
HBCUs Outside Appalachian Ski Experience
Hitting the slopes in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains is a fantastic introduction to the world of snow sports.
Trip Length Full Day Group Size 20-30 People Activity Snow Sports Intensity Level 3/5
Trip Highlights
Just because it’s introductory doesn’t mean our itinerary isn’t epic. Take in the crisp air and snowflakes sparkling in the sunrays amongst evergreen trees. The first ski area in Northwestern North Carolina and the second oldest ski area in the State. Snow, lift ride views, and a warm fire place, round out this stellar adventure.
This is an all inclusive experience! We’ve got the food, gear, instruction, and transportation lined up. You just need to hop on the bus, and bring the stoke. We’ll provide a packing list of optional items for you to bring. By the end of our experience, you’ll be well versed, and confidently self-sufficient in skiing.
March 04, 2023

Itinerary
Meet & Departure
We have an early start to the day on ECSUs campus. The bus will be departing promptly at 5:00am from the Student Center parking lot. We would hate to leave you behind, but timeliness is important. On the bus we will go over expectations.
Complimentary breakfast & snacks included
Quick Restroom Break
After 3 and a half hours on the road, there will be a rest stop.
Snacks and Water Included
Arrival at App. Ski Mtn.
After unloading check-in and quick roundup to go over the day - ski instruction, gear rentals, meal passes, snowboard upgrades, optional ice skating. There will be a choice between two ski instruction classes to participate in. The day is yours to hit the slopes, kick back in the lodge, and do whatever you want.
Lunch @12:00pm & Dinner @5:00pm Included
*Snowboard Upgrade Not Included
March 4, 8:00pm
Departure from App. Ski Mtn.
7:00pm hardtop for skiing to prepare for departure. 7:30 meet in cafeteria to grab to-go boxes. Evaluation links will be sent out while in transit back to campus.
To-Go Box Included
March 4, 10:45pm
Quick Bathroom Break
After roughly 3 hours, there will be a rest stop.
Snacks & Water Included
March 5, 2:00am
Arrival at Back at ECSU
Thanks for coming! Students who parked at the Student Center will be dropped off at their vehicles. Students who walked from across campus will be dropped off at their dorms.
Goodnight & we hope you join us again.
On Every Expedition
We love to have fun, and we enjoy expanding comfort zones, but your safety and peace of mind is our primary responsibility. Our introductory trips are always led by an HBCUs Outside ambassador. More advanced endeavors are led by experienced professionals, or at a facility with safety protocols in place.
Specific Trip Details
What To Wear
Comfortable Shoes
Warm Socks (Wool/Synthetic)
Base Layer Top and Bottom (Wool/Synthetic)
Synthetic Pants (Lightweight)
Long Sleeve Shirt (Wool/Synthetic, Lightweight)
Warm Hat
Liner Gloves (Optional)
Sunglasses (Optional)
Essential Gear
Ski Bib (Included)
Ski Jacket (Included)
Ski Boots (Included)
Skis (Included)
Ski Poles (Included)
Helmet (Included)
Mittens (Included)
Goggles (Included)
Long Sleeve Shirts (Wool/Synthetic, Lightweight)
Base Layer Top and Bottom (Wool Synthetic)
Buff
Fleece/Wool Hat
Extra pair of Warm Socks (for the trip back)
Refillable Water Bottle
Sunscreen & Lip Balm
Toiletries: Personal Wipes, Feminine Products, Hand Sanitizer
Camera
Book
Health Insurance Card/Information
Electronic Devices
What's Not Included
Snowboard upgrades, ice skating, gift items, and additional snacks, food, and beverages.
Transportation
Meet at ECSU Student Center.
Weather
In late winter, western North Carolina can be sunny and 70 degrees during the day and near freezing at night. Remember to dress in layers. A weather report will be sent out the week of the trip
Liability & COVID
Students will have to sign an ECSU waiver for the transportation and an App. Ski Mtn. waiver for the facility. Students must also bring their health insurance card/information in case of an emergency. Masks are recommended while on the bus and at the facility, but are not required.
This trip is recommended for…
This trip is ideal for those with new to snow sports and those who have prior experience. As an introductory trip, we’ll meet you where you’re at and help you get where you want to be.