Trips & Clinics

Weekend & Extended Trips


Rock Climbing Lake Superior’s North Shore: Sept 30-Oct 2

Rock Climbing Lake Superior’s North Shore
September 30-October 2, 2011

Midwest rock climbers drool over the opportunity to climb the scenic rock lining Lake Superior’s northern shore. This trip will allow novice and more experienced climbers alike to try out two different north shore crags. The fall colors will be brilliant and the temperatures just perfect. This will be an excellent weekend to spend on the rocks and the location is as good as it gets.

Maximum Participants: 10
Leaders: Kevin & Branden
Sign-Up Deadline:  Monday, September 26
Mandatory Pre-Trip Meeting: Tuesday, September 27, 7pm
Fee: $80 Stout / $90 Community

Backpacking the Superior Hiking Trail: Oct 7-9

Backpacking the Superior Hiking Trail
October 7-9, 2011

Join us for a backpacking trip on the Superior Hiking Trail along the north shore of Lake Superior, where the fall colors are breathtaking and the adventures are exciting! Our trail section through mixed forests will include overlooks and a walk along the Gooseberry River. The trip will finish at the breathtaking Gooseberry Falls State Park. You will come back feeling refreshed and full of unforgettable memories.

Maximum Participants:   10
Leaders Charles & Branden
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday, October 3
Mandatory Pre-Trip Meeting: Tuesday, October 4, 7pm
Fee: $75 Stout / $85 Community

Dog Sledding & Snowshoeing: Feb 17-19

Dog Sledding & Snowshoeing
February 17-19, 2012

Our destination is the south shore of Lake Superior where we’ll spend Saturday running with the dogs, leading your own sled and experience one of the oldest forms of transportation known to humans. At night, we’ll be cozy warm as we stay in local lodging. On Sunday, we'll snowshoes across the solid ice of Lake Superior in search of frozen sea caves (weather permitting). This is a true Northwood’s winter voyage. This trip is deluxe and designed for those with true passion for adventure and once in a lifetime experiences. 

Maximum Participants: 6
Leaders: Charles
Sign-Up Deadline:
Tuesday, January 17
Mandatory Pre-Trip Meeting: Monday,February 13, 7pm
Fee: $310 Stout/$355 Community

Winter Camping Afton State Park: Feb 24-26

Winter Camping Afton State Park
February 24-26, 2012

Brave the cold with Stout Adventures! Why trap yourself inside all winter long? Come explore the beautiful winter landscapes along the Saint Croix River while we winter camp within Afton State Park. We will spend the weekend enjoying groomed ski trails, snowshoeing through unique terrain and keeping warm by the fire. Join Stout Adventures for an introductory, yet exciting adventure!

Maximum Participants:  5
Leaders:  Justin & Sam
Sign-Up Deadline:     Monday, February 20
Mandatory Pre-Trip Meeting:  Tuesday, February 21, 7pm
Fee: $50 Stout / $55 Community

Spring Break: Kayaking Lake Powell & Exploring Arches National Park

Spring Break 2012: Kayaking Lake Powell and Exploring Arches National Park, UT
March 9-18, 2011

Imagine your ideal spring break on a breakfast plate served southwest style. A full course of kayaking Lake Powell, a side of hiking Arches National Park and a glass full of sunshine (we can’t guarantee that part). Join Stout Adventures on a 10 day trip to the Southwest. Most of our time will be spent exploring the canyons of Lake Powell, arguably the most scenic lake in America, situated in some of Southern Utah's finest red-rock desert country. Later, we will discover the beauty of the southwest by hiking Arches National Park. Just the sound of it makes me hungry for adventure.

Maximum Participants: 10
Leaders: Nick & Sam
Sign-Up Deadline:  Monday, March 5
Mandatory Pre-Trip Meeting: Tuesday, March 6, 7pm
Fee: $420 Stout/$480 Community

Canoeing the Turtle Flambeau Flowage: April 27-29

Canoeing the Turtle Flambeau Flowage
April 27-29, 2012

Head up north with Stout Adventures, just in time for a relaxing, yet active weekend ahead of finals. Explore the Turtle Flambeau Flowage on this weekend canoe trip were participants will venture into the backcountry, sleep under the stars and enjoy the crackling of a campfire.

Maximum Participants: 10
Leaders: Nick & Steph
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday, April 23
Mandatory Pre-Trip Meeting Tuesday, April 24, 7pm
Fee: $60 Stout/$70 Community

Day Trips & Events


Challenge Course Open House: Sept 17 & May 5

Challenge Course Open House
Have you ever wanted to try the outdoor Challenge Course, but the need for a group reservation has stopped you?Well, now’s your chance!Stout Adventures is giving you the chance to climb our 50 foot Alpine Tower and experience the thrill of our giant swing.In addition, you can work with friends to accomplish other challenging activities.This is a great opportunity for students, faculty, staff and community members alike to learn about the course before making a group reservation. You won’t want to miss this unique opportunity!Please be sure to wear closed toe shoes and be ready to sign our Risk and Liability Waiver onsite.

Dates & Times: Session 1: September 17, 2011, 11am-3pm
  Session 2: May 5, 2012, 11am-3pm
Location:   Corner of 18th Avenue & 5th Street
Fee:   FREE

Full Moon Series: Ski, Climb & Paddle

Full Moon Series: Climb, Ski & Paddle!

Discover what the evening hours have to offer, leave your worries behind as we set out to enjoy the wildlife and soak in the moon’s rays and the star’s shine. Experience what some have called “sensual,” “peaceful,” “poetic” and “magical” as we climb, ski and paddle along being guided by the full moon.

Dates & Times: Session 1 (Climbing the Challenge Course): October 12, 2011, 9-11pm
  Session 2 (XC Skiing, Red Cedar Trail)
February 7, 2012, 9-11pm
  Session 2 (Canoeing Lake Menomin): May 7, 2012, 9-11pm
Maximum Participants: 8
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday before the event
Fee:  $12 Stout / $15 Community

Rock Climbing Red Wing: October 15

Rock Climbing Redwing
Saturday, October 15, 2011

Wanna go climbing? Test your indoor skills on real rock! Join Stout Adventures for an awe-inspiring trip to Barn Bluff in Red Wing MN. Barn Bluff is one of the region’s only sport climbing crags; the routes are are characterized by finger pockets and great face climbing. It is only 1 hour away and makes for a great Saturday.

 Maximum Participants: 10
Trip Leaders:
Branden & Charles
Sign Up Deadline:
Monday, October 10
Pre-Trip Meeting:
Tuesday, October 11, 8pm
Fee: $30 Stout/$40 Community

All Nighter: October 29

Halloween All Nighter
Saturday, October 29th, 10pm-4am

Pull an all nighter with Stout Adventures this fall. This won’t be your typical all nighter consisting of starring at a computer screen finishing a paper at the last minute, studying for an exam while poring over textbooks, or completing a piece of artwork. Instead, you will be starring at a crackling fire, and completing the climbing route that you have been working on and more! Music will be pumping, scary climbing stories will be shared and climbing tips will be offered. You could even compete with your buddies in friendly mini climbing competition. Those who dress up in a Halloween costume will get a prize drawing ticket for a chance to win some cool climbing gear.

Maximum Participants: 40
Location: Stout Adventures Climbing Wall
Dign-Up Deadline: Thursday, October 27
Fee: $8 (UW-Stout Students Only)

Women’s Climbing Night: October 31

Women’s Climbing Night

Its ladies night at Stout Adventures and no men are allowed!Come join other women in the community and Stout Adventures staff for free climbing and an introduction on the basics of climbing.

Dates & Time: October 31, 2011, 8-10pm
Fee: FREE w/Stout ID

Rock Climbing Taylors Falls: April 28

Rock Climbing Taylors Falls
Saturday, April 28, 2012

Can’t get away for an entire weekend? Take a day trip with Stout Adventures! Enjoy a fun filled day of adventure, climbing the Minnesota side of the rock climbing crags along the Saint Croix River. This trip is a perfect opportunity to try outdoor rock climbing.

Maximum Participants: 10
Trip Leaders:
Kevin & Branden
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday, April 23
Pre-Trip Meeting:
Tuesday, April 24, 7pm
Fee: $30 Stout/$40 Community

Clinics


Bike Flat Tire Repair: September 28

Bike Flat Tire Repair

Have you ever gotten a flat and not known how to fix it yourself? If so, this clinic is just for you! Don’t be stuck walking your bike. Learn from the experts at Bad Cat Bicycles. This clinic will take place at Bad Cat Bicycles on Main Street. 

Date & Times:
September 28, 2011, 7pm
Maximum Participants: 8
Instructor:: Bad Cat
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday, September 27
Fee: FREE

American Red Cross Wilderness & Remote First Aid w/ Adult CPR & AED

American Red Cross Wilderness & Remote First Aid with Adult CPR & AED

This class is designed to give you solid first aid skills in a wilderness setting. This course teaches first aid skills for situations in which emergency care is delayed for long periods, or self evacuation is necessary. Includes injury prevention, proper advanced preparation, basic and more advanced first aid techniques, short-distance transfer and evacuation techniques.

Dates & Times:

October 21-23 (Friday 6-10pm, Saturday & Sunday: 8am-5pm)

Maximum Participants: 12
Instructors:    Jeff & Nick
Sign-Up Deadline:  Monday, October 17
Fee: $85 Stout/$110 Community

Dutch Oven Cooking Basics: October 5

Dutch Oven Cooking Basics

Dutch oven cooking is a great activity for any cooking enthusiast. If you can cook it, you can cook it in a Dutch oven! The best part about a Dutch oven is you can cook with one in your own backyard! Curious what that entails? Show up to learn all about it! You will get to cook simple and very tasty dishes with and without a Dutch oven all the while over a warm fire. So bring your bowl, fork, and a non-alcoholic drink and cook up some awesome food at Stout Adventures!

Dates & Times: October 5, 2011, 6-8pm
Maximum Participants: 8
Instructor: Jeff & Steph
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday, October 3
Fee: $10 Stout / $15 Community

Rock Climbing Tips & Techniques: November 9

Rock Climbing Tips & Techniques

This clinic is designed for the beginner and intermediate climber. From terminology, to skills, to techniques, you will be exposed to it all. Our climbing experts will work with you to help you reach your goals.

Dates & Times: November 9, 2011, 7-10pm
Maximum Participants: 8
Instructor: Kevin & Charles
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday, November 7
Fee: $10 Stout / $15 Community

Kayak Roll Clinic: Various Dates

Kayak Roll Clinic

Kayak rolling is as old as the sport itself.During the clinic you will learn how to save time and energy by rolling your kayak to avoid a rescue situation.The class is in two parts, the Tuesday class will focus on instruction, and the Thursday class will be mostly practice.The instructor will be present to answer questions and help develop that “perfect roll.”Be sure to bring a swimsuit, towel, and your patience.Goggles and nose plugs or a face mask are recommended, but not necessary.

Dates & Times: Session 1 April 10 & 12, 8-10pm
  Session 2-FULL
May 1 & 3, 8-10pm
Maximum Participants:    4
Instructor:     Nick & Branden
Sign-Up Deadline:    Day before clinic
Prerequisite:   Kayak Deep Water Safety Clinic
Fee:   $25 Stout / $35 Community

Kayak Deep Water Safety Clinic: Various Dates

Kayak Deep Water Safety Clinic
This hands-on course teaches the fundamentals of kayak safety and rescue techniques.Skills covered include wet exits, paddle float self rescue, t-rescue and more.These are skills no paddler should be without! Even if you have taken the course before it is always good to refresh your skills.Successful completion of this course is required for any Stout Adventures sea kayak rental.

Dates & Times: Session 1
October, 27, 2011, 8-10pm
  Session 2
November 15, 2011, 8-10pm
  Session 3
February 21, 2012, 8-10pm
  Session 4-FULL
March 29, 2012, 8-10pm
  Session 5
April 19, 2012, 8-10pm
Maximum Participants:   4
Instructors:   Jeff, Steph & Justin
Sign-Up Deadline:   Day before clinic
Fee:   $20 Stout / $35 Community

Lead Climbing Clinic: Various Dates

Lead Climbing Clinic

Sport climbing is for those who are ready to try the next level of climbing.As a participant, you will be leaving the security of a top rope and learning the skills necessary to become a leader.Topics will include lead belaying, clipping into a quickdraw, climbing techniques, and how to fall safely.Stout Adventures will provide all the equipment.

Dates & Times: Session 1: October 11, 2011, 7pm
  Session 2: November 17, 2011, 7pm
  Session 3: February 15, 2012, 7pm
  Session 4: April 11, 2012, 7pm
Maximum Participants:   8
Instructors:   Kevin, Nick, Charles & Branden
Sign-Up Deadline:   Day before clinic
Prerequisite:   Flash a 5.9 of instructor's choice
Fee:   $5

Cross Country Skiing Clinic: February 11

Cross Country Skiing Clinic

Never cross country skied before?This is your chance to try it out!Come learn the basics of traditional style cross country skiing along the flat and gentle Red Cedar State Trail just a short walk from the university.Equipment rental, trail pass and basic instruction is included.

Date & Times:
February 11, 2012, 10am-Noon
Maximum Participants: 8
Instructor: Jeff
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday, February 6
Fee: $10 Stout / $15 Community

Adaptive Cross Country Skiing Clinic: February 11

Adaptive Cross Country Skiing Clinic
This is your opportunity to learn about the new adaptive sit-skiing systems which can be check out free-of-charge to UW-Stout students and the Menomonie community through Stout Adventures. The clinic will include equipment orientation, instruction and a Red Cedar State Trail pass.

Date & Times:
February, 11, 2012, 1-3pm
Maximum Participants: 8
Instructor: Jeff
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday, February 6
Fee: $5 Stout/$8 Community

Introduction to Ice Climbing: February 18

Introduction to Ice Climbing
Join Stout Adventures for an exciting introduction to ice climbing. Our facilitators will guide you through a safe exploration of using crampons, ice axes and other protection to climb your way to an exhilarating experience. Participants will meet at Stout Adventures, and then carpool to the site.

Dates & Times: February 18, 2012, 1-4pm
Maximum Participants: 4
Instructor: Kevin & Justin
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday, February 13
Fee: $5 Stout/$8 Community

Basic Bike Maintenance & Repair

Basic Bike Maintenance & Repair
Spring is here and that means cycling season is upon us! Come learn all about how to get your bike ready for spring riding and be prepared for hands-on instruction. Co-sponsored with the UW-Stout Cycling Club, the clinic will take place in Commons 144/146.

Date & Times:
April 10, 2012, 7pm
Maximum participants: 8
Instructor: UW-Stout Cycling Club
Sign-Up Deadline: Friday, April 6
Fee: FREE

Gravity Never Sleeps – Outdoor Rock Climbing Anchoring Systems

Gravity Never Sleeps – Outdoor Rock Climbing Anchoring Systems Class
Classroom: April 17 & 19, 7-9pm
Outdoor Instruction at Taylor’s Falls: April 20-22

Take your gym skills to the outdoors with the help of Gravity Never Sleeps.Learning to build top rope anchoring systems is essential for the transition from the gym to outside rock. The first part of the class includes two indoor sessions and covers key terms, knots and equipment.That weekend we head out for intense hands-on and technical learning.Participants should be advised that very little rock climbing will take place.

Maximum participants: 6
Instructors: Kevin & Branden
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday, April 16
Fee: $70 Stout / $80 Community

Slacklining Clinic: May 2

Slacklining Clinic
Attention all slacker wanabees! You’ve seen it done on campus; now it’s time to learn how it’s done! Slacklining is an activity climbers have learned to master while at camp, or waiting for rock to dry. A piece of tubular webbing is tightened between two trees about 3 feet from the ground. Test your balance skills as you try to walk from end to end. Your instructor will teach you how to set up a line without hurting trees so you can practice on your own.

Dates & Times: May 2, 2012, 7-8pm
Maximum Participants: 8
Instructor: Charles & Branden
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday, April 30
Fee: $5 Stout / $8 Community

Stout Adventures Trip, Clinic & Event Calendar


About the Trips & Clinics


Stout Adventures offer a variety of trips and clinics. Our offerings are open to all Stout students, faculty and staff as well as the community. The trips emphasize responsible behavior in the outdoors, teamwork and fun! Trips run within a cooperative adventure philosophy as opposed to a guide service. Under the cooperative adventure philosophy participants are expected to assume responsibilities on trips which will include setting up tents, meal preparation, etc. These duties depend in part on the participant’s experience and ability. The more experienced or able the participant, the more that individual may be able to contribute to the group. Participants are expected to take part in much of the decision making and contribute to the group as a whole. The hope is that cooperative adventure trips provide a more rewarding educational experience because of the active role participants take.

The leader’s role is to act as the group facilitator and make decisions during an emergency or when they clearly have more experience. They bring the group together for meetings, provide suggestions, and summarize options. We expect all participants to make an effort to keep activities safe and enjoyable. This requires that you recognize that you are part of a group and that you will be willing and open to participate as a team member. That is why Stout Adventures calls itself a "cooperative adventure" program.

General Information


Most, but not all trips are instructional and are geared toward persons with little or no experience. You do not need a partner for any of our trips. Pre-trip meetings are mandatory because of the essential information that you acquire. If you miss a pre-trip meeting without making arrangements with the trip leader, we reserve the right to remove you from the trip and you forfeit your trip fee or deposit.

Pricing


Our trips are run on a non-profit basis. Many administrative costs are covered by University Recreation through student fees. This is why costs for community participants are slightly higher than students. We supply the trip leaders, camping/specialized equipment, camping & park fees and transportation. Participants need only supply personal equipment (hiking boots, rain jacket, etc.) and food. Your trip fee may also pay for trip leader training, advertising and trip planning.

Registration & Sign-Up


Policies:

  • To register for most trips, clinics, programs and events you must pay all fees up front.  However, for trips over $100 you must pay half of the trip fee as a deposit.  The remainder is due at or before the pre-trip meeting.
  • Registrations are taken on a strict first come first serve basis. Mailing in registration does not guarantee a spot. Most activities can only accommodate a limited amount of people, so call for availability.
  • Stout Adventure accepts cash, checks (payable to UW-Stout), Flexline, Visa, Discover and MasterCard.  We can also accept electronic check payments online.

There are 3 ways to register for Stout Adventures trips, clinics and events:

  1. In Person -  You may register for Stout Adventures offerings in Room 56 of the Sports & Fitness Center during open hours of operation.
  2. Mail or Fax - Complete the Stout Adventures Registration Form and mail or fax it into Stout Adventures with a check or credit card information.
  3. Online - Online registration is accepted for most Stout Adventures trips, clinics and events. Click here to begin your online registration and payment.

note: all linked forms will open in a new window

Cancellation/Refund Policy


If you must cancel less than 14 days prior to the trip, clinic, program or event you will not be eligible for a refund or credit.

If a trip, clinic, program or event is canceled by Stout Adventures, a full refund will be given.  Reasons for cancellation by Stout Adventures include, but are not limited to low registration numbers, weather and leader illness.

Custom Trips & Clinics


Stout Adventures is your source for unforgettable group experiences!  We offer customized trip and clinic programming designed for your needs.  Options include day hikes, canoe trips, educational clinics and full weekends away backpacking, rock climbing or canoeing.  No experience is necessary and Stout Adventures provides almost everything you need.  Rates range from $10-$80 per person.  For more information and to request an event complete the Customized by Stout Adventures Request Form.   

Packing Lists & Local Resources


At Packing Lists & Local Resources you can find links related to the outdoors that will help you prepare for your Stout Adventures trip and even plan for your next adventure.

Quotes from Past Participants


“Best trip of my life”

“It was an experience I will never forget.”

“An experience of a lifetime!!”

“The trip was the best experience that I've had at UW-Stout.”

“Stout Adventures provided a fabulously exciting sailing trip out of Bayfield, WI! We got to unfurl the sails, bring them up, bring them down, drive the sail boat both in sail & motoring modes. Sometimes calm & peaceful, other times a wild ride with water over the deck, sails hovering over the water. An experience of a lifetime!!"

Pictures from Past Trips


Click here to view pictures from our past trips.  As you can see, you'll have a blast!