By TYLER ELLYSON
UNK Communications
KEARNEY – It’s the start of a new year. Time to set those annual goals and commit to living life to the fullest.
Perhaps you’re looking to unplug from technology, get outside and explore nature. Maybe you’re more interested in traveling, trying a new hobby or creating lasting relationships.
Either way, the University of Nebraska at Kearney’s Outdoor Adventure program offers everything you need to make life more exciting in 2022.
Part of UNK Campus Recreation, the program makes it easy for students to participate in fun (and educational) trips where they can enjoy the outdoors while learning lifelong skills and connecting with each other.
“You’re not necessarily going to remember the math test you took your sophomore year, but you’ll definitely remember the relationships and friendships you make on one of these trips,” said Outdoor Adventure coordinator Justin Stout, who joined UNK in fall 2019.
Stout and his staff lead the memorable excursions, which include paddling, hiking, climbing, camping, skiing and other activities. Transportation, food and all the necessary gear and equipment are provided.
“Any time a student goes on a trip, we supply pretty much everything other than the clothes on their back,” said Stout, who uses a break-even model to keep things affordable. The cost for participants typically ranges from $100 to $250 per trip.
Each adventure is designed for about eight to 12 students, with activities suitable for both beginners and experts.
For some students, it’s an opportunity to get outside their comfort zone and try something new. For others, it’s a convenient way to pursue a hobby they’re already passionate about.
“College is a great time to explore, branch out and try new things. There’s a lot you can gain from going on a trip to a new place, and this is a good time to do it when you have these resources available,” said UNK senior Phoebe Dunbar.
The wildlife biology major from Hastings was part of a group that went rock climbing at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch in northwest Arkansas during fall break last October.
A climbing wall assistant for Campus Recreation, Dunbar has organized her own climbing trips to Arkansas, Colorado, California and Nevada in the past, but this was a chance to meet new people and remove many of the responsibilities.
“I enjoyed it a lot,” she said. “I’d definitely recommend checking out Outdoor Adventure trips. They’re a lot of fun and you can meet some cool people.”
Stout plans to organize at least two Outdoor Adventure trips per semester.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PROGRAM, CALL 308-865-1549 OR EMAIL STOUTJ@UNK.EDU
Outdoor Adventure trips scheduled for spring 2022
Minnesota Winter Adventure
Dates: Feb. 17-20
Location: Winona, Minnesota
Cost: $250 (price could reduce depending on number of participants)
Pre-trip informational meeting: 5 p.m. Feb. 3
Details: Participants will explore the beautiful trails of Winona, Minnesota, through cross-country skiing and climb some of the most beautiful ice in the Midwest.
Spring Break Climbing
Dates: March 11-16
Location: Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, Arkansas
Cost: $250 (price could reduce depending on number of participants)
Pre-trip informational meeting: 5 p.m. March 3
Details: Participants will climb some of the most pristine sandstone in the Midwest while camping at a modern dude ranch in northwest Arkansas. Following the climbing adventure, the group will visit some of the amazing waterfalls and caves this unique area offers.
Niobrara Canoe Adventure
Dates: April 22-24
Location: Valentine, Nebraska
Cost: $105
Pre-trip informational meeting: 5 p.m. April 14
Details: Participants will explore waterfalls, hike along the river and learn canoeing skills at this unique Nebraska destination. The trip includes canoeing on the Niobrara River and camping at Smith Falls State Park.
