August 18-23, 2023
Interviews and video production by Ryan Simmons (Class of ’24)
Going to college is an adventure, so why not start it that way? Wilderness to Wake [W2W] is the perfect way to ensure you jump into college life with friends, mentors, and experience already on your side. Over 5 days, you’ll backpack, rock climb, canoe, camp and more while exploring North Carolina’s scenic wilderness. At the same time, you’ll form a tight-knit community with the eight other incoming students who will adventure alongside you.
Each group of first-year students is led by trained Outdoor Pursuits staff who are also students themselves. With their firsthand experience, they’ll guide you as you explore not only the mountains and rivers surrounding Wake Forest, but also the adjustment to life as a college student.
“Wilderness to Wake was quite possibly the best thing I could have done to set myself up for success at WFU. Every day, whether I bump into one of my W2W group members, receive a text from my W2W leaders, or work out with a W2W friend, I’m reminded of how grateful I am to have done this program.”
Abby Deuter, Wilderness to Wake 2022 Alum
You can choose from two different models for your W2W experience.
“Expedition” offers participants the opportunity to backpack between 15-25 miles over 3-4 days while camping on the famous Appalachian Trail and its surrounding regions. Then, enjoy a day doing a unique activity like whitewater rafting or rock climbing.
“Base Camp” allows students to ease into the outdoors; you’ll stay in a front-country campground at night and enjoy different outdoor experiences each day like rock climbing, river canoeing, or caving. Participants at Base Camp will have access to running water and plumbing facilities.
No matter which model you choose, you will explore gorgeous backcountry areas, develop strong leadership skills, and gain confidence as you begin your Wake Forest experience. Expect to build lasting relationships with other incoming Freshmen, and gain early insight into Wake Forest life from your highly-trained student leaders. Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime – join Outdoor Pursuits for Wilderness to Wake!
Financial Aid is available for those who qualify. Please contact Meghan Belanger (belangm@wfu.edu) for more information.
Be A Part Of Wilderness to Wake
Wilderness to Wake Interest Form
If you are interested in staying up to date on Wilderness to Wake announcements or have questions about the program, please click here to access our interest form.
Outdoor Pursuits Medical Form
Please click here to access the medical information form to be submitted with your application.
For Accepted Applicants:
Check your WFU email for updated information regarding w2w, including payment deadlines and packing lists.
- Click HERE for detailed information about Wilderness to Wake 2024
Wilderness to Wake FAQs
The trip cost includes guides, transportation, group gear, food, lodging, activities, and early move-in.
Any dietary restrictions should be indicated on your medical form. Our staff will review the medical forms and plan trip menus accordingly. Feel free to email us with any concerns.
Your trip leader will be an Outdoor Pursuits staff member. Our staff are Wilderness First Aid/CPR certified and have extensive training and backcountry experience. These trip leaders can also serve as mentors throughout your time at Wake Forest.
You will need to print complete a Medical Form and a Liability Release form. These will be sent to your student’s Wake Forest Gmail account after you have been accepted into the program.
We do everything we can to ensure students are enrolled in their choice of either the Base Camp or Expedition models of the trip. While trips and activities may be subject to change due to weather or trail closures, we can guarantee an action-packed, wholesome, and significant educational experience regardless of the location or activity.
Yes! This is one of the many benefits of our program. Parents generally help their son or daughter move to campus the day before our trips go out. This year, that day will be Friday, August 18th. This is the earliest they will be allowed into their residence hall.
Parents are encouraged to return to campus to attend Parent Orientation on Wednesday, August 23rd.
You will move into your residence hall on Friday afternoon. Friday evening you will meet your trip leaders and other participants.
Yes! There is no experience required to participate. It is, however, encouraged that each participant is healthy and active. Furthermore, a great attitude and a willingness to experience new things is a must.