants will be expected to have some competency in the skill and will have the chance to have an in-depth chance to hone their skillset. Staff will spend limited time reviewing or teaching.

Outdoors Resource Center

Our office is open 12-5pm Monday-Friday during the semester. Stop by our office in Koury 106 to talk with Outdoors staff, learn more about upcoming events, or to plan your own outdoor adventure!

A variety of equipment is available to rent for those wishing to explore the vast array of outdoor pursuits available throughout the region. Visit the Elon Outdoors equipment rental form to request equipment and the equipment rental page on our website for more information. You can reach Elon Outdoors by calling 336-278-2267 or emailing elonoutdoors@elon.edu.