FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who can go on OP trips? What does my fee cover? Do I have to have special skills? Who leads trips? Do I need special gear? Is there a drug and alcohol policy on trips? Where do I register at the Leach Center? How do I become a trip leader? How to I register? What is the trip cancellation/refund policy?

Who can go on OP trips? FSU students, faculty, staff, and the community are all welcome to participate in OP trips and clinics. You must be at least 18 years old.

What does my registration fee cover? The fees include transportation, equipment, instruction, guide service, and park entry fees (where applicable). The fees do not cover the cost of food (unless specifically stated in the trip description)

Do I have to have any special skills to participate in OP programs? All of our trips are geared for the beginner (no special skills needed), unless otherwise noted, but some require more energy, more desire or more commitment. We welcome ideas for new adventures. We supplement our off-campus adventures with on-campus clinics, workshops, and training. Visit our resources page for more information.

Who leads the trips? Most trips are led by FSU students who have developed their skills through an active apprenticeship that includes high standards of training and hands-on learning. Our student leaders have a passion for outdoor adventure and want to share that passion with you. They'll help you learn new skills, make new friends, experience new environments, and keep you actively involved from packing, to cooking, to clean up.

Do I need special gear to participate in OP programs? We provide top quality equipment for group use. We do not provide any personal clothing or gear. Weather conditions may vary greatly from the beginning of a trip to the end, so we ask that you be prepared for a variety of conditions. We strongly discourage the use of cotton apparel, because when wet, cotton actually drains heat from your body so staying warm is impossible (this includes jeans, T-shirts and even underwear). Other items that make your life easier are a headlamp and good water bottles. We aren't asking you to go out and buy all new gear, but you should be prepared for your adventure.

Is there a drug and alcohol policy on trips? ALL OP PROGRAMS ARE DRUG AND ALCOHOL FREE. Alcohol and drugs can make the backcountry into a very dangerous place. You put not only yourself at risk, but also other trip participants and leaders. Participants will be asked to sign a Drug and Alcohol Policy Consent Form upon trip registration..

Where do I register at the Leach Center? Participants should go to the FSU Aquatics Office to register for OP trips. The registration window is from 5PM - 9PM Monday - Friday at this registration site. The FSU Aquatics Office is located on the Pool Deck at the Leach Center (right next to the swimming pool).

How do I become a Trip Leader? Visit the Campus Rec Jobs page to find out how you can become the next OP Trip Leader!

How do I register? You can register at the following locations: LEACH CENTER AQUATICS OFFICE (next to pool)- 5PM-9PM Monday - Friday. Cash or checks only at this registration site. FSU RESERVATION - For directions to the FSU Reservation, click here. ONLINE - Outdoor Pursuits now has an online registration form. You can fill it out and email it to outdoorpursuits@admin.fsu.edu. PLEASE NOTE: when registering online, your spot will not be confirmed until we receive confirmation of payment. See Payment Options for information on how to pay for trips.

What is the trip cancellation/refund policy? There are NO refunds unless the trip is cancelled by Outdoor Pursuits, you have a medical excuse note from a doctor, or we can sell your spot. Selling your spot is not a guarantee--even if there is a waitlist! Please note: There is a cancellation fee of 20% to cover paperwork costs should you cancel your spot, even if it is filled. If a student who receives a "free" spot on a trip must cancel his/her registration, s/he must do so at least 48 hours before trip departure to avoid being assessed a $10 cancellation fee.

The Next OP Staff Member Join the OP staff today! Call 644-2449 for details.