Our Mission:
To provide all Santa Clara University students with safe and accessible outdoors experiences that foster an appreciation for the natural world and a sense of community on campus.
What We Do
We lead at least one overnight and one day trip per weekend for the 10 weeks of every quarter.
Our trips vary from day hikes and car camping to backpacking, rafting, mountain biking, kayaking, skiing, snowboarding, and surfing.
We offer gear rentals: sleeping bags, sleeping pads, headlamps, backpacks, and GoPro cameras.
We have 1,000+ undergraduate participants attend our trips each year.
Our spring break trips typically include the Grand Canyon, Utah Canyon Country, Zion, Backcountry Skiing, Big Sur, and Channel Islands.
Big Sur Backpacking, 2014
our values
Safety. Into the Wild prioritizes safety by investing in Wilderness First Responder, Wilderness First Aid, and Mental Health First Aid trainings for all leaders and adhering to procedures and policies that minimize risk and maximize fun.
Inclusivity. Into the Wild aims to reach as many students as possible by designing trips for students of all backgrounds and experience levels. ITW categorizes trips by skill level so students can evaluate which trips best suit their experience levels and needs. ITW leads collaboration trips with other groups on SCU’s campus in order to reach students who may not opt to go on trips otherwise.
Financial Accessibility. Into the Wild prices all of its trips at cost, from less expensive day hikes to more expensive overnight and spring break trips to make trips more accessible. ITW discounts all driver tickets to make trips financially accessible to drivers.
Wellness. Into the Wild provides an environment for students to connect with themselves and the world around them. ITW aims to enhance the student body’s ability to care for themselves, others, and the environment by offering students a break from campus life, a connection with nature, and an opportunity to learn more about their community and world through educational events.
Sustainability. Into the Wild educates leaders and participants about sustainable practices on and off trips. Into the Wild advocates for Leave No Trace policies, vegetarian meals, and Sustainability Guide training for all leaders. ITW partners with other on-campus groups focused on sustainability, such as the Forge Garden and the Center for Sustainability.