New students invited to explore outdoor activities

New students invited to explore outdoor activities

Contact: Michael Hatch, Outdoor Adventure Program coordinator, 541-962-3621

LA GRANDE, Ore. − EOU freshmen and new transfer students have a chance to learn about the university, its surroundings, and one another while trying a variety of outdoor activities — all a week before fall classes begin.

Eastern Oregon University’s Outdoor Adventure Program offers a four-day camping and recreation trip called East Tracks from Sept. 17 to 20 in the Elkhorn Mountains. The trip provides opportunities for incoming students to meet friends and learn about the university and region. Students will return in time to move into their residence halls Sept 20 and take part in Week of Welcome activities Sept. 21 to 24.

From a base camp near Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, participants can try stand-up paddleboarding, hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, slacklining, mountaineering and more. The group will also hike sections of the 23-mile Elkhorn Crest National Recreation Trail, which follows the 8,000-foot backbone of the Elkhorn range through high alpine meadows and past impressive peaks and pristine lakes.

Students interested in rock climbing have access to prime learning surfaces on the craggy granite cliffs above Anthony Lakes. Trails for mountain biking zigzag throughout the basin, and several of the surrounding lakes are ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking.

“We really encourage students to try new activities,” said Michael Hatch, Outdoor Adventure Program coordinator. “The options are limitless and no prior experience is needed. Plus, we have an amazing rental shop to outfit everyone with gear for the trip.”

All food and outdoor equipment will be provided and is included in the registration fee of $95. Registration is limited to 30 participants.

For more information visit eou.edu/outdoor, call 541-962-3621 or email outdoor@eou.edu.