Through the HPA Outdoor Program, you’ll connect in powerful and personal ways with the stunning geography of Hawai‘i Island and our region. You’ll also forge close bonds within your travel group, as you share the surrounding beauty and the joint responsibilities of a safe, successful trip.

Backpacking to restore ancient fishponds, hiking coastal beaches, or trekking through remote valleys, you’ll gain confidence, resilience, and leadership skills. Together, we practice aloha ‘aina (love and respect for the land). On every trip, we recognize our responsibility for stewardship and give back in some way.

Our trips take different forms. During the week, we partner with local landowners to offer an afternoon hike in the beautiful hills surrounding Waimea. On weekends, we run a variety of day or overnight trips throughout the school year. Occasionally we make special trips to experience other Hawaiian islands.

The HPA Outdoor Program also partners with the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) to offer top-level wilderness medicine certification courses. Courses vary throughout the year, include a tuition fee, and are open to the public, ages 16 and up.

It’s incredible how a weekend away from campus, connecting with this place and disconnecting from phones and clocks, can rejuvenate you. Just when you think you couldn’t possibly find time to get away, that’s the time you need it most.”

—Renee Jenkinson ’98, program director