By Anne Baker

It may come as a shock to some, but not everyone enjoys the prospect of hurdling oneself off a building in urban areas. For those who are looking for thrills, but not the kinds that involve vaulting over concrete objects, there exists a sect of extreme sporting that prefers to be uninhibited by taxis and the more abrasive aspects of city life. Here at Northeastern, that cohort is Northeastern University Huskiers and Outing Club (NUHOC).

“We like to get people together who like to hang out outdoors,” said Jason Turgeon, a senior environmental biology major and member of NUHOC.

The club was originally founded in 1941 as a ski club, but soon expanded into its current incarnation, welcoming all outdoor sports including snowboarding, hiking, kayaking, backpacking and rock climbing.

NUHOC runs most of its activities out of its lodge near Gorham, N.H., about four hours from the city. Built in 1971 by club members, it provides a haven for Huskies to relax and bond. For a true outdoor experience, members pump their own water and use gas-powered lights.

“Having a base camp like that is so amazing,” Turgeon said. “Most of our stuff is based out of the lodge.”

New members need not worry about a lack of experience; the club is open to members of all skill levels.

Turgeon said NUHOC makes it easy for beginners to get involved.

“If you join the club, you get access to a bear-locker full of equipment,” he said. “You do not have to have anything.”

NUHOC also runs weekend trips throughout the year to different sites around the northeast for its members, including its annual Memorial Day trip to Acadia National Park in Maine. The park features two campgrounds and the highest point on the Atlantic coast.

NUHOC hosted one of its first events of the semester last Tuesday night. Centennial Common was turned into Northeastern’s own KOA (Kampgrounds of America) site. This annual event served as a way for the group to welcome newcomers and teach the basics of camping.

Throughout the year, NUHOC works to introduce Northeastern students to an environment entirely different from Boston’s.

“We’re an outdoors club,” Turgeon said. “We have to get outside the city.”

For more information on NUHOC, attend one of their weekly meetings on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in 442 CSC or visit their website at www.nuhoc.neu.edu.