Explore the Outdoors with Michigan Tech's Outdoor Adventure Program
The Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) connects Michigan Tech students, faculty, and the local community with outdoor recreation through equipment rentals, expert instruction, and guided trips across the beautiful Upper Peninsula. Whether you're new to the outdoors or a seasoned adventurer, the OAP offers a safe and supportive way to explore, plan events, and discover new experiences in nature.
Location
We are housed in the Systems Control Nordic Wax Center at the main trailhead of Michigan Tech Trails, located on Sharon Avenue across from Sherman Field and next to the MTU baseball fields.
Fall Semester, August 25 - November 11, 2025
The OAP Rental Center will be closed September 1, 5, 23, and October 15 - 19.
Hours are subject to change without notice.
| Monday - Friday |
Saturday - Sunday |
| 2:00pm - 6:00pm |
10:00am - 6:00pm |
Large Watercraft Rentals
Please email
oap@mtu.edu or call 906-487-2290 for large rentals of watercraft and/or trailers to make sure we have them available and ready to go. We require 24 hours prior notice before trailer rentals so we can have everything ready to go. Watercraft that are rented will be loaded on a trailer for pick up by a representative of your group. Paddles and PFD's are included. No instruction or oversight will be provided by the OAP.
Trailhead Rentals
Bikes
Bikes are available for rent on Michigan Tech's Tech Trails! We rent bikes daily, and the bikes are not permitted to leave the Tech Trails. Each bike rental is first-come, first-serve, so act fast if you would like to ride one of our bikes for the day. All bike rentals come with a helmet and a trail pass.
Commencal Meta HT/AM
Smith Convoy Helmet
There are no motorized vehicles allowed on Michigan Tech's trail system, and we ask that you practice Leave No Trace protocol when using our trails. Happy shredding!
Snowshoes
NOTE: Actual snowshoe rental does not begin until January 6th. (You can get your pass now, just not the equipment!)
The OAP maintains about 120 pairs of Tubbs Snowshoes for general rental. We offer snowshoes in 25", 30" and 36" lengths to accommodate all users and use type. For those just out for a hike, the shorter the snowshoe the easier it will be. For those who are looking to get out and spend a few days in the winter woods, a longer pair might be more useful with all that additional gear weight.
Not sure what you need? Stop in and we can get you set up with the right pair for you!
Snowshoe equipment rental does not begin until January 6, 2025. Snowshoe equipment passes can be purchased beginning on December 2, 2024 online, in person at the Central Ticket Office at the Student Development Complex (SDC) during open hours, or in person at the Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) Rental Center at the MTU Trailhead during open hours beginning January 6, 2025. Trail passes can be purchased in person at the Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) Rental Center at the MTU Trailhead during open hours beginning January 6, 2025. Trail Passes can also be purchased online or in person at the Central Ticket Office at the Student Development Complex (SDC) during open hours.
Michigan Tech Students
Michigan Tech Students can purchase a Snowshoe season equipment pass for $15 or a daily equipment pass for $10. First-come, first-serve.
Non-Students
Non-students can purchase a Snowshoe season equipment pass for $25 or a daily equipment pass for $12. First come, first serve.
Cross Country Skis
NOTE: Actual ski rental does not begin until January 6th. (You can get your pass now, just not the equipment!)
As the ski season approaches, we are happy to provide the Nordic Ski Rental season pass again. We have updated our fleet of skis with new Atomic skis, boots, and poles. In addition, we have added youth equipment as well! So have your kids try skiing with a small commitment by buying a pass for them too!
Cross country ski equipment rental does not begin until January 6, 2025. Cross country ski equipment passes can be purchased beginning on December 2, 2024 online, in person at the Central Ticket Office at the Student Development Complex (SDC) during open hours, or in person at the Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) Rental Center at the MTU Trailhead during open hours beginning January 6, 2025. Trail passes can be purchased in person at the Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) Rental Center at the MTU Trailhead during open hours beginning January 6, 2025. Trail Passes can also be purchased online or in person at the Central Ticket Office at the Student Development Complex (SDC) during open hours.
Michigan Tech Students
Michigan Tech Students can purchase a Nordic Ski season equipment pass for $15 or a daily equipment pass for $10. First-come, first-serve.
Non-Students
Non-students can purchase a Nordic Ski season equipment pass for $25 or a daily equipment pass for $15. First come, first serve.
General Rules
- Please purchase your ski equipment pass online before you come for the first time. The more people that have memberships before they arrive, the quicker we can check out equipment. Bring an email receipt, screenshot, or any confirmation of purchase along with you.
- Season equipment use passes are for equipment only. This does not include access to the trails. A separate pass must be purchased for trail access. Trail use for MTU students is included in the Experience Tech Fee.
- Ski equipment must be used on the Tech Trail system and returned before close each day. Closing times may vary. They are not permitted to be taken to other trail systems or off groomed trails.
- Equipment is issued on a first-come, first-serve basis. No reservations.
Check-Out Procedures
- We do not accept $100 bills.
- We will have staff to help get the correct equipment as efficiently as possible.
- Ski boots can be put on while still in the building to ensure the correct fit. However, there will be no storage available for your bags, boots, jackets, etc. Plan to keep valuables in your vehicle or another secure location outside of the waxing center.
- We will record your boot size, ski number, and pole color on your season pass to help speed up your checkout process during future visits.
- Skis and poles should be set outside to acclimate to the temperature before laying on the snow.
Return Procedures
- Items must be returned 15 minutes before closing.
- Skis and poles can be left outside the OAP/Waxing Shed on the designated rack space. Please connect with OAP staff if there is damage or any issues with the equipment.
- Boots must be sprayed with disinfectant and placed on the boot dryer.
- All equipment will be cleaned and disinfected before they are available for the next use.
Please let us know of any damage or issues with the skis upon return. Any damage outside of normal wear and tear may result in fees.
Thank you for supporting the Outdoor Adventure Program and the Michigan Tech Nordic Ski Trails!
