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Young Adults
Blue Ridge – Backpack & Rock Climb
Leave your routine behind for an extraordinary backpacking and rock climbing journey through Pisgah National Forrest.
Scholarships
Savings Plan
Almost Full 
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
1 session are available for this course
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What You'll Learn
On an Outward Bound course, you’ll have an unforgettable adventure while refining skills like teamwork, leadership, and navigation that expand beyond your time on course. Try new things, remember what you’re made of, and return revitalized and ready for what’s next.
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What You'll Do
Navigate the trails with a map and compass, cook and camp with your crew, and push your limits while climbing and rappelling on rugged rock faces.
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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.
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Why It Matters
At this point in life, so many paths are unfolding and opportunities can feel a little blurry. Give yourself some dedicated time to try something new, reflect on your strengths and areas for growth, and recommit to who you want to be. There’s much to discover when you break your routine; let’s go!
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Classic for Young Adults
What if you learned how to build community and connection while confidently forging your own sense of self?
Hit the reset button.
You might be surprised at what you’ll find in the silence between footsteps; the quiet between paddle strokes; the space between stars.
Build community.
Connection is more important than ever and where better to build bonds than on an adventure where everyone works together? You and your crew will support each other through challenges and celebrate success together.
Where will you go next?
Get to know yourself better as you navigate new landscapes, new relationships, and draw on strengths that are waiting just below the surface. This fresh perspective might lead to some renewed goal-setting!
Life on Course
Find yourself in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains as you push your limits, build new skills, and bond with your crew.
Perfect for young adults looking to shake up their routine, this course offers adventure with an opportunity for self-discovery. You and your crew will embark on a backpacking expedition through Pisgah National Forrest, where you will learn to travel in the backcountry, navigate varied terrain, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Break up the days with rock climbing blocks, where you’ll hone your knot-tying and belaying skills. Along the way, you’ll cook and camp with your crew and enjoy periods of reflection. At the end of course, you will walk away with a clearer sense of purpose, stronger leadership skills, and bonds that last a lifetime.
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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.
6-Day Course
| Day 1 | Course start, duffle shuffle, camp craft, and begin backpacking expedition |
| Day 2-3 | Backpacking training expedition: navigation and risk management skills |
| Day 4 | Rock climbing and/or ropes course; belaying and rappelling; solo |
| Day 5 | Backpacking expedition |
| Day 6 | Personal challenge event; clean and de-issue gear; graduation ceremony. 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.
