From day trips to overnights to multi-day trips offered during academic breaks, BU Outdoor Programs offers something for all skill levels and backgrounds. Browse our trip offerings below to find your next adventure!
If you are interested in more advanced trips or improving your skillset beyond our current offerings (i.e. hiking the Presidential Traverse or learning how to build top rope anchors outdoors), please reach out to discuss custom trip offerings.
Each trip is categorized into one of five intensity levels. Choose which level works best for you prior to registering for your next trip.
| Intensity | Typical Distance & Elevation | This Might Be Right for You If… | Prerequisites (specified in trip descriptions) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🟢 Relaxed | 1-2 miles Little to no elevation gain |
You enjoy walking around campus or your neighborhood, can comfortably be on your feet for a few hours, and are looking for a relaxed introduction to the outdoors. | None |
| 🔵 Easy | Up to 4 miles Up to 500 ft gain |
You regularly take walks, hike occasionally, attend beginner fitness classes, or comfortably complete 45–60 minutes of light exercise 1-2 times per week. | None |
| 🟡 Moderate | Up to 6 miles Up to 1,000 ft gain |
You exercise 2–4 times per week, enjoy longer hikes, jog, bike, climb, or participate in recreational sports for about an hour at a time. | None |
| 🟠 Difficult | Up to 8 miles Up to 2,500 ft gain |
You regularly participate in vigorous exercise, complete challenging hikes, trail run, climb, or play competitive sports multiple times per week and are comfortable being active most of the day. | Sometimes Required |
| 🔴 Strenuous | Up to 10+ miles 3,000+ ft gain |
You consistently train for endurance activities (long hikes, backpacking, climbing, running, cycling, etc.) and can handle multiple long days of physical activity. | Always Required |
Remember: Distance and elevation are only part of the challenge. Factors like terrain, weather, remoteness, technical skills, and trip pace may make a trip feel easier or harder than its listed intensity. Always read the full trip description before registering, especially when registering for technical trips such as backpacking.
Please email buop@bu.edu with questions and subscribe to our newsletter.
We are currently hiring for Fall 2026! Please complete our hiring form if you are interested. Students with Federal Work Study awards are strongly encouraged to apply.
Join us on the Charles River to see the city from a new perspective. Sunset kayaking trips take place on select Friday and Saturday evenings. Click here to register and see all offered dates!
Whether you are a new or seasoned backpacker, we have the trip for you! Fall backpacking trips will be offered on the following weekends in New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest:
Women's Beginner Backpacking:October 10-11th
Beginner Backpacking: October 17-18th
Winter Backpacking: December 5-6th
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Looking for a fun and active way to connect with your child? Sign up for our Family Climbing Class, a three-week Saturday session designed for kids ages 5–12 and their parents or guardians. This class offers a unique opportunity for families to climb together—while kids explore the wall under the watchful eye of our Climbing […]