Weber Outdoors hikes Mt. Ogden.
Photo credit: Daniel Turner
One of the most common reasons I hear from college students on why they can’t do certain fun things is, “I don’t have the money,” “I can’t afford it,” or “I’m poor!!!” This is one of the hardest obstacles to overcome while in college: Having fun on a budget can seem impossible sometimes. But thanks to the spectacular college campus we have right here in town, outdoor fun is not only affordable, but puts you in contact with other college students in the area. Weber Outdoors is a great resource for college students who appreciate the outdoors, but have a hard time enjoying them due to a lack of funds. I recently talked to Daniel Turner, who is the coordinator for the program, who told me a little bit more about what they are all about.
“The WSU Outdoor Program is a full service equipment rental center,” he said. “Our services are primarily focused on WSU students, given that we are supported by student fees, but all of our services are open to the faculty staff and the general public.” These guys have everything you can think of when it comes to outdoor gear and more: they do adventure trips, guided adventure services, and also have an indoor climbing wall and low ropes challenge course.
Weber Outdoors, located at 4022 Taylor Avenue, has everything you can think of when it comes to outdoor fun… & then some. “I believe we’re Ogden’s best kept secret,” Turner says. The program was founded in the early 80s, with the hopes of getting students outside interacting with one another and engaging in outdoor pursuits. The program expanded from there to include everything you see above, as well as ski rentals, international trips, indoor training for rock climbers, all at an affordable rate for students.
The most popular rentals for students vary by season. The program finds stand up paddle boards, inflatable kayaks, and white water rafts the most popular rentals during the summer, and skis & snowboards in the winter. Here’s an example of the rafts you can rent… now just TRY to tell me this doesn’t look fun:
Another rental students have the opportunity to utilize is the yurt in Bloomington Canyon, Idaho. “Every person should have a chance to stay a night in the outdoors in a yurt,” says Turner. “It is in a beautiful setting and in the winter the yurt is fully equipped with all the amenities of home!”
The yurt is “one of the most popular rentals we have right now,” he explains. “We begin taking reservations… on November 1st, and we will almost everyday between December and April.” The yurt is a Mongolian style “tent” so to speak, with wooden floors, a wood-burning stove, kitchen & bunks for up to 10 people, & 2 additional cots. It’s a perfect location for students looking for a weekend getaway or even just a day-trip to a beautiful location! The summer’s most popular event is the Snake River Raft trips.. something to keep an eye on next summer when it gets hot!
Rentals are cheaper for WSU students, as well as Facebook friends and the VIP email list. By emailing outdoorprogram@weber.edu, you will be informed on last minute cancellations which equals a free trip to the first to claim it! There’s also coupons, information & more. I highly recommend getting on their email list to learn how the program is helping the Ogden community get outside & enjoy the beautiful scenery we live in.
Turner’s favorite part about working at Weber Outdoors is the people. “Whether its through renting them the right equipment at an affordable rate, taking them on a trip, or personally guiding them to accomplish a longtime goal… I love sharing my passion for the outdoors with people.” He also loves outdoor education & helping Ogden utilize the proximity to the mountains, which Turner says is his favorite thing about Ogden.
We truly are spoiled when it comes to the great outdoors, and Weber Outdoors works to help students and the community take part in enjoying the mountains, rivers and hikes we are so lucky to live close to! There are several events coming up that students should take note of (& Indie Ogden will help promote as well!):
1. The Cooperative San Rafael Climbing Trip, November 2-4
2. The Kayak Roll sessions, November 29
3. The Ouray Ice Climbing Trip, December 15-19
For more information on how to sign up for these great field trip opportunities, visit weber.edu/AdventureProgram.
Thanks to the help of Weber Outdoors, students & the community can get out there & enjoy our pretty little city & its surrounding beauty! Thanks to Daniel for the interview, and the program in general for supporting our community!
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