Whitman College Immersions 2019

Immersions

Welcome to Whitman!
WE ARE SO EXCITED to welcome you to the Whitman and Walla Walla communities.
While you prepare for your college adventure, YOU MAY BE FEELING A LOT OF
EMOTIONS — excitement, nervousness, maybe even fear. Our Immersions
pre-orientation program was created to help you overcome any anxiety you have about
starting college.
Learn more
about the programs at
whitman.edu/orientation
or register at
whit.mn/immersions
Through Immersions, you can choose from four different types of experiences designed to help
first-year and transfer students connect with their new community and HAVE SOME FUN before classes start. All
of our pre-orientation experiences are student-led and designed to be accessible to people from all backgrounds — no
experience necessary! Just bring a positive attitude, a willingness to work hard, and an openness to building community.
About Our Programs
EXPLORATIONS Aug. 24-28
During an Explorations experience, you’ll stay in
one of Whitman’s residence spaces and connect
with fellow students over a shared interest. You can
explore your new community through the lens of
mindfulness; learn to analyze your new friends over a
game while talking about board game theory; or learn
more about how theatre comes to life in our own
Harper Joy Theatre.
SCORE Aug. 24-29
Our Summer Community OutReach Engagements,
or SCORE trips, give you a chance to get to
know the Walla Walla community through direct
service, education and reflection. During these
student-led trips, you’ll learn about our community
organizations, partners and the people who live in
Walla Walla. You’ll get the chance to work hard, make
a difference and reflect on what you’ve learned.
SCRAMBLES Aug. 22 or 23-28
Whitman’s Outdoor Program has been offering
Scrambles wilderness orientation trips since 1977.
These trips will introduce you to outdoor skills like
backpacking, kayaking, rock climbing, hiking and
camping. You’ll spend your week exploring what the
Pacific Northwest has to offer in the great outdoors.
Regardless of your level of experience, the Outdoor
Program has a Scrambles trip for you.
ATHLETICS
First-year students who are joining one of the
college’s varsity sports teams this fall will participate
in a team-specific pre-orientation program and
training. Look for more information coming to you
from your coach! There are no additional registration
steps for students participating in the athletics
pre-orientation programs.

Registration Information
Space in each of our Immersions programs is limited.
Students are encouraged to REGISTER AS EARLY
AS POSSIBLE. Each program will maintain a waitlist
and notify you if space becomes available.
You must activate your Whitman student email in
order to register for an Immersions trip. Activate
your email at whit.mn/acct.
Go to whit.mn/immersions to access the
registration form on our Compass registration site.
Registration must be received by midnight
June 14, 2019. Your Compass login is your
Whitman ID and password.
Follow the steps to rank the four experiences
you’d most like to participate in. You can choose a
combination of SCORE, Scrambles or Explorations.
You’ll receive a registration confirmation in your
Whitmail account.
After registration closes, we will process applications
and do our best to place students in their first-choice
experience. You’ll receive a confirmation email about
which experience you’ve been placed in, as well as any
additional required paperwork.
Participating in SCORE or Explorations experiences is
free for student participants. Students who register for
a Scrambles experience will receive an invoice with the
final trip costs. You can pay for your trip on the Compass
website. Payment for Scrambles trips is due by July 15.
Students who do not pay for their trip by the deadline
will be moved to a waitlist.
Scrambles Scholarships
We want all students who are interested in Scrambles
to get the chance to participate in a trip, regardless of
their financial situation. The Outdoor Program offers
scholarships to students receiving significant needbased
financial aid. Scholarships will cover up to 50%
of the Scrambles cost, depending on the student’s
need-based financial aid. The Outdoor Program will
work closely with the Office of Financial Aid and the
Dean of Students office to determine eligibility. All
students will be automatically considered for aid. No
application is needed. If you need funding beyond
50% of the trip cost, contact the Dean of Students
Office at 509-527-5158.

After the INITIAL TRIP SELECTION LOTTERY, we
will check for your name and level of aid from the Office
of Financial Aid. You will then be notified if you qualify
for financial aid and receive a scholarship before full trip
payment is due on July 15. Your scholarship amount will
be deducted from the full trip price.
Cancellation and Refunds
for Scrambles
If you cancel before July 15, you will receive the
full refund minus a $65 cancellation fee.
If you cancel after July 15 but 14 days prior to
your trip’s starting date, you will receive a
50% refund.
Any cancellations within 14 days of the trip start
date are nonrefundable.
On the rare occasion that the college must cancel a
trip, you will be given the choice of a full refund or
an alternative trip, if possible.
Schedule and Travel Plans
Once you have received confirmation of your
Immersions experience and its start date, it is wise to
MAKE YOUR TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS as
soon as possible. There are a limited number of flights
to the Walla Walla Regional Airport.
After you have booked your travel, you will input that
information into the Compass system. Immersions
leaders will arrange to pick you up if you fly in to the
Walla Walla airport.
Participants can also fly in to the Tri-Cities Airport in
Pasco, Washington, and take the Grape Line shuttle to
Walla Walla. The shuttle costs $15 and runs three times
daily, departing Pasco at 10:05 a.m., 3:25 p.m., and
9:15 p.m. Please confirm times and prices by visiting the
Grape Line website at www.grapeline.us or calling
877-433-4775. Airlines servicing the Pasco airport
have direct flights from Seattle/Tacoma, Las Vegas, Los
Angeles, Portland, Salt Lake City, Minneapolis and Denver.
If you choose to come to Whitman through other means
than the Walla Walla airport, you are responsible for
getting to campus on time.
Accommodations
Lodging is not available on campus before the start of your
Immersions experience. If you need to arrive at Whitman
before your Immersion begins, please contact your
program leader for assistance in finding a place to stay.
Storage
Students participating in an Immersions experience
will be allowed to leave their belongings in their fall
residence hall room before leaving for their trip.
Immersions staff members will be available on campus
the day your experience begins to check you in and let you
into your room in your residence hall. There will not be
time to unpack. Do not leave in your room anything you
will need access to during your Immersions experience
(such as clothes and toiletries needed during your trip).
Many students flying to Walla Walla choose to mail their
school belongings ahead of time and only fly with the
gear they need for their Immersions experience. Please
do not ship boxes to Whitman prior to Aug. 15.
If you would like to mail your belongings to campus,
send them to:
Your Name
c/o Whitman College
280 Boyer Ave.
Walla Walla, WA 99362
If you have questions about mailing your belongings,
contact Eddie DeLeon, post office supervisor, at
deleoner@whitman.edu.

Explorations
Aug. 24-28 / Walla Walla, Washington
What are Explorations?
Explorations consist of a five-day experience created by students around a topic that interests them. Explorations are
INTEGRATIVE AND IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES that use Whitman College as a home base, with participants
LIVING AND COOKING TOGETHER in a Whitman residential space. Students will not only engage in daily
activities around the Exploration theme, but will also have time to investigate fun aspects of Whitman and Walla Walla.
Participants will be introduced to the topic area by student leaders and each day dive more deeply into the theme
area. Direct experiential involvement, education and reflection will be the cornerstones. There are no costs associated
with Explorations and no prior experience is necessary.
Expectations
Explorations are heavily experiential, and all participants will be expected to fully engage in the daily activities, reflect
on their learning and keep a POSITIVE ATTITUDE. Each student will be expected to thoughtfully contribute to the
experience and be an active part of the group. Participants will help cook and clean up. Each student should bring a
willingness to build a cohesive group and develop friendships that will continue throughout their time at Whitman.
Equipment and Food
Food, transportation (as needed) and group gear/supplies are all included as part of the Exploration. Participants
need to BRING A PILLOW AND SLEEPING BAG. Three weeks prior to the start of your Exploration you will
receive a letter with a detailed list of necessary personal items.

EXPLORATIONS
2019 Exploration Themes
Ticket to Board Game Theory
Game theory is a branch of mathematics that analyzes perfectly RATIONAL AND LOGICAL DECISIONS.
Shockingly, people often do not make perfectly rational and logical decisions. Ticket to Board Game Theory asks
how people make real decisions based on friendship, spite, chaos, honor and a thousand other out-of-game reasons.
Participants will hone skills like NEGOTIATING, PLANNING AND READING PEOPLE by playing games such
as Sheriff of Nottingham, Blokus, One Night Ultimate Werewolf, Sushi Go!, Settlers of Catan and many more. Along the
way, we’ll explore Walla Walla, create memories and make new friends.
Radical Reflection: A Mindful Introduction to the Walla Walla Area
Want to get a little taste of your new home before school begins? This Exploration will expose you to the Walla Walla
area through the lens of mindfulness. Through hiking, meditation, yoga, exploring, journaling, discussion and other
activities, we’ll EXPLORE QUESTIONS like: How do we interact with nature? How do we reconcile this area’s violent
past? What does it mean to go to college? Come join us in picnicking at our favorite outdoor spots, hearing from Walla
Walla locals, visiting the best museums, taking a splash in the fountain, cooking meals and getting to know each other.
Lights, Camera, THEATRE
Do you have an interest in acting or creating the behind-the-scenes magic that makes a play come to life? This
Exploration will focus on introducing students to the many aspects of creating a production. Come learn about and
develop your theatre techniques: acting, set design, lighting, costume design, directing — this EXPLORATION
HAS IT ALL. Participants will get an introduction to Whitman’s Harper Joy Theatre facilities and go on a tour of the
community facility, Little Theatre of Walla Walla. In addition, we will explore interesting areas of Walla Walla, have
fun adventures and entertain the other Explorations groups with our very own show.
Contact Information
Barbara Maxwell
Director,
New Student Orientation
maxwelba@whitman.edu
509-527-5208
Funmi Oyekunle
Assistant Director,
New Student Orientation
oyekunfm@whitman.edu
509-522-4436

SCORE
Summer Community OutReach Engagements
Aug. 24-29, 2019 / Walla Walla, Washington
What are SCOREs?
Sponsored by the Student Engagement Center, SCOREs are student-led pre-orientation engagement trips for incoming
Whitman students. Through direct service, education and reflection, SCORE participants EXPAND THEIR
LEARNING BEYOND CAMPUS to connect with the local community.
SCOREs are integrative and immersive experiences that introduce participants to the Walla Walla community and its
complexities. Participants will meet with community partners, organizations and area residents to learn about local,
social and political dynamics. DIRECT SERVICE, EDUCATION AND REFLECTION will be the cornerstones,
as well as fun exploration of the Walla Walla area. Each group will stay in a local church and cook most meals
together. There are no costs associated with SCORE and no prior experience is necessary.
Expectations
Every student plays an important part in the success of SCORE. Because the engagements are service and social
justice-oriented, every participant will be expected to work hard, to be critically and respectfully open-minded, and to
keep a positive attitude.
Reflection on daily activities and learning are also important parts of SCORE, and will require THOUGHTFUL AND
ACTIVE CONTRIBUTION. At lodging sites, all students help cook and clean up. Willingness to build a cohesive
group will help in developing friendships that will continue throughout students’ time at Whitman.
Equipment and Food
Food, transportation and group gear are all included as part of the trip. Participants need to bring a sleeping bag
and floor pad (if desired). Three weeks before departure, you will receive a letter with a detailed list of necessary
personal items.

SCORE
2019 SCORE Themes
Community Health
The Community Health SCORE will introduce incoming students to the complexities of health issues in a rural
community. Health is used in the broadest sense to incorporate PHYSICAL, MENTAL, EMOTIONAL AND
COMMUNITY HEALTH. Participants will explore the different ways health care is provided to the people in the
Walla Walla Valley. In a world where health care coverage is limited and expensive it is important to understand what
a community’s duty is to provide adequate health resources to its residents.
Education: Beyond the Classroom
The Education SCORE examines the variety of schools
and educational opportunities in Walla Walla, including
our public and private K-12 system and the three higher
education institutions. In addition to exploring schools,
PARTICIPANTS WILL EXPLORE OTHER
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES in the community
beyond the classroom.
Food and Agriculture
Participants in the Food and Agriculture SCORE explore the industry that has become the backbone of Walla Walla
and the livelihood of many of its residents. Students will work with farmers and land managers, as well as follow the
movement of resources from farms to homes and beyond. Through EXAMINING THE HISTORY OF THE LAND
and its uses, we can discover the impacts on the ecosystem and community.
Immigration in the Valley
Immigration in the Valley examines the dynamics of migration and working and existing securely as a person without
documentation. Participants will EXPLORE THE RESOURCES AND COALITIONS established to provide
support from the professional level to volunteer-based services.
Living in Community
Living in Community explores the many ways Walla Walla
allocates resources and support to all of its residents.
Participants will connect with people in varying stages of
life, circumstance and ability, as well as the community
members who work to empower and support them. This
experience includes programs supported by the Student
Engagement Center, which students may continue working
with throughout their time at Whitman.
Walla Walla: Access and Resources
Walla Walla: Access and Resources will explore the town of
Walla Walla from a historical perspective. We will look to its
physical spaces and the movement of resources that fulfill
the community’s needs. THEMES OF TOURISM AND
ECONOMIC GROWTH will be analyzed and contextualized
through discussion of the development of the valley.
Student
Engagement Center
Community Service
Phone 509-527-5183
Email score@whitman.edu
Web whitman.edu/sec

Scrambles
What are Scrambles?
The Scrambles program is one of the OLDEST WILDERNESS ORIENTATION PROGRAMS IN THE NATION.
These MULTIDAY ADVENTURES give first-year and transfer students the opportunity to start college by pushing
their boundaries, meeting new people and exploring the beautiful Pacific Northwest. The trips are led by current
Whitman students involved in the Outdoor Program. For 2019, the Outdoor Program is sponsoring 18 Scrambles
designed to introduce new students to current students while experiencing the fun, nonacademic side of college life.
About the Outdoor Program
The Outdoor Program at Whitman College fosters PERSONAL GROWTH, FACILITATES LEARNING and
creates recreational opportunities through skills and risk management training, leadership development and
environmentally sound trips in a supportive community. Seven programmatic areas fulfill the Outdoor Program’s
mission: Scrambles; Sports Studies, Recreation and Athletics (SSRA) classes; Climbing Center; Rental Shop; speakers
and events; trainings; and trips. Learn more at whitman.edu/outdoor-program.
Expectations
Every student plays an important part in the success of their Scramble. Participants are expected to carry their own
gear and share in all trip responsibilities. A POSITIVE ATTITUDE and good physical condition are important.
You will be sleeping outdoors and may be in a gender-inclusive tent group. You are expected to take care of yourself
in weather conditions that can sometimes be unpleasant, and you will be involved with setting up and taking down
camp, cooking and cleaning, and other group tasks. Your Scramble group will practice Leave No Trace techniques to
protect the beautiful wilderness areas of the Northwest.
EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED, and be prepared to be flexible. Weather, trail conditions and other things may not be
what you anticipate. Locations are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances such as wildfires, road closures or
access issues. Humor, a good attitude, hard work and tolerance for adversity will help you tackle these challenges should
they arise. Good group dynamics are the result of hard work, THOUGHTFUL INTERACTIONS, good intentions
and respect for people with diverse backgrounds. Please join us if you are interested in building a well-functioning,
cohesive group.
Equipment and Food
Transportation, food and group gear are all included as part of the trip. Participants with food allergies or restrictions
are highly encouraged to work directly with rations manager Cy Burchenal (burchecm@whitman.edu) and their trip
leaders to ensure their dietary needs are met. Bringing a few of your favorite special food items is also possible and may
increase your comfort. Group gear includes: stoves, tents, cooking gear and all water-specific apparel and equipment.
Please note that group gear items do not need to be reserved ahead of time. Personal gear is not included in the cost of
the trip. These items include: sleeping bag, sleeping pad, fleece pants/jacket, rain pants/jacket, gaiters and backpacks.

SCRAMBLES
After you are placed in a trip, you can use the Compass portal to access trip logistics information, including a detailed
packing list along with a rental reservation form. If you need to rent items from the Outdoor Program Rental Shop, fill
out the reservation form in Compass. SCRAMBLES PARTICIPANTS MUST SUBMIT THEIR EQUIPMENT
RENTAL RESERVATIONS AT LEAST TWO WEEKS BEFORE THE START OF THEIR TRIP. Equipment
availability is not guaranteed. The Rental Shop also stocks a variety of high-quality retail merchandise and a list of
items sold will be included in your info packet as well. For information, call the Rental Shop at 509-527-5965.
Experience and Fitness Level
Unless otherwise noted, Scrambles are geared toward beginners with little or no experience in the outdoor activity
of the trip. Some of the trips are more rigorous, while others are more relaxed. If you select a trip that corresponds
with your fitness level, you should have an enjoyable time, but be sure to check the trip descriptions for more
details and specific requirements. Scrambles are led by experienced trip leaders under the guidance of the
Outdoor Program.
Difficulty Rankings
Easier Moderate Strenuous
• Hiking mostly on well-worn trails.
• Mileage covered hiking is generally
lower and at a slower pace.
• Backpackers are responsible for
carrying a heavy pack.
• Climbers are car camping and have
the opportunity to top rope climb
grades 5.5-5.11 based on interest.
• Harder climbing is “challenge
by choice.”
• Some off-trail hiking over uneven
terrain is not uncommon.
• Backpackers are responsible for
carrying a heavy pack.
• Mileage covered hiking is generally
longer.
• Boaters must be swimmers and
comfortable around water.
• Whitewater boaters must be
strong swimmers.
• Waves, wind and weather are
variable and could increase
difficulty.
• Considerable off-trail hiking over
obstacles such as boulders, talus,
slippery surfaces or fallen trees.
• Longer mileage days hiking and
paddling.
• Backpackers are responsible for
carrying a heavy pack.
• Boaters must be swimmers and
comfortable around water.
• Whitewater boaters must be
strong swimmers.
• Waves, wind and weather are
variable and could increase difficulty.
Contact Information
Whitman College Outdoor Program
whitman.edu/outdoor_program
scrambles@whitman.edu
Alexandra Stanley
Scrambles Coordinator
scrambles@whitman.edu
415-450-1577
Alicia Riley
Rental Shop Manager
rileyab@whitman.edu
509-527-5965
Cy Burchenal
Scrambles Rations Manager
burchecm@whitman.edu
406-531-1069
Brien Sheedy
Director of Outdoor Programs
sheedybr@whitman.edu
509-386-4375
Stuart Chapin
Assistant Director of Outdoor Programs
chapins@whitman.edu
509-527-5791

Trip Details
3
5
4
8
1
2
WASHINGTON
15
OREGON IDAHO
6 16 18
7 17
11 12 13
14
9 10
# Name Type Location Fitness Level Dates Cost
1 Rossome Ramble Canoe Ross Lake, North Cascades, Washington Moderate Aug. 22-28 $750
2 A Rossin’ and a Rollin’ Canoe Ross Lake, North Cascades, Washington Moderate Aug. 22-28 $750
3 Paddlin’ with a Porpoise Sea Kayak San Juan Islands, Washington Strenuous Aug. 22-28 $750
4 San Juan Wanderers Sea Kayak San Juan Islands, Washington Strenuous Aug. 22-28 $750
5 Lummi Landers Sea Kayak San Juan Islands, Washington Strenuous Aug. 22-28 $750
6 Epic Elkhorn Escape Backpack Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Moderate Aug. 22-28 $750
7 Elkhorn Extravaganza Backpack Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Moderate Aug. 22-28 $750
8 Glacial Glow Backpack Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Strenuous Aug. 22-28 $750
9 Bodaciously Bouncing Boating Whitewater Rafting Lower Salmon River, Idaho Moderate Aug. 22-28 $800
10 Slammin’ Salmon Whitewater Kayaking Lower Salmon River, Idaho Strenuous Aug. 23-28 $750
11 School of Hard Rocks Rock Climb Smith Rock State Park, Oregon Easier Aug. 23-28 $650
12 Smith Family Robinson Rock Climb Smith Rock State Park, Oregon Easier Aug. 23-28 $650
13 Strawberry Sweetness Backpack Malheur National Forest, Oregon Easier Aug. 23-28 $650
14 Strawberry Jubilee Backpack Malheur National Forest, Oregon Easier Aug. 23-28 $650
15 Pyroclastic Pathfinders Backpack Mount St. Helens-Gifford Pinchot National Forest Strenuous Aug. 23-28 $650
16 Eagle Cap Explorers Backpack Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Strenuous Aug. 23-28 $650
17 Face the Hurricane Backpack Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Strenuous Aug. 23-28 $650
18 Wild Wallowa Wanderings Backpack Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Strenuous Aug. 23-28 $650

SCRAMBLES
Canoeing ROSS LAKE, NORTH CASCADES, WASHINGTON
1 Rossome Ramble
2 A Rossin’ and a Rollin’
These Scrambles will spend their days canoeing on North Cascades
National Park’s Ross and Diablo Lakes. The group will canoe between
4-9 miles each day. There may be a day hike up to Desolation Peak
(elevation 6,100 feet). Highlights include PANORAMIC VIEWS
of Ross Lake and lounging on lakeside docks. Evenings are usually
spent in forest or lakeside campsites telling stories, playing games and
cooking with your fellow Scramblers and Scramble leaders.
PREREQUISITES
Strong swimming ability and comfort around water
DATES 1 p.m. Aug. 22 to 6 p.m. Aug. 28
COST $750
LIMIT PER TRIP 9
FITNESS LEVEL
Moderate
Sea Kayaking SAN JUAN ISLANDS, WASHINGTON
3 Paddlin’ with a Porpoise
4 San Juan Wanderers
5 Lummi Landers
These Scrambles will be spent sea kayaking in the gorgeous San Juan Islands. Depending upon conditions, the groups
may explore small, nearby islands as well. We’ll wake up with the tides, learn technical paddling skills and play in the
ocean currents. Expect to paddle between 4-10 miles per day. Evenings will be spent CAMPING SEASIDE, cooking
up backcountry specialties and playing fun games with your fellow Scramblers. Highlights include the opportunity to
see unique ocean wildlife and paddle along beautiful coastlines. Paddling can be hard work in rough conditions, so be
prepared for both a challenge and a great time!
Lummi Landers and Paddlin’ with a Porpoise are sister Scrambles.
This means that Lummi Landers will paddle from Larrabee State
Park to Burrows Island, spending the trip exploring the waters
around Lummi, Sinclair and Cypress islands, among others.
Paddlin’ with a Porpoise will paddle the opposite direction, starting
at Burrows Island to end in Larrabee State Park.
San Juan Wanderers will take a ferry to Lopez Island and spend the
trip exploring the waters around Lopez, Shaw, Orcas and Blakely
islands, among others.
PREREQUISITES
Strong swimming ability and comfort around water
DATES 1 p.m. Aug. 22 to 6 p.m. Aug. 28
COST $750
LIMIT PER TRIP 9
FITNESS LEVEL
Strenuous

Backpacking
ELKHORN MOUNTAINS, OREGON
WALLOWA-WHITMAN NATIONAL FOREST
6 Epic Elkhorn Escape
Anthony Lake Trailhead to Twin Lakes Trailhead
7 Elkhorn Extravaganza
Twin Lakes Trailhead to Anthony Lake Trailhead
These sister Scrambles will be spent backpacking in the Elkhorn Mountains
through the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Epic Elkhorn Escape will
hike south from Anthony Lake Trailhead to Twin Lakes Trailhead, while
Elkhorn Extravaganza will hike the opposite direction. Expect to hike from
2-11 miles each day on trails that cross through forest and meadows and
pass by Black Lake, Lost Lake, Summit Lake and Twin Lakes. Highlights
include the opportunity (weather and group permitting) to summit Elkhorn
Peak (elevation 9,400 feet), and explore the PRISTINE ALPINE
MEADOWS and REFRESHING LAKE WATER. Evenings will be spent
cooking up delicious backcountry treats, playing games, swapping stories
and enjoying time with your fellow Scramblers.
DATES 1 p.m. Aug. 22 to 6 p.m. Aug. 28
COST $750
LIMIT PER TRIP 9
FITNESS LEVEL
Moderate
GLACIER PEAK WILDERNESS, WASHINGTON /
MT. BAKER-SNOQUALMIE NATIONAL FOREST
8 Glacial Glow
North Fork Sauk Trailhead
If you’re interested in trekking past glaciers on your Scramble, this trip is for
you! This Scramble will be spent in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
just southwest of Glacier Peak. The trail follows the North Fork of the Sauk
River, through an alpine meadow, and past Blue Lake. Highlights include
iconic GLACIER-CARVED VALLEYS, breathtaking views of Glacier
Peak and meadows full of wildflowers. Expect to hike 4-9 miles each day with
considerable elevation change, plus a few optional day hikes, which are group
and weather dependent. Your evenings will be spent in cozy campsites cooking
backcountry specialties and getting to know your Scramble leaders and fellow
Scramblers. While previous backpacking experience is not required, this is a
strenuous trip, so be prepared for steep, challenging days on trail.
DATES 1 p.m. Aug. 22 to 6 p.m. Aug. 28
COST $750
LIMIT PER TRIP 9
FITNESS LEVEL
Strenuous

SCRAMBLES
Whitewater Rafting
LOWER SALMON RIVER, IDAHO
9 Bodaciously Bouncing Boating
Come enjoy six days in western Idaho, paddling 72 breathtaking miles
of the Lower Salmon River with your very own Whitman river guides.
This is the largest Scramble, which means an entertaining orientation
experience with many of your peers. Spend your days enjoying the
scenic gorge of the second deepest canyon in North America while
paddling exciting Class I-IV whitewater. Your nights will be spent
hanging out on pristine white sand beaches, feasting on Dutch oven
specialties, playing camp games with your fellow Scramblers and star
gazing in Idaho’s beautiful wilderness. Highlights include dramatic
canyon walls and opportunities to swim, splash and play in the river.
PREREQUISITES
Strong swimming ability and comfort around water
DATES 1 p.m. Aug. 22 to 6 p.m. Aug. 28
COST $800
LIMIT PER TRIP 18
FITNESS LEVEL
Moderate
Whitewater Kayaking
LOWER SALMON RIVER, IDAHO
10 Slammin’ Salmon
If you have always loved the water and enjoyed a challenge, this
Scramble is for you! On this Scramble, you will learn the basics of
WHITEWATER KAYAKING, ranging from how to hold a paddle
correctly to running rapids. There will be the option to use hardshell
or sit-on-top kayaks. Our “challenge by choice” philosophy will allow
you to experiment with the style of kayaking that is most fun for you.
The group will be car camping along the Lower Salmon River about
15 miles upstream from Riggins, Idaho, enjoying the views of the
scenic canyon walls from the camp kitchen. Each day, the group will
depart to kayak a few miles of Class I-II whitewater before returning
to lounge on white sand beaches at camp. Depending on abilities and
water flows, an opportunity to paddle a Class II+ or III section may be
a possibility during the trip. Evenings are spent playing camp games,
recounting the day’s successes with your fellow Scramblers around
the campfire and appreciating the finer points of backcountry cuisine.
PREREQUISITES
Strong swimming ability and comfort around water
DATES 1 p.m. Aug. 23 to 6 p.m. Aug. 28
COST $750
LIMIT PER TRIP 9
FITNESS LEVEL
Strenuous

Rock Climbing
SMITH ROCK STATE PARK, OREGON
11 School of Hard Rocks
12 Smith Family Robinson
On this Scramble you’ll be car camping in style just outside Smith Rock
State Park and top rope climbing amazing routes during the day. Smith
Rock is a world-class climbing area with thousands of routes for all
ability levels. This and our “challenge by choice” philosophy makes this
a perfect Scramble for seasoned climbers and newcomers alike. You’ll
learn BASIC CLIMBING TECHNIQUES while top rope climbing
awesome routes all day. Evenings will be spent learning the finer points
of outdoor cooking, sharing jokes and stories, and getting to know your
fellow Scramblers and Scramble leaders, all around a campfire.
DATES 1 p.m. Aug. 23 to 6 p.m. Aug. 28
COST $650
LIMIT PER TRIP 9
FITNESS LEVEL
Easier
Backpacking
STRAWBERRY MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS, OREGON /
MALHEUR NATIONAL FOREST
Little Strawberry Lake Trailhead Loop
13 Strawberry Sweetness
14 Strawberry Jubilee
On these sister Scrambles, you’ll spend five days backpacking in the
Strawberry Mountains in Malheur National Forest. Expect to hike
between 3-5 miles each day, plus an optional summit of Strawberry
Mountain (elevation 9,000 feet), group and weather permitting. The
trail passes the refreshing alpine waters of Strawberry Lake, Slide Lake,
High Lake and Little Strawberry Lake over the course of the Scramble.
Highlights include scenic vistas and lush alpine meadows. Evenings
are usually spent playing camp games, learning the basics of cooking
backcountry cuisine and getting to know your fellow Scramblers.
DATES 1 p.m. Aug. 23 to 6 p.m. Aug. 28
COST $650
LIMIT PER TRIP 9
FITNESS LEVEL
Easier

SCRAMBLES
MOUNT ST. HELENS / GIFFORD PINCHOT NATIONAL FOREST
15 Pyroclastic Pathfinders
This Scramble will be spent backpacking on the south side of Mount St. Helens in
the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Expect to hike between 5-10 miles each day
along the base of Mount St. Helens. Highlights include spectacular views of this
dormant volcano, exploration of volcanic debris fields and a BEAUTIFUL
ALPINE LAKE along the way. In the evenings, the group will camp in the
forest below Mount St. Helens. In camp, you’ll cook up delicious backcountry
meals, swap stories and play games, and get to know your fellow Scramblers.
While previous backpacking experience is not required, this is a strenuous trip,
so be prepared for longer mileage on trail.
DATES 1 p.m. August 23 to 6 p.m. August 28
COST $650
LIMIT PER TRIP 9
FITNESS LEVEL
Strenuous
WALLOWA MOUNTAINS, OREGON / WALLOWA-WHITMAN NATIONAL FOREST
16 Eagle Cap Explorers
Hurricane Creek Trailhead to East Eagle Trailhead
17 Face the Hurricane
East Eagle Trailhead to Hurricane Creek Trailhead
18 Wild Wallowa Wanderings
Two Pan Trailhead to Bowman Trailhead
These Scrambles will be spent backpacking through the majestic Wallowa
Mountains in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Expect to hike between
4-10 miles each day in this hidden gem of Oregon. You’ll pass through forests
and open alpine meadows, follow CLEAR MOUNTAIN STREAMS
and pass pristine lakes, and occasionally pause to take in a wondrous view.
Evenings will be spent in camp learning to make backcountry delicacies,
sharing jokes and stories, and getting to know your fellow Scramblers.
Eagle Cap Explorers and Face the Hurricane are sister Scrambles. Eagle Cap
Explorers will hike south from Hurricane Creek Trailhead to East Eagle Trailhead,
while Face the Hurricane will hike north in the opposite direction. These two
Scrambles will have the opportunity, weather and group permitting, to summit
Eagle Cap (elevation 9,600 feet), the third highest peak in the Wallowas.
Wild Wallowa Wanderings will start at the Two Pan Trailhead and hike past Sky
Lake, Swamp Lake and Steamboat Lake before finishing at the Bowman Trailhead.
DATES 1 p.m. Aug. 23 to 6 p.m. Aug. 28
COST $650
LIMIT PER TRIP 9
FITNESS LEVEL
Strenuous

Policies
Drugs, Smoking and Alcohol Policy
No use of illegal or recreational drugs is allowed during any
college trips, because they inhibit full engagement. Anyone
who uses drugs or alcohol will be released from the trip.
It will be the responsibility of the individual to coordinate
plans once they are removed from the trip. Smoking is
not permitted during outdoor trips due to fire risks.
Accessibility
We strive for our Immersions experiences to be accessible
to all students. If you have any QUESTIONS ABOUT
ACCESSIBILITY please contact the coordinator for the
program you are interested in.
Safety and Risk
EXPLORATIONS: Exploration leaders are expected
to possess current Red Cross first aid certification and a
food handler permit. Exploration leaders participate in
leadership training by a variety of Whitman staff in the
spring semester as well as additional training prior to the
start of Explorations in August. Each Exploration trip will
have a first aid kit and each leader will have a cellphone.
SCORE: SCORE leaders are required to possess current
Red Cross first aid certification. SCORE leaders participate
in training provided by the Student Engagement Center
directly prior to the SCORE start date. Each SCORE trip will
have a first aid kit and each leader will have a cellphone.
SCRAMBLES: All Scramble leaders are required to
possess current CPR and first aid certifications. Every
Scramble leader team has at least one leader with a more
advanced first aid certification such as Wilderness First
Responder (WFR) or Wilderness EMT. Most Scrambles have
two or more WFR-certified leaders. All Scrambles have at
least one van-certified driver for each 12- or 15-passenger
van. Scramble leaders also participate in a required fourday
backcountry Scramble leader training provided by
Whitman College. Many leaders also have taken an optional
elective course such as Outdoor Leadership, River Guide
Leadership, Sea Kayak Guide Leadership or Advanced
Climbing, and/or have paid trip leading experience.
Each Scramble carries two first aid kits, four epinephrine
doses and a cellphone in the van. Some Scrambles carry
additional communication equipment, such as satellite
phones or marine radios. Leaders are trained to use
safety and communication equipment and are expected
to follow Whitman evacuation and treatment procedures.
Participants with food allergies or restrictions are highly
encouraged to work directly with their trip leaders to
ensure their dietary needs are met. Bringing a few of
your favorite special food items is also possible and may
increase your comfort.
There are inherent risks and hazards in living and
traveling in the remote wilderness areas where
Scrambles travel. Whitman is committed to minimizing
these risks as much as possible, but risk cannot be
entirely eliminated. Freezing temperatures, rain,
snow, rivers, rockfall, lightning and other hazards
encountered during wilderness activities can challenge

even the most experienced outdoor leader. Errors in
judgment or the unpredictable forces of nature can
become potentially life-threatening. Scramble leaders
have been selected for their first aid training and
backcountry experience.
The majority of medical incidents, such as strains, sprains,
scrapes and minor cuts, can be treated in the field. A
more serious injury may require evacuation to a medical
facility. It could take hours or days to reach definitive
medical care depending upon where an injury occurs. It is
important that both parents/guardians and participants
understand that there are risks and that they will be away
from definitive medical and mental health care support.
Scramble leaders and participants learn to identify
hazards and adapt behavior, but they are operating in an
environment that can be unpredictable and challenging
at times. If you have any further questions about risk
management on Scrambles, please contact the Outdoor
Program director or assistant director.
Some past Scrambles have had to change their route or
go to another area due to wildfire or trail conditions. All
leaders will check with the appropriate land management
agency in their area before starting to obtain permits and
assess conditions.
Permits
Whitman College operates under federal permits from the USDA Forest Service, National Park Service and
Bureau of Land Management and is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Whitman College operates in the following areas:
Cottonwood BLM (ID)
Henry Mountain Field Station BLM (UT)
Monticello BLM (UT)
Prineville BLM (OR)
Joshua Tree National Park (CA)
Olympic National Park (WA)
Mt. Rainier National Park (WA)
Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest (WA)
Gifford Pinchot National Forest (WA)
Umatilla National Forest (OR)
Malheur National Forest (OR)
Wallowa-Whitman National Forest (OR and ID)
Washington State Parks
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
Baker City BLM (OR)

Learn More and Register
You can learn more about the programs at
whitman.edu/orientation or register at
whit.mn/immersions.
Nondiscrimination Statement
Whitman College has a strong commitment to the principle of nondiscrimination
in all its forms. In its admission, educational and employment practices, programs
and activities, Whitman College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,
sex (including pregnancy and parenting status), gender, gender identity or
expression, genetic information, sexual orientation, religion, age, marital status,
national origin, disability, veteran’s status or any other basis prohibited by the
Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Section
504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and applicable federal, state or local laws.
Inquiries regarding sex, gender and disability discrimination may be directed to
the Title IX and 504 Administrator (509-524-2049; titleix@whitman.edu) or to
the Department of Education Office for Civil Rights (951 Second Ave., Room 3310,
Seattle, WA 98174; 206-607-1600). All other inquiries can be directed to the
Director of Human Resources (509-527-5172; hrdirector@whitman.edu).
In accordance with Federal Law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from
discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability,
and reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. (Not all prohibited bases
apply for all programs.)
Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for
program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language,
etc.) should contact the responsible state or local agency that administers the
program or USDA’s TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact
USDA through the Federal Information Relay Service at 800-877-8339. Additionally,
program information is also available in languages other than English.
To file a complaint alleging discrimination, complete the USDA Program
Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at https://www.ascr.usda.
gov/ad-3027-usda-program-discrimination-complaint-form, or at any USDA office
or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information
requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call
866-632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:
(1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil
Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, D.C. 20250, Mail Stop 0115;
(2) fax: 202-690-1782; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.