Pre-Orientation Trips

Affinity Group Trips
Canoeing
Backpacking
Rock Climbing
Mountain Biking
Adirondack Adventure

Trip fees will be assessed on a sliding scale between $50 and $400 based on demonstrated need. Demonstrated needs will be calculated using your Financial Aid packet.  This is an all-inclusive fee that covers meals, lodging, equipment, and transportation from the morning of departure until the morning of return.

Trip fee is non refundable after August 1. 

The SLU Outdoor Program (OP) provides all group equipment: cooking tools, tents, boats, tarps, etc.  The Outdoor Program has limited personal clothing and equipment for participants to borrow. The list below is the responsibility of the participants. You can submit a request to borrow equipment on your Pre-Trip Selection Prep From but know that equipment is limited, and we may not be able to fulfill your request. If you request to borrow personal gear, you will be notified by August 1 of the gear the OP can provide. 

Clothing/Equipment Needed for All Trips
Clothing

• Rain jacket
• Rain pants (optional)
• Swimsuit (recommended)
• Hat—wool or fleece cap type for warmth
• Brimmed hat (for sun and rain)
• One wool sweater/fleece jacket or lightweight synthetic down jacket
• One pair synthetic long hiking pants (not jeans)
• One pair quick dry athletic shorts
• Synthetic long underwear (top and bottom)
• 1-2 synthetic/non-cotton t-shirts
• One synthetic/non-cotton long sleeve (great for sun & bug protection)
• 2-3 pair wool/synthetic socks (no cotton)
• 2-5 pairs underwear (no cotton)

Personal Items

• Insect repellent (optional)
• 2 one-liter reusable water bottles
• Sleeping bag (30-degree rating)
• Sleeping pad (Adirondack Adventure does not need)
• Sneakers
• Sunblock
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Toiletries (limit to just the essentials!)

Please try to eliminate or minimize cotton fibers in clothing. Cotton holds moisture and can contribute to hypothermia. Choose synthetics, like fleece or wool.

Additional Items Needed for Specific Trips
Backpacking (introduction, general, & experienced)

• Backpack (at least 65L)
• Large thick trash bags to line your pack
• Stuff Sacks (optional- for organization)
• Hiking boots (broken in!)
• Closed-toe camp shoes
• Mess kit (bowl, cup, utensils)

Canoeing (introduction, general, & experienced)

• Small backpack lined with trash bag or small drybag
• Backpack (at least 65L) or large drybag
• Large thick trash bags to line your pack
• Water shoes (must securely attach to your foot)
• Closed-toed camp shoes
• Mess kit (bowl, cup, utensils)

Adirondack Rock Climbing

• Daypack (25-35 liters)
• Light hikers/hiking boots
• Close-toed camp shoes
• Mess kit (bowl, cup, utensils)

Adirondack Mountain Biking

• Bike shoes (closed toe, below the ankle, sneakers work great)
• Padded biking shorts
• Cycling gloves (optional)
• Daypack with 2-3 liter hydration pack
• Close-toed camp shoes
• Mess kit (bowl, cup, utensils)

Adirondack Adventure

• Day backpack (25-35 liters)
• Shoes/sneakers suitable for moderate hiking
• Water shoes/sandals for rafting (no flip flops)
• Eye-glass retainer (Croakies- optional)

In previous years, there has been significantly more interest in trip participation than we have the capacity for. In trying to be as equitable as possible, we will use a lottery system for registration. While we will try to honor your preferences, trip assignments will depend on availability and ensuring inclusive experiences for all trip members.

Trip request forms will be available in April and you will be able to complete the request form on your Application Status Page

Application Due: End of May (date coming soon)

Acceptance notifications e-mailed: Early July

Participation Confirmation (fee and waiver) Due: Mid-July

FAQs