ASI Poly Escapes is bringing you an exciting lineup of trips this winter quarter! Whether you’re into biking, kayaking, or just hanging out in the sun, these adventures are the perfect way to explore nature, try new things, and make unforgettable memories. Don’t miss your chance to join in! Registration opens on Dec. 1, so mark your calendar and get ready to secure a spot. Here’s what’s coming up:
Day Trips:
Pismo Bike Day: Feb. 21, 2026
Pedal your way from San Luis Obispo to Pismo Beach on a scenic day trip that captures the best of the Central Coast! Ride through rolling hills, charming backroads, and coastal views as you make your way to the ocean. Once at Pismo, enjoy time relaxing on the beach, grab lunch, and take in the salty sea breeze before biking or shuttling back. This trip is perfect for beginners and casual cyclists looking for an active day outdoors filled with sunshine, good company, and stunning scenery. All participants must provide their own bikes and helmets.
Cost: $30
Pismo Beach Surf Day Trip: March 7, 2026
Learn to surf with Poly Escapes Trip Leaders! At the world famous Pismo Beach you will learn how to paddle, stand up, and catch your first wave with Poly Escapes.
Cost: $30
Multi-Day Trips:
Death Valley National Park Camping: Jan. 16–19, 2026
Journey into the rugged beauty of Death Valley National Park for a weekend camping trip! Set up camp beneath vast desert skies and spend your days exploring some of the park’s most iconic landscapes on guided day hikes. Wander through colorful canyons, stand atop windswept dunes, and marvel at sweeping views from the lowest elevation in North America, -282 feet! As the sun sets, you’ll enjoy one of the clearest night skies in the country. Perfect for adventurers eager to experience the extremes of nature, this trip blends breathtaking scenery, great company, and unforgettable moments around the campfire.
Cost: $180
Santa Margarita Lake Camping: Feb. 7–8, 2026
Venture into the heart of Sequoia National Park for a weekend of backpacking, stunning alpine views, and iconic natural landmarks. Hike through granite-lined trails to the breathtaking Pear Lake, where crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding Sierra peaks. Spend the night camping beneath a sky full of stars, and don’t miss the chance to stand beneath the mighty General Sherman Tree—the largest tree on Earth. It’s a perfect escape into the wild, shared with great company and unforgettable scenery.
Cost: $80
Kayaking Progression: Feb. 21–22, 2026
Build your paddling skills and confidence with our two-day kayaking progression course! On day one, you’ll meet on campus for a fun and informative pool session that covers essential paddle strokes, safety techniques, and paddling fundamentals—all in a relaxed, beginner-friendly setting. On day two, take your skills to the ocean for a full-day kayak adventure at Avila Beach! Explore the beautiful coastline, practice what you’ve learned on open water, and enjoy the thrill of paddling past scenic cliffs and marine life. This course is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to refine their kayaking technique in a supportive, hands-on environment. All gear, instruction, and transportation are included. Lunch is provided only on Sunday.
Cost: $50
Additional Winter Quarter Offerings
Transform yourself into an outdoors specialist with the ASI Poly Escapes Outdoor Leadership Program! If you have a passion for the outdoors, join this quarter-long leadership program to earn several essential wilderness and safety certifications all in one course. From navigation to team management training, this course will equip you with the skills to lead your peers into the great outdoors!
Required Commitments
- Wilderness First Aid Course: Jan. 1 and Jan. 25
- Overnight Field Experience Camping Trip: Jan. 20–Feb. 1
Cost: $350
For more information on each trip, visit ASI Poly Escapes Trips. Make sure to follow ASI on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletters to stay up to date!
