Schools that offer strong engineering programs AND Merit Aid or Meet Financial Need

Have you looked at Olin? Currently half tuition merit based scholarship for all students. Selective Engineering school. Fits most of your criteria except limited outdoor recreation. Definitely worth looking into if they have his major. They only have 3, Mech E, Computer and Electrical E, and Engineering (where students build their own concentration). If you have any questions, there are plenty of Olin parents waiting to jump in and answer.