Frequently Asked Questions
The following is a list of frequently asked questions regarding the Outdoor Wellness program.
Outdoor Wellness Trips and Events
Q: What types of programs do you offer?
Answer: We offer a variety of outdoor programs including hiking, indoor rock climbing, forest bathing, camping, skills workshops, backpacking, crafting events, snow sports, paddle boarding and more!
Head to myarc.uwb.edu to see our current program offerings.
Q: What trips and events are happening this quarter?
Answer: You can check out our current calendar of events on our current offerings section. All of our programs or events that require registration will be posted at myarc.uwb.edu. You should also follow our Instagram account to learn about fun spontaneous programs we run throughout the quarter! We will be offering drop in programs throughout the year at a variety of locations around campus.
Q: How do I know what trip/event is right for me?
Answer: We strive to offer a variety of trips for varying skill levels throughout the year. If you’re curious about a trip, you can read the full description at myarc.uwb.edu. Trip descriptions all include skill level, ability requirements, and important details about the event. Still unsure? Please email outdoor@uw.edu with any questions and we will be glad to help!
Q: Who can sign up for trips and events?
Answer: The program is open to any currently enrolled student at UW Bothell or Cascadia College. We strive to offer a variety of trips for varying skill levels throughout the year. If you’re curious about a trip, you can read the full description at myarc.uwb.edu. Trip descriptions all include skill level, ability requirements, and important details about the event. Still unsure? Please email outdoor@uw.edu with any questions and we will be glad to help!
Please note that for some collaboration events, registration/attendance will be open to faculty, staff, and/or members of the public. If this is the case, it will be noted on the program description.
Registration for Trips and Events
Q: How do I sign up for a trip and/or event?
Answer: Register on-line at myarc.uwb.edu. If you are having trouble accessing the registration system, please email outdoor@uw.edu.
Q: What if a trip or event is full?
Answer: If there is a trip that you are interested in, but the registration is full please sign up for the waitlist. We often fill last minute spots from the waitlist for our programs. If a spot opens up on the trip, we will send an email to all members on the wait list and the spot will be filled on a first-come first-served basis.
Q: Why do some trips cost money? Don’t my student fees pay for everything?
Answer: UWB and CC student fees heavily subsidize all of our Outdoor Wellness programs. We try to keep as many events free to students as possible, but due to the specialized nature of our programs, some events cost quite a bit of money to put on. As an example, one of our most popular programs so far has been our annual Larches and Leavenworth Trip where we visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm. The cost to hold this program is about $70.00 per student for transportation and ticket purchases. However, students only pay $10.00, which means that $60.00 per person was subsidized by student fees!
Question: I just registered for an event…what happens now?
Answer: Woohoo! We can’t wait to have you join us on our next adventure! Please keep an eye on your inbox in the coming days/weeks for email communication from us regarding trip logistics and tasks we have for you prior to the trip. In the meantime, you can begin completing our waivers for the event. We have 3 required waivers for every event we hold that you must complete in order to attend:
- General Assumption of Risk Waiver: You automatically sign this when you register. However, if you are under the age of 18, you must submit an additional copy signed by your parent/guardian. You can pick up a physical copy from the Nest Gear Shop or download a copy and print it yourself here.
- Health Form: *NEW in 2025* For all first-time participants on Outdoor Wellness programs as well as returning participants who haven’t filled out a health form in over a year, you must fill out our required health form. You only have to complete this form once a year, unless you have any updates to your health information (ex. new medications, recent hospitalizations, injuries, etc.). For those under the age of 18, you must obtain a parent/guardian signature prior to turning in your form. You can pick up a physical copy in the Nest Gear Shop or download a copy and print it yourself here.
- Expectations of Participation: This is our only form that must be filled out online, and similar to our Assumption of Risk form, it needs to be completed every trip that you go on. This is also our only form that those who are under 18 don’t need a parent/guardian signature for. Please fill out this form here.
Question: I just got added on to a trip from the waitlist…what happens now?
Answer: Keep a close eye on your email inbox as you will be receiving an email from arcinfo@uw.edu with a link for you to register. Once you register you will get an additional email from us with pre-trip information.
Gear Rentals
Question: What if I need gear for a trip or event?
Answer: Don’t let a lack of gear hold you back from taking part in our events! We do our best to provide essential gear for all of our trips free of charge. The Nest Outdoor Gear Shop has everything from insulated jackets to wool socks. Interested in a backpacking course? We have hiking boots, sleeping bags, and even bowls and sporks! Gear rental is always included free of charge, but items are limited so please check out in advance, the gear rental period is 14-days.
Question: Can I rent gear for a personal outdoor trip?
Answer: Yes! Gear available at the Nest Gear Shop is open for students to check out for personal trips. Gear priority is always given to Outdoor Wellness program participants and staff members who may be utilizing the gear for trips. We strongly recommend calling or emailing ahead during breaks and peak recreation times to check gear availability.
Question: What if I have other questions about the Nest Gear Shop?
Answer: Visit The Nest Outdoor Gear Shop page for additional information about gear rentals.
Accessibility Accommodations
Question: What if I need an accessibility accommodation?
Answer: The University of Washington is committed to providing access and accommodation in its services, programs, and activities. To make a request connected to a disability of health condition contact the sponsoring department (outdoor@uw.edu) 10 days prior to the event date. Cascadia College Students should contact Accessibility Support Services at 425.352.8128, accessibility@cascadia.edu it would be best if requested are made 10 days prior to the event.
General Questions
Question: Who do I contact with questions about the Outdoor Wellness Program?
Answer: If you’re interested in getting more information or if you have questions, contact us at outdoor@uw.edu. If you need to contact the program manager, Rileigh Thompson, she can be reached at rthomp33@uw.edu or 425.352.3686.