Wilderness Based Orientation (WBO)

Begin your college career at Western with an outdoor adventure! With WBO you will be part of a group of new students discovering what the great outdoors has to offer in the Colorado backcountry. Each WBO course is led by some of our finest students who will give you instruction on adventure activities and life in college.

The purpose of Wilderness Based Orientation (WBO) is to provide an opportunity for you to meet other new students and make meaningful connections, build friendships and get to know the incredible recreational opportunities that Gunnison has to offer before you begin your first semester here at Western.

Financial assistance is available through the WBO Scholarship.

 Register for WBO when you register for New Student Orientation.

*NEW* Multi-Sport Water Adventure

 August 11-17 Price: $525
This whitewater extravaganza will introduce you to more water sports than you thought possible right here on the Western Slope of Colorado. Learn to guide a 14' whitewater raft, paddle a Culebra cataraft, brave the rapids in a mini-me 9' raft, or take your own personal "ducky" inflatable kayak down the river.

Multi-Sport Land Adventure

August 11-17 Price: $525
Having trouble choosing just one course? Enjoy a sample of what WBO has to offer with this 7-day multi-sport adventure. This course will take you backpacking in the San Juan Mountains, rock climbing at some of the Gunnison Valley's best crags, and mountain biking on world renowned trails. Experience the rugged beauty and natural grandeur of the Colorado backcountry, learn the basics of rock climbing or challenge the skills you have, and learn why the Gunnison valley is one of the top mountain biking destinations in the world . You can do it all!

San Juan Mountaineering

August 11-17 Price: $525
The San Juan Mountains, south of Gunnison, are a unique and extremely vast range of the Rockies. This seven-day trip will be the perfect introduction to mountaineering, including trip planning, rock climbing, navigation, backpacking and mountain climbing. This fast-paced yet rewarding course requires carrying a large backpack at high altitudes (12,000 feet plus). Expect to be physically challenged, learn new skills, and build an effective team.

Gunnison Area Whitewater Kayaking

August 13-17 Price: $425
Experience firsthand one of the fastest growing adventure sports—whitewater kayaking. Your instructors will guide you through the training process, equipping you with the essential expertise, techniques, and safety precautions necessary to venture down the rapids. Beginner and intermediate paddlers are welcome. Tackling the challenge of navigating the rivers of the Gunnison Valley will surely be a rewarding experience!

Blue Mesa Sea Kayaking

August 13-17 Price: $425
Explore Blue Mesa Reservoir, Colorado's largest body of water, touring atop the flat water in your personal sea kayak. Carry within the kayak all that you need to camp along the water's edge. This relaxing trip will be a great way to have an extremely unique adventure, learn valuable skills, and spend quality time with your peers. Be prepared to paddle yourself several miles a day through the beautiful landscape.

Crested Butte Backpacking

August 13-17 Price: $425
The Crested Butte area, just north of Gunnison, is famous for its wildflowers and views. Take advantage of this opportunity to learn the skills necessary to enjoy camping and traveling in this beautiful backcountry setting. Be prepared to hike several miles a day over passes and peaks at altitudes over 11,000 feet. And remember— bring your camera!

Crested Butte Mountain Biking

August 13-17 Price: $425
Experience the incredible mountain scenery of Crested Butte, one of the best and most famous mountain biking locations in the country. Be prepared to travel up to 20 miles a day at altitudes of over 11,000 ft as you fly through the aspen trees and wildflowers on single-track trails. Personal bicycles and helmets must be provided by the participant.

Crested Butte Camping

August 15-17 Price: $215
This three-day course is a great choice for any student. Enjoy outdoor camping and activities in the Crested Butte area. Take pleasure in the fresh air, beautiful scenery, and weather permitting, campfires. WBO and the Adaptive Sports Center of Crested Butte now offer a universal curriculum to welcome Western students of any physical or developmental ability. In addition to camping and hiking, all students will have the opportunity to participate in the universal high/ low ropes course with the Adaptive Sports Center. This is a great opportunity for any student to build new friendships right before classes start!

Sign up for WBO today when you register for your New Student Orientation.

Please feel free to contact us with your questions:
WBO Office (970) 943-7051 wp@western.edu