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 4-9 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 2024 Trips Schedule

Dates Trip Registration Deadline Skill Level
Sat. September 7th US National White Water Center September 4th Introduce
Sun. September 8th Hanging Rock Day Hike September 5th Introduce
Sat. September 14th- Sun. 15th Intro to Camping September 9th Introduce
Sat. September 14th Kayak Lake Clean-Up with the Office of Sustainability September 11th Introduce
Sat. September 21st- Sun. 22nd White Water Raft & Hike September 17th Introduce
Sun. September 22nd Waterfall Hike September 18th Introduce
Fri. September 27th Family Wknd Bike to Burlington — Introduce
Sun. September 29th Family Wknd Hike & Paddle — Introduce
Sat. October 5th- Sun. 6th Kayak Camping October 1st Learn
Sun. October 6th Outdoor Bouldering October 2nd Introduce
Thurs. October 10th- Sun. 13th Fall Break: Backpacking October 4th Introduce
Thurs. October 10th- Sun. 13th Fall Break: Paddling in the Outer Banks October 4th Introduce
Fri. October 18th Apple Picking October 14th Introduce
Sat. October 19th- Sun. 20th Zipline & Explore Asheville October 14th Introduce
Sun. October 20th Intro to Mountain Biking October 16th Introduce
Fri. October 25th Sunset Paddle October 21st Introduce
Sat. October 26th- Sun. 27th Fall Foliage Backpacking October 18th Introduce
Sun. November 3rd Yoga Hike October 30th Introduce
Fri. November 8th Bike to Burlington November 5th Introduce
Sun. November 10th Goat Yoga November 4th Introduce
Sat. November 16th Hike & Explore Boone November 11th Introduce
Sun. November 17th Horseback Riding November 11th 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.

Practice 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.

Master 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.