Raider Wilderness Experience
Raider Wilderness Experience (RWE) is back for fall 2025! Each RWE adventure is a 4-day/3-night trip aimed at incoming SOU freshmen and transfer students, led by Outdoor Program student-staff. This year, there are two trip options to choose from: Rock Climbing and Explore Oregon. More than just outdoor adventures, our cohort-based trips are designed to build community, foster new friendships, and set you up for success in your first year at Southern Oregon University.
The best part? No outdoor experience or sport-specific skills are required for any of the four RWE trips. Plus gear, transportation, food, and instruction are all included.
Climbing Center
Whether you’re an experienced climber, or just starting to learn the ropes, the Climbing Center is the perfect place to tackle new challenges and hone your skills. The wall stands 44 feet tall, meaning there’s plenty of space to test new routes, learn to belay, or practice lead climbing. Plus, gear like shoes and harnesses is included in your Rec Center membership at no extra cost.
Outdoor Trips
The Outdoor Program offers different adventure trips each term to some of the best outdoor recreation locations in the region. Signing up for an outdoor trip is a great way to explore Southern Oregon and learn a new skill like climbing, whitewater rafting, or snowshoeing. Looking for more friends? Outdoor trips are a great way to meet new people who also love adventuring in the outdoors!
Gear Rentals
With 1,200 outdoor gear items available to rent, the Outdoor Program has everything you need to adventure without breaking the bank. Get out on the water with kayaks and paddle boards, explore new trails with backpacking gear, or hit the slopes with snowshoes and snowboards. Our gear is high-quality and super affordable for SOU students and the Ashland community.
About the Outdoor Program
For over 50 years, the Outdoor Program has been a fixture of extracurricular campus life at Southern Oregon University. The OP is an inclusive community that fosters personal growth through experiential programming, professional development, and the spirit of adventure for all SOU students. Our staff are excellent resources for information about outdoor opportunities in the area. Need a suggestion for a new place to hike, backpack, kayak, snowshoe, or paddle board? Come visit us! The Outdoor Program is located in the SOU Student Recreation Center.
Want to hear even more staff stories, tips and tricks, and happenings from the OP? Check out our Wilderpress newsletter – written and created by our OP student staff!