AD Rundle offers a wilderness experience unlike any other in the district. Outdoor Education 9 teaches skills and appreciation of the outdoors and the many pursuits it offers. Units offered vary from camp craft, environmental ethics, geography and topography, to specific skills such as archery, rock climbing, canoe training, and backcountry stove use. Extra-curricular involvement is a must as students take part in several field experience outings. Two overnight hikes and a year-end 6 day canoe trip on Ross Lake are highlights of the year.

The year-end canoe trip is a culmination and celebration of all skills and concepts learned throughout the year. Gearing up to the trip, students learn paddling basics, canoe and water safety, and canoe rescue. All training takes place on Cultus Lake as the students log over 20 hours of practise. Apart from mastering various paddling techniques, students must perform a swim test and demonstrate proficiency of righting a capsized canoe in deeper water. Once on Ross Lake, the group of 20 will split into 2 groups and work their way down and eventually back up the lake. After paddling into a new camp each night students set up camp, pitch their tents, and even cook their own meals. Days on the lake are full of exploration, hiking, campfires, local history and wildlife, journaling, and team building.

ADR’s Outdoor Ed program has become an institution in Chilliwack and continues to thrive with the support of current and former students and local businesses.