Wyoming is known for its beautiful scenery from the Wind River Range to the Tetons, yet many university students are often too busy or do not have the resources to visit these locations.
With help from the Outdoor Program providing equipment and the Wyoming Conservation Corp donating firewood and providing tents, students have the opportunity to engage in wilderness events for free.
The University of Wyoming Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Club is hosting its first ever Wilderness Festival April 1 through April 4.
“We’d like to provide an opportunity for our community to develop connections with both other people and wilderness,” said ENR Club President Jackson Clarendon, the backbone behind putting this event together. “Ultimately, that takes getting people outside, or inspiring them to get out on their own, and giving them the chance to experience an incredible place for themselves.”
The festival events kick off Wednesday night at the Berry Center with the showing of four films including, Land of No Use and Common Ground from the Montana Wilderness Association, and Shoshone Wild and Forgotten Spaces from the Wyoming Wilderness Association.
Thursday, a panel discussion including National Geographic and Outside Magazine contributor Mark Jenkins, along with three other outdoor experts will be held in the Education Auditorium 7 p.m.
Friday, kick off the weekend with live music from local bands including, The Libby Creek Original, Tallgrass and Von Stomper, with a variety of local beers available to purchase. The show will begin at 7 p.m. at the Train Depot on First Street.
The main event is the Outdoor Excursion, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. Join the ENR Club in conjunction with the Outdoor Program for a camping trip, in full-moon, along the Platte River Wilderness Area. Transportation and food will be provided, and medical trained guides will lead the six-mile easy to intermediate trek.
Spaces for the excursion are limited. For more information, visit the University of Wyoming ENR Club Facebook page and follow the link to sign up.
“Wilderness is one of our most precious natural resources, so it is only natural for the ENR Club to promote an event that celebrates wilderness in Wyoming and the greater Rocky Mountain Region,” ENR Club Vice President Mariah Strike said.
