Explore new places… Meet new friends… Learn new skills… Have the time of your life!
This year’s Scrambles are:
| Scramble Title | Scramble Dates |
| Early Athlete/Debater/International Scrambles | |
| #1) Wallowa Extravaganza (Backpack) | August 15th, to August 20th |
| #2) Wallowalkabout (Backpack) | August 15th, to August 20th |
| Regular Scrambles | |
| #3) Ross Your Socks Off (Canoe) | August 18th, to August 26th |
| #4) Kayaks and Kerouac (Kayak touring, Lake) | August 18th, to August 26th |
| #5) Orcastaways (Sea Kayak, Ocean) | August 18th, to August 26th |
| #6) San Juan Wanderings (Sea Kayak, Ocean) | August 18th, to August 26th |
| #7) Glacial Deliberation (Backpack) | August 19th, to August 26th |
| #8) Olympian Odyssey (Backpack) | August 18th, to August 26th |
| #9) Let’s Go Coasting (Backpacking) | August 18th, to August 26th |
| #10) Let’s "Smith” Rock the Spandex (Rock Climb) |
August 19th, to August 26th |
| #11) Bodaciously Bouncing Boating (Whitewater Rafting) |
August 19th, to August 26th |
| #12) Whompin’ Wallowas (Backpack) | August 19th, to August 26th |
| #13) Eves at Adams (Backpack) | August 19th, to August 26th |
| #14) Strawberry Sweetness (Backpack) | August 19th, to August 26th |
| #15) Wallowa Wayfarers (Backpack) | August 20th, to August 26th |
| #16) Slammin’ Salmon (Whitewater Kayak) | August 19th, to August 26th |
Welcome!
Welcome to Whitman College. The Whitman College Outdoor Program takes students hiking, rock climbing, mountaineering, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, cross-country skiing, telemark skiing, and snowshoeing throughout the year as well as facilitating leadership training. This August, the Outdoor Program is sponsoring sixteen Scrambles designed to introduce new Whitman students to "Seasoned Whitties” and to offer some fun-filled, non-academic aspects of college life. Scrambles also ease the transition from summer activities to college life by giving you the chance to meet new friends before school begins. So, how about starting your Whitman career with a canoeing, sea kayaking, climbing, hiking, whitewater kayaking or whitewater rafting trip in a spectacular Northwest wilderness setting? This brochure is your invitation to join us on one of the 32nd Annual Whitman Scrambles, an experience you will never forget!
Many graduating seniors claim that their Scramble trip was one of the best experiences of their college career. These wilderness based trips are not only a lot of fun but a great opportunity to make new friends and start building a community. Students often claim that Scrambles helped them start school more confidently, and prepared them with a new set of friends and a better understanding of life at Whitman. Scramblers have the opportunity to ask their upperclassmen trip leaders numerous questions about college life, and find out about great things to do in Walla Walla: the best off campus getaways, the opportunities offered by various clubs and sports, what different classes are like, and many other helpful informative tidbits.
Unless otherwise noted, most Scrambles are geared toward beginners with little or no experience. Some of the trips are a bit more rigorous and adventurous, while others are more relaxed. As long as you are in reasonable shape, you should have an enjoyable time. Be sure to check the trip descriptions for more details and specific requirements. Experienced OP student outdoor leaders coordinate all of the Scramble trips.
Space is limited, so register right away!
Scramble trips are extremely popular and fill up quickly so sign up as soon as you get your paperwork (forms are mailed to all accepted students near the end of May). On June 15th we will shuffle the applications and have a lottery. We will process applications by random lottery style and will try to assign trips based on stated preferences. We will continue to accept and process applicants after June 15th on a first come first served basis until all trips are filled. We normally run a large waiting list so get your application in by June 15th to improve your chances of getting on a Scramble. If you plan to go on a Scramble, send your application and full payment before June 15th.
We will notify you of your trip placement within two weeks. Payment should be in the form of a check or money order payable to the Whitman College Outdoor Program. We cannot take credit cards. When signing up, pay for your first priority trip. Paid "Scramblers” will have reserved spots. Failure to pay will place you on the waiting list only. All Fees are nonrefundable after July 15th.
There are inherent risks and hazards in living and traveling in the remote wilderness areas through which Scrambles travel. Whitman is committed to minimizing these risks as much as possible, but risk cannot be entirely eliminated. Freezing temperatures, rivers, rock fall, lightning, and other hazards encountered during wilderness activities can challenge even the most experienced outdoor leader. Errors in judgment or the unpredictable forces of nature can become potentially life threatening. Scramble leaders have been selected for their first aid training and backcountry experience. A four-day required Scramble leader training further prepares them. They carry first aid kits and are expected to follow Whitman evacuation procedures. Each group also carries a cell phone in their van, but these cannot be expected to work in remote areas.
The majority of medical incidents such as strains, sprains, scrapes, and minor cuts can be treated in the field. A more serious injury may require evacuation to a medical facility and would need to be covered by a student’s health insurance plan. It could take hours or days to reach definitive medical care depending upon where an injury occurs. It is important that you understand that there are risks. Scramble leaders and participants learn to identify hazards and adapt behavior. If you have any further questions about risk management on Scrambles, please contact the Outdoor Program Director or Assistant Director.
Every student plays an important part in the success of their Scramble. Participants are expected to transport their own gear and share in all trip responsibilities. A positive attitude and good physical conditioning are important. You will also be sleeping outdoors and may be in a co-ed tent group. You are expected to take care of yourself in weather conditions that can sometimes be unpleasant and you will be involved with setting up and taking down camp, cooking, cleaning, and other group tasks. Leave No Trace (LNT) techniques will be practiced during all Scramble trips in order to help protect the beautiful wilderness areas of the Northwest. Expect the unexpected and be prepared to be flexible. Weather, trail conditions, and other things may not be what you expect. Humor, a good attitude, hard work, and tolerance for adversity will help you tackle these challenges should they arise. Furthermore, good group dynamics don’t just happen but are the result of hard work, thoughtful interactions, good intentions, and a respect for people with diverse backgrounds. Please join us if you are interested in building a well-functioning, cohesive group. Scrambles are designed to ease your transition into life at Whitman College and are a great introduction to the popular Outdoor Program. You will get to develop friendships that will likely last your college career and beyond.
Start your college life off on the right foot by joining us on a trip!
The Scramble Program offers a scholarship to students receiving significant need-based financial aid. The Outdoor Program will work closely with the Offices of Financial Aid and the Dean of Students office to determine eligibility. We have a limited number of scholarships, and the scholarships will be available on a first-come first-served basis. Generally, the scholarships, if granted, will cover 50% of the Scramble cost, but depending upon circumstances, some students may qualify for additional funding. When registering for your Scramble, you must provide the remaining 50%. If you are applying for additional funds (beyond the 50%) you will need to contact the Dean of Students office for a waiver of this requirement. If you do not receive a scholarship, you may choose to receive a full refund of your registration fee and deposit or provide the remaining balance for your registration fee by July 15th.
There are a limited number of flights to Walla Walla, so you should make travel arrangements as soon as you are confirmed on a trip. In July, you will receive a letter from your Scramble leaders with additional trip details. Included in this letter will be a travel plans form. Please fill out this form and return it to the Outdoor Program. We will make arrangements to pick you up at the Walla Walla airport. You are on your own if you choose to travel to Walla Walla by other means. All Scrambles will start with a group meeting at 1 p.m. in the Ballroom of the Reid Campus Center on the start date of the Scramble. For example, if your Scramble dates are August 18th-26th, you will meet for the first time at 1 p.m. on August 18th. Your group will then spend the afternoon organizing group gear and food. Lodging will be provided in Walla Walla for the group and the Scramble will leave by van early the next morning. All Scrambles will return to Whitman on August 26th, and we will have the Scramble closure ceremony on the side lawn of Reid Campus Center at 6 p.m. Parents are welcome to join us for fun and reminiscing. After the ceremony, Scramblers will be allowed to check into their residence halls between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m., but will not be able to get access to Anderson storage until the morning of August 27th at 9 a.m.
Is there an option for flying other than the Walla Walla Airport?
Scramble participants can also fly into the Tri-Cities Airport in Pasco, WA and ride the Grape Line Shuttle from the airport into downtown Walla Walla or to the Walla Walla Airport. The shuttle runs three times daily and costs $6.50. For more information or ticketing, visit the Grape Line Web site (www.grapeline.us) or call 1-877-433-4775.
Athlete/Debate/International Scrambles
The "Wallowa Extravaganza” and "Wallowalkabout” Scrambles are for incoming students who need to be on campus early for activities. These trips are both scheduled for August 15th-20th and will be completed in time for most fall sport pre-season, debate and international student activities. Due to housing challenges, these are only open for fall sport athletes, debaters and international students.
Food, transportation, and group gear are all included as part of the trip. Group gear includes such items as stoves, cook gear, tents, canoes, rafts, and kayaks. Personal gear is not included as part of the trip fee, but the OP Rental Shop can provide some personal equipment such as backpacks, rain gear, and sleeping bags for a nominal fee. Call the Outdoor Program Rental Shop at 509-527-5965 to check on rental rates and availability. A detailed list of necessary personal equipment will be included in your Scramble packet and is also available on the OP Web site. http://www.whitman.edu/outdoor_program/
We have no lodging on campus if you arrive early. Lodging will start on the start date for your trip. However, many Scramble leaders have off campus housing so you can talk with your leaders and most are happy to put you up. Otherwise, you can rent a hotel room for the night in Walla Walla or Pasco.
We will provide a place for you to store your belongings while on your Scramble. Your items must be well-labeled and will be placed in a storage room. You will not be allowed into your residence hall room until the evening of August 26th at 8 p.m. to sleep but should not plan on moving things in until August 27th at 9 a.m. when all other First Year students get the opportunity to move in.
Drug, Alcohol, and Smoking Policy
No drugs or alcohol are allowed on Outdoor Program trips. Furthermore, smoking is also prohibited due to fire concerns and the strange dynamic that sometimes results from having a division between smokers and non-smokers in a group.
Be sure to send the following along with payment when you register:
What training does my Scramble Leader have?
All Scramble leaders are required to possess current CPR certification, first aid, and the Whitman 15-passenger van driver training. Every Scramble is also required to have at least one leader with a more advanced first aid certification such as Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness EMT. Most Scrambles have two or more WFR certified leaders. Scramble leaders also participate in a required four-day backcountry Scramble Leader training provided by Whitman. Many students also take an optional physical education class such as outdoor leadership, river guide leadership, sea kayak guide leadership or advanced climbing classes to prepare themselves.
What safety and communication equipment do leaders carry?
Each Scramble carries two first aid kits, 4 epi-pens, and a cell phone in the van.
Could wildfire pose a problem to some Scrambles?
Some Scrambles in the past have had to change their routes or go to other areas. All leaders will check with the forest service or appropriate land management agency in their area before starting in order to obtain permits and assess conditions.
Whitman College Outdoor Program
345 Boyer Ave
Walla Walla, WA 99362
www.whitman.edu/outdoor_program
scrambles@whitman.edu
Shannon Flood – Scramble Coordinator
floodsk@whitman.edu – (512) 663-0860
Alicia Riley – Rental Shop Manager
rileyab@whitman.edu – (509) 527-5965
Brien Sheedy – Director of Outdoor Programs
sheedybr@whitman.edu – (509) 522-4395; (509) 386-4375
Salmon Norgaard-Stroich – Assistant Director of Outdoor Programs
norgaas@whitman.edu – (509) 386-7343
Backpacking in the Wallowa National Forest, Oregon
For fall-sports athletes, debaters, international students and other students who are required to report to school early.
Are you coming to Whitman to try out for a sport? Before you score some goals, win some races, or spike some volleyballs, join us athletes for an experience you’ll never forget! We’ll be trekking through the beautiful Wallowa National Forest, filled with crystal clear lakes, majestic peaks, and lush forests with wildlife around every corner. Led by Kelsi, an Alaskan bred senior soccer star, Alex, an Idahoan world traveler, and John, a junior XC speedster and staunch California boy, we’ll make sure this Scramble entails swimming in beautiful remote lakes, developing friendships with fellow athletes and eating food that you won’t even find in your mom’s kitchen, much less on a camping stove! This trip will be moderately strenuous; we’ll be trekking about five to six miles a day up and over ridges and switchbacks.
Summer Contact: John Callow, callowjt@whitman.edu (818) 257-0462
Backpacking in the Wallowa National Forest, Oregon
For fall-sports athletes, debaters, international students and other students who are required to report to school early.
What better way to ease the transition to college life than to wander through the unrivaled Eagle Cap Wilderness of Eastern Oregon’s Wallowas? Under the stern but gentle tutelage of Sarah, Olivia, and Gabrielle, you will traverse a gorgeous loop from Eagle Creek up and over the infamous Wonker Pass (8500 feet) through the spectacular high country of the Whitman National Forest. Along the way, there will be time to swim in alpine lakes, perfect your backcountry cooking, and get all the secret beta on Whitman success. Self-actualization is up to you, but we’ll make sure you have a fun and fulfilling journey. We’ll average 7 miles a day, gaining (and losing) considerable altitude with possible summits along the way. Trail conditions vary, with possible obstacles; previous hiking experience is recommended but not required. So shoulder your pack, lace your boots and join us for the Wallowalkabout! You’ll never be the same!
Summer contact: Sarah Evans, evanssg@whitman.edu (425) 327-0112
Canoeing on Ross Lake, North Cascades, Washington
Come canoeing across Ross Lake for a beautiful and invigorating adventure; the perfect way to start your Whitman College experience. A healthy mix of early morning paddling and afternoon beach time, this trip is a great fit for anyone excited to experience the outdoors through the majestic sport of canoeing. We will be paddling several miles a day (varying from 5 to 10 miles) and embarking on several lovely, optional day hikes. All levels of canoeing experience are sure to have a good time. Great times, great laughs, great sights, great food and great leaders are all in the mix for this awesome Scramble!!
Summer Contact: Jane Lutken, lutkencj@whitman.edu 662) 607-4847
Kayaking and Day Hiking along Ross Lake, North Cascades, Washington
Have you always wanted to be just like Jack Kerouac? Well Kayaks and Kerouac is the opportunity to live out your wildest literary fantasies by kayaking for eight days on Ross Lake! By day, we will kayak on the calm waters of Ross Lake (no more than eight miles a day) and by night, we will have outrageous amounts of fun and eat like Kerouac didn’t – really, really well. We will also be doing the 14 mile round-trip hike to the summit of Desolation Peak, where we will fully immerse ourselves in Kerouac-ian culture by spending the afternoon at the fire station that was once his home. The Desolation Peak hike is challenging, but totally worth it – a post-hike dive into Ross Lake is not to be missed. Our kayaking route is fun and moderately easy, so no previous experience is necessary. Join us for an awesome introduction to life at Whitman!
Summer Contact: Annie Cooper, cooperla@whitman.edu (509) 432-9911
Sea Kayaking in the San Juan Islands, Washington: Circumnavigate Orcas Island
Avast ye sea dogs! Come join us as we set off on a quest to circumnavigate beautiful Orcas Island in the San Juans. Days will be filled with beautiful paddles of about ten miles along the coast of Orcas Island, and nights spent sharing tales of epic proportions around beach fires in wonderful campsites (with outhouses). Not content with merely hugging the shoreline, our group may head off to smaller islands filled with fun spots to play in surf and currents and opportunities to learn more intermediate and advanced paddle and rescue techniques. Although having fun is a top objective of this trip, paddling can be hard work and the sea can be a formidable adversary. Previous kayak experience is recommended but not necessary. All are welcome on this Scramble and guaranteed a rocking good time and sea salt in your hair. You will be led by a cracker-jack team of Jasper "Paddle-Float” Bash, Kate "sometimes I think I’m a puma” Ceronsky, and Peg-leg Pete Gurche.
Summer Contact: Kate Ceronsky, ceronska@whitman.edu (651) 707-4993
Sea Kayaking in the San Juan Islands, Washington
Calling all kayakers! If you are excited about sea kayaking in the beautiful San Juan Islands then this is the trip for you. We will be exploring the inside passages of Orcas, Lopez, Shaw and San Juan Islands in search of fun and adventure. We will spend mornings paddling the sound and practicing new kayak skills. The afternoons will have time for hiking, beachcombing, tide-pooling and enjoying all the natural wonders of the coast. Be hungry for gourmet meals with ridiculous amounts of bell peppers and the most delicious delicacies that you can conceive coming from a camp kitchen. Be eager to gallivant about the beach and encounter exciting marine creatures like sea anemones, starfish and crabs. Most importantly, be ready to bond with your fellow Scramblers and make amazing new friends. This is sure to be a fantastic sea kayak adventure!
Summer Contact: Aaron Rosenbaum, rosenbaj@whitman.edu (619) 980-4516
Backpacking in the Glacial Peak Wilderness in the North Cascades, Washington
Does your heart sing for adventure? Does your blood course thick with longing for the wild lands? Does your soul cry out to be unleashed to the winds? Do you yearn in your very flesh to be wrought conterminous with the earthen wonders? Come, young brothers and sisters, to a land of gnarled peaks and looming glaciers, of pacific lakes and vigilant passes, of broken rock and mighty tree. Come, and relinquish your grasp on the chains of civilization to wander the wild, untold wonders of Spider Gap, Cloudy Pass, Lyman Glacier, and Chiwawa Mountain in the Glacier Peak Wilderness of the North Cascades. Our venture shall begin in the humble hamlet of Trinity, making a grand circumnavigation of 44 miles in beauty and solitude (or, 37 miles with an optional trek to the summit of Chiwawa Mountain). The journey shall take us under the shadow of Lyman Glacier to the shores of Lyman Lake (each held close in the Whitman heart), to unrivaled views of Bonanza Peak, the highest non-volcanic summit in the Cascade range, and views of the legendary Glacier Peak.
Summer Contact: Aiden Beers, beersat@whitman.edu (503) 544-5369
Backpacking in Olympic National Park, WA
Where do you find rainforests? Only the tropics, right? WRONG! We have phenomenal temperate rainforests right here in Washington State. What better way to start off your Whitman career than on a fun backpacking trip with fellow students in the wild forests of Washington? We will be driving northwest from Walla Walla northwest to the Olympic Peninsula and hiking all the way across the wilderness of Olympic National Park. See ancient plants as we hike through lush old-growth valleys and be ready for spectacular views of Mount Olympus as we navigate a high traverse. We may even "scramble” to the tops of some peaks for a better view. We will exit through the awe-inspiring Quinalt rainforest, and if time permits we may even stop at the beach to take in the Pacific Ocean. This strenuous hiking trip is not for the faint of heart: we will be doing about 12 miles a day, with significant elevation loss and gain and will be going from near sea level to more than 5000 feet and back down, so previous hiking experience is highly recommended, since this will probably be the most strenuous Scramble. Get your hiking boots ready and join us on this great trip!
Summer Contact: Ranger Sciacca, sciaccmj@whitman.edu (206) 418-9614
Backpacking on Olympic Coast, Olympic National Park
The ultimate combination of backpacking, beach-bumming, and ocean vistas are yours for the taking on this Scramble. The wondrous Olympic National Park is where the coast, mountains and forest meet. We will be sure to see tide pools, lush temperate rainforests, sandy beaches, and rocky cliffs, as well as the diverse plethora of wildlife that comes with this unique ecosystem. Expect mind blowing sunsets, twice daily Beyonce booty shaking calisthenics, tide table prowess, and the expertise of your leaders: 2 geology majors and a biology major. We will be trekking 30 miles over the course of a week. The terrain can be slippery, uneven, and occasionally challenging as we hike up and over headlands, across large logs, cross a river and walk over slippery, slimy rocks. A stellar attitude and thirst for adventure are a must to appreciate what the Olympic coast has to offer.
Get your gaiters on, Olympic style!
Summer Contact: Elise Otto, ottoe2@whitman.edu (509) 499-9828
Climbing in Smith Rock State Park, Oregon
Spandex. Dynos. Rock’n Roll. Nearly thirty years ago, on the jagged walls of one of America’s most famous climbing areas, a motley crew of gnarly climbers revolutionized the climbing world with a little outrageous Lycra, bad hair, and epic route setting. Today, with more than 1600 routes and some of the best sport climbing in the world, Smith Rock State Park remains one of the nation’s most respected and desirable climbing destinations.
So, this summer, Whitman College Scramblers will continue the legend of the 80’s and will once again sport outrageous Spandex and descend upon Smith Rock’s infamous spires to take a shot at the thrilling sport of climbing. A typical day will consist of lazy mornings, a short hike into the park, basic climbing instruction, adventurous rock scaling under the high desert sun, hiking the beautiful Smith Rock trails overlooking the Cascade mountain range, and evenings spent feasting on expertly prepared meals. In the middle of our outrageously fun week we will take a rest day and refresh in the serene Suttle Lake while enjoying the company of friends and the beautiful Oregon wilderness. This trip is designed for any skill and experience level as long as participants are prepared to show off a little Spandex and have some crazy fun!
Summer Contact: Stephen Wilson, wilsonsj@whitman.edu (719) 494-7495
Whitewater Rafting on the Lower Main Salmon River
Come enjoy eight sunny days in Western Idaho on the beautiful Lower Main Salmon River with your six Whitman river guides and 18 fellow participants. This is the largest Scramble so be prepared for a social experience. No past rafting experience is required. Spend your days in paddle rafts or inflatable kayaks floating through Green, Blue, Snowhole, and Cougar Canyons on some of the best Class I-IV whitewater the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Your nights will be spent sitting around the campfire and eating delicious gourmet meals while getting to know your fellow Scramblers. Sleep under the stars on beautiful white sand beaches. We can’t wait to see you on the water in August!
Summer Contact: Ben Hayes, hayesba@whitman.edu (971) 678-9464
Backpacking in the Wallowa Mountains
Join Michael, Diana and Amy for a week of backpacking in the beautiful Wallowa Mountains just two hours from campus. Think moderate elevation gain, breathtaking views and delicious food that would make yo’ momma proud. After hiking about eight miles of trail each day, we’ll spend our afternoons frolicking in alpine meadows and splashing in ice cold lakes. At the top of Wonker Pass we’ll have spectacular views across the valley below. Day hikes and other top secret activities to be revealed on location. Campsites will vary from wooded forest to alpine lakes. Get ready for a week of moderate hiking, tasty meals and the opportunity to meet ten other awesome Whitties.
Summer Contact: Amy Liechty, amy.liechty@gmail.com (360) 701-7482
Backpacking around Mt. Adams Wilderness, Washington
Come do a partial traverse of the base of Mt. Adams on a route that has been deemed one of the greatest highland hikes in the Cascades. By day, we’ll gaze from our mountainous perch down forested ridges and toward three massive volcanoes, and by night we’ll behold the metropolitan sky-glows of Yakima and Portland. With these sights as our backdrop, we’ll complete a 28-mile hike through varied landscapes with ample opportunities for day-hikes and plenty of time for cinnamon rolls and other culinary delights. This Scramble is rated moderate-strenuous, but with day-hikes, you’ll have opportunities to challenge yourself more, according to your desires. Led by Natalie, Pete, and Gabriella, Eves on Adams is the perfect way to get acquainted with the unique beauty of Washington while preparing for your first year of college!
Summer Contact: Natalie Doughty, doughtnj@whitman.edu (360) 708-7101
Backpacking in the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, Oregon
Looking for that perfect Scramble, the one that has it all? Then we’ve got the trip for you! What better way to get to know your fellow Whitties than to revel together in the glory of delectable backpacking cuisine, beautiful mountain treks, alpine lake swimming and incredible sunrises? No better way…that’s our answer. Join Adam-in-Action, Carrie the Alaskan wild child, and the Clairebear on an unforgettable adventure to the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness Area in western Oregon. As we enjoy clear and crisp waterfalls, sweet springs, sunny skies, and spectacular wildlife, we ensure you will be making memories and friends that will last a lifetime. So break in those boots and get ready for the Scramble everyone will be talking about for years to come!
Summer Contact: Adam Caniparoli, adam.caniparoli@gmail.com (503) 307-8710
Backpacking in the Wallowa National Forest, Oregon
Discover the other Whitman – Wallowa-Whitman National Forest that is. The beautiful Wallowa Mountains will be our stomping grounds for six days of hiking, swimming, and enjoying the outdoors. They are located only two hours away from Walla Walla, giving you an introduction to the pristine outdoors that is readily accessible from Whitman. This moderate to easy trip will carry us through grassy mountain passes, along rocky ridges with gorgeous views, and lead us to clear, glassy lakes. Although some days will be more strenuous, we will average 4 miles per day, which will give us plenty of time to have fun cooking and kicking it in the afternoons. Join three wacky Whitties on what is sure to be an unforgettable trip right in Walla Walla’s backyard.
Summer Contact: Vanessa Casey, caseyvk@whitman.edu (541) 729-6670
Whitewater Kayaking on the Salmon River in Idaho
Ready to play on the whitewater rapids of the Salmon River? Come join Allie, Claire, Simon and our very own Salmon on a six-day adventure on the water. WHETHER OR NOT you have previous kayaking experience, during our 5 days on the river we will hone your skills until you and your kayak become one. Don’t worry, we are only running class I and II rapids which means, a whole lot of fun!
Working from our base camp we will be running a different section of the river each day. While on the river you will learn basic whitewater safety principles, proper paddling technique and the skills necessary to run easy to moderate rapids. Off the river you will enjoy hearty meals around a campfire, where tales of the Idaho wilds will be told. There will also be time after paddling for hiking, Frisbee tossing, s’more making and fun. So grab your swim trunks and personal camping gear (we’ll provide almost everything else!), take a deep breath and join us as we make our way down the Slammin’ Salmon of Idaho! No experience necessary – perfect for fist timers and experienced boaters – must be a strong swimmer.
Summer Contact: Simon Pendleton, pendlesl@whitman.edu, (603) 892-6482
"Scrambles are an exciting and integral way that new students come to know Whitman and one another. Not only do they see and experience the spectacular recreational outdoors in the Northwest, our students form close friendship networks that last throughout their Whitman education and beyond.” – George Bridges, President, Whitman College
"My Scramble helped to ease me into the college atmosphere comfortably and helped me gain a small base of close friends before meeting everyone. It really helped me through my transition into college.” – Andrea Seymour, ’09
"Not only did I meet some awesome upperclassmen (my leaders) who were a great help in showing me the ropes my first semester, I also met people who are currently some of my best friends. I also learned a totally new skill, which I can use for the rest of my life! Go Scrambles!” – Emily Davis, ’08
"I can’t think of a better introduction to the Whitman community than a Scramble with the Outdoor Program. Spending a week hiking in the Wallowas, climbing at Smith or paddling in the San Juans would be an adventure in itself, but what I value most from my Scramble is the relationships I’ve built with my leaders and fellow Scramblers. I recommend joining a Scramble whether you’ve never carried anything heavier than a calc book or you’ve seen it all. What you’ll remember most is the people you meet." – Amy Liechty, ’12
"Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the outdoors or a first-time camper, the Scrambles program is an incredible and unique opportunity to ease into life at Whitman College. I found some of my best friends on my Scramble and it helped make freshman orientation an enjoyable experience.” – Danny Kaplan, ’10
"Not only was my Scramble a huge amount of fun, but it gave me a great chance to learn more about the Outdoor Program at Whitman. I definitely wouldn’t have had the climbing opportunities that I have had throughout the year without my Scramble to start it all off right.” – David Protter, ’10
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