Agenda

Day 1

Arrive at the Agricultural Arena at the University Park campus with your lunch, personal gear, and an open mind. We'll welcome you and your parents and give a brief overview of the spectacular week ahead. Backpacking gear will be assigned and then you and your small group are off to the trailhead where our hike will begin. In camp, we'll spend time getting to know one another. You will learn how to set up camp and how to cook on a backpacking stove.

Day 2

After a beautiful night under the stars, the group will set the pace as we begin our first day of hiking through Pennsylvania’s wilderness. Today we'll get to know one another better while we learn wilderness living skills and outdoor ethics. We'll talk about student life at Penn State and explore the natural world surrounding us.

Day 3

Another full day of discovery as we continue our hike. The adventure is not only in the hike but also with the group as we prepare ourselves for the upcoming Penn State experience.

Day 4

Our final day of backpacking! One last day on the trail to enjoy fresh air, good times, and quality time to talk, learn, listen, and laugh.

Day 5

A van will pick us up and we're off for another adventure! Depending on the location of your trail, your group will meet with other ORION groups and you will either spend the day up high on Penn State’s ropes course or you will paddle canoes down a local river. After the day’s adventure, all ORION groups will come together at Penn State’s Nature Center, Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center, to celebrate the week with a final cookout.

Day 6

Time for cleanup and goodbyes…but only until the semester starts. The program will end at the Ag Arena. Note: ORION participants have the option to move their belongings into their dorms at an earlier date. Contact your respective housing office to determine if and when early move-in for your belongings is available: East Halls—814-865-1791; North Halls—814-865-9521; Pollock Halls—814-865-4321; South Halls—814-865-2391; West Halls—814-865-9526

Many of the photographs included throughout the site are © Sven Zellner. For a listing, please contact us.
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