Q: I heard about one of your upcoming trips but I've never participated in an Outing Club event before. Can I still request a spot?

A: Sure. We usually have a mix of first timers and "frequent flyers" on our trips. It's a great way to meet new people interested in the outdoors.

Q: I don't have much wilderness experience. Is that OK?

A: Our mission is to make the outdoors accessible to all students regardless of past experience or ability level. Prior experience and/or special skills are usually only required for our most adventurous trips. If in doubt, just email us or contact the trip leader to find out more.

Q: Do I need to have any special equipment to come on a trip?

A: That depends on the trip. For basic day hikes, a pair of hiking shoes, appropriate layers of clothing, water, and some high energy snack food may be all you'll need. Longer duration or more adventurous trips require additional gear, but those details will all be worked out in advance.

Q: How about physical limitations?

A: If you have any significant physical limitations, you should assess your own level of physical readiness when deciding whether to request a spot on particular trip. If in doubt, talk to the trip leader. While very few of our trips require pre-screening of participants, the trip leader may be able to provide more details about the specific level of difficulty of the trip.

Q: I'm a die-hard backpacker. Will you sponsor a backpacking trip?

A: We might. Will you help organize one? All of our events depend upon the initiative of our membership and executive board to make them happen. The more people who are willing to help plan various activities, the more we can do.

Q: How many people go on each trip?

A: The number we can accommodate depends on the type of trip. We've had as many as 36 people on our largest trip, but that's rare. On some trips, there can be as few as two or three people. Typical day hikes tend to work best with groups of up to a dozen people, but occasionally we'll bring a few more.

Q: How do you get there?

A: Transportation for trips is arranged by the trip leader. It is typically provided with rental vans, and sometimes augmented by carpooling.

Q: I want to go on your upcoming trip but I'm not sure if I can make it. Should I request a spot?

A: Please discuss this with the trip leader. If there's plenty of room it may be OK, but if demand is high or if the trip involves a lot of advance preparation you may be better off letting someone else have the spot.

Q: What happens if I need to cancel?

A: Late cancellations are one of the most difficult aspects of planning a trip, but are often unavoidable. Your trip leaders will be counting on you to be there. Please be considerate and apprise them ASAP of any changes so they can plan accordingly (and perhaps fill your spot, if there is a waiting list). Even if it's truly last minute, please don't just not show up.

Q: Are your trips cancelled if the weather is bad?

A: Trips may be cancelled or curtailed in the event of inclement weather, or may go on as scheduled. Final decisions may involve consultation with participants. Some may choose to go while others may decide to opt out. It is always a good idea to be aware of the weather forecast for the day of the trip.

Q: I'm planning an outdoor trip of my own and would like to find a few more people to go. Can you help spread the word?

A: If you send us all the details in advance we can include an announcement in one of our regular email messages to the Outing Club mailing list. We'll just note that it is not a club-sponsored trip and that anyone interested should contact you directly.

Q: I've heard a lot about the Outing Club. How long has it been on campus?

A: The Outing Club was resurrected in 2002, but it's existence at Clark dates back to the 1950s. You can read a little more Outing Club history in our October 2002 "Inaugural Misadventure" on our Past Events page.

Q: Your club sounds like a lot of fun. How can I get more involved?

A: Our weekly planning meetings are open to the entire membership. Members are invited to propose trip ideas of your own! And if you're really interested in helping the Outing Club stay active, consider a position on our executive board.

Q: Great! What else can I do to help?

A: Bring a friend. New faces are always welcome.