Higher Ground

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Higher Ground is a 5-day intensive orientation program hosted by Radford University’s Outdoor Program. During Higher Ground students spend time in the beauty of Southwest Virginia, making new friends and learning ways to succeed at college life, in and out of the classroom. Your college experience can start here - an adventure designed to inspire, empower, and create new memories. Higher Ground is led by Radford University’s Outdoor Program and takes place the week before the Fall Semester starts from August 17^th – 21^st, 2026.

Higher Ground is intentionally designed to meet the diverse needs, interests, and comfort levels of incoming students.

With five distinct trip models to choose from, each offers a unique experience. Whether you're looking to connect more with the outdoors, build a community before coming to campus, or simply try something new, there’s a trip built with you in mind. No matter what trip you choose, you’ll find a supportive environment designed to help you thrive.

All Higher Ground Experiences...

Cost $75
Require no prior experience.
Include meaningful conversation with peers facilitated by student staff.
Help you build a support system and community before coming to campus.
Move in early

To enroll, you will need to choose one of the following experiences:

Paddling
Caving
Rock Climbing
Hiking
Backpacking

Details about an equipment/packing list, arrival, and move-in will be provided closer to the start day. Students will be camping in tents for the duration of the orientation

*Registration required no later than August 1, 2026*

*Waitlist available—if all spots are taken, the student can enroll in the "back in stock" subscription. Once enrolled, the student will be notified if additional spots become available.

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Higher Ground-Paddling Experience

Higher Ground’s Paddling Experience, part of our Explore Series, is designed to be approachable and welcoming for all students. All you need is a desire to experience the adventure. This program is ideal for those who’d like to try something new, find a sense of community, and build confidence.

Throughout this experience, students will base camp at Selu, Radford University’s Nature Preserve, and take part in engaging day trips. Participants will spend two of the five days paddling, with the remaining days filled with additional outdoor activities such as tubing on the New River, team-building initiatives, and our challenge course.

Details about an equipment/packing list, arrival, and move-in will be provided closer to the start day. Students will be camping in tents for the duration of the orientation

Program Date: August 17th-21st, 2026

*Registration required no later than August 1, 2026*

Waitlist available—if all spots are taken, the student can enroll in the "back in stock" subscription. Once enrolled, the student will be notified if additional spots become available.

$75.00

Higher Ground-Caving Experience

Higher Ground’s Caving Experience, part of our Explore Series, is designed to be approachable and welcoming for all students. All you need is a desire to experience the adventure. This program is ideal for those who’d like to try something new, find a sense of community, and build confidence.

Throughout this experience, students will base camp at Selu, Radford University’s Nature Preserve, and take part in engaging day trips. Participants will spend two of the five days caving, with the remaining days filled with additional outdoor activities such as tubing on the New River, team-building initiatives, and our challenge course.

Dates: August 17-21, 2026

*Registration required no later than August 1, 2026*

Details about an equipment/packing list, arrival, and move-in will be provided closer to the start day. Students will be camping in tents for the duration of the orientation.

Waitlist available—if all spots are taken, the student can enroll in the "back in stock" subscription. Once enrolled, the student will be notified if additional spots become available.

$75.00

Higher Ground-Rock Climbing Experience

Higher Ground’s Rock Climbing Experience, part of our Explore Series, is designed to be approachable and welcoming for all students. All you need is a desire to experience the adventure. This program is ideal for those who’d like to try something new, find a sense of community, and build confidence.

Throughout this experience, students will base camp at Selu, Radford University’s Nature Preserve, and take part in engaging day trips. Participants will spend two of the five days rock climbing, with the remaining days filled with additional outdoor activities such as tubing on the New River, team-building initiatives, and our challenge course.

Details about an equipment/packing list, arrival, and move-in will be provided closer to the start day. Students will be camping in tents for the duration of the orientation

Program Date: August 17th-21st, 2026

*Registration required no later than August 1, 2026*

Waitlist available—if all spots are taken, the student can enroll in the "back in stock" subscription. Once enrolled, the student will be notified if additional spots become available.

$75.00

Higher Ground-Hiking Experience

Higher Ground’s Hiking Experience, part of our Explore Series, is designed to be approachable and welcoming for all students. All you need is a desire to experience the adventure. This program is ideal for those who’d like to try something new, find a sense of community, and build confidence.

Throughout this experience, students will base camp at Selu, Radford University’s Nature Preserve, and take part in engaging day trips. Participants will spend two of the five days hiking, with the remaining days filled with additional outdoor activities such as tubing on the New River, team-building initiatives, and our challenge course.

Details about an equipment/packing list, arrival, and move-in will be provided closer to the start day. Students will be camping in tents for the duration of the orientation.

Program Date: August 17th-21st, 2026

*Registration required no later than August 1, 2026*

*Waitlist available—if all spots are taken, the student can enroll in the "back in stock" subscription. Once enrolled, the student will be notified if additional spots become available.

$75.00

Higher Ground-Backpacking Experience

Higher Ground’s Backpacking Experience, apart of our Expedition Series, is designed for students seeking challenge, reflection, and personal discovery. Participants will embark on a 3-night, 4-day expedition along the Appalachian Trail, building skills, resilience, and meaningful connections along the way. The experience concludes with a celebratory day on the lake and camping at Claytor Lake State Park, offering time to relax, reflect, and enjoy your newly formed community of hikers.

Details about an equipment/packing list, arrival, and move-in will be provided closer to the start day. Students will be camping in tents for the duration of the orientation.

Program Date: August 17th-21st, 2026

*Registration required no later than August 1, 2026*

Waitlist available—if all spots are taken, the student can enroll in the "back in stock" subscription. Once enrolled, the student will be notified if additional spots become available.

$75.00