Blue Ridge Mountains Backpacking & Rock Climbing

Fitting well into busy schedules, a short excursion in the North Carolina mountains introduces you to backpacking and rock climbing as well as to the benefits of an Outward Bound wilderness expedition. You’ll develop expedition skills like how to set up a tarp, use a compass and reduce the environmental impact of your activities as well as personal skills like how to work effectively as a group. Up to two days of rappelling or rock climbing (depending on weather and course length) inspires you to reach new heights – literally and figuratively.

Layered ridges that take on a transparent hue, mist-shrouded valleys and thickets of rhododendron and mountain laurel are the setting for a challenge that is as much emotional as it is physical. The Southern Appalachians (which includes the Blue Ridge & Great Smoky mountain ranges) are some of the oldest mountains in the world. The lush, dense forests feature an incredible biodiversity of flora and fauna. Our courses here foster an appreciation of nature and environmental stewardship and often include an environmental service project. Amidst these highest mountains east of the Mississippi, rocky crags and granite outcroppings provide exceptional climbing opportunities. Creeks, streams and rivers criss-cross the region and cascade into waterfalls and whitewater rapids that offer challenging runs for all skill levels.

The Outward Bound Difference… On this course run by North Carolina Outward Bound School, students develop leadership, independence, decision-making and responsibility. Through challenge and adventure, you discover you are capable of more than you thought possible.

You’ll develop teamwork while working together to find your way through rhododendron thickets, set up camp, cook your own meals over a camp stove and learn Leave No Trace techniques to minimize your impact on the land. Solo is a time for reflection and rest at an individual campsite.

Successful completion of your course demands mastery of skills, trust, fitness, confidence, tenacity, leadership, initiative and compassion. No experience is necessary. You’ll leave course with newfound strength that can help you through everyday situations as well as the unknown challenges to come.

Sharing the Outward Bound experience with peers, adults participating in the 18+ or 23+ courses will revel in the spirit of camaraderie from a group expedition and go away with a renewed awareness of their inner strengths.

On the Women Only course, women experience the special “magic” as an all-female crew undertakes this expedition together. A women’s course is for all women -- from outdoor enthusiasts to first-time campers.

Region: North Carolina

Activities: backpacking, rock climbing or rappelling, solo, Leave No Trace

Additional Information:
Application Fee
Transportation Fee

hot course
Dates	Days	Age	Focus	Location	Tuition	Course	Enroll
09/04/08 to 09/07/08	4	23+	Women Only	Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina	$775.00	NEW811
10/23/08 to 10/26/08	4	23+	Adults 18+, 23+	Blue Ridge Mountains	$775.00	NEP813
04/23/09 to 04/26/09	4	23+	Adults 18+, 23+	Western North Carolina Mountains	$775.00	NEP911