Q&A: GORP at UGA

By: Cathryne Keller

What is GORP?
GORP stands for Georgia Outdoor Recreation Program, and it is the, you guessed it, outdoor recreation program at the University of Georgia.

What does GORP offer?
GORP offers over 50 outdoor-activity-focused trips each semester, and while these trips are the program’s main attraction, GORP also encompasses an outdoor equipment rental store, an indoor climbing wall and two ropes courses that make up the Challenge Course Program.

What types of activities are the trips centered on?
GORP offers a wide range of trip activities, including, hiking, backpacking, rock-climbing, and whitewater rafting. The program also offers instructional clinics focused on various outdoor activities.

How long are GORP trips?
Most GORP trips are day trips or weekend trips, but there are also shorter trips that last a few hours, as well as some week-long trips, like GORP’s annual Ski Colorado trip, which take place during university break periods.

Who can go on the trips?
Priority is given to UGA students and employees, but, if space allows, members of the Athens community are able to take advantage of GORP’s trip offerings at an increased cost.

How much do GORP trips cost?
The cost of the trips ranges from $10 to $890 for students, from $12 to $920 for faculty and staff, and from $15 to $950 for individuals who are not affiliated with the University.

Do I need previous experience do go on a trip?
For the most part, no. According to Jennifer Stewart, the associate director for programs and outdoor recreation, GORP has previously offered a few trips that required prior experience, but this semester all trips are open to people of every skill level.

UGA student kayaking on the Tuckaseegee River during a GORP trip.
How do I find out more about GORP trips?
The GORP website contains detailed information about the trip offerings, as well as other GORP activities. You can also find this information in GORP’s fall 2009 catalog, which you can pick up at the Outdoor Recreation Center, located on the lower level of the Ramsey Student Center in Room 144.


Edited By: Alexandra Laing