The Adventure Program offers a variety of bold activities and services for those wanting to try new things, explore new places, and build their knowledge of the world. Whether you go on a trip or workshop, climb the top rope or bouldering walls, utilize our equipment for rent, or just need a bike repair, you have the ability to make it your own at Iowa State University.
Adventure Program
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Climbing Walls
Recreation Services at Iowa State University has climbing walls at State Gym and Lied Rec Center. Top Rope wall is open when staff is there to supervise while Bouldering walls open anytime facilities are open.
Top-Rope at State Gym is available with all needed equipment available on-site, free of charge.
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Equipment Rental
Equipment rental is available at the Adventure Program desk in State Gym. Equipment rental is available for a small fee and is open to both Recreation Services members and non-members.
Equipment available for rent includes camping supplies, game equipment like sports balls and nets, water gear including kayaks and canoes, bicycles, and climbing equipment.
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Bike Maintenance
If you're in need of a brake adjustment, quick tune, or are wanting a safety inspection on your bike, the Adventure Program has you covered. Book an appointment and bring your bike in today so you can get back to your adventure!
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Women* Climb Night
A welcoming environment for climbers who identify as women or genderqueer. These dedicated times allow for a less intimidating environment for climbers new or otherwise to climb and meet others interested in climbing.
Trips and Workshops
Explore the beautiful vistas the United States has to offer with an Adventure Program trip, or hone your outdoor skills with a workshop.
Trips include transportation, food at the destination, technical equipment, logistics and reservations, and a trip leader to plan and manage the trip. Hiking, kayaking, biking, and camping trips are available at various destinations throughout the United States. Trips range in length from a day trip to a week or more.
Spring 2024 Trips and Workshops
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Rock Climbing 1 - Belay Workshop
April 22
This is an introductory course to rock climbing. Safety tools and techniques will be the focus. Skills learned will include but are not limited to knots, terminology, gear, and basic belaying techniques. Upon completion of this workshop and three follow-up belays, you will obtain a Belay Card for the ISU climbing wall.
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Rock Climbing 2 - Lead Workshop
February 24, March 3, or April 20, 2024
This is an introductory course to lead climbing. Safety tools and techniques will be the focus. Skills learned will include but are not limited to knots, terminology, gear and basic lead climbing techniques. Upon completion of this course you will receive a Lead Card that will entitle you to lead climb at the ISU Climbing Wall. Must have Belay Card from ISU Climbing Wall to sign-up and complete the pre-work prior to attending the workshop.
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Biking to Ada Hayden
April 13, May 4
On this low key group ride we will be biking to Ada Hayden in North Ames about a 10 mile round trip that will take about 2 hours. If you have been curious to explore some of the roads to ride in Ames for a quick workout look no further than this. We will be leaving from the State Gym Adventure Programs loading dock 15 minutes after the listed time for the ride. No cost is associated with the ride unless you are in need of a bike.
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Sugar Bottom Mountain Biking Trip
April 27-28
Join the Adventure Program staff for a weekend of off-road adventure on two wheels! This Trip will take you to the trails at Sugar Bottom state park (just north of Iowa City). The trail systems are well suited to the novice as well as the seasoned expert. Don’t miss this opportunity to ride some of the best mountain bike trails Iowa has to offer!