Poly Escapes is an Associated Students, Inc. program that plans trips to connect students to the outdoors via weekend adventures. Poly Escapes takes 15 to 20 trips per quarter, including day, overnight and weekend experiences.
“Going on a Poly Escapes trip is a bucket list experience,” Poly Escapes coordinator Matt Eaton said.
Poly Escapes trips range from $10 to $170, depending on the length of the trip and resources needed, according to their website.
This quarter, there are still spots available for the following trips:
Camping at Pinnacles National Park
Nov. 8 -10
“Pinnacles is the closest national park to San Luis Obispo,” Eaton said. “It’s like a diamond in the rough.”
Participants will hike the High Peaks Trail and explore the Bear Gulch Caves on this two-night trip.
Rock Climbing at Joshua Tree National Park
Nov. 15-17
“People come from all around the world to Joshua Tree,” liberal arts and engineering senior Garrett Perkins. “We are really fortunate to make it in a weekend.”
Climbing routes will be set up for all skill levels, ranging from beginners to seasoned veterans.
Float & Camp at Colorado River, Black Canyon
Dec. 15-19
“Each night we spend near a hot spring,” Perkins said. “The river is super beautiful, and Black Canyon is a canyon carved into massive rock formations.”
Participants will begin winter break by canoeing through a part of the Grand Canyon.
Poly Escapes trips are planned entirely by student trip leaders, while the administrative office acts only to support and facilitate the process. Trip leaders complete a rigorous two years of training, developing soft, hard, and leadership skills before leading their first trip.
Eaton said he encourages freshmen students to go on trips this year, noting an excellent opportunity to begin building close friendships.
Poly Escapes trips typically depart from campus on Friday at 3 p.m. and return Sunday afternoon. Students can register in the Poly Escapes rental center or online at access.asi.calpoly.edu.