Outdoor Programs 2013 SOLE Experiences

Canadian Rockies, Spring Break 2013 - This is a front-country ski and back-country ski traverse in the Northern Rockies near Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper. We will incorporate a day and a half of downhill skiing, an AST Level I certification course (Avalanche Safety Training), a visit to the University of Calgary, a visit to the Banff Center for Mountain Culture, and a 5-day traverse of Wapta and Waputik icefields. The icefields are located on the ridge of the continetal  divide with some of the best backcountry skiing in Western Canada. The March 2013 Canadian Rockies trip is full.

Italy, Summer 2013 - Italy – Cultural Landscapes is an adventure travel expedition that will travel to places away from Italy’s more famous – and busier – destinations. Our expedition will travel to hidden corners of Northern Tuscany to explore rugged mountain and coastal national parks and the rich history, cultural, and world renowned culinary traditions that are ubiquitous to the region. We will spend most of our time trekking along country lanes and wilderness trails, through villages, vineyards, and towns and three National Parks. This expedition is designed to highlight the culinary, cultural, and scenic features unique to each place. We will be traveling with international guides, including Italians, who have a long standing commitment to Appalachian State University who will share with us their significant background and knowledge in experiential and environmental education, Italian culture, history, language, art, and contemporary issues. The Italy program is full.

General Information on Student Outdoor Learning Expeditions (SOLE)

Immerse yourself in active educational adventures of discovery through our International SOLE programs. Outdoor Programs partners with different departments across campus to provide students with unique and life-changing experiences. Prior experience is not necessary to participate on any of our programs. Previous destinations include: New Zealand, Fiji and Wales (U.K.).

International SOLE programs emphasize discovery of self and expedition team members- as well as discovery of the landscapes and cultures of the countries we explore. We travel in regions of countries that are seldom visited, remote and exceptionally beautiful. By choosing to challenge yourself in these settings on an adventure education program with us, you will learn valuable skills in leadership, perseverance, group dynamics, teamwork, responsibility, wilderness ethics and global perspectives.

You will be immersed in rugged environments that intentionally bring one closer to the landscapes and cultures we have chosen to explore. Through the following activities we strive to connect students to the land, water and people of these seldom traveled but richly colored regions.

• Hiking/Trekking

• Backpacking

• Sea kayaking

• Snorkeling

• Rock Climbing

• Mountaineering

• Whitewater Rafting

• Service Learning

• Farm stays

• Home stays

• University exchanges

We provide all technical equipment, instruction, permits, food, transportation,course materials, safety skills and equipment and other resources as a part of our course fees. Academic credit and financial aid is available for many of these programs.

Our successful New Zealand expedition in 2003 was our inaugural International Expeditions Program. Past trips also include Wales and Fiji.

Academic credit is available for these course offerings. For more information, please call Rich Campbell at Outdoor Programs or drop by our office in the SRC. (828-262-2475)