Outdoor Program

The University of Idaho Outdoor Program is a non-profit service organization that provides the campus community with education, resources and opportunities for human-powered, environmentally responsible outdoor adventures. We promote leadership, teamwork and personal growth through outdoor experiences for all skill levels.

We offer a wide range of services and activities, including:

• Equipment rentals for all seasons
• Ski and snowboard tuning (seasonal)
• Guided trips and outdoor activities
• Trip planning support
• Outdoor recreation resources and trainings 

Outdoor Program hours

Outdoor Rental Center 
Monday – Friday | 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 
Saturday – Sunday | CLOSED

Outdoor Program Office 
Monday – Friday | 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 
Saturday – Sunday | CLOSED

Student Recreation Center closures may impact Outdoor Program and Rental Center hours. Check the schedule to stay up to date on upcoming closures. 

Trips and activities

Explore the outdoors with one of our professionally supported trips and skill-building activities. All experiences include equipment and instruction, unless otherwise noted.

• Hiking, biking and climbing: Join us for day hikes, bikepacking adventures, backpacking trips and outdoor rock climbing.
• Water adventures: Learn to kayak, take a Swiftwater rescue clinic or raft Northwest rivers during our seasonal paddling trips.
• Winter trips: Experience snowshoeing, backcountry skiing and avalanche rescue basics while enjoying the scenic winter landscape.
• Women-led adventures: Open to all, these trips are led by women and designed to build confidence and leadership in the outdoors.
• Intro to the Outdoors: New to outdoor recreation? These beginner-friendly trips help you gain experience in a supportive environment.
• Iconic Idaho Adventures: Explore the wild beauty of Idaho — from rugged peaks to pristine lakes. Join one trip a year and collect them all before graduation. 

Download a PDF of the latest Trips and Activities schedule. 

Upcoming trips and activities

How trips work

Most Outdoor Program trips are cooperative, meaning they are cost-shared among participants. You’ll provide your own food and personal gear (available for rent or purchase). Pre-trip meetings are required to review trip details. Fees typically cover transportation, group gear and instruction (if included). 

Trip registration

Trip registration opens on the first day of each semester and is available in person at the Outdoor Program office in the Student Recreation Center (SRC) on a first-come, first-served basis.

Fall 2025 registration begins August 20. Trips fill fast — sign up early!

Team-building activities

Looking for a unique way to build connection and leadership in your group? Explore our customizable outdoor adventure options:

• Educational rafting trips – Half-day, full-day or overnight rafting trips tailored for university departments and student groups.
• Leadership and challenge programs – Facilitate teamwork and leadership through low-element challenges led by trained staff.
• Custom cooperative trips – Plan a personalized outdoor experience. We’ll help with logistics, equipment and training.

Ready to get started? Contact us at 208-885-6810 or stownsend@uidaho.edu for details and pricing.