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Photos by Dave Pavlina

A much-anticipated rite of passage for first-year and transfer students, First Ascent is a signature DU tradition that takes undergraduates to the Kennedy Mountain Campus for a weekend of exploration, learning, and connection. First Ascent weekends begin soon after students arrive on campus and continue through October.

Beginning their DU journey deep in the Rocky Mountains, students at First Ascent have an opportunity to immerse themselves in the 4D Experience, DU’s holistic approach to learning that fosters intellectual growth, purpose-driven careers, well-being, and character development. In 2024, 94% of students said First Ascent was the most effective program for stepping outside their comfort zone and building new relationships.

The via ferrata gives new students a taste of adventure in a safe yet high-adrenaline challenge. Meaning "iron way" in Italian, it’s part hike and part climb, featuring two routes to choose from—beginner or intermediate—and man-made supports like cables, rungs, and footholds. An incoming first year hanging onto an iron bar was overheard saying, "I'm from the Midwest. This is the most dare-devil thing I've ever done."

Part of the intermediate route, the Cirque Via Ferrata includes an aerial bridge for climbers to traverse. "Should I shake it?" one student calls jokingly to a friend making their way across the bridge. "Girl, I'm scared of heights!" the friend replies immediately.

From the top of the Cirque Via Ferrata, which can be reached by the intermediate route or by tackling the Big Kahuna Headwall, a 170-foot-tall cliff, ferrata-goers can enjoy breathtaking views of southern Wyoming, the Rocky Mountains, and the plains while basking in the pride of a physical challenge well done.

Picturesque Cliff Lake offers a peaceful, scenic spot for hiking and reflection, one of the drivers of the 4D experience. Students engage in guided reflection with mentors to connect the dots between their academic and personal experiences, a valuable learning tool during the emotional first few weeks of college life. The result? A deeper sense of clarity, purpose, and a strong foundation for continued growth and maturity.

One of the signature experiences of First Ascent is taking a turn at the archery range. "If I miss, don't laugh," one first-year says to another. "I'm trying my best! I'm aiming everywhere but where I'm supposed to," the friend replies.

Community building is a crucial part of First Ascent, where students connect with one another and forge friendships that will last a lifetime. The weekend offers multiple opportunities for students to socialize, including shared mealtimes.

Hiking among the changing aspens is a highlight of autumn weekends at Kennedy Mountain Campus. Though the scenery is stunning year-round, there's something special about sharing fall in the Rocky Mountains with new students, some of whom chose DU for our unique campuses in colorful Colorado.

Another adventure for students to try is the Challenge Course, where they scale ropes and navigate high beams in a safe environment that tests both strength and courage. Even the 4D peer mentor working the Challenge course says with a laugh: "Yeah, that high beam is terrifying. I wouldn't do that."

Part of the challenge course includes a rope swing—and a squeaky friend—to keep the students company. "Here, hold my dolphin," one student says as they gear up.

What's camping without s'mores? The Saturday night campfire takes place at the Johnson Campfire Circle, an eco-friendly fire pit where First Ascenters forge friendships and take a moment to reflect on their daily triumphs. "That's deep, bro," a first-year student says to a new friend as they reflect by the bonfire.