sept24Completed - September 2024

Two women balance on surfboards while riding an ocean wave, smiling

sept14surfingSaturday, September 14 - Surfing at Rye, New Hampshire

  • Try your hand at a new sport - catching some waves on the ocean! The group will have a lesson with instructors from Summer Sessions, followed by more surfing as a group with the encouragement of your OAP trip leaders, before heading back to Lowell tired and happy.
  • Cost $80. Registration deadline: Thursday, September 12
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided. 1-hour professional lesson included.
  • Meets at 9 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 5 p.m.
  • Physical Exertion: Strenuous for short bursts
  • See our Surfing webpage for more information on the activity and location
one woman smiles in a kayak on the ocean with the shore behind her

sept15kayakSunday, September 15 - Sea Kayaking at Plum Island, Massachusetts

  • Our trip leaders will take you on a safe and fun paddling experience on the Atlantic Coast near Plum Island, a great natural paradise on the Mass. coast with many migrating birds and beautiful coastal plants.
  • Cost $35. Registration deadline: Thursday, September 12
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided. Exact location may change depending on conditions.
  • Meets at 8 a.m. at the Bellegarde Boathouse (500 Pawtucket Blvd., Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 5 p.m.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium to Strenuous, depending on conditions
  • See our Paddling webpage for more information on the activity and location
A group of 9 people smile at the top of an overlook with mountains and a pond beyond

sept21hikingSaturday, September 21 - Hiking at Kearsarge, New Hampshire

  • Get out in the woods with new friends before your classes get too busy! Kearsarge is a great mountain, welcoming and inviting with beautiful 360 degree views from the top.
  • Cost $30. Registration deadline: Thursday, September 19
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Meets at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 5 p.m.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium
  • See our Hiking webpage for more information on the activity and location
A woman wearing a helmet and harness climbs a rock and reaches up for a hold.

sept22climbingSunday, September 22 - Climbing at Crow Hill, Massachusetts

Backup date: February 15

  • Outdoor rock climbing is a great way to expand your comfort zone at your own pace. The skilled instructors will show you the ropes (literally!) and help you succeed whether you've never climbed or feel like you're on your way to expert level. It's also a great next step if you've tried indoor climbing and are looking to try real rock.
  • Cost $82 (UMass Lowell). Open to non-UMass Lowell guests $105. Registration deadline: Thursday, September 19
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Meets at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop(5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 5 p.m.
  • Physical Exertion: Strenuous while climbing, with lots of relaxing between.
  • See our Rock Climbing webpage for more information on the activity and location
one woman paddles a solo kayak on the ocean with a lighthouse behind her

sept29kayakingSunday, September 29 - Sea Kayaking near Gloucester, Massachusetts

  • Gloucester provides a ton of great options for paddling - the Annisquam River, the bay by Gloucester, the open ocean around Rockport. Our trip leaders will take you out to have a great time on the coast; exact location will be decided on by wind and ocean conditions. You might even see a harbor seal!
  • Cost $35. Registration deadline: Friday, September 27
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Meets at 8 a.m. at the Bellegarde Boathouse (500 Pawtucket Blvd., Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 5 p.m.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium to Strenuous, depending on conditions
  • See our Paddling webpage for more information on the activity and location

oct24Completed - October 2024

a group stands on a rocky outcrop while looking over a beautiful vista

oct5hikingSaturday, October 5 - Hiking at Cannon Mountain, New Hampshire

  • Besides being a highlight for downhill skiers, Cannon Mountain in Franconia Notch, N.H. is an absolutely gorgeous fall hike! Enjoy the changing colors as you hike up to the lovely vista in the crisp fall air.
  • Cost $30. Registration deadline: Thursday, October 3
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Meets at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 5 p.m.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium to Strenuous
  • See our Hiking webpage for more information on the activity and location
Two women smile wearing backpacking in the woods Image by Justin Yung

October 11-14 - Backpacking Trip to Appalachian Trail in Vermont

  • For your October long weekend, give backpacking a try with the OAP! Fall colors should be at peak! Our trip leaders are psyched to get you out in the gorgeous Green Mountain of Vermont. If you haven't camped before, not to worry - this trip is welcoming to beginners. We'll pass over Stratton Mountain, with a great vista from the top and go on to enjoy a backpacking loop. Challenge level is higher, but this trip attainable for beginners.
  • Cost $95. Registration deadline: Sunday, September 29
  • No experience needed. Leadership, gear, food and transportation all provided.
  • Required preparation meeting on Sunday, October 6 at 5 p.m.
  • Departs on Friday evening from the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by Monday at 5 p.m.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium to Strenuous
  • See our Backpacking webpage for more information on the activity and location
a group of people stand on a boardwalk surrounded by tall sea grasses with a blue sky above

oct20wellnesshikeSunday, October 20 - Wellness Day Hike to the Coast of Massachusetts

  • Enjoy a relaxing coastal hike. We'll head to the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge on Plum Island, Mass. The trip leaders may choose to lead you in reflective activities, as well as some silly and fun games to help you center yourself before heading back to school.
  • Pay What You Can - $10, $20, or $30. Registration deadline: Thursday, October 17
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Meets at 10 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 5 p.m.
  • Physical Exertion: Light
  • See our Hiking webpage for more information on the activity and location
outdoor adventure student on mountain top

nov2-3wfaSunday, October 27 - Hiking at Mounts Jackson and Pierce, New Hampshire

  • Intermediate or experienced hikers only. Classic White Mountain peaks, Jackson and Pierce are both above 4,000 feet (1,200 meters), so you can bag a couple 4,000 footers with us on this day! This loop trail on the Webster Jackson Trail and Crawford Path is just under 9 miles total and generally considered challenging, steep in places and with boulders. This is not appropriate for beginners or those without proper footwear (hiking shoes/boots with good tread).
  • Cost $30. Registration deadline: Thursday, October 24
  • No experience or gear needed. Meets at 7 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 7 p.m.
  • Physical Exertion: Strenuous. Prerequisite: hiked with us before or have equivalent experience.

Nov24Completed - November 2024

WFR group photo

nov2-3wfaSaturday-Sunday, November 2-3 - Wilderness First Aid course

  • The Wilderness First Aid (WFA) course presented by is two days long (16 hours) and teaches a basic level of first aid training in the wilderness context. This course is for those who enjoy going on short wilderness trips and are seeking to gain a better understanding of how to manage and treat a variety of medical issues in the wilderness context. This course is open to the public.
  • Cost: Starts at $185. CPR and Housing optional add-ons.
  • No experience or gear needed. Meets each day at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected finish by 5 p.m.
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
group of students smiling at the top of Monadnock Mountain with panoramic view beyond Image by Libby McGrosky

nov3hikingSunday, November 3 - Hiking at Monadnock, New Hampshire

  • Monadnock, claimed to be the second most climbed mountain in the world (behind Mount Fuji in Japan!), is a classic New England hike. The trail is well-tracked and it has amazing views in all directions from the top.
  • Cost: $30. Registration deadline: Thursday, October 31
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Meets at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 5 p.m.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
a group of nine stands with backpacking on in front of a shelter, ready to hike

nov8-11backpackNovember 8-11 - Long Weekend Backpacking Trip to Mount Greylock, the Highest Point in Massachusetts!

  • Enjoy your Veterans Day Weekend on the Appalachian Trail where it crosses Massachusetts highest point! Mount Greylock is a great destination with views all around and wonderful wilderness to explore. Challenge level is higher as the weather will be colder, but this trip attainable for beginners. We have warm gear to borrow!
  • Cost: only $95! Registration deadline: Sunday, October 27
  • No experience needed. Leadership, gear, food and transportation all provided.
  • Required preparation meeting on Sunday, November 3 at 5 p.m.
  • Departs on Friday evening from the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by Monday at 5 p.m.
  • See our Backpacking webpage for more information on the activity and location

Jan2025Completed - January 2025

A group of eight people sits inside a classroom while a practice patient lies on his back and the instructor holds a hiking pole demonstrating how to make a leg splint.

January 8-15 - Wilderness First Responder course

  • The Wilderness First Responder (WFR) course presented by  is an eight-day long (72+ hours) course and takes an in-depth look at responding to medical issues and emergencies in the wilderness context. This course is appropriate for anyone looking for wilderness medical knowledge - general outdoor enthusiasts, search and rescue, ski patrol, anyone who is seeking to gain a better understanding of how to manage and treat a variety of medical issues in the wilderness context. This course is open to the public.
  • Cost: Starts at $730 student price; $805 public price. Housing optional add-on.
  • Meets each day including weekends at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Drive, Lowell, MA 01854). Expected finish by 5 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed.
  • Read more and register at our Workshop and Certifications webpage.
  • Fill out your Required Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
a group walks down an icy trail in the trees Image by Rishab Vyas
jan26hike-kearsarge

may7kayakingJanuary 26, Sunday - Winter Hiking Skills at Kearsarge, New Hampshire (N.H.)

  • Kearsarge is an inviting mountain for winter conditions. The hike typically takes about 3 hours and has beautiful views at the top!
  • Cost: $30. Registration Deadline: Thursday, January 23
  • Meets at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 6 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium
  • See our Winter Hiking Skills webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 6 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy

Feb2025Completed - February 2025

Three people cross country ski up a small hill in the woods.

feb1xcski-JacksonFebruary 1, Saturday - Cross Country Skiing at Jackson Ski Touring Foundation near Conway, New Hampshire

  • Learn the joys of "skinny skiing" gliding on fresh, white snow and appreciating nature! Never skied? No problem, we're ready to teach you! Jackson is a great place to learn - beginner friendly starting flat course following by heading to the woods with some hills. *If the weather provides snow in our area, we will instead go to Great Brook State Park!
  • Cost: $55. Registration Deadline: Sunday, January 26 (inquire with us if you're past this deadline).
  • Meets at 7:00 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 6 p.m.
  • No experience needed; rentals and transportation are included.
  • Physical Exertion: Low to medium.
  • See our Cross Country Ski webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 5 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
A woman in winter gear skates towards the camera on a totally smooth surface of lake ice with trees and sky behind.

feb8outdooriceskateFebruary 8, Saturday - Outdoor Ice Skating on Real Ice at Lake Morey, Vermont

Back-up date: February 15, Saturday

  • Come ice skating with us on natural ice on a real pond, a truly unique experience! Lake Morey on the New Hampshire / Vermont border has a 4.5 mile loop regularly plowed during the winter by a local resort. This means that not only is the ice regularly checked for safety, the skating trail is kept in good condition. Skating on natural ice is similar to skating at a rink, except better because you have beautiful surroundings, and the ice can be more contoured and bumpy depending on conditions. We will likely spend about 2-3 hours on the ice. Give it a try with us! Please HOLD BOTH DATES on your calendar - the ice will determine if we need to use the backup date.
  • Cost $30. Registration Deadline: Thursday, February 6 (extended to Thursday, February 13 if needed)
  • Meets at 9 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 6 p.m.
  • No experience needed; rental ice skates and transportation included in the cost.
  • Physical Exertion: Low.
  • See our Winter Fun webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 6 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
A group in downhill skiers smile at the top of a snow covered run.

feb9downhillskiFebruary 9, Sunday - Downhill Skiing/Snowboarding at Pats Peak, New Hampshire

  • Join us for the classic winter sport of downhill skiing or snowboarding! We've got gear rentals and lessons available with transportation from Lowell. Pats Peak is especially welcoming and affordable to UMass Lowell students. There is a warming lodge to take a break in as needed.
  • Costs vary by services requested:
    • $85 Lift Ticket Only (normally $99)
    • $124 Lift Ticket and Rentals (Ski or Snowboard) (normally $147)
    • $139 Lift Ticket and Lesson (normally $169)
    • $114 Beginner Full Package: Lift Ticket on Lower Mountain Only, Rentals and Lesson (normally $129)
    • $173 Full Package: Lift Ticket, Rentals and Lesson (normally $217)
  • Registration Deadline: Sunday, February 2 (inquire with us if you're past this deadline)
  • Meets at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 6 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation from Lowell included in the cost.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium to Strenuous, depending on your ability and personal challenge level.
  • See our Downhill Ski and Snowboard webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 6 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
Group of hikers standing atop Mount Moosilauke’s summit near an iced over marker sign with a snow covered mountain side in the background.

feb16winterhike-MoosilaukeFebruary 16, Sunday - Winter Hiking Skills at Moosilauke, New Hampshire

  • Moosilauke has stellar views from top after working hard to get there. This is typically a 4-5 hour hike with a good amount of elevation gain.
  • Cost $30.Registration Deadline: Thursday, February 13
  • Meets at 7 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 7 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium at times; Strenuous at times.
  • See our Winter Hiking Skills webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 6 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
a man lit by the sun smiles as he passes on cross country skis with a snowy field behind him

feb17xcski-BrettonwoodsFebruary 17, Monday (Presidents Day) - Cross Country Skiing at Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

  • Learn the joys of "skinny skiing" gliding on fresh, white snow and appreciating nature! Never skied? No problem, we're ready to teach you! Bretton Woods on the side of Mount Washington is a great place to learn. We'll start on a flat course, then we have the option of heading to the woods with some hills. *If the weather provides snow in our area, we will instead go to Great Brook State Park!
  • Cost $55.Registration Deadline: Sunday, February 9 (Inquire with us if you're past this deadline)
  • Meets at 7:30 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 6 p.m.
  • No experience needed; rentals and transportation are included.
  • Physical Exertion: Low to medium
  • See our Cross Country Skiing webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 6 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
Two Women at a Daytime Campfire in the Snow

feb22-23wintercampingFebruary 22-23, Saturday-Sunday: Try Winter Camping!! Plus a winter hike!

  • Come with us to try winter camping in a safe and fun environment! Our trip leaders are psyched to introduce you to an overnight winter camping experience. Plus we will do a winter hike near Lincoln, N.H. We have warm gear to use, and food is included in the cost! Being outside in the winter allows you to feel accomplished and discover a whole new world outside - tracking animals in the snow, discovering the sparkle of snow in the moonlight, and appreciating the crescent moon as you snuggle into your warm bed. Safety is our number one priority - so the trip leaders will make sure you are fully ready for the experience with all the warm gear and strategies.
  • Cost $65. Registration Deadline: Friday, February 14
  • Meets on Tuesday, February 18 at 5:00 p.m. for an in-person planning meeting. 
  • Meets Saturday morning at 10 a.m. for a gear shakedown and to depart; expected return on Sunday by 5 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed, just a willing attitude! Transportation provided.
  • Physical Exertion: Low to medium.
  • See our Winter Fun webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 5 people, maximum 8. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy

March2025Completed - March 2025

A person in snowshoes walks down the trail with the group ahead of her in snow-covered forest Image by Andrew Chapman

mar1winterhike-CardiganMarch 1, Saturday - Winter Hiking Skills at Mount Cardigan, New Hampshire (N.H.)

  • At over 3000 ft, Cardigan Mountain with its bare summit is a great place with a great view and fun and challenging trails. Learn how to hike in snow and cold temps! We love the cold and sparkling snow, come appreciate winter with us!
  • Cost $30. Registration Deadline: Thursday, February 27
  • Meets at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 6 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium
  • See our Winter Hiking Skills webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 5 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
Several people glide downhill on skis and snowboards

mar2downhillskiMarch 2, Sunday - Downhill Skiing/Snowboarding at Pats Peak, New Hampshire

  • Join us for the classic winter sport of downhill skiing or snowboarding! We've got gear rentals and lessons available with transportation from Lowell. Pats Peak is especially welcoming and affordable to UMass Lowell students. There is a warming lodge to take a break in as needed.
  • Costs vary by services requested:
    • $85 Lift Ticket Only (normally $99)
    • $124 Lift Ticket and Rentals (Ski or Snowboard) (normally $147)
    • $139 Lift Ticket and Lesson (normally $169)
    • $114 Beginner Full Package: Lift Ticket on Lower Mountain Only, Rentals and Lesson (normally $129)
    • $173 Full Package: Lift Ticket, Rentals and Lesson (normally $217)
  • Registration Deadline: Sunday, February 23 (inquire with us if you're past this deadline).
  • Meets at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 6 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium to Strenuous, depending on your ability and personal challenge level.
  • See our Downhill Ski and Snowboard webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 6 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
the sun just peeks over a green ridgeline Image by hikingshenandoah.com

mar8-16springbreakSpring Break! March 8-15, Saturday-Saturday - Epic Trip to Shenandoah National Park for Hiking, Backpacking and Caving!

  • We are heading to iconic Shenandoah National Park in Virginia for Spring Break! We intend to experience all that Shenandoah has to offer, both above ground and below. Enjoy iconic hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife sightings, along with caving for a half day plus one night of backpacking during your best Spring Break week!
  • $695 UMass Lowell Cost. Opens for Guest Registrations $935 on January 31.
  • No experience or gear needed! Transportation from Lowell included!
  • Physical Exertion: Medium to Strenuous for hiking and backpacking. Low to Medium for caving.
  • See our Spring Break webpage for more information!
  • Group Size minimum of 7 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
a group of people smiles while they stand atop a snowy overlook

mar23winterhike-BelknapMarch 23, Sunday - Winter Hiking Skills at Belknap Range at Pats Peak, New Hampshire

  • With its low elevation and welcoming trails, the Belknap Range is a great place to get some experience outside in winter. Our staff will teach you new skills, like how to use snow shoes and micro-spikes, and how various conditions change. Come appreciate winter with us!
  • Cost $30. Registration Deadline: Thursday, March 20
  • Meets at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 6 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium.
  • See our Winter Hiking Skills webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 6 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
Three people roll over a victim with a splinted leg and touch their spine in a medical scenario

March 29-30, Saturday-Sunday - Wilderness First Aid course

  • The Wilderness First Aid (WFA) course presented by is two days long (16 hours) and teaches a basic level of first aid training in the wilderness context. This course is for those who enjoy going on short wilderness trips and are seeking to gain a better understanding of how to manage and treat a variety of medical issues in the wilderness context. This course is open to the public.
  • Cost: Starts at $185. CPR and Housing optional add-ons.
  • Meets each day at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected finish by 5 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed.
  • Read more and register at our Workshop and Certifications page.
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy

april2025Completed - April 2025

a group stands on a rocky outcrop while looking over a beautiful vista

apr5hike-monadnockApril 5, Saturday - Hiking at Monadnock, New Hampshire (N.H.)

  • Warmer temps, longer days, and melting snow and ice make great conditions for hiking! Monadnock has stellar views from its treeless top!
  • Cost $30. Registration Deadline: Thursday, April 3
  • Meets at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr., Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 6 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium to Strenuous.
  • See our Hiking webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 6 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
A pond reflects the sky with a small road and brick structure on the right side

apr13wellnessdayhikeApril 12, Saturday - Wellness Day Hike to Blue Hills Reservation, near Canton, Massachusetts

  • Relax and enjoy nature with us. The OAP staff for the wellness day hike will lead a calm and rejuvenating hike to the Blue Hills Reservation, a park with a ton of trails crisscrossing each other and nice views of Boston at various points.
  • Pay What You Can $15, 20, or 25. Registration Deadline: Thursday, April 10
  • Meets at 10 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr., Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 6 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Physical Exertion: Low
  • See our Hiking webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 6 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
Group on a high trail in the White Mountains

apr19hike-luciaslookoutApril 19, Saturday - Day Hike to Lucia's Lookout near Pillsbury State Park, New Hampshire

  • This hidden gem near Pillsbury State Park in N.H. is a great spot, with a beautiful trail and lovely views. We will take the Blackwoods Trail, a little less than 5 miles - a perfect way to get outside before exams!
  • Cost $30. Registration Deadline: Thursday, April 17
  • Meets at 8 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr., Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 6 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Physical Exertion: Medium
  • See our Hiking webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 6 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
Cyclists Lined up Showing Off their Lights at Night

apr20-21midnightmarathonApril 20-21, Overnight Sunday-Monday: Midnight Marathon in Boston, Massachusetts

  • Ready for an adventure? Bike the 26.2 miles of the Boston Marathon route overnight with new UMass Lowell friends. The trip is supported by a van and three OAP staff, so you have support the whole way.
  • Cost: $30. Registration Deadline: Tuesday, April 9 (Inquire with us if you're past this deadline)
  • Meets at 8 p.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr. Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 5 a.m., but could be as late as 7 a.m.
  • No experience or gear needed, bikes can be provided. Transportation provided..
  • Physical Exertion: Strenuous.
  • See our Bike Touring webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 5 people, maximum 9. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!: Strenuous.
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
a tandem kayak floats in the river watching the sunset with upward rays

apr26paddleApril 25, Friday - Sunset Paddle on the Merrimack River, Lowell, Massachusetts

  • We are kayaking our way out of the spring semester! Spend some time on our own river here in Lowell with the OAP! We'll do some paddling introduction, get everyone set up with safety gear (wet suits), and head out on the river for a few hours before sunset. If we have a large enough group, we will split into two groups on the river. 
  • Cost: $15. Registration Deadline: 12 Noon on Friday, April 25
  • Meets at 5 p.m. at the Bellegarde Boathouse (500 Pawtucket Blvd., Lowell, MA 01854). Expected finish by 8 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation to Boathouse 1-1.5 hours before the trip can be provided, or you can walk or bike or take your own transportation. Free parking at the Boathouse. 
  • Physical Exertion: Low to medium, depending on river conditions.
  • See our Paddling webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group size minimum of 10 people, maximum 28. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy
woman in a harness hangs on a rope while gripping a tree and rock climbing

April 27, Sunday - Outdoor Rock Climbing at Pawtuckaway State Park, N.H.

  • UPDATED DATE due to weather!!! Originally April 13. You may sign up through April 20 to be on the waitlist for the new date.
  • Try your hand(s and feet) at climbing on real rock outdoors. The views are even better up there! Totally beginner friendly - we'll teach you everything you need to know and have all the gear. Safety is always number one priority! 
  • Cost $88. Registration Deadline: Sunday, April 20 (Note the early deadline)
  • Meets at 6:40 a.m. at the Outdoor Center and Bike Shop (5 Lawrence Dr., Lowell, MA 01854). Expected return by 4-5 p.m.
  • No experience or gear needed. Transportation provided.
  • Physical Exertion: Low to Strenuous, depending on your personal challenge level.
  • See our Rock Climbing webpage for more information on the activity and location
  • Group Size minimum of 4 people, maximum 10. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Fill out your Required OAP waiver and read our Cancellation Policy