Get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure with War Eagle Wilderness, a series of exciting outdoor trips designed to connect first year students while exploring some of the Southeast’s most incredible destinations!
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Whether you’re paddling down the scenic Cahaba River, conquering rapids on the Ocoee, backpacking the beautiful Pine Mountain Trail, or soaring through the trees at Banning Mills, each weekend offers a unique opportunity to challenge yourself, make new friends, and create lasting memories.
Enjoy delicious campfire cookouts, team-building activities, and plenty of time to unwind under the stars. No experience is needed — just a sense of adventure and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. Join us for War Eagle Wilderness and start your Auburn journey with an experience you’ll never forget!
Fast Facts
All War Eagle Wilderness first-year student trips are designed to meet you where you are in your transition to college. You’ll step outside of your comfort zone, learn what it means to be a part of the Auburn family, and find community. Regardless of the trip you go on, all WEW Trips are common at their core:
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Trips are $225 or less
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No experience necessary
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Trip activities are designed with the beginner in mind
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Whether you’re new to the activity or a seasoned pro, you’ll find community on a War Eagle Wilderness Trip
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An inclusive, small group experience that welcomes you to the Auburn community
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Include connection to student life at Auburn through meaningful discussions
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An immersive and accessible outdoor experience that invites you to explore existing or budding interests that you can continue to foster in your time at Auburn
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Peer-led by Auburn students
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All camping and activity equipment is provided
Canoe Cahaba
May 30, 2025
Cost: $150
This unforgettable weekend adventure is designed to connect you with fellow Auburn students and the great outdoors! Kick off the trip with a catered dinner and pre-trip social before heading to Oak Mountain State Park. On Saturday, paddle 7.3 scenic miles down the Cahaba River, complete with a riverside lunch and an evening cookout back at camp. Cap off the weekend with thrilling paddling adventures at the Montgomery Whitewater Center before returning to campus with new friends and lasting memories. Don’t miss this epic introduction to your outdoor experience at Auburn!
Raft The Ocoee
June 6, 2025
Cost: $225
Get ready for an adventure-packed weekend with War Eagle Wilderness: Raft Ocoee! Kick things off with a catered dinner, team activities like crate stacking or the pamper pole, and an evening of connecting with new friends. After camping at Auburn, you’ll head to Parksville Lake RV Campground for a day filled with exciting options — hike to Rainbow Falls, swim at Blue Hole, explore the Ocoee Whitewater Center, or try stand-up paddleboarding. End the night with a cozy cookout and campfire chat. On Sunday, experience the thrill of rafting the iconic Middle Ocoee River before returning to Auburn with memories to last a lifetime.
Backpack Pine
Mountain Trail
June 6, 2025
Cost: $150
Hike 7.4 miles along the Pine Mountain Trail, stopping at Dowdell Knob for breathtaking views before camping under the stars. On Sunday, trek to the stunning Cascade Falls for lunch and a refreshing swim, followed by a final hike back to the trailhead. Wrap up the weekend with an ice cream stop and unforgettable memories with new friends. This is your chance to explore, connect, and embrace the great outdoors!
Zipline Banning Mills
July 13, 2025
Cost: $150
Soar to new heights with War Eagle Wilderness: Zipline Banning Mills! Start your day with breakfast and team-building at Auburn Outdoors before heading to Historic Banning Mills, home to the world’s longest zipline canopy tour. After a scenic lunch, gear up for an exhilarating Level 3 Zip Line Tour, featuring sky-high thrills and breathtaking views. It’s the perfect one-day adventure packed with excitement, teamwork, and unforgettable memories!
How to Register
Register for the Lottery:
Complete the registration form by April 13th to enter the trip lottery.
Lottery Opens - March 27 at 9 a.m.
Lottery Closes – May 4 at 11:59 p.m.
Selection Process:
War Eagle Wilderness participants will be randomly selected from the lottery.
Auburn Outdoors will communicate with you exclusively through your @auburn.edu email address for all War Eagle Wilderness Trips.
Notification:
Selected WEW participants will be notified via email by May 9th with details on how to confirm their spot and pay.
If you are not selected, you will also receive an email encouraging you to join an Auburn Outdoors adventure in the fall.
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Confirm Your Spot:
If selected, follow the instructions in your email to pay the full trip cost through the provided registration link.
Cancellation Policy:
If you decide not to participate after registering for the lottery, you must cancel by May 18th at 11:59 p.m. by emailing auburnoutdoors@auburn.edu. Failure to cancel by this deadline will result in a $100 charge to your e-bill during your first semester.
Frequently Asked Questions
Testimonials
"As an international student, participating in Auburn Outdoors trips has been a truly enriching part of my journey at Auburn University. The staff’s dedication, thoughtful planning, and warm approach created an inviting environment that made each trip both enjoyable and memorable."
"One of the most professionally organized trips, and so inexpensive that I am guaranteed to do at least one experience a semester. It’s also a great way to learn skills to run your own trip and connect with those who are excited with all things outdoors. The rental center will even let me rent that same equipment."