Mines ORC Trips and Events

Hiking, camping, climbing, biking, outdoor trainings, and much more - the ORC hosts trips and events throughout the year, so Orediggers can get outdoors, learn new skills, and meet new people! Registration is open to Rec Sports members. No experience needed!
 


 

Sign Up for a Trip with the ORC

Our college-friendly prices include transportation from the ORC, gear, equipment, and lodging/food for overnight trips. The prices listed below are for students; faculty/staff that are participating will pay a different amount. To learn more and register, visit RecSportsStore.mines.edu.

Fall 2026 Trips
Some certification courses are open to the public. If you are external to Mines and wish to participate in a following certification course, please email adyer@mines.edu: NOLS WFA, NOLS WFR, AMGA Climbing Wall and Single Pitch Courses, etc.


Custom 1-on-1 Courses

Ever wanted to try rock climbing, mountain biking, skiing, or some other outdoor activity with the supervision of a trained pro? Contact our ORC Assitant Director, Kevin Langlois, at klanglois@mines.edu to inquire about weekday courses!



Jump Start a New Hobby

Want to try a new outdoor sport or skill? Don't start from scratch - our Jump Start Guides cover everything you need to know to get started:
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Get the Gear: a range of equipment needed based on the activity and location. Used gear is generally fine for non-safety related items.
Get the Skills: what skills you can learn on your own, how long it takes to get proficient, and when to hire a guide/instructor
Get the Fitness: different activities have different demands, from gaining fitness as you learn the activity to training to reach your activity goals. 


Refund Policy

  • Before you register, inquire about our refund policies and clarify any questions you have regarding your ability to participate.
  • Refunds will only be made within 24 hours of purchase or if notice is given more than 30 days before the trip/event date. For trips that are 3+ days long, notice should be given at least 60 days before the trip/event date to be eligible for a refund. All refunds will incur a 10% administrative fee.
  • All refund requests must be submitted to klanglois@mines.edu prior to the trip's departure. Supporting documentation may be requested.
  • Late payments for international trips will accrue a 5% late-fee for over a week late and a 10% late-fee for more than three weeks late.

 


Frequently Asked Questions


Why should I sign up for an ORC trip?
For an incredibly college friendly price, you get: Gear, guides, food, transportation, not to mention forming connections with other Mines students and the beautiful outdoors of Colorado! 

Where do your trips typically go? 
Our day trips explore the mountains and canyons within an hour of Golden, but we also offer weekend trips to Rocky Mountain National Park and week-long excursions to Utah and beyond. Interested in going further? Check out our Global Adventures international trips.

Will I need my own gear? 
No - gear rentals from the ORC is included in the trip price. We will provide any gear necessary to accomplish the trip (ex. backpacking gear, bikes, ski boots, etc.). Non-technical gear, such as clothing or hiking shoes, is typically the participant's responsibility. However, if you own gear, you are welcome to use it!

If I bring my own gear, do I get a discount?
No - you are welcome to bring your own gear, but that will not impact the trip cost in any way. All trips must be paid in full to officially register.

How experienced are your trip leaders?
Our guides have a plethora of personal experience that uniquely qualified them to lead that trip. In addition, all trip leaders are Wilderness First Aid certified, and most also have a current Wilderness First Responder, AIARE Avalance 1, and/or AIARE Avalance Companion Rescue certification. Whitewater guides hold a Swiftwater Rescue certification. The ORC Assistant Director, Kevin Langlois, is American Mountain Guide Association certified with a lifetime of experience guiding on technical terrain.

 

 

Have a Minute? Learn a New Skill!

 


Questions? Call the ORC at 303-273-3184 or email the ORC Director, Austin Dyer, at adyer@mines.edu