For the second year in a row, Radford University has claimed the title of Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine’s “Top Adventure College”, rising above 31 other schools in the 2026 bracket-style competition.
The back-to-back victory solidifies what students, alumni, and outdoor enthusiasts across the Southeast already know: Radford’s outdoor culture isn’t just an added bonus—it’s part of the university’s identity.
From riverside campus life to weekend climbing trips and leadership-focused outdoor programs, Radford continues to prove why it’s one of the premier destinations for adventure-minded students.
“This back-to-back victory further validates how integral outdoor adventures and recreational opportunities are to the Radford Experience,” the university shared. “Our employees, students, alumni, and local and regional partners stepped up throughout the 2026 competition to affirm this unique element in the Radford DNA.”
What separates Radford from the competition is the sheer variety of ways students can engage with the outdoors. Whether through academic courses, club sports, intramurals, or beginner-friendly programs, the university emphasizes experiential learning and personal growth through outdoor recreation.
“We offer a wide variety of outdoor adventure and recreational activities through academic programs and courses, club and intramural sports, and even for those students who are simply interested in dipping their toes in new learning experiences,” the university explained. “These hands-on, high-impact learning experiences are focused on teaching teamwork and resilience, along with fostering personal and professional growth.”
Those experiences often translate beyond the trailhead, helping students develop skills that carry into future careers and leadership opportunities.
A campus surrounded by adventure
At Radford, outdoor access is woven directly into everyday campus life. Students regularly spend time along the New River, relax in hammocks between classes, or gather with friends at nearby green spaces like Bisset Park. The university’s Selu Conservancy also offers students a unique natural escape just minutes from campus.
Adventure opportunities extend well beyond campus boundaries, too. Popular trips and destinations include rock climbing in Bozoo, West Virginia and at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, backpacking in Grayson Highlands State Park, biking around Pandapas Pond and the Huckleberry Trail, cave exploration throughout Southwest Virginia, and winter ski trips to Winterplace Ski Resort.
Radford’s momentum isn’t slowing down anytime soon. The university is introducing several expanded initiatives in 2026 aimed at helping incoming students connect through outdoor experiences before classes even begin.
One of the newest additions is Quest Campout, an optional overnight camping experience tied to the university’s new student orientation program. Incoming students will have the opportunity to stay overnight at Selu Conservancy before orientation day, helping them build friendships and experience Radford’s outdoor culture early on.
Blue Ridge Outdoors and Radford University
