Extended Trips

Trip Planning Guide:

End of Semester Grand Canyon and South Utah Backpacking Trip 

Backpack into one of the Seven Wonders of the World and see beautiful Arizona and southern Utah sunsets. This is an introductory backpacking trip designed for beginners, but will be very physically demanding. We will provide participants with a backpacking workshop to prepare you for the two weeks of excitement. We will also learn geological aspects of the Grand Canyon and other natural areas and get a chance to experience the natural and cultural history of the Southwest.  Stops to visit, hike, and camp at the Petrified Forest, Grand Staircase-Escalante, and other sights including the Rocky Mountains in Colorado are provided.  

Information Meeting Presentation

Dates and times: Monday, May 13, 6:00 a.m. – Friday, May 24, 9:00 p.m.

Registration is full. 
To be added to the waiting list please email clagattolla@niu.edu or call 815-753-9422

Early registration cost and deadline: NIU Affiliate $350 / Non-NIU $400 by April 22
Regular registration cost and deadline: NIU Affiliate $400 / Non-NIU $450 by May 6

Information Night: Wednesday, April 3, Tuesday, April 9, 4:00 p.m.

Pre-trip meeting: Tuesday, May 7, 5:00p.m. 

Extended Kayaking on the Mississippi River

Calling all adventurers! Join us for this epic paddling adventure as we tour the upper reaches of the Mississippi River between Minneapolis, MN and LaCrosse, WI. Participants and staff will paddle sea kayaks along the banks and camp on the islands of this giant river. This is a level 2-3 trip. Participants should plan on paddling flat water conditions in current for an average of 15 miles per day for 5 days. It is very possible however that the conditions along this mighty river will change in an instant. High winds, 1-2 foot waves and 3-6 knots of current can make this lazy looking river seem like a monster to traverse.  It is required that participants have previous experience in sea kayaks before departure. Contact Outdoor Adventures for paddling opportunities and instruction. Included in the registration fee is transportation, camping and paddling equipment, meals, instruction, and leadership.  Do not miss out on this classic quest seeking true river adventure!  

NIU Affiliates Register Here
Non-NIU Register Here 

Date(s) and time(s): Saturday, August 3, 8:00 a.m. – Friday, August 9, 8:00 p.m.

Early registration cost and deadline: NIU Affiliate $250 / Non-NIU $300 by July 13
Regular registration cost and deadline: NIU Affiliate $300 / Non-NIU $350 by July 29

Pre-trip meeting: Monday, July 29 @ 6:00 p.m. at the Student Recreation Center