NIC’s Outdoor Pursuits Trips Program is the heart and soul of our program and one of the most fun ways to meet new friends while exploring the natural wonders of the northwest. From backpacking to high mountain lakes to surfing the Oregon coast to a full moon snowshoe trip, you will find community and camaraderie on these adventure experiences.
Outdoor Pursuits focuses on making wilderness experiences for NIC students and the community accessible. Our staff will offer guidance and instruction, making almost all of our trips a great place for people to try an activity for the first time.
- The trip cost covers transportation, group gear and any pertinent instruction.
- Many overnight trips also include group food for breakfasts and dinners
- To sign up for a trip, click the link below and log in with your NIC credentials to find your trip. Trips have limited space, so sign up and claim your spot.
Current NIC Students: The Associated Students of NIC sponsored a limited number of 2024 trips for NIC students. Enter the promo code FREETRIP24 to redeem.
Fall 2025 Trips are Ready for Sign-up!
Outdoor pursuits can be a fantastic way to make new friends, challenge yourself, and create lasting memories. So, go ahead and have a fantastic time exploring the great outdoors!
| Date | Start | Trip / Sign-Up | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug. 22 | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Cardinal Beach Day | Free Beach Rentals for NIC Students and their families! |
| Aug. 18 through Aug. 31 | 7 days a week 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Sunspot Beach SUP, Kayak, Sail, Volleyball, Cornhole, Spikeball | Varies (deep student discounts) |
| Sep. 12 through Sep. 14 | Fri 8 a.m. to Sun 5 p.m. | Backpacking to Harrison Lake | $100 |
| Sep. 18 | Wed noon to 5 p.m. | Introduction to Whitewater Kayaking | $30 |
| Sept. 25 through Sep. 28 | Thurs 6 a.m. to Sun 6 p.m. | Surfing on the Oregon Coast | $150 |
| Oct. 4 through Oct. 19 | Sat 7 a.m. to Sun 6 p.m. | Canoe and Kayak to Upper Priest Lake | $80 |
| Oct. 17 through Oct. 19 | Fri 6 a.m. to Sun 7 p.m. | Wallowa Mountain Woodcut | $100 |
| Nov. 13 | Wed 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. | Know Before You Go Avalanche Awareness Presentation | FREE! |
| Nov. 12 | Wed noon to 2 p.m. | Ski Tuning Lessons | $20 |
| Dec. 13 | Sat 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Avalanche Rescue Fundamentals | $75 |