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.
Fall 2026 Trips
Fall trips are available for viewing now, signups go live on the first day of the fall semester Monday August 24 at 8am.
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 | Student Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug. 22 | Sat. 10am–6pm |
Cardinal Beach Day | Free Beach Rentals for NIC Students and their families! |
| Aug. 24 – Sept. 6 | Daily 10am–6pm |
Sunspot Beach SUP, Kayak, Sail, Volleyball | Varies (deep student discounts) |
| Aug. 29 | Sat. 7am–6pm |
Whitewater Rafting on the Clark Fork River | $65 |
| Sept. 15 | Thurs. 4pm–7pm |
Mountain Biking | $20 |
| Sept. 18–20 | Sat. 7am– Sun. 5pm |
Backpacking to Harrison Lake | $100 |
| Sept. 22 | Tues. 6:30pm–9pm |
Sunset Sailing | $20 |
| Sept. 24–27 | Thurs. 6am– Sun. 6pm |
Surfing on the Oregon Coast | $170 |
| Sept. 29 | Tues. 3pm–7pm |
Outdoor Rock Climbing | $20 |
| Oct. 3–4 | Sat. 7am– Sun. 6pm |
Canoe and Kayak to Upper Priest Lake | $100 |
| Oct. 7 | Wed. 12pm–5pm |
Introduction to Whitewater Kayaking | $35 |
| Oct. 23–25 | Fri. 6am– Sun. 7pm |
Wallowa Mountain Woodcut | $110 |
| Nov. 4 | Wed. 12pm–2pm |
Ski Tuning Lessons | $20 |
| Nov. 12 | Wed. 5pm–8pm |
Know Before You Go Avalanche Awareness Presentation | FREE! |
| Nov. 18 | Wed. 12pm–2pm |
Ski Tuning Lessons | $20 |