The Outdoor Program

 

Two Programs in One

Emory & Henry is nestled in an outdoor adventure paradise. Lush forests to hike, mountains to ascend, creeks to paddle, cliffs to climb, and deep caves to explore are just minutes from the Emory & Henry Campus. The Appalachian and Iron Mountain Trails, The Virginia Creeper Trail, The Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, The Jefferson and George Washington National Forests, and the New, Holston, and Clinch rivers are all close by.

The Outdoor Adventure Program is available to the entire E&H community. The goal of the Adventure Program is to responsibly introduce the E&H students, faculty, and staff to the wonders of silent sports: Hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, caving, paddling, cross-country skiing, and biking.

Silent sports avoid motorized assistance, requiring, as cross-country skiing, one to ski up the mountain in order to ski down. Silent sports are fun and exciting, but they are not extreme, and they offer much more than just entertainment. Outdoor adventure builds confident, responsible, and thoughtful individuals.

The Outdoor Leadership Program is for students who want to develop advanced skills and certification. Participants choose a discipline in climbing, caving, canoe/kayak, or long distance backpacking, and through a goal oriented process, gain the experience and competence to lead their own adventures.

The E&H Outdoor Program is a member of several national outdoor adventure organizations, including the National Speleological Society and the Wilderness Education Association.