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
Find the outdoor equipment you need
Get the most out of your adventure. Rent paddleboards, kayaks, rafts, camping gear, skis and more at the Outdoor Rental Center.
Outdoor Program hours
Outdoor Rental Center
Weekdays | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Weekends | CLOSED
Outdoor Program Office
Weekdays | 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Weekends | 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.
Reach new heights at the Climbing Center
From instructional walls to bouldering caves, discover climbing adventures for everyone.
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.
Contact us
Sandra Townsend
Director, Outdoor and Youth Programs
stownsend@uidaho.edu
Hans Zander
Assistant Director, Outdoor Program, Climbing Center and Programs
hzander@uidaho.edu
Lucas Blankenship
Coordinator, Outdoor Programs and Rental Center
lblankenship@uidaho.edu
Plan your next outdoor adventure
Use our online resource library to check weather updates, river conditions, snow depth and more.