BOLTER applications are now open!! Apply for the 2026 fall trip (August 29th-September 4th)

Current first-years, incoming transfer students, and resumed undergraduate students are eligible to apply!

We are committed to ensuring that everyone can participate in our program. We offer flexible financial aid and loan out all necessary gear (backpacks, boots, sleeping bags, etc.) free of charge. Increasing access to the outdoors is one of BOLT’s core values! Absolutely no outdoor experience is required!

BOLT is the only outdoor orientation program in the country specifically for college sophomores, transfer students and resumed undergraduate students. We call participants in the program “BOLTers”. The BOLTer experience begins with a five-day backpacking trip in the White Mountains of New Hampshire before the fall semester, and continues back on campus with Fall Program. The goal of Fall Program is to provide support and mentoring, create opportunities for experiential learning and leadership, and promote community and individual relationships for BOLT leaders and BOLTers.

As a BOLTer, you will participate in one of 5 fall trips, which include the Classic BOLT Trip, a Gender Diverse & Women’s Trip, BIPOC Trip, Camping Trip, and an Accessible Backpacking Trip.

The BOLTer application is currently open to all first-year, transfer, and resumed undergraduate students and due April 20th 2026 at 11:59 PM. Details about the 2026 information sessions are written on the application.

Leader applications will open again in Fall 2026!

If you’re curious, check out The Leader Experience to find out about what it means to be a BOLT Leader.

Also, read over Position Description and Requirements to find out what it takes to be a BOLT Leader.

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If you have any questions, please direct them to: bolt@brown.edu