5-Day Backpacking/Rockclimbing
Groups comprised of no more than 12 students will explore the rugged landscapes surrounding WCU as they travel, camp, climb, and laugh together. First Ascent is about building lasting friendships while exploring North Carolina 's forests, traveling through dramatic terrain, experiencing the exhilaration of reaching the top of a challenging rock climb, and finding that crystal-clear swimming hole just when you need it most. This 5-day trip is guided by Base Camp Cullowhee's professional staff, ready to help you get a head start on your transition into college life. Challenge, learn, discover, and connect.
Cost:
$200 (early registration) $225 (late registration) due with trip registration.
Minimum enrollment is 6 people per trip, Maximum of 12 per group.
Why a 5-day backpacking/rockclimbing trip?
This program is designed to help you make an intentional transition from your previous life to the university world. Learn how to lead with the skills and the character that will serve you well at college and beyond.
What better place to find your mojo than in the wilderness? The wilderness is not only a place of beauty and challenge but also of clarity, well outside everyday distractions. The wilderness will provide you a sense of perspective for problem solving in your everyday environment. Once you have completed this program, you will have the outdoor skills to make your time here in Cullowhee an incredible adventure.
Schedule:
Day 1 - Move into your dorm room, welcome lunch, name games, go over what to pack, expectations, set goals, etc. Sleep in residence hall.
Day 2 - Gear and food issue, transport to trailhead, hike short distance, learn camp craft, set up camp.
Day 3 - Learn Navigation (map and compass), Hike, Camp.
Day 4 - Hike, Camp.
Day 5 - Rock Climb
Day 6 - Hike out to trailhead, Return to Campus, Clean Gear, Debrief, return to residence halls.
Rock Climbing:
One day of the trip will be spent rock climbing. Challenge yourself on this 70ft tall cliff with routes suitable for first timers and accomplished climbers. Base Camp staff are safety experts, so trust your rope and your belayer and climb with confidence. Learn how to challenge yourself in the face of adversity, just like at college.
What experience do I need?
None, your instructors will teach and provide you with the skills to make "life in the woods" fun. No worries. Already have experience? Excellent, share you knowledge with others and learn a few new tricks from Base Camp's super-experienced backcountry gurus.
How hard will this trip be?
You should be in good physical shape for this First Ascent program. We will be traveling 2-5 miles a day with 45lb backpacks in mountainous terrain. Contact Base Camp if you have questions about the physical requirements of the program.
