Not too many colleges can claim outdoor rock climbing as part of their freshman orientation program. Ohio University’s New Adventures program aims to create memorable, shared experiences for incoming first-year students while enjoying the great outdoors.
Anyone can go through college orientation, but getting to scale rocky walls and formations at the Daniel Boone National Forest and camping out for the night? That’s not on everyone’s list of university-sanctioned college experiences to say the least. The excursion takes place from August 18th-21st, 2025 in Kentucky’s Red River Gorge, and it’s probably one of the coolest things to do as an incoming student.
Why Take Part in New Adventures?
Starting college away from home is a completely new experience. You’re living on your own for the first time (in the dorms technically, but a spacious off-campus rental isn’t too far off in the future), and you probably don’t know very many people. If you went to high school in Ohio, you might know a few random people from your class who are also attending Ohio University, but that’s about it.
Taking part in a unique adventure right before the start of your freshman year is a great way to take initiative and meet other new students. You might just come away from it with a new friend. At the very least, you’ll have a shared experience in a fun setting to bond with others over. Plus, if you’re the outdoorsy type, you’ll be setting off for college on the right foot.
More About Red River Gorge
Red River Gorge is a hidden treasure tucked away in the Daniel Boone National Forest in Kentucky. It features towering cliffs, sandstone arches, and lush forests to hike through. In late summer, the trees are verdant, and the hiking trails are fully open to visitors. With trails ranging from beginner to advanced, there’s something for everyone.
With all of the craggy cliffsides, rock climbing is a pretty big thing at Red River Gorge. Students taking part in the program will explore the area around the gorge while building basic rock climbing skills with the help of experienced staff members. No experience in rock climbing is necessary in coming to New Adventures—by the end of the four-day excursion, you’ll have mastered the basics and taken on some seriously cool rock walls.
Tickets and more information can be found on Ohio University’s website for the New Adventures program.