WhitWilderness

First-Year Student Backpacking Trip, Sept. 18-20, 2026

What is WhitWilderness?

WhitWilderness is an exciting multi-day outdoor experience! The trips are organized by Whitworth Outdoor Recreation specifically designed for incoming freshmen and transfer students at Whitworth University. WhitWilderness aims to help students adjust to college life in a new and exciting way. This program is an excellent opportunity for students to connect with each other and make new friends while experiencing the beauty of nature. The trip leaders are experienced, trained and provide a safe and supportive environment for participants of all backgrounds and experience levels.

Where is WhitWilderness?

WhitWilderness is a two-night backpacking trip that takes place in the breathtaking Selkirks of Idaho, and offers an adventure-packed experience that includes camping, hiking and exploring the stunning scenery of the Selkirks. Students will learn new skills and gain confidence in their abilities, all while building relationships with other students. 

When is WhitWilderness?

WhitWilderness is the second weekend of the fall semester; Friday, Sept. 18-Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026. There will be a pre-trip meeting and communication sent earlier in the week by trip leaders to help participants prepare for the trip!

How do I sign up?

You can sign up for WhitWilderness online by visiting our program registration page at urecservices.whitworth.edu/program. Registration closes Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, or once registration is full (24 spots available overall). Registration can also take place at the University Recreation Center Front Desk during our open hours. We accept debit; we do not accept cash or credit.

If you are having trouble registering, please contact Outdoor Recreation Student Coordinator Riley Brubaker at rbrubaker28@my.whitworth.edu.

1. Go to the U-Rec Portal: urecservices.whitworth.edu.
2. Click "Sign In" at the top right corner of the screen.
3. Use your Whitworth username and password to log in.
   Do not create a new account. Your Whitworth username and password should be what you received from the university. Your username is typically the first letter of your first name, entire last name and last two digits of your graduation year (do not include "@my.whitworth.edu" in the username box). To reset your password, go to Password Manager on Pirate Port. Do not reset your password from the portal login page.
4. Click "Register for Outdoor Rec Trips Here."
5. Click "WhitWildnerness First-Year Backpacking Trip."
6. Click "Select" (bottom righthand corner of the page) to select the program offering.
7. A pop up banner will populate at the bottom of the screen, click the red "Register" button.
8. Complete check-out and payment.

Once registered, you will hear from our outdoor recreation staff to complete next steps like a survey and a waiver for us to further prepare for your trip with us. 

What is the cost? What does it cover?

The cost to register for WhitWilderness is $100 per participant. This is all-inclusive and covers the cost of gear that is provided, transportation, food, permits, programming and more. 

Cancellation and Refund Policy: 

• 14+ days before trip: 75 percent refund given in choice of either U-Rec account credit or cash refund though the Whitworth University Business Office (subject to U-Rec manager approval).
• 2-14 days before trip: 50 percent refund given as U-Rec account credit, or cash refund through the Whitworth University Business Office (subject to U-Rec manager approval).
• 48 hours prior to trip: No refund is given. 

Should Whitworth cancel a trip or class, we will issue a credit or full refund. Reasons may include severe weather, road conditions, instructor illness and lack of participant numbers.

Who do I contact if I am interested in WhitWilderness?

For more information or help registering for WhitWilderness please contact Outdoor Recreation Student Coordinator Riley Brubaker by email at rbrubaker28@my.whitworth.edu.