Trips
The Outdoor Adventure trip program offers several outdoor trips per year ranging from day trips to week-long adventures. Our highly trained and experienced trip leaders will guide you through places like backpacking at Big Bend National Park! If you are looking for an adventure closer to home, the Farmers Market Bike Tour is the perfect way to see a different side of Houston. There are plenty of weekend trips that are strategically planned around the stressful times of each semester so take some time to unwind and let us show you a real Outdoor Adventure. Take a look at the schedule below for detailed information on upcoming trips and don't forget to check out these incredible videos.
*Note: Participants can sign up for trips via myrec.uh.edu or visit the Welcome Desk - Member Services; Payment is due upon registration. Participants will receive a confirmation email from Outdoor Adventure with additional trip paperwork within 5-business days. Trip spots are available on a first-come-first-serve basis and fill quickly. If you would like to sign up for a trip, sign up early to ensure a spot is still available.
Summer 2023 Trips
Central Texas Outdoor Climbing
Date: June 24, 2023 | Approximately 6:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens May 15, 2023 | Closes June 21, 2023
Cost: $65 / CRWC Member or Student
Location: Austin, TX
Description: Do you like the indoor climbing wall at the Rec? Come try outdoor rock climbing at Barton Creek Greenbelt in Austin. The greenbelt routes range from 20-40 feet tall and make for a great day trip to the hill country! We’ll take a short walk, and then climb for 2-4 hours.
Central Texas Outdoor Climbing
Date: July 15, 2023 | Approximately 6:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens May 15, 2023 | Closes July 12, 2023
Cost: $65 / CRWC Member or Student
Location: Austin, TX
Description: Do you like the indoor climbing wall at the Rec? Come try outdoor rock climbing at Barton Creek Greenbelt in Austin. The greenbelt routes range from 20-40 feet tall and make for a great day trip to the hill country! We’ll take a short walk, and then climb for 2-4 hours.
Fall 2023 Trips
Night Hike, Stargazing and S'mores!
Date: September 16, 2023 | Approximately 4:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens August 21, 2023 | Closes September 13, 2023
Cost: $60 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: Needville, TX
Description: The bright lights of Houston can often make us forget that we have an endless array of twinkling lights above us, so allow us to turn the brightness down as we guide you through the marshes of Brazos Bend. On this trip you will explore the night sky on a hike through a relaxing 2-miles of lush greenery and beautiful marsh wetlands as the evening turns to night. We will also visit the George Observatory that offers a view of the night sky you can't get from anywhere else in Houston. The night isn't over yet! How better than to end the night with a sweet treat, s'mores by the fire, with new friends after a relaxing exploration? This trip is perfect for those who want an easy-going hike or want to take a break from the city life for a little bit.
River Tubing
Date: September 23, 2023 | Approximately 6:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens August 21, 2023 | Closes September 20, 2023
Cost: $65 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: New Braunfels, TX
Description: Join us for a tubing trip down the Comal River in New Braunfels. This beautiful crystal clear, spring fed river stays 72 degrees year round. We will spend 2-3 hours lazily floating down the river in our inner tubes… and catch a few chutes along the way (a tube chute is an area where water is diverted from the river into a winding channel and rapids. Pack our lunch and come float with us! Space is limited so register early.
Cnetral Texas Outdoor Climbing
Date: September 30, 2023 | Approximately 6:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens August 21, 2023 | Closes September 27, 2023
Cost: $65 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: Austin, TX
Description: Do you like indoor climbing or just want to give climbing a try? Come try outdoor rock climbing in central texas (location may vary based on weather). The routes range from 20-40 feet tall and make for a great day trip to the hill country! We’ll take a short walk, and then climb for 2-3 hours.
Sunset SUP
Date: October 6, 2023 | Approximately 4:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens August 21, 2023 | Closes October 4, 2023
Cost: $45 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: Galveston, TX
Description: We’ve got good news for you! Join UH Outdoor Adventure on this sunset standup paddling experience! You’ll start followed by learning the basics of standup paddle boarding and about 2 hours out in the water to try out your new skills. It is a great trip to get you moving and enjoying some time at the beach!
Hiking at Hunstville SP
Date: October 21, 2023 | Approximately 7:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens August 21, 2023 | Closes October 18, 2023
Cost: $32 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: Hunstville, TX
Description: Want to explore the woods but don't know where to start? Join us on a 6.8-mile hike on the Chinquapin Trail through the serene pine trees and marshes where you can unplug and slow down. This trail encircles Lake Raven where shorebirds, nutria and alligators are frequently spotted.
Moonlight Kayaking
Date: October 27, 2023 | Approximately 4:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens August 21, 2023 | Closes October 25, 2023
Cost: $45 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: Clear Lake, TX
Description: Join us as we travel to one of our closest natural water-ways at Clear Lake and enjoy the scenery as we kayak through the lake with the light of the moon guiding us through the waterways. Surrounded by the lush greenery and aquatic wildlife that inhabit the water and land, this kayaking trip won’t disappoint those looking to get more comfortable in the outdoors. Moonlight will shine throughout the night, giving us the best visibility while also being able to see the nature of Clear Lake in a setting not seen by most. We will learn the basics of how to safely navigate and operate a kayak before experiencing one of Houston’s most underrated sights, so please join us on this full moon journey through Clear Creek.
Outdoor Cooking
Date: November 1, 2023 | Approximately 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens August 21, 2023 | Closes October 31, 2023
Cost: $15 / CRWC Member or Student
Location: UH CRWC
Description: Want to go out explore on your own but don’t know any fun, easy or delicious meals to eat while camping? Join us on for an evening of outdoor cooking where you will learn some tips, tricks and easy meals to get you through any adventure with a satisfying culinary experience!
Will Brake for Tacos
Date: November 7, 2023 | Approximately 4:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens August 21, 2023 | Closes October 22, 2023
Cost: $20 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: Houston, TX
Description: What’s the best way to spend a Tuesday afternoon? Eating? Hanging out with friends? Uncovering amazing gems about our city that often go unnoticed? We thought so too, that’s why we have brought these ideas together into our latest trip! We welcome you to our Tour De Houston- Taco Tuesday Edition bike ride around Houston, checking out the local cuisine and working off the energy on the way back. We will head out from campus as we take a smooth 6-10 mile ride around town, then head to a local hot spot restaurant to grab some Dinner before heading back to campus. If you’re looking for a fun and easygoing outing with some friends, this is the perfect outing for you! *Tacos not included in trip registration*
From Feet to Flora
Date: TBD | Approximately 11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens August 21, 2023 | Closes October 22, 2023
Cost: FREE / UH Community
Location: Lynn Eusan Park
Description: TBD
Thanksgiving at Big Bend NP
Date: November 23-26, 2023 | Approximately 11/23 6:00 a.m.- 11/26 6:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens August 21, 2023 | Closes November 12, 2023
Cost: $350 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: Big Bend National Park, TX
Description: No plans for Thanksgiving and looking for an adventure? Join us on our backcountry exploration of Big Bend National Park, a Texas classic you’ll brag about for the rest of your life! On this 4-day trip, you will be instructed by our experienced staff, you’ll explore the best of what Big Bend has to offer. During multiple day hikes, we’ll enjoy amazing sights at some of the highest points in the park, cliff sides and canyons, amazing views, wildlife, beautiful sunsets and warming up in front of a campfire. Though parts of this trip can be strenuous, no prior experience required however, you should be able to comfortably hike 5-7 miles per day at 3.5 mph with up to 15% incline. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the activity level, please contact the Outdoor Adventure Office at outdoors@uh.edu. *There will be a mandatory pre-trip meeting and you will be required to perform a skill test on the treadmill for 30-minutes at 3 mph at an incline.
Spring 2024 Trips
Hiking at Sam Houston NF
Date: February 10, 2024 | Approximately 7:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens December 1, 2023 | Closes February 7, 2024
Cost: $60 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: New Waverly, TX
Description: National Forests are one of this country’s most prized possessions. Here in Texas we have 4 National Forests, and one of them shares Houston’s namesake! In our local pine and oak backcountry, you will learn about the beautiful sights of the forest’s flora and fauna while hiking 4-7 miles (2-3 hours) on the nationally acclaimed Lone Star Trail.
Central Texas Outdoor Climbing
Date: February 24, 2024 | Approximately 6:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens December 1, 2023 | Closes February 21, 2024
Cost: $65 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: Austin, TX
Description: Do you like indoor climbing or just want to give climbing a try? Come try outdoor rock climbing in central texas (location may vary based on weather). The routes range from 20-40 feet tall and make for a great day trip to the hill country! We’ll take a short walk, and then climb for 2-3 hours.
Canoeing Scatterman Paddling Trail
Date: March 2, 2024 | Approximately 6:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens December 1, 2023 | Closes February 28, 2024
Cost: $65 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: Beaumont, TX
Description: A hundred miles East from Houston lies Big Thicket National Preserve. This heavily forested area of Texas is not only beautiful, there is a lot that it can teach us about wildlife and the East Texas ecosystems. We will be canoeing about 4.8 miles through the beautiful moss-draped cypress-tupelo slough. This paddle will take us around 2-3 hours to complete. Whether you’re new to canoeing or an old hat in the ring, this trip is great for you!
Spring Break at Guadalupe Mtns NP & Carlsbad Caverns NP
Date: March 10-15, 2024 | Approximately 3/10 6:00 a.m.- 3/15 6:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens December 1, 2023 | Closes March 3, 2024
Cost: $525 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: Carlsbad, NM
Description: Guadalupe Mountains National Park contains the world's most extensive Permian fossil reef, the four highest peaks in Texas, an environmentally diverse collection of flora and fauna, and the stories of lives shaped through conflict, cooperation, and survival. Come experience mountains and canyons, desert sand dunes, night skies and spectacular vistas within a place unlike any other within the National Park System. We will be spending two days in Guadalupe hiking the mountains and surrounding area ending with a trip to Carlsbad Caverns where the trip will go subsurface and explore the dimly lit natural wonder.
Day One: Load up and head West. This day will be a road trip day, we will take several stops for food and restrooms. We will arrive at Guadalupe Mountain National Park before nightfall and set up camp.
Day Two-Three: Light hiking through caverns and other natural formations as well as summiting Guadalupe Peak, the tallest mountain in Texas.
Day Four: Head up to Carlsbad New Mexico where we will explore Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
Day Five: Pack up and drive back home.
Anti-Gravity
Date: March 30, 2024 | Approximately 12:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens December 1, 2023 | Closes March 30, 2024
Cost: Early Bird: $35 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Standard: $45 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Late: $55 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: UH CRWC
Description: Top Rope and Boulder:
Session #1: 12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.
Session #2: 3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
Registration includes: Contest Entry, raffle ticket, and T-Shirt | ***Shirt quantity is limited. | ***Shirts not guaranteed for registrants after March 1st
Will Brake for Tacos
Date: April 9, 2024 | Approximately 4:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens December 1, 2023 | Closes April 7, 2024
Cost: $20 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: Houston, TX
Description: What’s the best way to spend a Tuesday afternoon? Eating? Hanging out with friends? Uncovering amazing gems about our city that often go unnoticed? We thought so too, that’s why we have brought these ideas together into our latest trip! We welcome you to our Tour De Houston- Taco Tuesday Edition bike ride around Houston, checking out the local cuisine and working off the energy on the way back. We will head out from campus as we take a smooth 6-10 mile ride around town, then head to a local hot spot restaurant to grab some Dinner before heading back to campus. If you’re looking for a fun and easygoing outing with some friends, this is the perfect outing for you! *Tacos not included in trip registration*
Hiking at Pedernales Falls SP
Date: April 13, 2024 | Approximately 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens December 1, 2023 | Closes April 10, 2024
Cost: $60 / CRWC Member, Student, or Community Member
Location: Johnson City, TX
Description: Pedernales Falls State Park is home to part of the Pedernales River, which flows over huge slabs of limestone, forming waterfalls and pools of water along the way. On our adventure, we will hike the 5.5 Mile-Loop Trail where we’ll take Trammell’s Crossing across the river to access a part of the park with a rich history and amazing views!
Kayaking at Armand Bayou
Date: April 20, 2024 | Approximately 7:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens December 1, 2023 | Closes April 17, 2024
Cost: $45 / CRWC Member or Student
Location: Clear Lake, TX
Description: Experience the wild at Armand Bayou! As one of the few pristine waterways remaining in the Houston area, this trip will lead you through the vibrant coastal tallgrass prairie and wetlands that are home to a variety of native wildlife! Frequently spotted species include Alligators, Herons, White-Tail Deer, Mullet Fish, Wild Hogs and more! On this trip down the Bayou you will learn the basics of kayaking before a 1 ½ - 2 ½ hour paddle journey to observe an abundance of nature and wildlife scenery.
From Feet to Flora
Date: TBD | Approximately 11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Registration Required: TBD
Cost: FREE / UH Community
Location: Lynn Eusan Park
Description: TBD
Summer 2024 Trips
Central Texas Outdoor Climbing
Date: June 22, 2024 | Approximately 6:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens May 15, 2024 | Closes June 19, 2024
Cost: $65 / CRWC Member or Student
Location: Austin, TX
Description: Do you like the indoor climbing wall at the Rec? Come try outdoor rock climbing in Austin. The routes range from 20-40 feet tall and make for a great day trip to the hill country! We’ll take a short walk, and then climb for 2-4 hours.
Central Texas Outdoor Climbing
Date: July 20, 2024 | Approximately 6:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Registration Required: Opens May 15, 2024 | Closes July 17, 2024
Cost: $65 / CRWC Member or Student
Location: Austin, TX
Description: Do you like the indoor climbing wall at the Rec? Come try outdoor rock climbing in Austin. The routes range from 20-40 feet tall and make for a great day trip to the hill country! We’ll take a short walk, and then climb for 2-4 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
All current members of the CRWC are eligible to enroll in a trip – This includes students enrolled in classes and individual memberships. Registrants can bring a guest at the non-member rate.
Yes, if you are a student currently enrolled in the class or have an individual membership and enroll in a trip, you may bring a guest along. On outings, the guest fee is listed as “non-member” and requires a higher cost than members.
Yes, you must be 18 years old or a current UH student.
Each semester varies, but OA strives to offer a variety of options – backpacking, biking, climbing, hiking, canoeing, camping, and kayaking
The trips vary in length – from local day trips to statewide weekend trips to nationwide week-long trips. The goal of each semester is to incorporate an assortment of day and weekend trips with a culminating multi-day trip during the scheduled school break.
The cost varies depending upon several factors – mostly the required travel distance and length of the trip.
When applicable, the cost includes instruction, transportation, entrance fees, meals, and equipment.
For the majority of trips, no experience is necessary. On some adventures, such as climbing or biking longer distances, some experience would be beneficial, but not mandatory. Before each trip begins, the OA trip leader will instruct on the technical skills required for the adventure. There will also be a pre-trip meeting for overnight trips. See the Outdoor Adventure staff for more information.
Participants can sign up for trips via myrec.uh.edu or visit the Welcome Desk - Member Services; Payment is due upon registration. Participants will receive a confirmation email from Outdoor Adventure with additional trip paperwork within 5-business days. Trip spots are available on a first-come-first-serve basis and fill quickly. If you would like to sign up for a trip, sign up early to ensure a spot is still available.
Depending on the trip offering typically 8-10 participants.
Participants are able to host one guest (a person that does not have a campus rec membership) per trip they are attending. Guests can be registered at the welcome desk or via myrec.uh.edu by creating their own account.
For more information, please contact our Outdoor Adventure team at 713-743-9512 or outdoors@uh.edu