If you are planning on spending your spring break in Albuquerque, things could be a little more exciting than watching daytime television.
UNM's Getaway Adventures program is offering students two trips for those who are looking for at least a brief escape this coming week.
The first trip is a backpacking venture through New Mexico's Gila wilderness. Students will leave March 15 at 7:45 a.m. and return March 17 at about 6 p.m.
According to the brochure, students will hike between 10 and 15 miles during the three-day adventure.
Students who are interested in the trip need to attend a mandatory informational meeting Wednesday, March 10 at 6 p.m. in Johnson Center, room 1102. At the meeting, students will be briefed by outdoor specialists who will "teach you what you need to know to have an enjoyable time."
The brochure warns that while the hike will be fun, students should be in good physical condition to enjoy this trip.
Get content from The Daily Lobo delivered to your inbox
The packing list for the trip includes basic camping necessities such as a tent, a sleeping bag and a backpack. If students do not have the proper backpacking equipment, it can be rented at the Outdoor Shop at Johnson Center.
The cost for the excursion is $135 and includes transportation, food and a guide.
The second trip Getaway Adventures, in coordination with UNM's Recreational Services Program, is offering is a weekend excursion to Red River.
Students on this trip will enjoy accommodations at a privately owned home in Red River that is tucked away in the mountainside.
While the house does not have separate sleeping quarters, the brochure ensures that "there are plenty of futons and sleeping cushions," and students are encouraged to bring a sleeping bag.
Those who are going on this expedition will depart at 8 a.m. on March 19, and return on March 21 by 5 p.m.
During this weekend, students can enjoy various activities including cross-country skiing and downhill skiing.
The cost for Red River is $88 and includes six meals, transportation, lodging and guides. Some activities, including skiing, are extra.
There is no meeting before the trip, but if students are interested in the outing to Red River, a call to Recreational Services with advanced notification is mandatory to secure a spot in the transportation reserved for the trip.
Chris Apodaca, accounting technician for Recreational Services, encourages students to consider one of the getaways.
"It is a great break," she said. "You really get to experience different parts of New Mexico."
Recreational Services Coordinator Eric Boeglin said the Getaway Adventures Program provides an alternative for students who may not want to participate in the mainstream spring break activities.
"It is different," he said. "It is for the people who may not want to go to South Padre or Vegas."
He also said that price is a factor students should consider.
"It is a cheap, fun trip," he said.
