CSUN students who have ever wanted to explore a national park, ski down the mountains of Big Bear or dare to go white water rafting, can do so at a discounted rate.

Outdoor Adventures is offered to CSUN students, faculty, staff, alumni and their guests.

Those who participate have the opportunity to explore, learn and relish in the wonder of the outdoors.

Kembelyn Ramirez, 18, kinesiology major, joined a night hike at Mount Hollywood Hiking Trail. It was her first Outdoor Adventures experience.

“Don’t think about it twice,” Ramirez said. “You get to meet people from different backgrounds and experience it with them. It’s beautiful.”

Students are taking advantage of the excursions whether a local hike or a weekend camping trip to Santa Cruz or the Grand Canyon.

Some students have been on multiple excursions. Lena Sayadian, 26, art major, said that the Outdoor Adventures guides were able to get the whole group to interact with one another.

“It’s a good way to meet students, be active and learn new things,” Sayadian said.

There are usually at least three Outdoor Adventures employees or volunteers that oversee every excursion. Their job is to keep students safe and to make sure that their experience is both enlightening and enjoyable.

“I hope students get to learn something new, and use this opportunity to create new friendships and more than anything else get out and have some fun, ” said Eric Hengesbaugh, 24, a recreational sport management graduate student and Outdoor Adventures guide.

Outdoor Adventures, established by Associated Students, is located in the Student Recreation Center. All the expeditions available for the current semester are listed online.