Frequently Asked Questions
The following is a list of frequently asked questions regarding the Outdoor Wellness program.
Outdoor Wellness Trips and Events
Question: What trips and events are happening this quarter?
Answer: You can check out our current calendar of events on our current offerings section. All of our programs or events that require registration will be posted at myarc.uwb.edu. You should also follow our Instagram account to learn about fun spontaneous programs we run throughout the quarter! We will be offering drop in programs throughout the year at a variety of locations around campus.
Question: How do I know what trip/event is right for me?
Answer: We strive to offer a variety of trips for varying skill levels throughout the year. If you’re curious about a trip, you can read the full description at myarc.uwb.edu. Trip descriptions all include skill level, ability requirements, and important details about the event. Still unsure? Please email outdoor@uw.edu with any questions and we will be glad to help!
Question: Who can sign up for trips and events?
Answer: All current UWB and CC students are eligible for Outdoor Wellness programs.
Registration for Trips and Events
Question: How do I sign up for a trip and/or event?
Answer: Register on-line at myarc.uwb.edu. If you are having trouble accessing the registration system, please email outdoor@uw.edu.
Question: What if a trip or event is full?
Answer: If there is a trip that you are interested in, but the registration is full please sign up for the waitlist. We often fill last minute spots from the waitlist for our programs. If a spot opens up on the trip, we will send an email to all members on the wait list and the spot will be filled on a first-come first-served basis.
Question: Why do some trips cost money? Don’t my student fees pay for everything?
Answer: UWB and CC student fees heavily subsidize all of our Outdoor Wellness programs. We try to keep as many events free to students as possible, but due to the specialized nature of our programs, some events cost quite a bit of money to put on. As an example, one of our most popular programs so far has been our annual Larches and Leavenworth Trip where we visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm. The cost to hold this program is about $70.00 per student for transportation and ticket purchases. However, students only pay $5.00, which means that $65.00 per person was subsidized by student fees!
Question: I just got added on to a trip from the waitlist…what happens now?
Answer: Keep a close eye on your email inbox as we will be sending you important communication over the next few days. For all free and cost-associated programs, you will be an email with crucial pre-trip information in it. For cost-associated programs you will receive an additional email notification of a charge placed on your account for program registration and instructions on how to pay this balance.
Question: How long do I have to pay my invoice?
You have exactly two weeks to pay your invoice. The email we send you to notify you of the charge on your account will specify the date your balance will be due.
Question: What happens if I don’t pay my invoice by the due date?
If you have not paid your invoice after two weeks, a partial hold will be placed on your account, and you will no longer be able to register for Outdoor Wellness events or rent equipment from the Nest Gear Shop. If you still have not paid your invoice 30 days after the initial date of charge, a full hold will be placed on your ARC membership and you will not be able to utilize any of the ARC services or programs, including Nest Gear Shop equipment rentals, Fitness Center admission, Locker Rentals, Group Fitness classes, etc. Only when you pay your invoice will this hold be removed from your account.
Question: What if I can’t pay my invoice due to unexpected financial insecurity?
Please email immediately us at outdoor@uw.edu to set up an appointment to discuss your situation. The core of our mission at Outdoor Wellness is increase accessibility to outdoor spaces for students by lowering barriers to access whether that be financial or otherwise. We will do our best to ensure any financial hardship you are experiencing doesn’t inhibit you from participating in our programs or utilizing the ARC’s services.
Gear Rentals
Question: What if I need gear for a trip or event?
Answer: Don’t let a lack of gear hold you back from taking part in our events! We do our best to provide essential gear for all of our trips free of charge. The Nest Outdoor Gear Shop has everything from insulated jackets to wool socks. Interested in a backpacking course? We have hiking boots, sleeping bags, and even bowls and sporks! Gear rental is always included free of charge, but items are limited so please check out in advance, the gear rental period is 14-days.
Question: Can I rent gear for a personal outdoor trip?
Answer: Yes! Gear available at the Nest Gear Shop is open for students to check out for personal trips. Gear priority is always given to Outdoor Wellness program participants and staff members who may be utilizing the gear for trips. We strongly recommend calling or emailing ahead during breaks and peak recreation times to check gear availability.
Question: What if I have other questions about the Nest Gear Shop?
Answer: Visit The Nest Outdoor Gear Shop page for additional information about gear rentals.
Accessibility Accommodations
Question: What if I need an accessibility accommodation?
Answer: The University of Washington is committed to providing access and accommodation in its services, programs, and activities. To make a request connected to a disability of health condition contact the sponsoring department (outdoor@uw.edu) 10 days prior to the event date. Cascadia College Students should contact Accessibility Support Services at 425.352.8128, accessibility@cascadia.edu it would be best if requested are made 10 days prior to the event.
General Questions
Question: Who do I contact with questions about the Outdoor Wellness Program?
Answer: If you’re interested in getting more information or if you have questions, contact us at outdoor@uw.edu. If you need to contact the program manager, Rileigh Thompson, she can be reached at rthomp33@uw.edu or 425.352.3686.