Best colleges for outdoor enthusiasts?

Hey guys, I absolutely love outdoor activities - hiking, climbing, you name it. I'd really love to find a college that offers a lot of outdoor opportunities, preferably somewhere with good weather, diverse terrain or maybe even a specialized outdoors club. How do I find out which colleges have the most outdoorsy vibe?

There are quite a few colleges that cater to the outdoorsy type. When researching, look at the geographical location, the types of activities available, whether the college has an outdoor club, and how the local culture and community interact with nature.

For instance, the University of Colorado Boulder is located near the Rocky Mountains, providing abundant access to hiking, rock climbing, and skiing opportunities. The school also has an outdoor club where students can get involved.

Similarly, Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire, has the Dartmouth Outing Club, which is one of the oldest and largest collegiate outing clubs in the country. They're committed to "outdoor education, leadership development, and the experience of wilderness."

The University of California, Santa Barbara, is steps away from the Pacific Ocean and offers waterfront activities like surfing while also being close to hills for hiking.

Meanwhile, Middlebury College in Vermont has its snow bowl for skiing, and the campus is nestled in a location ideal for hiking and camping.

Further South, the University of North Carolina at Asheville is located near the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering virtually unlimited opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and climbing.

Doing deep research on these schools and others would help you make a decision. College websites and student reviews can give you a real feel of the outdoor culture at each institution. Going on virtual tours where possible can also be valuable. During your research, try to gather as much information as possible to make a decision that aligns with your outdoor inclinations.