First-Year Trips
First-Year Trips is a student-run orientation program for all incoming Dartmouth students. In collaboration with the Outdoor Programs Office and New Student Orientation, First-Year Trips creates a unifying early experience for students to launch their transitions to Dartmouth. With a variety of trip types to choose from, students spend four days and three nights in small groups of 6-8 led by current student Trip Leaders. Together, they explore the beautiful natural spaces and places surrounding Dartmouth, build connections with fellow students, and develop a sense of belonging to their new community.
Our Mission: First-Year Trips supports the transition to Dartmouth for incoming students by fostering a sense of belonging and place through inclusive, accessible, small-group outdoor experiences. We create a welcoming environment where new students can connect meaningfully with peers, build lasting relationships, and engage with the Dartmouth community and its surrounding landscape. Through student leadership, intentional community building, and layered peer support, Trips empowers both new and returning students to engage, reflect, grow, and contribute to a culture of care, connection, and belonging at Dartmouth.
Registration for First-Year Trips 2025 is now open! All incoming students should have received an email to their Dartmouth inbox with further details. The registration form is due on July 7 at 11:59PM Eastern Time.
Trips is for Everyone!
First-Year Trips is a program for anyone and everyone. Each individual Trip is centered around an activity (or “Trip Type”). With nearly 30 Trip Types to choose from, you can farm, hike, visit museums, rock climb, paddle lakes and rivers, or relax at a lakeside cabin. No particular experience is necessary to participate in First-Year Trips and no level of comfort in the outdoors is assumed. Trips range from wilderness settings to staying right on campus. We provide options that represent a wide range of experience and comfort levels, and we believe that anyone can find a Trip to be excited about!
Adjustments & Accommodations
We recognize that some students may need additional adjustments or accommodations related to religious practices, ability, dietary concerns, allergies, sleeping in shared spaces, and/or other needs. First-Year Trips is excited to work with you and campus partners to create accessible and inclusive Trip experiences for all participants. We are committed to doing everything possible to help all students participate in the Trips program to the extent they feel comfortable, and we encourage you to reach out to us to discuss how we can support your Trips experience. If you have concerns about accommodation in First-Year Trips or beyond, particularly related to a disability or diagnosed condition, please reach out to Student Accessibility Services.
Cost & Financial Aid
The cost to participate in Trips 2025 is $400. This covers food, transportation, gear, lodging, and programming. This charge will be billed to your college account, and payment is not required when you register.
If you receive financial aid from Dartmouth, the cost of Trips will AUTOMATICALLY be reduced according to the amount of financial aid you receive from the College. We are committed to making sure that finances are not a barrier to participating in First-Year Trips, both in the cost of the program and any gear you may need. If you have questions about financial aid or the cost of Trips, please reach out to us!
Contact Us
Let us know how we can support you as you prepare for your First-Year Trip! Reach out to us with any questions or concerns. We want to hear from you!
First-Year.Trips@dartmouth.edu
(603) 646-3996
Check out Frequently Asked Questions about Trips.
Check out our Instagram to keep up to date with the team of current Dartmouth students and staff members who are busy preparing for your First-Year Trips experience. We can’t wait to meet you and support your transition into your new community! Welcome ‘29s!