William Hayes, Associate Chaplain
Location
Hamilton-Williams Campus Center, room 217
P 740-368-3085
E wfhayes@owu.edu
E wfhayes@owu.edu
Spring Break Wilderness Trek
Every year the Wilderness Ministry takes students on week-long outdoor adventures over spring break. We've gone to places like the mountains of North Carolina or New Hampshire, the deserts and rocks of Utah or southern California, the coastal islands of Florida and Georgia, and all the way to the volcanoes of Ecuador. The experiences are designed to challenge students physically, mentally, and spiritually and help them grow in their relationships with themselves, with others, with the natural world, and with God. Choose your own spring break adventure!
Spring Break Wilderness Trek 2026
Read on to see where we're headed in March!
Climbing and Camping in Colorado
The first half of the week we will go rock climbing at Red Rock Canyon and then head down to the Great Sand Dunes National Park to explore the desert environment and camp in the dunes. We will learn basic climbing skills and how to thrive while camping next to the Rocky Mountains. As we encounter these extreme environments we will dig deeper into our relationship with God, Self, others, and creation. The trip will be challenging physically, mentally, and spiritually. No equipment or experience required.
Cost: $400 (includes airfare)
Kayaking on Florida's Gulf Coast
The southwest coast of Florida is home to a variety of wildlife including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles and numerous wading birds. While kayaking and camping we will learn paddling and orienteering skills and experience a wilderness known for its unique ecosystem. We will also develop leadership, decision-making, and responsibility and explore the themes of community, identity, and spirituality. The trip will be physically and mentally challenging but will also include time for rest and reflection. No experience necessary.
Cost: $300
