New Adventures First-Year Outdoor Orientation Trip: Laurel Highlands Backpacking & Rafting

Nestled in the hills of rural Pennsylvania, Laurel Highlands is a hidden gem of the Allegheny Mountains! This trip is perfect for students who are interested in getting into backpacking but want to ease into it, or for those who may not have the time to join us on a longer backpacking trip. The Laurel Highlands trail follows the top of Laurel Ridge for 70 miles, connecting the towns of Ohiopyle and Johnstown on either end. Students will backpack sections of the Laurel Highlands trail for 3 days, 2 nights before visiting the town of Ohiopyle to spend their last day rafting the Lower Youghiogheny River! The ‘Yough’ for short, offers exciting Class III+ whitewater through a beautiful river canyon. What better way to rinse off after days on trail? Activity: Backpacking + Whitewater Rafting Cost: $375 Trip dates: June 24th - 28th, 2026 Program cost includes all gear, instructors, food, and transportation. New Adventures Trips are open to all incoming first-year students, and no previous experience is required.