In our July/August 2015 issue, we had readers vote for what they thought was the most adventurous college, and now we’re back with more valuable information on why these schools made the final rounds. Each finalist shared with us where their students like to play, what their students like to study and what the culture is like at the school.
Regis University:
Denver, Colo. is a hub for outdoor recreation, so it’s no question as to why Regis University made it to the top four round of our Adventure College contest. Regis University is located in the heart of Denver, where bike trails, running trails and the mountains are all within reach. Denver boasts an average of 300 days of sunshine, and more than 850 miles of paved multi-use paths that lead and connect to even more outdoor fun. Denver is frequently named one of the best outdoor cities to live in, and with bike lanes, skateparks, golf courses, and the Platte River running right through the center, Denver is a mecca for the outdoor enthusiasts.
What to study: Environmental science, environmental studies, health and exercise science and environmental biology.
These majors get students outside and in the field, and what better place to get hands-on experience than the Rocky Mountains?
Where to play:
Denver itself has a plethora of options to satisfy outdoor cravings such as 400 miles of signed bike routes or fishing the Platte River, however, Regis University offers students even more opportunities to go explore, such as the Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP). The OAP Program provides students with outdoor trips, necessary equipment (free!), knowledge and skills for students going on their own outdoor excursions. OAP’s 2015 trips include rock climbing, a caving expedition, SUP and summiting a 14er.
Regis also offers incoming students a chance to acquaint themselves with other students through 1st Tracks, a program offered by the OAP. 1st Tracks takes students on trips throughout Colorado during July and August so students can get a feel for the amazing state Colorado is, and start their first year with some new adventurous friends.
In the winter, students looking to get some fresh pow or learn how to ski can take the RTD Ski-n-Ride bus to Eldora, or the Front Range Ski Bus can get you to Loveland and Copper Mountain. For students who don’t have their carpool system locked down yet, Colorado Mountain Express (CME) can take kids from the Convention Center in downtown Denver, to Vail, Beaver Creek, Keystone and Breckenridge.
Culture:
When students aren’t doing awesome things outdoors, they can be found at Highlands Square, Tennyson Street and Olde Town Arvada having fun and enjoying some good food after a long day.
Regis University certainly lives up to its adventurous and expectations, and we’re excited to share their outdoor focused mentality.
