In Calvin's outdoor recreation programs, it's all about re-creation. By getting out of doors, out of your context, you can start to discover truths about who you are and who God is as you explore the world he has made. Outdoor rec isn't just a way to escape—it's a powerful way to learn, and the discoveries you make you'll carry with you for the rest of your life.

Summer Hours

Summer Open Climbing Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays 6-8pm; May 9 - Aug 24

(Fall hours resume August 28)

To rent summer equipment, contact:

Ryan Medema
Text: 616-970-9953
Email: rlm39@calvin.edu

Upcoming events

Important notes:

  • Sign up for all trips and events at the Climbing Center desk. Trips sign ups are on a first come basis.
  • All trips require a Wednesday 4-5pm Outfitting and Information session at the Outfitting Center (south bay of Track and Tennis Building).
  • Calvin Outdoor Rec provides all instruction, outfitting, transportation, and food. Students are required to provide layers, personal hygiene, proper footwear, rain gear, and personal snacks.
  • Students with special dietary needs or food allergies will need to coordinate with trip leaders on menu. Students may be asked to supplement costs for additional food.

Outdoor recreation schedule

Sign up and pay for all trips at the Climbing Center Desk

Fall 2022 Weekend Program Offerings
  • September 10: Chicago Bike & Pizza
    Activity: Biking 
    $20, day trip, 11 spots
  • September 17–18: Pine River "Paddlefest"
    Activity: Canoe and kayak
    $30, 1 nights; 20 spots
  • September 24–25: Petoskey Tunnel of Trees Century/Half-Century Ride
    Activity: Road biking - 50-mile or 100-mile ride
    $30, 1 night; 11 spots
  • September 24–25: Manistee Backpack
    Activity: Backpacking 
    $30, 1 night; 11 spots
  • October 1–2: Dragon/Glacier Hills Mountain Bike
    Activity: Mountain biking
    $30, 1 night; 11 spots
  • October 7–11 (fall break): Pictured Rocks Backpacking
    Activity: Backpacking
    $100, 4 nights; 12 spots
  • October 7–11 (fall break): North Carolina Whitewater Paddling
    Activity: Rafting and Kayaking
    $125, 4 nights; 10 spots
  • October 15–16: Mansitee River Backpack
    Activity: Backpacking
    $30, 1 night; 10 spots
  • October 21–23: Red River Gorge Climbing
    Activity: Climbing
    $100, 2 nights; 10 spots
  • October 29–30: Nordhouse Wilderness Backpack
    Activity: Backpack and Beach Clean-Up
    $20, 1 night; 10 spots
  • November 5: Dragon Mountain Bike
    Activity: Mountain Biking
    $10, Day trip; 10 spots
  • November 12: 14th Annual Fall Climbing Comp
    Activity: Climbing
    $10, Sessions: 9–11, 11–1, 1–3;  72 spots
  • November 19: Planet Rock Field Trip
    Activity: Climbing
    $30, Day trip; 10 spots
  • December 2: Grand Canyon Spring Break Course App Deadline
    Activity: Backpacking
    $800, 9-day course; 20 spots

Opportunities for adventure