The University of Massachusetts Amherst Outing Club is a student-run organization that provides a wide range of outdoor activities and trips for its members. As of 2025, the club regularly offers various outdoor activities, including hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, ice climbing, skiing, snowboarding, and water sports such as kayaking and canoeing. These activities are designed to cater to different skill levels, from beginners to experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
Land-Based Activities
The UMass Amherst Outing Club offers several land-based activities, including hiking and backpacking trips to nearby mountains and trails. These trips range from easy day hikes to more challenging multi-day backpacking trips, allowing members to explore the beautiful scenery of New England. The club also offers rock climbing and ice climbing trips, providing members with the opportunity to learn and practice climbing techniques in a safe and supportive environment.
Winter Sports
During the winter months, the club offers skiing and snowboarding trips to local ski resorts, such as Jiminy Peak and Berkshire East. These trips are a great way for members to enjoy the snow and improve their skiing and snowboarding skills. The club also offers snowshoeing and ice skating trips, providing members with alternative ways to enjoy the winter scenery.
| Activity | Frequency | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking | Weekly | Pioneer Valley and surrounding areas |
| Rock Climbing | Bi-Weekly | Local climbing gyms and outdoor locations |
| Skiing/Snowboarding | Monthly | Jiminy Peak, Berkshire East, and other local ski resorts |
Water-Based Activities
The club also offers various water-based activities, including kayaking and canoeing trips to nearby lakes and rivers. These trips provide members with the opportunity to explore the beautiful scenery of New England from a different perspective. The club also offers stand-up paddleboarding and whitewater rafting trips, providing members with a fun and exciting way to enjoy the water.
Leadership Opportunities
The UMass Amherst Outing Club provides leadership opportunities for its members, allowing them to develop new skills and take on new challenges. Members can become trip leaders, instructors, or committee members, helping to plan and organize club activities and events. The club also offers training and workshops to help members develop their leadership skills and build confidence in their abilities.
- Trip leading: Members can become trip leaders, responsible for planning and leading outdoor trips and activities.
- Instructing: Members can become instructors, teaching outdoor skills and techniques to other members.
- Committee membership: Members can join committees, helping to plan and organize club activities and events.
What is the cost of joining the UMass Amherst Outing Club?
+The cost of joining the UMass Amherst Outing Club varies depending on the type of membership and the activities participated in. Memberships are available for students, faculty, and staff, and range from $20 to $50 per year. Trip costs vary depending on the activity and location, but are generally kept low to make outdoor activities accessible to all members.
What kind of equipment does the club provide?
+The UMass Amherst Outing Club provides a range of equipment for its members, including hiking and camping gear, rock climbing equipment, kayaks and canoes, and skiing and snowboarding gear. Members are also encouraged to bring their own equipment, and the club offers discounts and rentals for those who need it.
In conclusion, the UMass Amherst Outing Club offers a wide range of outdoor activities and trips for its members, catering to different skill levels and interests. With its commitment to safety, inclusivity, and leadership development, the club provides a unique and rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
