Outdoor Program

Half Acre Recreation and Wellness Center

The University of Wyoming is the perfect place for adventurous individuals, those eager to try new things, or anyone simply craving some fresh air! Nestled in the heart of stunning outdoor recreation areas, UW offers an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts. That’s why the Outdoor Program at UW is so essential. Whether you’re into hiking, rock climbing, fly fishing or anything in between, there’s something for everyone—regardless of your skill level. We’re stoked to make outdoor activities more accessible and safe for the entire UW community!

About Us

Mission Statement

As part of the campus recreation department, the Outdoor Program helps recruit and retain students, faculty and staff by providing a wide range of inclusive, safe, reasonably-priced Outdoor Programs and services to the UW community. We expose individuals to the natural environment, provide skill and leadership development opportunities, and facilitate interactions and fun.

Four students hike on rocks at Vedauwoo

Outdoor Program Services

Safety and accessibility are the cornerstones of UW’s Outdoor Program. Exploring and enjoying Wyoming’s stunning natural landscape is one of the highlights of being part of the University of Wyoming, and we want everyone to experience it in a safe and affordable way. To make that possible, we dedicate our time and resources to providing quality rental equipment, along with the knowledge and training needed to use it. We offer outdoor courses, trips, and clinics to help teach new skills and have fun in the outdoors! We have an indoor climbing wall for the UW community to boulder, top rope, and lead climb. Finally, we offer an Outdoor Leadership Development class for students to learn and practice both technical and soft skills to take their outdoor interests to the next level. Stop by our office and ask about all of our opportunities. We are always here to help with any questions you may have.

Bike Library

The UW Bike Library provides affordable bike rentals for UW students and staff for the entire semester.

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Climbing Wall

The climbing wall at Half Acre Gymnasium and Wellness Center offers climbing opportunities for all skill levels!

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Custom Programming

The Outdoor Program offers Custom Programs by request. These requests can vary for activity and group size and must be submitted via our Custom Programming Form.

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Register for Events

Check our calendar for upcoming events and register ahead of time to secure your spot!

Schedule & Registration

Wilderness Medicine

We offer a variety of wilderness medicine courses through Longleaf Wilderness Medicine. Classes take place throughout the year and must be registered for in advance.

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Benefits of Outdoor Recreation

College is a time of new experiences, academic challenges and personal growth. It’s exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. That’s totally normal, and we are here to help! Spending time outdoors is a great way to support your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Our outdoor programs and events not only help you develop new skills but also connect with a community of people who share your interests. Let the Outdoor Program help you make some incredible memories and make the most of your time at UW.

Helpful Resources

 

Outdoor Education for UW Credit!

UW partners with the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) to provide the opportunity for degree-seeking UW students to receive UW academic credit for various NOLS courses.

The UW Haub School of Environmental and Natural Resources helps advise students interested in taking a NOLS course and is here to help guide you in the process and answer any questions that may come up.