The Columbia Outdoor Hiking Orientation Program or COHOP is the original and largest of the three programs, with over 150 students venturing into the wilderness each fall. Groups of six to eight first-years and two upper-classmen leaders backpack a trail. The difficulty is suited to each group's ability, from novice to advanced. Your group will carry all supplies necessary for the four-day Catskills adventure and be responsible for preparing meals and setting up camp. A perfect opportunity to get to know your fellow incoming Columbians and learn from the vast experience of your leaders, COHOP is a great final excursion into nature before returning to the cosmopolitan whirlwind of NYC!

Open to hiking novices and enthusiasts alike, COHOP is the biggest and oldest of the three COÖP programs. We spend 4 days and three nights in the backcountry on a variety of trails located in the Catskill National Park in upstate New York. HOP groups consist of 6-7 freshmen led by 2 leaders. We offer a variety of trails for all difficulty levels and no previous hiking experience is necessary. Many of the trails include natural features such as lakes, waterfalls, and lookouts. Please visit the following websites for information about the Park or the Trails.