Hiking and Backpacking Trips

Outdoor Pursuits offers a wide variety of hiking and backpacking courses. Take advantage of these great trips that will prepare you for your own hikes and adventures around Colorado. Early registration is recommended due to limited spots. Learn more about our registration, refund and transfer policies and trip logistics.
Trip Offerings
Day Trips
ISSS Hike
Join International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and Outdoor Pursuits for a scenic hike at Chautauqua Park on the morning of Friday, Sept. 20! Meet fellow international students, explore Boulder’s backyard trails, and pick up tips for planning your own day hikes.
- Requirements: Be ready to hike up to 5 miles with a 15lb daypack on rocky terrain.
- Gear, guides and transportation provided!
- Note: This is a CU Boulder official event. Alcohol, marijuana and illegal drugs are not allowed.
Time: 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Location: Doudy Draw
Cost: $15
Pre-trip meeting:Sept. 18, 6-6:30 p.m., Outdoor Pursuits classroom
Geology Hike
- Be ready to carry a 10–15 lb pack with water, snacks and layers on rocky, uneven terrain.
- Transportation is provided and extra hiking gear is available at no cost.
Time: 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Location: Doudy Draw
Cost: $15
Pre-trip meeting:Oct. 16, 6-6:30 p.m., Outdoor Pursuits classroom
Map and Compass Navigation Basics
- No experience needed—just bring your curiosity!
- Be prepared to hike on rocky, uneven terrain with a 10–15 lb pack (water, snacks and layers recommended).
- Transportation is included and extra hiking gear is available at no cost.
Time: 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: White Ranch
Cost: $30
Pre-trip meeting: Oct. 23, 6-6:30 p.m., Outdoor Pursuits classroom
Creatures of the Night Halloween Hike
- No hiking experience needed, but be ready to carry a 10–15 lb pack with water, snacks and layers on rocky terrain.
- Transportation and Halloween treats are included! Extra hiking gear available at no cost.
Time: 6-10 p.m.
Location: Boulder OSMP
Cost: $15
Pre-trip meeting:Oct. 29, 6-6:30 p.m., Outdoor Pursuits classroom
Daylight Savings Sunrise Hike
- No hiking experience needed, but be ready to carry a 10–15 lb pack with water, snacks and layers on rocky terrain.
- Transportation is included and extra hiking gear is available at no cost.
Time: 5:30-9:30 a.m.
Location: Boulder OSMP
Cost: $15
Pre-trip meeting: Oct. 30, 6-6:30 p.m., Outdoor Pursuits classroom
Multi-day/Overnight Trips
ISSS Backpacking Trip
- Must be able to carry a 30–50 lb pack and hike up to 5 miles/day on rocky terrain.
- Gear, food, guides, and transportation included.
- No experience needed! Questions? Email isss@colorado.edu with “RMNP” in the subject.
- Note: This is a CU Boulder official event. Alcohol, marijuana and illegal drugs are prohibited.
Trip dates: Sept. 6-7
Time: 7 a.m. Saturday-4 p.m. Sunday
Location: Rocky Mountain National Park
Pre-trip meeting: Sept. 4, 6-7 p.m., Outdoor Pursuits classroom
Cost: Free
Limited to 10 participants. Registration closes Sept. 4 at 12 p.m.
Fly Fishing and Camping
- All gear, food and transportation included.
- Must be able to carry a 15 lb pack up to 5 miles on uneven terrain and sleep in a tent.
- Participants must purchase a fishing license (~$10).
Trip dates: Sept. 13-14
Time: 7 a.m. Saturday-4 p.m. Sunday
Location: Staunton
Pre-trip meeting: Sept. 11, 6-7 p.m., Outdoor Pursuits classroom
Cost: $115
Limited to 10 participants. Registration closes Sept. 11 at 12 p.m.
Leaf Peeper's Backpacking Trip
- Must be able to carry a 30–50 lb pack and hike up to 5 miles/day on rocky terrain.
- Course fee includes gear, food, transportation and park entry.
Time: 7 a.m. Saturday-4 p.m. Sunday
Location: Boulder Brook group site, Rocky Mountain National Park
Pre-trip meeting: Sept. 24, 6-7 p.m., Outdoor Pursuits classroom
Cost: $115
Limited to 10 participants. Registration closes Sept. 24 at 12 p.m.