First Ascent is a WCU Orientation Program created to offer unique outdoor adventures specifically for incoming students. It's the perfect way to start your climb at WCU!
- Explore the Mountains around WCU
- Get a head start on making connections with other students with similar interests
- Challenge yourself to do more than you ever thought possible
- Do something completely different, 180 degrees from normal
- Create memories that will last a lifetime
Choose from:
First Ascent RAFTING
First Ascent WILDERNESS
First Ascent ADVENTURE
First Ascent RAFTING
June 9th, 12th, 16th, 19th, 26th, or 30th
Afternoon whitewater rafting trip that takes place the day before your regular on-campus
summer orientation session. The perfect quick splash for those on a tight schedule
or who want to sample a single outdoor recreation activity. More info HERE
First Ascent WILDERNESS
July 12-17th or August 9-14th
An extended 6day backpacking and rock climbing trip for the aspiring wilderness explorer. Far
away from all civilization, live out of your backpack for 6 days, carrying everything
with you from camp to camp. Along the way, you will experience breathtaking mountain
views, dip your feet in the sweetest backcountry swimming holes, and spend a day rock
climbing near one of your camps. FA Wilderness is the best option for getting away
from it all and creating a tight community with your fellow participants. More info
HERE
First Ascent ADVENTURE
July 12-17th or August 9-14th
A 6day outdoor adventure sampler. You'll spend a day each of the following activities:
Whitewater Rafting, Rock Climbing, Swimming Hole Hike, Lake Canoe Trip, and a peak
ascent hike of one of the tallest mountains in the East. Each night you'll camp in
tents near the van at road side campsites or commercial campgrounds, offering at least
one shower during the trip. FA Adventure is the best option for an introduction to
multiple activities and more of a day trip experience. More info HERE
Visit our information table at the regular on-campus orientation!
