Selection & Registration Process:
This trip requires an application and interview. Interested participants must apply by the deadline and interview with OA Trip Leaders. Selected participants will be notified and given access to register for the trip.
Apply for this trip using the Registration Link here, or on the RWC Website.
Pre-Trip Date and Time:
Wednesday, March 4, 2026 – 6:30 PM
Wednesday, March 11, 2026 – 6:30 PM
Participants must attend both meetings.
Meeting Location: Outdoor Adventure Center
Trip Description
Escape the ordinary this Spring Break with a true backcountry adventure on Santa Catalina Island, located 22 miles off the coast of Los Angeles, California. This remote island offers expansive canyon views, rugged mountain terrain, and pristine ocean landscapes, with campgrounds ranging from beachside sites to elevated backcountry ridgelines.
This is a physically and mentally engaging expedition designed for students looking to challenge themselves, build leadership skills, and connect deeply with both nature and their peers.
Weather
Catalina Island is generally dry and temperate, with expected temperatures between 50–60°F. There is a higher chance of rain between January and March, so participants should be prepared with appropriate layers and rain protection.
Tentative Itinerary (time and activities are subject to change)
Day 1 – Sunday, March 15
Fly to Los Angeles, CA (LAX)
Travel to ferry terminal and ferry to Santa Catalina Island
Hike to first campsite and set up camp
Days 2–6 – March 16–20
Daily backpacking along the Trans-Catalina Trail, covering rugged coastal and mountain terrain. Trip Leaders will facilitate skill instruction, leadership development activities, camp setup, and group meals throughout the expedition.
Day 7 – Saturday, March 21
Break camp and hike to ferry terminal
Ferry to mainland and travel to airport
Return to Orlando
What’s Included
All of our adventures include all necessary group gear, meals during the trip, transportation while on the trip, and professional guidance by OA Trip Leaders. All staff are certified in First Aid/CPR/AED, and most are certified Wilderness First Responders.
What’s Not Included
Round-trip airfare to Los Angeles, CA (LAX) is not included. Participants are responsible for booking their own flights, as well as providing personal clothing and gear, including hiking boots or shoes. A full packing list will be provided at the Pre-Trip Meetings.
Trip Expectations
This is not a luxury trip — participants should expect a true backpacking experience. The group will hike approximately 40 miles while carrying 40–50 pound packs and gaining roughly 9,600 feet in elevation. Prior backpacking experience is helpful but not required, as Trip Leaders will provide training and instruction before and throughout the expedition.
Participant Expectations
This trip is designed for students who are excited to explore a rugged natural environment, learn new skills, and step outside their comfort zone. Participants will live and travel as a group, creating a dynamic, shared learning experience focused on personal growth, leadership development, and meaningful connection.
]]>Sign up with your friends or make some new friends as you work together to get across the course. This event is only for current UCF Students (alumni and guests are not allowed to participate).
How Registration Works
Using the link provided below, you can select a timeslot (once registration opens). This is the time you must arrive at the course and check in; it will take longer for you to complete the course. You will start your climb after you check in during your timeslot. Expect to be on the course for approximately one hour. Walk-ins are welcome, but you may have to wait for quite a while - reservations are recommended!
Ex. If you register for the 6:45-7 p.m. timeslot, you must arrive during that time or you will forfeit your registration. You may still get to climb, but your name will go to the end of the list.
For Spring 2026, registration will open on Friday, March 13 at 12:00pm.
To reserve your spot, please click here.
Things to Remember and Bring
Parking
Please follow the guidelines of your current parking pass. Most passes allow you to park in any green student parking lots or garages. The student parking lots closest to the Challenge Course are those located in front of the Barbara Ying Center - Lots B6 & B7.
Walking to the Challenge Course Pavilion
You will need to walk through the field along Central Florida Blvd and then through the woods to get to the Challenge Course Pavilion. There will be signs and lanterns on the trails to help you. Please use this Google Earth Map to help you: https://earth.google.com/earth/d/1NvM-r6Cq9f0XvMxnDh9FtklFPW0EqBfT?usp=sharing
Alternatively, here is a Google Map pin of the location: https://goo.gl/maps/m6DFoJA5D9J7PguB7
Reminder: This is a SUBSTANCE-FREE event. Do not bring alcohol or other substances to this event.
If you have any issues or questions, please email Katherine Rocco at katherine.rocco@ucf.edu or call 407-823-0426.
To learn more about Open Knight Climbs, review what to bring/wear, or need parking/walking directions, check out our overview here: Open Knight Climb Overview
To reserve your spot, please click here.
]]>Register for this trip in the UCF RWC app or through the UCF RWC Membership Portal website. All trips are now first-come, first-served. All trips will open 2 weeks before the first day of the trip. If the trip is full, you can register for the waitlist using the link above.
Pre-Trip Date and Time: Wednesday, March 25 at 6 p.m.
Trip Description: Join us as we ride the flowing, shaded single-track trails of the Mount Dora mountain bike park! These trails offer fun features, quick climbs, and scenic stretches perfect for both new and experienced riders. With guidance from our trained trip leaders, you’ll sharpen your bike handling skills and enjoy a full day of adventure on some of Central Florida’s best local trails.
Tentative Itinerary (time and activities are subject to change):
What’s Included: All of our adventures include all necessary gear for the activity (including mountain bikes and helmets) and professional guidance by OA Trip Leaders. All staff are certified in First Aid/CPR/AED, and most are certified Wilderness First Responders.
What’s Not Included: Participants should wear athletic clothing, appropriate footwear, and bring personal lunch/water/snacks. Meals are not provided. A full packing list will be provided at the Pre-Trip Meeting
]]>Register for this trip in the UCF Recreation and Wellness Center (RWC) app or through the UCF RWC Membership Portal website. All trips are now first-come, first-served. All trips will open two weeks before the first day of the trip. If the trip is full, you can register for the waitlist using the link above.
Pre-Trip Date and Time: Wednesday, April 1, at 6 p.m.
Trip Description: Ever wanted to catch your first wave? Outdoor Adventure (OA)’s Learn to Surf trip is the perfect place to start. Our trip leaders will introduce you to the basics — paddling, popping up, ocean safety and reading the waves — all while you enjoy a day at one of Florida’s classic surf beaches. Come soak up the sun, splash in the water and ride your first wave!
Tentative Itinerary (time and activities are subject to change):
What’s Included: All of our adventures include all necessary gear for the activity (including surfboards, leashes, and rash guards) and professional guidance from OA Trip Leaders. All staff are certified in First Aid/CPR/AED, and most are certified Wilderness First Responders.
What’s Not Included: Participants should wear athletic clothing and appropriate footwear, and bring personal lunch/water/snacks. Meals are not provided. A full packing list will be provided at the pre-trip meeting.
]]>Register for this trip in the UCF Recreation Wellness Center (RWC) app or through the UCF RWC Membership Portal website. All trips are now first-come, first-served. All trips will open two weeks before the first day of the trip. If the trip is full, you can register for the waitlist using the link above.
Pre-Trip Date and Time: Wednesday, April 8, at 6 p.m.
Trip Description: Paddle the crystal-clear waters of Rainbow River, one of the most vibrant and pristine spring-fed rivers in Florida. With underwater plants waving below your board and fish swimming beneath you, it’s like gliding across a natural aquarium. This relaxing SUP trip offers warm sunshine, cool water and some of the most beautiful scenery in the state.
Tentative Itinerary (time and activities are subject to change):
What’s Included: All of our adventures include all necessary gear for the activity (including SUPs, paddles, and PFDs), transportation to/from the activity, and professional guidance by OA Trip Leaders. All staff are certified in First Aid/CPR/AED, and most are certified Wilderness First Responders.
What’s Not Included: Participants should wear athletic clothing and appropriate footwear, and bring personal lunch/water/snacks. Meals are not provided. A full packing list will be provided at the pre-trip meeting.
]]>Time: 12:00 PM
Get ready to launch into an out‑of‑this‑world challenge at the Climbing Tower! This spring, we’re blasting off into the Cosmic Climb - a gravity‑defying competition where climbers of all levels can test their skills among the stars. Expect stellar routes, spaced‑out themes, and plenty of intergalactic energy. Suit up, strap in, and see if you’ve got what it takes to reach the top of the universe (AKA the Tower)!
What to Expect:
Registration
Register for this trip in the UCF RWC app or through the UCF Recreation and Wellness Center (RWC) Membership Portal website. All trips are now first-come, first-served. All trips will open two weeks before the first day of the trip. If the trip is full, you can register for the waitlist using the link above.
Pre-Trip Date and Time: Wednesday, April 22, at 6 p.m.
Trip Description: Step into the wild at Black Bear Wilderness, a trail known for its rich ecosystems and (if we’re lucky) glimpses of Florida’s iconic black bears. This scenic loop winds through wetlands, boardwalks and dense forest along the St. Johns River. With wildlife around every corner, it’s the perfect spot for a day hike close to home but full of adventure.
Tentative Itinerary (time and activities are subject to change):
What’s Included: All of our adventures include all necessary gear for the activity (including day packs), transportation to/from the activity and professional guidance by OA Trip Leaders. All staff are certified in First Aid/CPR/AED, and most are certified Wilderness First Responders.
What’s Not Included: Participants should wear athletic clothing and appropriate footwear, and bring personal lunch/water/snacks. Meals are not provided. A full packing list will be provided at the pre-trip meeting.
]]>