Enough of these structured diversions! How about some good old mellowing out around a campfire with your current love or spontaneous cross-country skiing by moonlight? Goshen has recreational options for individuals and groups that will get you out of the library and off to the dam or into the woods – or even north to the wilds of Michigan. And all of them are free or nearly free!
College Cabin
The Goshen College Cabin is on the edge of the Elkhart River, a few blocks from campus. Special outdoor activities are canoeing, picnics or walks along the river and through Witmer Woods. Reservations by campus members are made in the Student Life Office; community and off-campus groups should contact the Office of Conference and Events for a reservation.
Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center
The 1,150-acre Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center of Goshen College is located just off U.S. 33 near Wolf Lake, 30 miles southeast of campus. Recreational activities include personal retreats, boating, hiking, cross-country skiing, hayrides, cookouts and volleyball. A fee is charged for some activities. Credit opportunities are available in the educational program and opportunities for volunteer work may be found both in the education program and in work projects of the physical plant. Events are scheduled through Merry Lea’s program director, (260) 799-5869.
Roman Gingerich Recreation-Fitness Center
While classes are in session, the Recreation-Fitness Center is open to students (view open hours). To use the center, students who are enrolled for credit of one or more hours must present a Goshen College picture ID with a current validation stamp. Guests of students are welcome, however, a guest fee will be charged.
The Gingerich Center has three basketball courts, four racquetball courts, running track with exercise bicycles, stair climbing machines and a weight room, with weight machines and free weights.
Tennis courts
The tennis courts, located east of the railroad tracks, are available for recreational use except during instructional periods and varsity practices.
Sand volleyball
Courts are located at the south end of the Yoder Residence Hall, and outdoor basketball in the Recreation-Fitness Center parking lot are available anytime weather permits. Equipment is available from the control desk of the Recreation-Fitness Center.