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Adults
Blue Ridge – Backpack & Rock Climb
Unplug and reconnect with nature on a week-long backpacking and rock climbing expedition through North Carolina’s Pisgah National Forest.
Scholarships
Savings Plan
Open 
North Carolina
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About This Course
Activity
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Backpacking -
Rock Climbing
Setting & Location
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Forest -
Mountains -
Course Start Location: Asheville NC -
Course End Location: Asheville NC
Students Can Earn
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College Credit
Session Details
3 sessions are available for this course
What You'll Learn
There’s so much to discover in the silence between footsteps; the quiet between paddle strokes; the space between stars. Circle up with your crew and recapture the joy of trying something new – whether that’s an activity, a location, or a perspective.
What You'll Do
Traverse some of the oldest mountains in the world with a map and compass, build campcraft and leadership skills, and gain technical skills while climbing up and repelling down rugged rock faces.
Where You'll Be
Venture into the ancient and misty Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. With your crew by your side, you’ll discover rushing rivers, hidden waterfalls, and forests brimming with wildlife in one of North America’s most biodiverse regions.
Why It Matters
So often, we find ourselves moving at the pace of the world around us. Reconnect with the world within you and rediscover your strengths, what inspires you, and set some new goals. Outward Bound courses for adults are an investment in yourself: a time to reset your bearings and look ahead with fresh perspective.
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Connection.
Disconnect to reconnect – with your environment, your crew, and yourself. Return home with a renewed sense of possibility.
Leave your comfort zone.
With a supportive crew, you’ll meet challenges that help you unlock confidence, curiosity, and energy to thrive with purpose.
Get ready for growth.
Meeting new people and trying new things together builds confidence and community. At any experience level, everyone has the opportunity to discover something new.
Life on Course
Need a break from your day-to-day routine? Immerse yourself in the misty, cool mountains of North Carolina to develop backcountry skills, rediscover your inner strength, and build relationships with like-minded peers.
This course is perfect for those navigating a life transition, seeking a fresh perspective, or wanting to discover that they are capable of more than they thought possible. Starting with a backpacking expedition through Pisgah National Forest, you will learn to travel safely in the backcountry, navigate varied terrain, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Then, you’ll hone your technical skills with a day of rock climbing, working with ropes, tying knots, and belaying your peers. Along the way, there will be opportunities for self-reflection, goal-setting, and renewed perspectives.
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Sample Itinerary
Here’s an example of what your course itinerary might look like. The actual plan will depend on permits, weather, group skills, and instructor evaluation.
Swipe on table below to view more.
8-Day Course
| Day 1 | Course start: duffle shuffle and camp craft |
| Day 2-3 | Backpacking training expedition: navigation and risk management skills |
| Day 4-5 | Rock climbing, belaying and repelling, solo |
| Day 6 | Backpacking final expedition: practicing leadership and independence |
| Day 7 | Personal challenge event, clean and de-issue gear, graduation ceremony |
| Day 8 | Course end and transportation to the airport |
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FAQs
Where does course start and end?
All Blue Ridge Mountains courses start and end at Asheville Regional Airport (AVL). A North Carolina Outward Bound School (NCOBS) representative will meet participants at baggage claim for check-in. Transportation is provided between Asheville Regional Airport and the course area at course start and end.
Is there a maximum age limit for this course?
No, there is no maximum age limit. Ages vary widely on adult expeditions. Our Essential Eligibility Criteria shares what participants must be able to do during course. Full disclosure of all health and medication information is required during the admissions process.
What gear is provided? Can I bring my own?
All group gear, including shelter, backpacks, and climbing equipment, is provided. You will receive a detailed packing list upon enrollment outlining additional items to bring, including clothing layers, footwear, and other personal items.
What is solo?
A little more than halfway through course, students will participate in a reflection period called Solo. During this time, Instructors assign students their own individual spaces within a designated area. These sites are secluded while remaining within hearing distance of other group members and Instructors for safety. Students will be given all the necessary gear, food, water, and skills to enjoy solo time. Solo is a great opportunity for students to relax, recharge, and reflect on their course after having long days of strenuous group activities. Instructors will be monitoring students closely during this experience.
