Montreat College

You might be an avid outdoor enthusiast. Or, you might not have any wilderness experience at all. Outdoor Orientation is a perfect fit either way—if you’re ready for personal growth and adventure using the wilderness as your classroom.

Start with adventure.

The Montreat College Freshman Outdoor Orientation Trip (MCFOOT) is an outdoor adventure program that allows you to build relationships with your fellow classmates as you hike, climb, and camp in the beautiful wilderness of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. You’ll spend time focusing on your relationship with God, others, yourself, and your natural surroundings as you journey in His creation. This fun and adventurous orientation is offered through Backcountry, a wilderness program that has been run by Montreat College for over 30 years. Our experienced instructors are committed to providing an exciting learning environment, and all leaders are trained in technical skills, wilderness first aid, and group development. Join us, and you can start off your college experience with world-class outdoor activities, push yourself to learn the true meaning of character, and have a great time!

All the details

Dates
To participate in MCFOOT, you’ll arrive on campus earlier than other new students. You’ll also participate in the traditional Welcome Week Orientation. MCFOOT starts the morning of August 12, and returns August 16. You will have a night to rest before Welcome Week Orientation starts on August 17.

Fees
The MCFOOT program costs $485. This includes group equipment, permits, food, transportation during the program, and lodging on campus the night before student check-in. A $100 non-refundable deposit is required by June 15 to reserve a spot.

Registration
Submit your $100 non-refundable deposit, application, and forms by June 15 to:

Backcountry at Montreat College
Attn: Misty Varnell
PO Box 1267
Montreat, NC 28757

828.669.8012, ext. 3406
backcountry@montreat.edu or
varnellmd@montreat.edu

Forms
Application form (PDF) »
College medical form (PDF) »
Assumption of Risk form (PDF) »

PE Credit
MCFOOT students can waive one Physical Education credit due to their participation in the program–another great reason to sign up!

Important Note on Risk
McFOOT is a physically challenging course, but possible for participants in average physical condition. Challenge and risk are part of the teaching methodologies of the program, and although managed to provide as much safety as possible, all risks cannot be removed.