As the crisp winter air lands over the University of Northern British Columbia, a group of students is already planning their next outdoor adventure. Since its informal beginnings in 1995 and official establishment in 1997, UNBC’s Outdoors Club has been fostering a spirit of adventure and community. Run entirely by students, the club provides a gateway for individuals of all skill levels to experience the north breathtaking wilderness. I recently sat down with co-presidents Alex and Noah to discuss the club’s mission, activities, and the vibrant community it has built over the years.
When I asked the co-presidents to describe the Outdoors Club, Noah and Alex emphasized its inclusive nature. “It’s a student-led organization focused on outdoor recreation,” Noah shared. “We organize events for all levels of expertise, ensuring that everyone, regardless of experience, feels welcome.”
The club’s primary goal is to introduce UNBC students to new outdoor experiences while fostering friendships. Whether it’s a beginner trying rock climbing for the first time or an expert adventurer looking for a new challenge, the Outdoors Club has something to offer.
A Calendar Full of Adventure
The club has been offering a packed schedule this year; Hosting a variety of activities throughout each semester, divided into regular weekly events and larger weekend excursions. During the fall semester, students can enjoy mountain biking, trail running, and indoor rock climbing. Alex mentioned that “The club also runs a women’s only mountain biking night for self-identified women promoting more inclusive environment.” Winter brings new adventures, with cross-country skiing, winter trail running, and snowshoeing among the featured activities. Weekend trips include overnight backpacking adventures and downhill skiing trips.
I asked them about community building and Noah responded: “beyond physical activities, the club also hosts social events such as movie nights and themed discussions on topics like feminism, Indigenous perspectives on land use, and classism in outdoor recreation”. “We want to create a welcoming space where students not only explore the outdoors but also engage in meaningful conversations,” Alex explained.
Membership and Inclusivity
The Outdoors Club is open to everyone. While primarily targeted UNBC students, membership is also available to alumni, faculty, CNC students, and even Prince George community. “Anyone interested in joining can sign up for just $5 per semester,” Noah said. “This gives them access to our gear locker and events.”
Sign-ups are typically held during SLO Days at UNBC Prince George campus, but students can also register anytime through the club’s Instagram bio link or by emailing outdoorsclub@unbc.ca.
More Than a Club, A community
What sets the Outdoor Club apart its emphasis on affordability “We try to remove financial barriers for students,” Alex noted. The club maintains a growing Gear Locker, offering lending for items like tents, sleeping bags, cross-country skis, and even fully-equipped bicycles, thanks to grants from the BC Recreation Foundation and UNBC Sustainability.
The club even took an extra step for helping with transportation, facilitates carpooling through their Facebook Group, ensuring that students without vehicles can also participate. “The only thing that we ask to pay is the gas money to your driver.” Noah explained. The club also secures group discounts and benefits for activities like skiing and free climbing gear on MWF at OVERhang climbing gym.
The club collaborates with various local organizations to enhance its offerings. Partnerships include OVERhang Climbing Gym, which provides free rental gear for club members, and the Alpine Club of Canada, allowing members to participate in additional events. The club also works with the Hart Ski Hill to arrange discounted outings.
Every adventure has its unforgettable moments. Noah recalled a cabin trip where members were awoken in the middle of the night by someone shouting; only to discover the Northern Lights illuminating the sky. Alex mentioned Another trip to Raven Lake was equally eventful when a sudden hailstorm turned an otherwise routine hike into an exhilarating battle against the elements. However, running the club isn’t without challenges. “Our biggest concern is ensuring continuity,” Alex admitted. “Since leadership changes every few years, we need to recruit new executive members to keep the club thriving.” The club is always looking for passionate students willing to take on roles such as trip coordinators, gear managers, and social media handlers.
