Academic Reputation Kelvin Kay/Wikimedia
Reed College is one of the country's most prestigious and independent schools; it stopped submitting ranking information to U.S. News and World Report in 1995 but produced the second-highest number of Rhodes scholars for any liberal arts college and even has a student-run nuclear reactor on campus. Check out our complete list of the top 25 colleges for Outside readers.
The Campus Emilia12345/Wikimedia
Reed College is bisected by a canyon and national wildlife preserve. The Crystal Creek Springs drains through the canyon and students are expected to help restore it twice yearly.
Physical Education Makaristos/Wikimedia
Students are expected to fulfill a physical education requirement at Reed College, and can gain outdoor and sporting experience through the Reed Outing Club, Gray Fund Recreation events or the Physical Education Department.
Reed Outing Club Courtesy Reed College
The Reed Outing Club is the primary resource for trip planning and events in the Northwestern area. In addition to leading hikes, whitewater rafting and kayaking trips, a large portion of the budget is assigned to Wilderness First Responder, Swift Water Rescue, Leave No Trace, and Avalanche One training for students.
Ski Cabin Courtesy Reed College
Only an hour and 15 minutes from campus, the Reed College Ski Cabin is available for use by the student body, alumni, faculty, staff, and their family and friends.
Gray Fund Courtesy Reed College
The Gray Fund was endowed in 1991 to "assure that Reed College will have stimulating cultural, social, and recreational programs ... that complement the college's academic program." Recreational trips have included sea kayaking, a wildflower hike, snowshoeing, and more.
Renn Fayre 7265/Wikimedia
Born in the 1960s, Renn Fayre is an annual three-day celebration featuring a different theme every year. Traditional events include a naked Slip 'n Slide, full-contact human chess, cooking contest, and lube wrestling.
