Recreational Sports Outdoor Program

Outdoor Trips Spring 2013

Click here for information on this Fall's Freshman Trips
Freshman Trips 2013

Spring 2013 RSOP Trips

BWCAW Winter Camping & Snowshoeing
Do you want to see the Northern Lights? Are you looking for a new twist on your camping experience? Don’t let Old Man Winter keep you inside this winter camping season! Come explore the BWCA in one of it’s least busy, serenely beautiful seasons. The different aspects of winter camping will be covered on this trip, in addition to having a great time and curing cabin fever!
Depart February 22, 3pm
Return February 24, 6pm
Register By: Noon, February 20
We Provide:Transportation, Group Gear, Food
You Provide: Bag Supper for Friday Night, Personal Camping Gear, Backcountry Skis or Snowshoes, Warm Clothes (full list available upon registration or on website)
Cost: $65 UMD Students/ $112 Others
Info Sheet

Hike the Legendary Appalachian Trall
Spend spring break hiking the world famous
Appalachian Trail. Our route will explore the
southern end of the trail through the legendary
Great Smoky Mountains. We will likely talk with Appalachian thru-hikers who are just beginning their 2,069 mile journey to Maine and who plan to continue on the Trail for 5 months. Days will be spent backpacking from 5-12 miles per day, and our nights will be spent at either campsites or in AT shelters, and one evening will be spent in a hostel. Plan on a mild athletic pace, stunning views and simple living with new friends.
March 15-24
Cost: $465 UMD Students/$725 Others
Info Sheet
Photos from 2009 Trip
Photos from 2011 Trip

Southern California Surf & SUP
Spend a solid week surfing, stand-up paddle
boarding, beach combing and observing marine life. In So-Cal, surfing is built into the lifestyle. So much can be learned here. From our campsite at San Onofre State Park we can hit several surf breaks like the San-O Trails, Dog Patch, Old Mans, Churches, Middles, Cottons and other nice breaks in North San Diego County. We will watch the pros at Lower Trestles, visit the Surf Heritage Foundation, eat at the local hot spots and visit surf shops. In La Jolla we will paddle our SUPs with the leopard sharks, seals, garibaldi fish and other marine life.
March 16-24
Cost $425 UMD Students/ $695 Others
Photos From Past Trips

Explore the Superior Hiking Trail
Come explore the beauty of the North Shore as new growth begins to appear in the forest. We will be backpacking, hiking, camping, and exploring some unique features of northeast Minnesota. No experience necessary.
Depart: 3pm Friday, May 3
Return: 6pm Sunday, May 5
Register By: Noon May 1
We Provide:Transportation, Group Gear, Food
You Provide: Bag Supper for Friday Night, Personal Camping Gear, Backpack, Warm Clothes (full list available upon registration or on website)
Cost: $65 UMD Students/ $112 Others

Past RSOP Trips

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Camping & Ice Fishing Weekend

Have you ever experienced the BWCA in winter?
Interested in an ice fishing get-a-way? Maybe you< want to go back and experience once again the beautiful winter in the BWCA. Never brought up a trout from the icy waters of a lake? Well, here's your chance. Join us for a weekend of winter camping and ice fishing in Minnesota's premier wilderness. No experience needed.
Depart February 25, 2pm
Return February 27, 5pm
Register By: Noon, February 23
We Provide: Transportation, Group Gear, Food,
Ice Fishing Gear
You Provide: Bag Supper for Friday Night,
Personal Camping Gear, Backcountry Skis or
Snowshoes, Warm Clothes, Personal Fishing Gear
(if you have it), Minnesota Fishing License
Cost: $64 UMD Students / $110 Others
Info Sheet

Hike the Legendary Appalachian Trail Spring Break 2011

The registration deadline has been extended to March 2nd
Spend spring break hiking the world famous Appalachian Trail. Our route will explore the southern end of the trail through the legendary Great Smoky Mountains. We will likely talk with Appalachian thru-hikers who are just beginning their 2,069 mile journey to Maine and who plan to continue on the Trail for 5 months. Days will be spent backpacking from 5-12 miles per day, and our nights will be spent at either campsites or in AT shelters, and one evening will be spent in a hostel. Plan on a mild athletic pace, stunning views and simple living with new friends.
Cost: $465 UMD Students/$725 Others
Appalachian Trail Trip Photos 2007
Info Sheets

Mountain Bike and Ice Climb Colorado Spring Break 2011

Mix it up in Colorado this spring break with
world class mountain biking and ice climbing in the sunny southwest. This trip starts out on the mountain bike trails of Fruita, Colorado. Find out why it’s the fastest growing mountain biking mecca in the U.S. Next, it’s on to Ouray, Colorado, ‘the Switzerland of America’ and home of the Ouray Ice Park. This is the ideal place to try ice climbing for the first time. or to challenge yourself if you’re experienced on the ice. After your day of play, kick back and soak your muscles in Ouray’s famous hot springs. All experience levels are welcome.
Cost: $465UMD Students/$725 Others
Ouray Ice Park Photos
Info Sheets

Backpacking the Superior Hiking Trail

It's Spring!!!! Check out the beautiful North Shore on a scenic trip on the Superior Hiking Trail. This is a great getaway for anyone seeking a break from a stressful week. If you enjoy the great outdoors, join us for a wonderful backpacking/ camping weekend on one of the best trails in the U.S.
Friday, April 29 Leave at 3pm
Sunday, May 1 Return at 6pm
Register By: Noon, April 27
We Provide: Group Camping Gear, Food
You Provide: Personal Gear, Clothes
Meet: Trailhead in SpHC
Cost: $64 UMD Students/ $110 Others
Info Sheet

Southern California Surf & SUP May 14– 22, 2011

Spend a solid week surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, beach combing and observing marine life. In So-Cal, surfing is built into the lifestyle. So much can be learned here. From our campsite at San Onofre State Park we can hit several surf breaks like the San-O Trails, Dog Patch, Old Mans, Churches, Middles, Cottons and other nice breaks in North San Diego County. We will watch the pros at Lower Trestles, visit the Surf Heritage Foundation, eat at the local hot spots and visit surf shops. In La Jolla we will paddle our SUPs with the leopard sharks, seals, garibaldi fish and other marine life.
Cost $425 UMD Students/ $695 Others

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Camping & Ice Fishing Weekend

Have you ever experienced the BWCA in winter? Interested in an ice fishing geta way? Maybe you want to go back and experience once again the beautiful winter in the BWCA. Never brought up a trout from the icy waters of a lake? Well, here’s your chance. Join us for a weekend of winter camping and ice fishing in Minnesota’s premier wilderness. No experience needed.
Depart February 19, 2pm
Return February 21, 5pm
You Provide: Bag Supper for Friday Night,
Personal Camping Gear, Backcountry Skis
or Snowshoes, Warm Clothes, Personal
Fishing Gear (if you have it), Minnesota
Fishing License.
Cost: $62 UMD Students / $108 Others
Info Sheet

Backpacking or Canoeing the Ozarks

Spring break in the Ozarks of Arkansas is warm and beautiful! Here is your chance to get away from winter and enjoy spring as it is emerging along the Buffalo River, a “National River” (a National Park that is a river). This is one of the most beautiful and spectacular rivers in the United States that some call a museum of natural history with a wide variety of mammals, plants, fish, birds, and spectacular geology. History buffs will also enjoy the human history, which includes Civil War skirmishes, old homesteads, and cemeteries. You can pick one of two modes of travel for your trip:
Backpacking the Ozarks
We will hike the Buffalo River Trail, which follows the Buffalo River and winds through scenic overlooks, old homesites, and rugged wild areas that best characterize the park. Hiking is at times strenuous, where steep gradients and switchbacks lead to spectacular views of the river. Join us as we hike 5-12 miles per day and spend evenings camping. All experience levels are welcome. Plan on a mild athletic pace, stunning views and simple living with new friends. We may even have a chance to paddle a section of the river for a day and do a bit of rock climbing on local rock outcrops.
Info Sheet
Canoeing the Ozarks
Hop in the canoes for a ride down the clear water of the Buffalo
River. Early on, we’ll pass by steep walls of rock over 500 feet
and have some thrills of occasional small rapids. Campsites will
be on gravel bars along the river. Side hikes to waterfalls, old
homesteads, cemeteries, and overlooks will be included. Fun
paddling, amazing scenery, short hikes, and new friends. What
more could you ask for?
Depart: March 12 4pm
Return: March 21 6pm
We Provide: Transportation, Food, Group Equipment
You Provide: Personal Gear
Cost: $465 UMD Students/ $725 Others
Info Sheet
Check out this movie for more on the Ozarks
Ozarks Movie

Backpacking the Superior Hiking Trail

It’s Spring!!!! Check out the beautiful North Shore on a scenic trip on the Superior Hiking Trail. This is a great getaway for anyone seeking a break from a stressful week. If you enjoy the great outdoors, join us for a wonderful backpacking/ camping weekend on one of the best U.S. trails. Group camping gear and food provided.
Friday, April 30 Leave at 3pm
Sunday, May 2 Return at 6pm
You Provide: Personal Gear, Clothes
Cost: $62 UMD Students/ $108 Others
Info Sheet

January Break 2010

Montana Snow Kite Training Trip to Mt. Haggin & Georgetown Lake

Start your snow kiting season off with major momentum! We will drive to Montana with kiting gear, snowboards, alpine or tele skis and cross country ski gear so all our bases are coverd. Sugar Loaf Lodge and Cabins is our home for the week so we can explore the local mountain terrain and ride in fresh snow. Basic snow kiting skills are needed for this trip. The best way to develop these skills before this trip is to join the UMD RSOP Snow Kiting Membership. See Trip Packet for full details.
Depart: Saturday, January 2 at Noon
Return: Sunday, January 10 at Noon
Register By: 4pm, December 11
We Provide: All Kiting Gear, Food, Instruction, Transportation
You Provide: Personal Ski or Snowboard Gear
Meet: RSOP Trailhead in the Sports and Health Center Lobby
Cost: $450 UMD Students, $695 Others, all participants must be
UMD RSOP Snow Kite Members or obtain trip leader approval.
Info Sheet

Rock Climbing and Natural History of Joshua Tree National Park

Explore the sunny Californian desert this January in Joshua Tree National Park. We’ll spend our days hiking through JTree’s unique landscape with its amazing joshua tree formations. We’ll go rock climbing on the rugged granite outcrops and discover the secrets of three different desert ecosystems. Our nights will be spent camping under the brilliant southern stars. No experience is required.
January 8-16, 2010
Cost: $445 UMD/ $695 Others. Price includes food, camping
fees, transportation from the Los Angeles airport, instruction,
climbing gear and group camping gear. (Transportation to Los
Angeles, Ca is on your own.)
Register for January Break Trips by October 30 and receive
a 5% discount.
Info Sheets

Fall Semester 2009 Trips

Canoeing the Boundary Waters

Explore the beauty and wonder of one of the most spectacular wilderness areas in the United States! We’ll load our Duluth Packs and paddle through lakes north of the Gunflint Trail to our base camp. Then paddle to the historic Height of Land Portage, all while looking for moose, listening for wolves, and learning about the environment.
Depart: Friday, September 18 2pm
Return: Sunday, September 20 6pm
Register By: Noon, September 16
We Provide: Transportation, Canoeing Gear, Food, Group Camping
Equipment, Duluth Packs
You Provide: Personal Camping Gear
Cost: $62 for UMD Students/ $108 Others
Info Sheet

River Wave Riding in Canada: Stand-Up Paddleboard, Surfboard, Whitewater Kayak & Canoe

The Winnepeg River at Sturgeon Falls offers large glassy waves that can be surfed using a variety of equipment. We will base camp in tents alongside the river and play in the rapids for two days. Basic surfing or kayaking skills are needed for this trip. The best way to develop these skills before this trip is to join the UMD RSOP Surf Membership or UMD Kayak and Canoe Club. A Passport is required. See Trip Packet for full details.
Depart: Friday, September 25 at 2pm
Return: Sunday, September 27 at Midnight
Register By: 2pm, September 22
We Provide: All Group Camping Gear, Surfboards, Kayaks, Food,
Instruction,Transportation
You Provide: Personal Camping Gear
Meet: RSOP Trailhead in the Sports and Health Center Lobby
Cost: $70 UMD Students Only, must be UMD RSOP Surf Member
or Kayak and Canoe Club Member
Info Sheet

Backpack the Porcupine Mountains, MI

There are mountains around here? Yes, and they are beautiful! In the Upper Peninsula of Michigan are the secluded Porcupine Mountains, right along Lake Superior. Enjoy fall colors at their finest! Marvel at the colors by day and the starlit sky by night. We will help you develop backpacking skills while we discover the “Porkies” fall forest beauty. New friends and adventure for everyone who comes along. No experience is necessary.
Depart: Friday, October 2 2pm
Return: Sunday, October 4 6pm
Register By: Noon, September 30
We Provide: Transportation, Food, Group Camping Equipment
You Provide: Backpack and Personal Camping Gear
Cost: $62 for UMD Students/ $108 Others
we offer plus slide shows from previous trips.
Info Sheet

Spring Break Trips 2009

Hike The Legendary Appalachian Trail

Spend spring break hiking the world famous Appalachian Trail. Our route will explore the southern end of the trail through the legendary Great Smoky Mountains. We will likely talk with Appalachian thru-hikers who are just beginning their 2,069 mile journey to Maine and who plan to continue on the Trail for 5 months. Days will be spent backpacking and will range from 5-12 miles per day, and our nights will be spent at either campsites or in AT shelters, and one evening will be spent in a hostel. All experience levels are welcome. Plan on a mild athletic pace, stunning views and simple living with new friends.
March 13-22, 2009
Cost: $450 UMD Students:/$695 Others
Info Sheet
Itinerary
Equipment List
Spring 2007 Slideshow

So-Cal Spring Break Surfing Safari

Spend a solid week surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, biking and hiking the Southern California coastline. From our
campsite at San Onofre State Park, we can ride a one mile bike trail to watch the pros at Lower Trestles or visit numerous beach parks and surf shops. We will surf the San-O Breaks, Churches, Middles, Cottons, Calafia Beach Park, T-Street, and San Clemente Pier plus check out the Surfing Heritage
Foundation facility to enhance our overall surfing experience.
Cost: $515 UMD Students/$785 Others
For more information, contact Randy at rcarlso6@d.umn.edu

Winter Break 2009

Sea Kayak the Everglades

Gliding over the backs of alligators, watching dolphins herd fish,
paddling among sea turtles and exotic birds, and sitting next to tailing
tarpon are just a few of the extraordinary things about an Everglades
kayak trip. Everglades National Park, largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, boasts rare and endangered species. It has been designated a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, and Wetland of International Importance, significant to all people of the world.
COST: $423 UMD Students/$664 Others
You provide your own transportation to Tampa Bay, Florida Airport.
Infosheet

Fall Semester 2008

Sea Kayak the Apostle Islands Overnight

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a beautiful string of islands on Lake Superior’s South Shore. Join the UMD Kayak and Canoe Club as we circumnavigate Sand Island and explore the ever-popular sea caves. We’ll spend one night at the campground near Sand Island on the shores of Lake Superior. The trip will be an excellent opportunity to see the lake from a new perspective. Basic kayaking skills are needed.
Depart: Saturday, September 20 8am
Return: Sunday, September 21 6pm
Register By: 2pm, September 13
We Provide: All Group Gear, Kayaks, Food, Instruction,
Transportation
You Provide: Personal Camping Gear
Meet: RSOP Trailhead in the Sports and Health Center Lobby
Cost: $70 UMD Students Only/$35 2008-09 Kayak and Canoe
Club Members
Info Sheet

Backpack the Porcupine Mountains, MI

There are mountains around here? Yes, and they are beautiful! In the Upper Peninsula of Michigan are the secluded Porcupine Mountains, right along Lake Superior. Enjoy fall colors at their finest! Marvel at the colors by day and the starlit sky by night. We will help you develop backpacking skills while we discover the “Porkies” fall forest beauty. New friends and adventure for everyone who comes along. No experience is necessary.
Depart: Friday, October 3 3pm
Return: Sunday, October 5 6pm
Register By: Noon, October 1
We Provide: Transportation, Food, Group Camping Gear
You Provide: Backpack, Personal Camping Gear
Cost: $62 for UMD Students/ $108 Others
Info Sheet

Paddling the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

We’ll load up our Duluth packs and paddle through the majestic lakes of the BWCA. Explore the beauty and wonder of this pristine wilderness with experienced and enthusiastic leaders. Stargazing, stories, and listening for hooting owls and howling wolves are included on this trip’s itinerary. Beautiful fall colors, few people, and no bugs will make this a special trip. No experience
required.
Depart: Friday, October 3 2pm
Return: Sunday, October 5 6pm
Register By: Noon, September 24
We Provide: Group Gear, Food, Transportation, Instruction
You Provide: Personal Camping Gear
Meet: RSOP Trailhead in the Sports and Health Center Lobby
Cost: $70 UMD Students Only/$35 2008-09 Kayak and Canoe
Club Members
Info Sheet

Spring Break 2009

Spring Break Surfing Safari

March 14-22, 2009
Take your surfing to the next level! Join us for a Baja Mexico surf trip.
Contact Randy Carlson for more details.
Info Sheet

Fall Semestar 2008

Climb Devil’s Tower, Wyoming

Devil’s Tower National Monument in Wyoming is one or our nation’s most striking natural features with a 100-year history of rock climbing. Climb with our experienced instructors to explore the steep cracks and stand on the summit of this beautiful rock monolith - 1,200 feet above the valley below. Camp at the base of this awesome tower and trace its outline against a starry autumn sky. Intermediate rock climbing skills are required.
Thursday – Sunday, September 25-28, 2008
Cost: $295 UMD/ $425 Others
Register By: Wednesday, September 17
We Provide: Group and Climbing Gear, Food, Transportation,
Instruction
You Provide: Personal Clothing, Camping Gear
Info Page
Equipment List

Spring Semester 2008 Trips

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Camping & Ice Fishing Weekend

Have you ever experienced the BWCA in winter? Interested in an ice fishing get-a-way? Maybe you want to go back and experience once again the beautiful winter in the BWCA. Never brought up a trout from the icy waters of a lake? Well, here's your chance. Join us for a weekend of winter camping and ice fishing in Minnesota's premier wilderness.
Depart February 15, 2pm
Return February 17, 5pm
Register By: 2pm, February 13
We Provide: Transportation, Group Gear, Food, Ice Fishing Gear
You Provide: Bag Supper for Friday Night, Personal Camping Gear, Backcountry Skis or Snowshoes, Warm Clothes, Personal Fishing Gear
(if you have it), and Minnesota Fishing License Skill Level: No Experience needed! (Some winter gear is available for rental)
Cost: $57 UMD Students / $101 Others
Info Sheet

Backpacking the Superior Hiking Trail

It’s Spring!!!! Come Check out the beautiful North Shore on a scenic trip on the Superior Hiking Trail. This is a great get-away for anyone seeking a break from a stressful week. If you enjoy the great outdoors, then join us for an exciting backpacking/camping weekend.
Friday, May 2 Leave at 3pm
Sunday, May 4 Return at 2pm
Register By: Noon, April 30
We Provide: Group Camping Gear, Food
You Provide: Personal Gear, Clothes
Meet: Sports and Health Center Lobby
Cost: $58 UMD Students/ $98 Others
Info Sheet

Spring Break 2008 Trips

Red River Road Trip

Spring Break - March 15-23, 2008
Take a trip to the world-famous Red River Gorge this Spring Break. The group will drive from Duluth to the beautiful Daniel Boone State Forest in Kentucky. We’ll spend the first day exploring the depths of Mammoth Cave, the longest cave in the world. Next, try your hand at climbing the sandstone climbs of the “Red”. Difficulty ranges from friendly, beginner climbs to arm-pumping overhangs that will challenge the most seasoned climbers. We’ll set up climbs to match every skill level. Our schedule leaves room for a rest day or two hiking through amazing scenery with stone arches, waterfalls, caves and miles of cliff lines found in this Southern landscape. This trip is perfect for beginner and experienced climbers alike. Unlock the mysteries of this well-kept secret area within the beautiful state of Kentucky.
Cost: UMD Students: $410 Others: $595
Info Sheet
Itinerary
Equipment List

Spring Break Surfing Safari

March 15-23, 2008
Take your surfing to the next level! Join us for a Baja Mexico surf trip. This surf trip promises to be an energetic exploration of the coastline and aquatic environments found in Baja Mexico. You will be actively involved with and learning about many things including: the University of California San Diego Outback Adventures Program, traveling in Mexico, ocean safety, board surfing, kayak surfing, kite boarding, cooperative group adventure and minimum impact camping. Our itinerary allows time for exploring a few surf shops, hiking the coastline, and taking in cultural points of interest. The veteran Outdoor Education Staff from two Universities look forward to providing a world class learning environment so that everyone involved can build upon their surfing, camping and travel skills.
Cost: UMD Students: $435/ Others: $685. Cost of flight not included.
Info Sheet

Fall Semester 2007 Trips

Paddling the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

We’ll load up our Duluth packs and paddle through the majestic lakes of the BWCA. Explore the beauty and wonder of this pristine wilderness with experienced and enthusiastic leaders. Stargazing, stories, and listening for hooting owls and howling wolves are included on this trip’s itinerary. Beautiful fall colors, few people, and no bugs will make this a special trip. No experience
required.
Depart: Friday, September 14 2pm
Return: Sunday, September 16 6pm
Register By: Noon, September 12
We Provide: Group Gear, Food, Transportation, Instruction
You Provide: Personal Camping Gear
Cost: $62 UMD Students / $107 Others
Info Sheet

Backpack Porcupine Mountains, Michigan

There are mountains around here? Yes, and they are beautiful! In the Upper Peninsula of Michigan are the secluded Porcupine Mountains, right along Lake Superior. Enjoy fall colors at their finest! Marvel at the colors by day and the starlit sky by night. We will help you develop backpacking skills while we discover the “Porkies” fall forest beauty. New friends and adventure for everyone who comes along. No experience is necessary.
Depart: Friday, September 28 2pm
Return: Sunday, September 30 7pm
Register By: Noon, September 26
We Provide: Transportation, Food, Group Camping Gear
You Provide: Backpack, Personal Camping Gear
Cost: $58 UMD Students/ $98 Others
Info Page

hikers
Hikers in the Porcupine Mountains, Michigan