Nature Programming
The Collins Dictionary defines Nature as “all the animals, plants, and other things in the world that are not made by people, and all the events and processes that are not caused by people.” At SUUSI, we explore the phenomena of the local physical environment as well as humans’ ingenuity and interactions with it. We’ll forage for mushrooms, visit an herb farm, take a tour of a well-known winery, and check out some historic bridges. We’ll learn to listen to the natural sounds around us as we are silent in the woods. We’ll paddle down the world’s second-oldest river, peddle on a riverway trail and around Claytor Lake State Park, and scramble up rocks to scenic overlooks and waterfalls.
There are accessible exploring and “hiking” trips located under the Hiking section of the catalog. You’ll also find scheduled trips for biking on trails, exploring rivers and lakes by tube, kayak, and canoe, hikes to mountain tops, and adventures like climbing a rock wall. There is an opportunity to discover the colorful birthplaces and burial grounds of stars and explore objects in space that affect tides, weather, seasons, and other aspects of our lives. There are many options for discovering wildlife — some as a day’s adventure, and many areas are close to campus. We want everyone to join the fun of Nature as much as they would like!
*Nature trips go out rain or shine. Please remember to pack a poncho or raincoat on every trip. As a general Nature rule, plan and be prepared by having the right equipment, including the appropriate footwear, water, etc. For other tips, please see the Nature FAQ page and don't hesitate to reach the Nature Directors at nature@suusi.org.
Make sure to arrive at the Nature Tent 15 minutes BEFORE the trip's scheduled departure time. That is when Nature staff will review all trip requirements and equipment and will inquire about health and other concerns.
Much time and attention have been devoted to evaluating each trip’s requirements to afford every participant the best experience possible. Please carefully consider trip descriptions and your own needs when choosing your schedule. Contact the Nature Directors at nature@suusi.org if you have any questions about trip descriptions or requirements.
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Nature Staff Meeting
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Van Meeting
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Nature Staff Meeting
- 501: Under the Wisdom Tree — The Blue Ridge: Punctuated Evolution of a Mountain RangeLimit 99
Those rocks in the Blue Ridge are old, really old. Surprisingly, the mountain that we see may not be so ancient. The Blue Ridge that we see today east of Radford has been squished, baked, buried, exhumed, uplifted, and eroded. You can see the evidence in the topographic wrinkles, reflecting the punctuated evolution of the Blue Ridge. - 502: Under the Wisdom Tree — Is it Soil or Dirt?Limit 99
Anyone trying to be successful needs to be “well grounded” – but what’s in the actual ground? When we walk on the grass or a trail at SUUSI, what are we trampling with our feet? There’s an extraordinary amount of science – and a lot of lore – that explains what stuff to grow, how to grow the right stuff, and how to grow that stuff right. - 503: Under the Wisdom Tree — Things That Slither and CrawlLimit 99
Snakes are fascinating. Turtles are fun. Earthworms – well, everyone should dig ‘em. Come discover what’s moving around us, with and without legs. They see the world from a different angle, so if we “walk a mile in their moccasins” we can broaden our perspective as well. - 504: Under the Wisdom Tree — Spiders, 'Skeeters, and StingersLimit 99
There’s a place in the choir for all of god’s creatures. When we get into their space, sometimes they defend themselves. At other times – hey, they gotta eat too. Sometimes, even us. Learn about the critters that we love to hate before you swat ‘em again. - 510: Monday Forest Bathing Limit 14
Start the week with an early morning reverent immersion in the forest. Enjoy the silent mindfulness practice of Forest Bathing. It’s the perfect opportunity to center yourself and begin your SUUSI week energized by the coolness of the early morning in slow movement, silent meditation, and acute observation of the forest flora and fauna. Drive Time: 20 mins.
- 511: Mushroom ForayLimit 14
Join us for a hunt! We will start with on campus with a short informational session on fungi facts and then we will foray into the wild to learn about the areas most hospitable for their growth. It is likely we will locate and harvest some edible ones. 20 minute drive time. - 520: Horseback Ride MondayLimit 8
Ride on breathtaking trails that pass through landscapes from dense forest to windswept ridge tops. Just 5 minutes from campus, Winterfrost Farms is a non-profit horse rescue that offers a 500-acre home to 60 horses. The horses are fostered at Winterfrost until they can be adopted to a forever home. The Ride-A-Rescue horseback riding program was started to help support the rescue horses, as part of their rehabilitation. Ride-a-Rescue trail rides use only healthy rescue horses eager and ready to work. All proceeds go to the care of the horses. 10-minute drive time. Long pants are recommended. Helmets are required to ride and will be provided. - 521: The Berry Patch (Family Friendly)Limit 14
We’re going berry-pickin! This trip takes us to 3 Birds Berry Farm in Blacksburg, featuring “local, unsprayed goodness” in the form of blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries. The farm is owned and operated by a family that describes itself as passionate about berries. The experience is sure to be friendly, fun, and down-to-earth. We’ll take a short tour of the farm and then pick all the raspberries and blackberries you and your SUUSI friends can eat! Prices are $3/pint or $20/gallon, prices may vary (pint containers are provided, and gallon containers are available for purchase). Enjoy the fruits of summer - and bring the kids! This is one of the few nature trips featuring a “comfort station” on site, but they suggest you bring what comforts you like while picking, such as water, hats, bug spray, etc. 20 20-minute drive time. Closed-toe shoes required; it is a working farm. - 522: Sélu Nature Conservancy: A TourLimit 14
Sélu Nature Conservancy is named for the mythical Cherokee "grandmother corn-spirit." We'll be led on a tour of the ancestral farmhouse that John Bowles donated to Radford University. The tour of the replicated 1930s homestead provides an intimate connection with the era as we see and hear what life was like for a typical 1930s family. We'll hear the hum and crackle of a restored antique radio and recordings of music, commercials, and speeches families would have listened to in their homes as we tour the farmhouse. We'll have time to explore the grounds and John's Laughing Place walking trail, which overlooks a stunning vista of the Little River below. 20-minute drive. - 523: Foraging (Family Friendly)Limit 14
Can’t get enough foraging? Jennifer Sanders will lead us around (or near) the campus to seek forageable plants to identify. We’ll end with a taste of something foraged. Jenni started foraging over a decade ago and still geeks out over all the weeds to eat! - 524: Swimming at Randolph Park (Family Friendly)Limit 14
Join us as we explore the Evelyn Alexander Water Park at Randolph Park in Dublin, boasting a water purifying system that eliminates red eyes, green hair, itchy skin, and faded suits. It features eight lanes, a 38-foot-long water slide, walk-in access to heated water, spray toys and water drops, shaded swimming, a bath house, and more. Bring money for concessions if desired. 30-minute drive time. - 525: Creating SUUSI Campfire Memories (Family Friendly)Limit 28
There’s nothing like a campfire circle for creating community! Join us for a campfire on the Sélu Nature Conservancy grounds. Bring your songs and stories as we let the fun (and marshmallow roasting) happen. Bring the kids! Children under 8 riding in a car or van must have a car seat or booster seat. Please bring it to the Nature Tent/Office 15 minutes before departure.
Drive Time: 20 min one-way. - 526: Long Way Brewing Limit 14
Long Way Brewing started with a vision: to bring a local craft brewery to Radford's West End, revitalizing the area. After much research and setbacks, an old Seventh Day Adventist church became the chosen location. Amidst brainstorming names and logos, “Long Way" was chosen for its regional significance. However, as the journey progressed, "Long Way" came to symbolize the challenging path from idea to pint glass for a small craft brewery. A member of the staff will be available to meet with us and share their story, including their relationship with the Radford Fairlawn Daily Bread. It's trivia night, so bring your thinking caps! Come and enjoy one of the many beers on tap! 10-minute drive time. Food truck on site. Bring ID and money for food, brews, and rounding up for Radford Fairlawn Daily Bread. - 530: Herb Farm Tour and Herbal Lunch Limit 14
Join us for this perennial favorite. Just over an hour's drive from campus is Beagle Ridge Garden and Herb Farm in Wytheville, with 14 theme display gardens showcasing herb and perennial collections. We will stroll through the gardens, eat lunch, watch the hummingbirds feast on the flowers, and visit the “Flying Flowers” butterfly conservatory. Time permitting, individuals may walk one of the many trails on the property or visit the fish pond. The shop contains herbal soaps, lotions, bath gels, and plants. Required: sturdy shoes and drinking water. Lunch and butterfly admission fee included in price. Recommended: extra money for the store. 75-minute one-way drive time. - 531: Historic SmithfieldLimit 14
Smithfield is on the National Register of Historic Places, the Virginia Landmarks Register, and is a member of The New River Heritage Coalition. Today, Historic Smithfield uses the complex histories of the region's indigenous peoples, the Preston Family, and the enslaved community to inform their present and future, seeking to inspire a new generation of Americans through the stories and values of all who lived at Smithfield. We will have a guided tour of the historic grounds, the medicinal garden, and some of the buildings; we will enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds. Bring money for the gift shop if you would like souvenirs - and maybe a hat since we will be outside in the gardens a good bit of the time. 30-minute drive. - 532: Sunset Horseback RideLimit 8
We'll ride into the Sunset! Join us for a twilight experience. See full description from 520, Horseback Riding Monday. - 533: Creating SUUSI Campfire MemoriesLimit 28
Join us for a campfire on the grounds of Sélu Nature Conservancy. Bring your songs and stories as we just let the fun happen. There's nothing like a campfire circle for creating community. This is an adult event – look for the child-friendly campfire on Tuesday evening. 20-minute drive. - 540: Forest Bathing ThursdayLimit 14
Refresh in the middle of the week with a deep, sensory immersion in the forest. Enjoy the outdoor mindfulness practice of Forest Bathing on a relatively flat trail where we can commune with the living earth. Learn how to walk like a fox, listen like a deer, and see like an owl. We will spend the morning in slow movement, silent meditation, and acute observation of the forest flora and fauna. Drive Time: 25 mins. - 541: Chateau Morrisette WineryLimit 14
After a scenic drive to the Blue Ridge Parkway, we’ll visit the winery for a guided tour and wine tasting (included in cost). 60-minute drive. Recommended: eat lunch on campus before leaving; bring extra money for wine or gifts. Bring ID. - 542: Glencoe Mansion Museum - Family FriendlyLimit 14
Join us for an afternoon of Radford history.The Glencoe Mansion Museum allows you to explore the history of Radford and beyond from the early Native Americans to the present with engaging and informative exhibits. We will have a guided tour of the Wharton family's home and learn about their role in Southwest Virginia’s post-Civil War development. We will also learn of frontier heroine Mary Draper Ingles' well-known story of being taken into Native American captivity and, along with one other woman, walking over 400 miles to return home. Mary Draper Ingles’ extraordinary story is not an isolated event but part of a larger narrative of empire and development. We'll also visit the Mary Ingles Draper Statue and the New River Train Observatory adjacent to the museum. There will be time to visit the museum gift shop. 10-minute drive. - 543: Dixie Caverns (Family Friendly)Limit 14
A caving trip, easy enough for everyone. This is your opportunity to see a cave while avoiding all the mud and hard work of wild cave trips. The cavern is well-lit and has walkways with many small steps. It’s cool inside; you may wish to bring a light jacket. Great for families or those wanting to explore in comfort. Children must be accompanied by an adult and must register for this trip. The environment is moist, and surfaces are slippery. Caving equipment is not needed, but sturdy, slip-resistant shoes are required. The drive is 35 minutes one way. Required: car seat or booster seat for children under 8. - 550: Bridges and PhotographyLimit 14
Explore some of the area's historical bridges at a pace that welcomes and allows for stopping for photography. We'll start with a visit to Clover Hollow and nearby Link Farm covered bridges and enjoy a picnic lunch by the creek. We'll do a drive-under of the Wilson Creek Bridge, part of the Smart Road Project, as we head to the Battle of New River Civil War Bridge along the New River in Radford. If time allows, we will explore the New River Train bridge. - 611: Mill CreekLimit 13
A beautiful trek! The total hike is about three miles out from the parking lot and back. We will follow the trail makers from the reservoir to the Waterfall Trail. We'll navigate over rock outcrops, and the trail becomes very narrow in spots as we go up the gorge. At one point, before the falls, we’ll also cross a branch that meanders down to the creek on a wooden single bridge. We think it's a work of art. - 612: Silent Bald KnobLimit 14
Join us for a silent version of a popular hiking route. The trail starts at the historic Mountain Lake Hotel and takes us to the highest point in the area. It's a steep, half-mile climb to the top along a rocky trail. As we hike, we will take silent pauses to observe the beauty of the fern-bordered trail as the sun filters through and listen for songbirds in the nearby bushes and trees. At the 4361-foot high knob, we will pause to contemplate the expansive views of the valleys below and mountains beyond. Feel the wind, observe hawks gliding on thermals, and rest on the interesting rock formations. This is your time to meditate and observe nature around you. Hiking Distance: 1.6 miles round-trip, with 500 feet of total climb. Drive time: 50 minutes. - 621: Stiles Falls (Family Friendly)Limit 13
Stiles Falls is a 45-foot waterfall located on the property of Camp Alta Mons. The hike begins with an easy walk to the trailhead, then changes to steep inclines, several creek crossings, and rock hopping up to the falls and water pool. There are large boulders around the falls and a water pool where you can sit and relax, or you can scramble over to swim or play around in the shady pool of water at the falls. We’ll provide lunch and plenty of time to enjoy one of the area’s favorite destinations. You must have proper footwear, at least a quart of water per person, and a pack to help carry lunch. Wear a swimsuit under your clothes if you would like to get in the water. Hiking Distance: 3.2 miles round-trip, with 300 feet of total climb. Drive time: 35 minutes. - 622: Triple SlogLimit 13
This hike is so enjoyable that some SUUSI-goers do it every year! We hike a short distance down the road to get to a point where we can enter the forest above the Cascades waterfall, bushwhack down to Little Stoney Creek, and take off into the wild. We hike in the stream and swim/wade through pools, climb around trees and rocks, and climb and play in three waterfalls. You will get wet (completely soaked if you like). Due to the climbing and scrambling on wet, slippery rocks, this is one of our most challenging hikes. Secure, slip-resistant, immersible footwear required. Wear a swimsuit/nylon shorts and bring a towel and/or dry clothes for the ride back. Backpacks and contents are likely to get soaked in the fun! Hiking distance: about three miles, with wet rock scrambling. Drive time: 60 minutes. - 623: Claytor Lake Hike and Swim AdventureLimit 14
We will start with a gentle four-mile hike on the well-maintained Hidden Valley trail loop through nearby Claytor Lake State Park, and end up at the beach area for some swimming. We'll see many varieties of trees, plants, and birds, with lots of views of the lake. There is a restroom where you can change into a swimsuit. Recommended: swimsuit. Required: dry change of clothes, towel; car seat or booster seat for children under 8. 20-minute drive time.
- 624: Sunset on Bald KnobLimit 14
The trail starts at the historic Mountain Lake Hotel. A steep, half-mile climb up a fern-bordered trail brings us to the 4361-foot high knob. It's the highest point in the area, with extensive views in several directions and some interesting cliffs and rock formations. We'll pause to enjoy this beautiful time of day at the top of the mountain as we wait for the sun to set. The descent is easier following a jeep road, but will be after sunset. A flashjlight is required. This is a moderate hike for adults, but may be challenging for children. Hiking distance: 1.6 miles round-trip, with 500 feet of total climb. Drive time: 50 minutes. - 631: Nature Conservancy Service ProjectLimit 13
We will be helping The Nature Conservancy(TNC) by cleaning and repairing trails in the Falls Ridge area. There are approximately 5 miles of trails in this area, giving participants an opportunity for hands-on work while learning about the work being done by TNC to preserve various parcels of land in their natural state and help maintain, and in some instances save, various species native to a particular area. This is a wonderful opportunity for SUUSI folks to give back to the community and enjoy some camaraderie midweek during SUUSI. Lunch is provided. The Falls Ridge preserve is close to Radford! - 632: McAfee KnobLimit 13
With its stunning, 270-degree panoramic views of the surrounding valley and mountains and signature ledge that has become a popular place for photos, McAfee Knob should be included in any trip that includes hiking in Virginia's Blue Ridge. It's been recognized by USA Today Travel as one of the most spectacular hikes in the United States! The knob is located atop Catawba Mountain with an elevation of 3,197 feet and is one of the highlights of the Appalachian Trail. This hike is out and back. We will follow a white blazed trail for approximately four miles to the overlook. Coming back, we will be on a fire road, which is a nice leisurely descent back to the trailhead. Bring a pack to carry your lunch.
- 633: Cascades Falls (Family Friendly)Limit 13
We'll hike along Little Stoney Creek to the spectacular 66-foot Cascades Falls and the cold swimming hole at the bottom. The hike is a climb up a groomed, but rocky trail and is easier and smoother on the descent. Wear a swimsuit underneath your clothes and bring secure, slip-resistant, immersible footwear for getting in the water (required). A second trip is also offered on Friday - trip #652. Hiking Distance: 3.7 miles, with 700 feet of total climb. Drive time: 50 minutes. - 634: Connelly's Run (Accessible, Family Friendly)Limit 14
Connelly's Run is a stream that flows from a historic spring down to the New River through a wooded canyon with varying microclimates, all within Radford's Wildwood Park. Stroll or roll as you are able along the 6-foot wide, fully-paved streamside shared-use trail. We will enter from a small parking lot above the spring and hike in and back. A group with varying physical abilities can enjoy a nature hike together; steep side-trails are not part of our route, but remain within sight in case your group includes some high-energy young ones. There are smooth bridge crossings, benches, picnic tables, and natural/historical signage. SUUSI provides vans, but they are not ADA-compliant; personal vehicles will be required for transport. Accessible restroom facilities are available midway, at the trailside. Hiking Distance: 1.5 miles round-trip, fully paved, with only a slight grade. Drive time: 10 minutes. - 641: A Day At Mountain LakeLimit 14
Spend a day at Mountain Lake — yes, this is the location of the iconic movie, Dirty Dancing! There will be several options for how you might fill your time, and you can decide on the spot. Enjoy exploring the now-dry lake riverbed, hike the two-mile perimeter of the lake, visit the shops, take in some birding, check out the historic lodge, and sit in a rocking chair enjoying the mountain views … or any combination of all that there is to offer. We will bring a picnic lunch, and there are restaurants and bars onsite in case you’ve got a hankering for something different. Sunscreen, bug spray are recommended; comfortable shoes and water are required. Drive time: 45 minutes - 642: Dismal Falls (Family Friendly)Limit 14
A long-time favorite for enjoying a beautiful area with minimal effort. A good nature experience for families with young children due to the short distance. We drive over Cloyd's Mountain through scenic, pastoral countryside to a popular recreation area. We'll hike a mostly flat section of the Appalachian Trail to a scenic 10-12 foot stairstep falls with a cold basin or pool for swimming. We climb over some slippery rocks to get into the water. There will be time for walking or playing around the creek bed or just sunning on the rocks. Bring the kids and enjoy the afternoon watching them discover the great outdoors! Hiking distance six miles. Drive time: 45 minutes. - 651: Dragon's ToothLimit 13
Dragon's Tooth is one of Virginia's iconic hiking destinations, part of the "Triple Crown," and is well-known and popular. Our out-and-back route starts on the Dragon's Tooth Trail, moving steadily upward, and with stream crossings on rocks and becomes more challenging after we join the Appalachian Trail. The last half-mile has rock scrambles, even metal rungs to climb, as we approach the prominent 360º view from the end of Cove Mountain at 3,025 feet. We will stop for lunch near the sharply pointed sandstone cliffs that jut up like dragon's teeth. The return is nearly pure descent. Watch your footing in wet weather. You will carry a provided lunch, and be sure to bring 2 liters of water, as there can be plenty of exposure to the sun at the top. Hiking Distance: 4.6 miles round-trip, with 1,250 feet of total climb. Drive time: 50 minutes. - 652: Last CascadesLimit 13
Our Friday afternoon trip to Cascades Falls should be a pleasant close to the week, and has been a perennial favorite for some. We'll hike along Little Stoney Creek to the spectacular 60-foot Cascades waterfall and the cold swimming hole at the bottom. The hike is a climb up a groomed, but rocky trail and is easier and smoother on the descent. Wear a swimsuit underneath your clothes and bring secure, slip-resistant, immersible footwear for getting in the water (required). The pace will be slightly faster than the family-friendly version of this trip offered on Wednesday - trip #633. Parents: this trip overlaps with the Youth's closing circle Friday afternoon. Hiking Distance: 3.7 miles, with 700 feet of total climb. Drive time: 50 minutes. - 711: Intro to Whitewater CanoeLimit 14
Want to learn how to maneuver a canoe in moving water or brush up on rusty skills not recently used? Join us in this instructional clinic to practice how to read and navigate river features with different strokes and techniques from the front or back of the boat (yes, they are often different!). We will review safety and rescue practices while engaging in "river play" - surfing, eddying out, and directing our canoes through class 1+ rapids. This trip is a prerequisite for #741 All-day Whitewater Canoe. Approved footwear and drinking water (32oz or more) are required. Drive time: 20 mins - 712: Intro to Whitewater KayakingLimit 12
Curious about kayaking? Want to learn how to maneuver one in moving water or brush up on rusty skills not recently used? Join us in this instructional clinic to practice how to read and navigate river features while having a lot of wet fun! We will review safety and rescue practices while engaging in "river play" - surfing, eddying out, and directing our boats through class 1+ rapids. There will be opportunities to swim, and the river may very well get you to go swimming whether you want to or not; swimwear is a must! This trip is a prerequisite for #742 All-day Whitewater Kayak. Approved footwear and drinking water (32oz or more) are required. Drive time: 20 mins - 713: Evening Downstream CanoeLimit 14
Join us for an evening float on the New River from the Claytor Lake dam boat launch to Dudley Landing at Bissett Park. There are bald eagles nesting in this section of the river and there are islands that we can navigate through/past as we make our way downstream. We will likely see a variety of wildlife as the day winds down. There are some gentle rapids just before the take out - swimwear encouraged. We suggest that you have some basic canoeing skills; basic instruction will also be provided. Approved footwear and drinking water (32oz or more) are required. Recommended: headlamp or flashlight. Drive time: 15 mins - 721: Family-Friendly CanoeLimit 14
Bring a friend or your family and paddle downstream on a pleasant section of the New River as well as a small portion of the Little River. There are a few easy class-one rapids and lots of beautiful scenery, including a network of intimate islands. We will stop at the takeout to wade and play in the river if we have time – swimwear encouraged! We suggest that you have some basic canoeing skills; basic instruction will also be provided. Only one child is permitted if there are two adults in the canoe. Two children may go with one adult. Children must be registered separately. Approved footwear and drinking water (32oz or more) are required. Drive time: 20 mins - 722: Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP)Limit 14
Would you like to learn the basics of Stand-Up Paddleboarding on Claytor Lake? Our participants will learn some basic paddle strokes and skills, paddleboard and equipment care, and other safety information. After a little instruction, we will put our newly-learned skills to use on the lake. For those who are interested, some may conclude with some relaxing yoga postures and time for reflection and gratitude while enjoying the peaceful waterfront, while others may play with some water toys. Join us as we spend an afternoon taking part in one of the fastest-growing outdoor paddling activities on the water. Swimwear, dry towel, approved footwear, and water (32oz or more) are required. Drive time: 20 mins - 723: Evening CanoeLimit 14
Always a favorite at SUUSIs past! Come for a peaceful and serene dusk-into-night canoe trip at a new location- the SELU Conservancy on the Little River. We will paddle "downstream" (really flat water) from the Conservancy dock to the Little River Dam, located just below the Claytor Dam on the New River. We will then paddle back "upstream". Time permitting, we can walk 1/4 mile down a path to Big John's Laughing Place overlook we will have seen from the river. This is a great trip for beginners as it is flat water and we can help provide instruction in basic canoeing technique as we explore the Little River. We will takeout at the same place that we launch and there are no rapids. Approved footwear and drinking water (32oz or more) are required. Recommended: headlamp or flashlight. Drive time: 20 mins - 731: River CleanupLimit 14
Back by popular demand — roll up your sleeves and come help clean up the New River by canoe! We are getting an early start on the day to take advantage of the cooler weather in the morning. Over different years, we have pulled out of the river everything from the usual trash you would expect to tires and even an appliance or two. This is a great opportunity to give back to the New River and leave this wonderful resource a little better than we found it. Plus, not only is it FREE... it is also a great way to connect further/deeper with other SUUSI folks. Swimwear and work gloves are encouraged. Approved footwear and drinking water (32oz or more) are required. Drive time: 15 mins - 732: Family-Friendly TubingLimit 13
Let's go tubing with your family! A beautiful location with some exciting rapids to go down, this is a great way to kick up your feet and float down the river. There also rocks to relax on and watch from, not to mention swimming at the beach/shore. Recycle through the rapids as much as you care to with short walk back up, Children 13 and under are required to have a parent or guardian on the trip. For safety, each child should have an adult buddy in the water when tubing. Swimwear, approved footwear, and drinking water (32oz or more) is required. Drive time: 45 mins - 741: All-Day Whitewater CanoeLimit 10
Join us on this all-day river adventure - a favorite from the past! Challenge yourself as we put our knowledge and skills to the test on this stretch of the New river featuring class I & II rapids. We'll take on ledges, zig-zag rapids, and standing waves with plenty of time in-between to rest, swim, and play. We will have lunch on the bank of the river and have the opportunity to swim some rapids. This trip requires Intro to WW Canoe #711 as a pre-requisite or previous RECENT SUUSI whitewater experience at the discretion of Nature Staff. Approved footwear, a rain/paddle jacket (no ponchos), and drinking water (32oz or more) are required. Recommended are a dry-bag, sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes. Drive time: 55 minutes
- 742: All-Day Whitewater KayakLimit 4
Join us on this all-day river adventure - a favorite from the past! Challenge yourself as we put our knowledge and skills to the test on this stretch of the New river featuring class I & II rapids. We'll take on ledges, zig-zag rapids, and standing waves with plenty of time in-between to rest, swim, and play. We will have lunch (carried by canoes) on the bank of the river and have the opportunity to swim some rapids. This trip requires Intro to WW Kayak #712 as a pre-requisite or previous RECENT SUUSI whitewater kayak experience at the discretion of Nature Staff. Approved footwear, a rain/paddle jacket (no ponchos), and drinking water (32oz or more) are required. Recommended are a dry-bag, sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes.
- 751: Last Canoe Trip (Family Friendly)Limit 14
Don’t miss out on this breathtakingly scenic portion of the New River from Eggleston to Pembroke on the last full day of SUUSI. On this canoe trip we’ll travel multiple bends in the river and will be surrounded by rolling hills of farmland, high bluffs littered with caves, and even a natural bridge! We will enjoy some fun paddling and sightseeing, with a high probability of different wildlife in and out of the water. We will give some basic paddling instruction before we canoe downriver through a few easy-to-navigate Class I obstacles. If time permits, we should be able to frolic and play in the river at breaks and the takeout, so swimwear is recommended! Approved footwear and drinking water (32oz or more) are required. Lunch is provided. Drive time: 45 mins - 752: Adult TubingLimit 27
A tubing trip for adults only! A beautiful location with some exciting rapids to go down, this is a great way to kick up your feet and float down the river to the Big Falls at McCoy. Take out at the beach below the falls and hang out or head up to shoot the falls again. Recycle through the rapids as much as you care to with that short walk back up.
- 805: Climbing Wall (Monday)Limit 25
Radford University has its own climbing wall located in Peters Gym - no travel necessary! Challenge yourself: opportunities will be provided for both the novice as well as the experienced. Training will be provided. Required: Closed-toe, tied shoes, and water. Two waivers are required. For children under 18, a parent or guardian signature is required. Children under 14 may register without a parent or guardian, however, a parent or guardian must accompany the child, and be present while the child is climbing. - 806: Climbing Wall (Thursday, Family Friendly)Limit 25
Radford University has its own climbing wall located in Peters Gym - no travel necessary!. Challenge yourself: opportunities will be provided for both the novice as well as the experienced. Training will be provided. Required: Closed-toe, tied shoes, and water. Two waivers are required. For children under 18, a parent or guardian signature is required. Children under 14 may register without a parent or guardian, however, a parent or guardian must accompany the child, and be present while the child is climbing. - 822: BYOB Road RideLimit 30
Calling all SUUSI roadies! Bring your bike and join us for an invigorating ~20 mile no-drop social road ride leaving directly from campus. Recent road cycling experience expected. Required equipment: closed toed shoes, bike, helmet, water, spare tube/patch kit.
- 832: BYOB Riverway Bike Ride (Family Friendly)Limit 13
This BYOB (Bring Your Own Bike) will start from campus and run along the Riverway Trail, which parallels the New River. It is a gentle, scenic ride, then climbs moderately through the forests of Bisset Park, Wildwood Park, and Radford City Park. There is a tunnel connecting Bisset Park with Wildwood Park so we won't have to negotiate busy Hwy. 11 in the middle of the trip. We'll cover 6.4 miles over gentle-to-moderate, scenic terrain. Recent bicycling experience is expected. Required: a bicycle in good working order, helmet, tied shoes, spare tube/flat kit, water bottle in backpack. Recommended: rain gear.
- 833: Beginner Mountain Bike Ride at Claytor LakeLimit 12
Enjoy a scenic mountain bike ride along smooth rolling trails in the beautiful woods of Claytor Lake State Park! We will explore four miles of trails around the perimeter of the park, stopping at two scenic overlooks along the way to take in beautiful views of the lake. Basic cycling skills are required, but mountain bike experience is not. High-quality mountain bikes, helmets, and flat kits will be provided.