Green Circle Bike Ride
Aug. 29 | 3 p.m.
Hop on a bike and ride downtown for a scoop of ice cream. Get to know Winchester and cool down from the summer heat. Bikes and helmets provided. Participants purchase their own ice cream. RSVP using this Google Form.
Coffee Walk
Aug. 30 | 9 a.m.
If you’re a coffee fanatic, this is perfect for you! Walk along the Green Circle Trail and stop at local coffee shops along the way. Meet outside of the Brandt Student Center patio area at 8:30 a.m. Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing and bring money for coffee. The group will return to the Brandt Student Center no later than 11 a.m. RSVP using this Google Form.
Water Tubing
Aug. 30 | 1 p.m.
Spend your day with Shenandoah University’s SOAR team on a lazy river float down the Shenandoah River. Everyone, regardless of experience, is able to go on this guided trip. After some fun in the sun, enjoy a BBQ meal! The trip departs from the Brandt Student Center parking lot at 1 p.m. and returns at 6 p.m. RSVP using this Google Form by Thursday, Aug. 22.
Nature Journaling & Mindfulness
Aug. 31 | 10 a.m.
Take a moment to disconnect from busy schedules and enjoy Sarah’s Glen, one of our campus’s natural spaces. Join Shenandoah Outdoor Adventure & Recreation (SOAR) in a mindfulness journey by taking an hour for natural journaling. Journals and art materials supplied.
Hiking Big Schloss
Sept. 7 | 1 p.m.
Start the school year off by hiking the first SOAR Hike of 2025! This 4.3-mile hike leads to a beautiful rock outcropping with great views of both Virginia and West Virginia. The group will leave campus at 1 p.m. and return by 6 p.m. Bring snacks and water. Fee includes transportation and guide.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Sept. 13 | 10 a.m.
Enjoy an afternoon of stand-up paddleboarding and a BBQ lunch at Shenandoah River Campus at Cool Spring Battlefield. Leave campus at 10 a.m. and return around 2:30 p.m. Fee includes transportation, paddleboard equipment, and light lunch.
Overnight Backpacking & Camping
Sept. 13-14
Escape to the rugged beauty of West Virginia with a 2-day backpacking adventure! Take in West Virginia’s wilderness as you tackle backpacking trails and camp beneath a blanket of stars. Day one includes backpacking approximately 6 miles with a climb of 1,164’. Camp by a stream and share stories under the night sky. On day 2, complete the loop by hiking out the remaining 3 miles.This journey offers a perfect blend of outdoor exploration and natural wonder. The trip leaves 10 a.m. and returns on Sunday by 3 p.m. Fee includes three meals, camping gear, and transportation.
Hiking
Sept. 19 | 4:45 p.m.
Take a break on a Friday evening by hiking to the spectacular view from Eagle Rock. The group leaves campus at 4:45 p.m. and returns by 9 p.m. Bring your own snacks. Fee includes transportation and guide.
Outdoor Rock Climbing
Sept. 20 | 10 a.m.
Reach new heights when you join SOAR for outdoor rock climbing! This outdoor climbing trip is perfect for both brand-new and experienced climbers. Pack drinks and food to snack on between climbs. Fee includes transportation, climbing gear, guide, and training. The group will leave campus at 10 a.m. and return by 4 p.m.
Stargazing
Sept. 20 | 5 p.m.
Stargaze with experts from the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club on a tour of the night sky. Bring snacks and drinks to enjoy while waiting for dark. There will be multiple telescopes and experts on hand to learn from or just lie back and enjoy the stars. The group will leave campus at 5 p.m. and return at approximately 9:30 p.m. Fee includes park fees and transportation.
Water Tubing for Family Weekend
Sept. 27 | 10 a.m.
Students and family members can slow down and relax with on a leisurely float down the Shenandoah River. Park at Shenandoah River Campus at Cool Spring Battlefield at 10 a.m. and catch a shuttle to the Rte. 7 bridge. Enjoy beautiful views while floating back to the start where a light lunch will be served.
Coffee Walk
Sept. 28 | 9 a.m.
If you’re a coffee fanatic, this is perfect for you! Walk along the Green Circle Trail and stop at local coffee shops along the way. Meet outside of the Brandt Student Center patio area at 8:30 a.m. Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, and bring money for coffee. We will return to the Brandt Student Center no later than 11 a.m. RSVP using this Google Form.
Hiking
Oct. 4 | 9 a.m.
Take in early autumn leaves while hiking Half Moon Mountain in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. This 6.6-mile hike summits after climbing 1200’. Pack lunch to enjoy at the top before returning to the trailhead. The group will leave campus at 9 a.m. and return by 4:30 p.m. Fee includes transportation and trail guide.
Overnight Canoeing & Camping
Oct. 4-5
Filled with history and folklore, the Great Dismal Swamp was once home to Native Americans and African Americans fleeing slavery. Canoe the canal to a remote island to camp overnight. In the morning, paddle to Lake Drummond. Bring money for lunch on the way back to campus on Sunday. The group will leave campus at 8 a.m. on Saturday and return by 5 p.m. on Sunday. Transportation, three meals, canoe usage, and camp equipment are included in the fee.
Horseback Riding
Oct. 11 | 9:30 a.m.
Jump into fall at the Apple Harvest Festival at Graves Mountain by enjoying a 1 ½ hour horseback ride. The trip begins at 9:30 a.m. and ends by 5:30 p.m. The fee includes horseback riding, festival admissions, and transportation. Bring money for snacks and lunch.
Hiking
Oct. 12 | 8:30 a.m.
Experienced hikers are invited to this strenuous 10-mile hike that includes rock scrambles and a 2600’ ascent. After reaching the summit, bask in a 360-degree view. The group will leave campus at 9 a.m. and return by 7:30 p.m. Bring lunch to eat at the summit. Fees include transportation, national park fees, and hiking pass.
Fall Break Trip to Occoneechee State Park
Oct. 18-21
Enjoy some lake time at Virginia’s largest lake with paddling, biking, hiking, and relaxing over fall break. Meals, transportation, and gear will all be provided as part of the fee ($45). The group will camp in a large bunkhouse at Occoneechee State Park. The group will leave campus at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18 and return by 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 21.
Coffee Walk for Homecoming
Oct. 25 | 9 a.m.
Meet other families while enjoying a walk to the downtown area using the Winchester Green Circle. Meet at the Brandt Student Center at 9 a.m. Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and money for coffee. The group will return by approximately 11 a.m.
Hiking
Oct. 26 | 12:30 p.m.
Get in the mood for Halloween with a hike to Devil’s Nose in West Virginia! This 2.4-mile out-and-back trail takes you to a jagged outcropping with beautiful views. Traverse through a hemlock forest and cross over Meadows Branch. The van leaves campus at 12:30 p.m. and returns by 5 p.m. Cost includes transportation and guide. Participants are responsible for bringing their own snacks and water.
Biking & Overnight Camping
Nov. 1-2
SOAR is continuing to section bike along the C&O Canal after last year’s amazing bike trek! Complete the next 48 miles of the trail over 2 days, ending with a visit to Antietam National Battlefield. Fees include transportation, biking gear, van support, camping gear, camp fees, and food.
Hiking & Overnight Camping
Nov. 8-9
This overnight camping trip to Ohiopyle is filled with the beauties of the Laurel Highlands. Day 1 includes a hike to Cucumber Falls. The next day, explore a part of the Great Allegheny Passage by bike. The trip leaves at 9 a.m. on Saturday and returns by 3:30 p.m. on Sunday. Fees include transportation, meals, bikes, camp equipment, and camp fees.
Hiking & Overnight Camping
Nov. 15-16
Explore the woods, play in the creek, and step back in time. Spending the night in a rustic cabin located in Shenandoah National Park. After getting settled, chose to go on an 8-mile circuit hike or stay at the cabin. The trip begins at 8:30 a.m. Saturday and ends by 1 p.m. on Sunday. The fee includes stay in the cabin, camp gear, three meals, and transportation.
Indoor Rock Climbing
Nov. 22 | 11 a.m.
Just because the weather has cooled down doesn’t mean the adventure ends! Join SOAR at indoor climbing at Vertical Rock from 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Beginners are welcome! Fee includes transportation and a belay certification class (if needed). Bring lunch.
Caving
Dec. 6 | 11 a.m.
SOAR is joining up with Wild Guyde Adventures! Put on your coveralls, adjust your helmet, and venture deep into the earth through a primitive cave. Emerge with a new appreciation of what goes on beneath the surface. The trip begins at 11 a.m. and ends by 6 p.m. Fee includes professional guide, transportation, helmets, and headlamps. Bring lunch & snacks.
Want to keep up with what SOAR is up to?
Local Outdoor Adventures
SOAR offers everything from Indoor Climbing, Hiking, Whitewater Rafting, Indoor Skydiving, Paddling, Caving, delicious S’mores nights, and everything in between. We’ll teach you the skills you need to go on all of the explorations and make sure you have the equipment you need to explore the best of the Shenandoah Valley.
Our Mission:
The SOAR program aims to introduce the campus community to a wide range of outdoor activities for all skill levels that promote self-awareness and self-esteem, cultivate personal growth, develop interpersonal and outdoor leadership skills and strengthen the SU community. Participants develop basic skills for safe and environmentally responsible exploration of natural resources in the Shenandoah Valley and beyond. SOAR educates and inspires individuals to be responsible stewards of the natural world while engaging in adventure recreation and sustainability initiatives.
Follow us on Facebook, and tag your outdoor adventures on Instagram with @shenandoahoutdoors.
SOAR is pleased to be able to offer students, faculty, staff, and alumni the opportunity to rent outdoor equipment for their adventures.
The Shenandoah Outdoor and Adventure Recreation (SOAR) Rental Center is located in Vaden Campus Commons, next door to Buzzins’. It is available to help outfit you on your next adventure. We have a great selection of gear including sleeping bags, ground pads, backpacks, stoves, fire pits, stand-up paddle boards, and more! For rental equipment, reservations are available 30 days in advance and are recommended for busy weekends. For longer reservation timeframes, please contact SOAR management at suoutdoors@su.edu for arrangements. Reservations are not required; however, equipment is rented on a first-come, first-served basis. All rental fees are required at the time of the reservation.
SOAR has rental gear available for students, faculty, and staff. Reserve your gear!
SOAR Rental Center Hours(when classes are in session)
Mondays: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Tuesdays – Fridays: noon- 6 p.m.
Closed Saturdays & Sundays
When classes are not in session, the SOAR Rental Center will take reservations by emailing suoutdoors@su.edu.
On dates when Shenandoah University is closed, the SOAR Rental Center will also be closed.
We will have limited hours over the Summer and Winter Breaks. Please email suoutdoors@su.edu to make reservations during this time.
| Equipment | Rental Cost | ||||
| Camping Gear | Quantity in Stock | Daily (24 hr) | Weekend (Thurs/Fri-Mon) | Weekly (4-7 days) | Replacement Cost |
| Eno Hammocks (includes straps)* | 16 | $0/set* | $5/set | $10/set | $100 |
| Gibbon Slacklines | 2 | $5 each | $10 each | $15 each | $90 |
| Crazy Creek Camp Chair | 16 | $2 each | $3 each | $5 each | $50 |
| Osprey Internal Frame Pack with Cover | 2S/3M/4L | $5 each | $8 each | $12 each | $300 |
| Lanterns | 4 | $2 each | $3 each | $5 each | $40 |
| Headlamps | 16 | $2 each | $3 each | $5 each | $40 |
| Fire Pit ** | 4 | $20 each | $40 each | $60 each | $250 |
| MSR Pocket Rocket*** | 2 | $3 each | $6 each | $9 each | $60 |
| MSR Windpro II Stove*** | 2 | $4 each | $7 each | $10 each | $120 |
| MSR Whisperlite*** | 2 | $4 each | $7 each | $10 each | $150 |
| Coleman 2-Burner Stove*** | 2 | $6 each | $12 each | $16 each | $200 |
| MSR 6-Liter Dromedary Bag | 8 | $2 each | $3 each | $5 each | $40 |
| Mess Kit (Cup, Bowl, Plate, Fork, Knife, Spoon) | 16 | $1 each | $2 each | $4 each | $30 |
| MSR Small Pot Set | 3 | $2 each | $3 each | $5 each | $60 |
| MSR Large Pot Set | 1 | $3 each | $6 each | $9 each | $90 |
| Kitchen Utensil Kit | 3 | $2 each | $3 each | $5 each | $60 |
| 2 Person Kitchen Kit (stove, small pot set, kitchen utensils, and 2 mess kits) | 2 | $8/set | $15/set | $20/set | $200 |
| 4 Person Kitchen Kit (stove, large pot set, kitchen utensils, and 4 mess kits) | 2 | $12/set | $20/set | $25/set | $300 |
| Rubbermaid Cooler | 3 | $2 each | $3 each | $5 each | $50 |
| Bear Vault/Bin | 4 | $2 each | $3 each | $5 each | $80 |
| 2-Person Backpacking Tent | 4 | $8 each | $15 each | $20 each | $300 |
| 3-Person Backpacking Tent | 3 | $10 each | $18 each | $23 each | $330 |
| 4-Person Camping Tent | 3 | $12 each | $20 each | $25 each | $500 |
| Inflatable Sleeping Pad (Thermarest) | 14 | $3 each | $6 each | $9 each | $80 |
| Sleeping Bag (includes liner) | 14 | $4 each | $7 each | $10 each | $35 |
| Climbing /Caving Gear | |||||
| Misty Mountain Bouldering Pads | 2 | $5 each | $10 each | $15 each | $220 |
| Black Diamond Climbing Helmets | 8 s/m 8 m/l | $3 each | $6 each | $9 each | $80 |
| Water Equipment | |||||
| River Tubes (includes PFD) | 10 | $5 each | $10 each | $15 each | $50 |
* Same-day hammock rentals are at no cost to Shenandoah University’s students, faculty, and staff. All hammock rentals will require a signed rental agreement form. Hammocks returned the next day will be charged the $5 overnight fee.
**Fire pit use is limited to Shenandoah University’s Winchester Campus. Firewood and fire starters are NOT included. Marshmallow Skewers are available upon request. The renter must have two full buckets of water on hand for emergency use from the time the fire is lit until it is out, buckets are provided. Ashes must be disposed of by placing them in a bag and throwing it into a trash can. WAIT UNTIL THE ASHES HAVE COOLED! Renter is subject to Physical Plant cleaning fines if ashes are disposed of improperly
***Fuel is not provided for backpacking stoves. The SOAR Rental Center staff will gladly show you where you can purchase fuel and what kind you will need.
SOAR Gear Rental Policy
Reserving Equipment
Equipment rental is available to Shenandoah University students, faculty, and staff. To rent equipment, you must be at least 18 years old and present appropriate forms of identification. Our equipment is rented on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance of use. Contact us at suoutdoors@su.edu to reserve your equipment now.
Reservation Cancellation
We do not refund rental fees due to unexpected weather, non-use, or changes in the renter’s usage plans. Refunds will be given for reservations up to 48 hours in advance of the agreed-upon pick-up time for all general-use equipment.
Please contact the Rental Shop to cancel a reservation.
- More than 48 hours = Full Refund
- Less than 48 hours = customer forfeits all rental fees, no refund or store credit.
Holiday Closures
Holiday rentals will need to be reserved in advance. For extended weekends in which Shenandoah University is closed on the Monday following the weekend, weekend rates will apply. For reservations over the Thanksgiving Break and Holiday Break, weekly rates will apply. If the University is closed due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, rentals will be due upon the first day the University is reopened, and no extra fees will apply.
Check Out and Pick up Procedures
The renter is responsible for inspecting all equipment carefully and bringing any missing or damaged equipment to a SOAR Rental Center staff member’s attention before 5:00 PM on the date that the item was rented. Make sure any discrepancies are noted on the rental agreement. Failure to note any discrepancies may result in a fee for damaged or missing equipment. If needed, please ask a SOAR staff member for assistance with inspection and/or instruction on how to properly set up the equipment.
Fire Pit: Firepit use is limited to Shenandoah University’s Winchester Campus. Firewood and fire starters are NOT included. Marshmallow Skewers are available upon request. The renter must have 2 full buckets of water and a fire extinguisher on hand for emergency use from the time the fire is lit until it is out, buckets are provided. Ashes must be disposed of by placing them in a bag and throwing it into a trash can. WAIT UNTIL ASHES HAVE COOLED! The renter is subject to cleaning fines if the fire pit is not cleaned and ashes are not disposed of properly.
Hammocks: Same-day hammock rentals are at no cost to Shenandoah University students, faculty, and staff. All hammock rentals will require a signed rental agreement form. Hammocks returned the next business day will be charged the $5 overnight fee.
Check-In Procedures
Equipment must be returned to the SOAR Rental Center, located at Vaden Campus Commons (VCC) adjacent to Buzzins’. Renters will be responsible for up to the total retail cost of replacing such equipment that is returned dirty, damaged, or missing.
Fire Pit: Must be returned during SOAR Rental Center open hours, or contact SOAR to schedule an alternate time.
Equipment Inspection:
All equipment goes through a thorough inspection at the beginning of each semester by the SOAR Rental Center staff. After each use, each piece of equipment is then inspected for damage upon its return to the Rental Center after use. Renters are required to inspect each piece of equipment before use and report damages to the SOAR Rental Center.
Late Fees
A $1.00 per item, per day late fee is charged in addition to the daily rental fee. Late days accrue only on days when the SOAR Rental Center is in operation and equipment is not returned. Equipment that is kept by a renter for more than 14 days after the due date, without the prior agreement of the Director for Campus Recreation & Wellness will be assumed to be lost or stolen. The item(s) full replacement cost will be required from the renter who borrowed it. Any renter with an outstanding balance due will have their records flagged until payment is made.
Cleaning Charges
Cleaning fees will be assessed if you return equipment that is deemed excessively wet or dirty by the rental attendants. Tents, packs, sleeping bags, etc. should be wiped clean and dry, but never laundered. Stoves should be free from all food and food traces; and pots, pans, and utensils should be scrubbed clean. Fire Pits must be cleaned and free from excess burned material. You have the option to clean the equipment before returning it. If the rental equipment is deemed excessively dirty there will be a $25.00 cleanup fee per item.
Lost or Destroyed Replacement Charges
If any equipment is lost, destroyed, or damaged to the point it is deemed ruined by the SOAR Rental Center staff, you will be charged the full replacement value of the item. You will be charged the current retail price of that equipment.
Release of Liability Statement
Equipment Agreement
I agree that the equipment that is being checked out to me is in useable condition and I will be financially responsible for any loss or damage while it is in my possession. I understand that I have a responsibility and the opportunity to inspect the equipment for damage or missing parts at the SOAR Rental Center. I agree that if the equipment is lost or destroyed while in my possession, I will pay the full retail replacement value and not the depreciated value. I agree to pay any and all late fines for equipment not returned within the designated check-out period on my rental agreement. I agree to pay any and all cleaning charges for equipment that is deemed excessively dirty by the SOAR Rental Center staff. By signing this rental agreement, I represent I am qualified and familiar with the proper and safe use, transportation, and care of the rented equipment.
Awareness and Assumption of Risk
I am aware of the risks associated with using the equipment I am renting from Shenandoah University. I understand that using the equipment may expose me to dangers and hazards, including but not limited to: falls, fractures, concussions, dangerous weather, overexertion, overheating, severe injuries, strains, sprains, drowning, broken bones, paraplegia, hypothermia, hostile or aggressive wildlife, equipment failures, losing control or crashing boat or bike, water hazards, road/trail hazards, negligence of others and even death. I represent that I will take reasonable steps to protect myself from these risks, including by using protective equipment such as a personal floatation device or a bike helmet. I hereby freely assume the above-mentioned risks, as well as other risks not listed that are part of using this rental equipment, and any harm, injury, or loss that may occur to me or my/your property as a result of renting this equipment.
Release of Liability
Shenandoah University shall not be liable for injuries sustained by the renter while using, transporting, or handling rented equipment. In consideration for being able to use Shenandoah Outdoor and Adventure Recreation’s Rental Center equipment, the renter assumes these risks and indemnifies and holds harmless Shenandoah University, its trustees, officers, employees, agents from any claim, damage, liability, injury, expense, or loss, including reasonable attorney’s fees, arising from the use of Shenandoah University’s recreational equipment, including, without limitation, any claims that renter’s heirs may have in case of renter’s death.
ALL RENTALS WILL REQUIRE THE RENTER TO SIGN AND DATE THEIR RENTAL CONTRACT, VERIFYING THEY HAVE READ, UNDERSTAND, AND AGREE TO THE ABOVE EQUIPMENT RELEASE OF LIABILITY STATEMENT.
SOAR Trip Staff
Looking for a way to build leadership, and market
able job skills, all while spending more time outdoors? SOAR is always looking for students to become trip leaders. All that needed is a desire to educate and a love of adventure.
Interested in becoming one of SOAR’s trip staff? Send us an email! We’re always looking for new student employees. No prior experience is needed.
Not able to fit a SOAR trip into your busy schedule? Grab a friend and go on your own time.
Welcome to Shenandoah University’s SOAR Program!
At SOAR, we strive to get students outside to experience the great outdoors. We have trips planned for every semester that are open to the student public, but just in case you miss one or can’t attend, here’s a list of things to do in preparation of your
own trip:
Step 1: Trip Planning
What would you like to do? Is it backpacking, hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, or something else?
In this planning process, it is vital that you have a set plan as to what you would like to do, and how you plan on doing it. Check the toggle below for ideas.
Step 2: Organization
Trips should always be conducted in a safe manner. Organizing them beforehand can help! This step includes fulfilling all of the means necessary to ensure that your trip is safe and successful. Under construction. More to come!
Step 3: Finalization
Trips should be fun! Completing the planning process and finalizing your plans gives you the chance to look forward to your trip. This step reminds you of a few things to do before leaving for your trip.
Click here for a list of some materials you need to go backpacking.
Click here for a list of some materials you should have in your first aid kit.
Click here for a list of some materials you need for a day hike.
The Shenandoah Valley has many opportunities for you to get outside that are all within easy driving distance of Winchester. Check out these local outdoor adventure activities and locations!
Remember to plan your adventures responsibly.
The links above are for informational purposes. SOAR and Shenandoah University are not responsible for non-University-sanctioned trips.