what are classes or workshops like?

Our classes strive to be interactive and engaging. We never want to stand up in front of the group talking for hours on end without providing ways for participants to get involved. This usually looks like a blend of introductions and ice breaker activities, lectures which are interspersed with hands on examples, drawings, graphs, and information, and then breakouts and activities related to the subject for practice and training. Classes and events normally include ways for you to get to know your fellow classmates as well.

what should i bring to class?

This often depends on the outing content, time of year, and location, but it’s safe to start with clothing suitable for the weather conditions. We’d always recommend a good rain coat, extra pair of socks, and wool-based layers in a backpack. The instructors always send out a reminder email prior to class that includes what we’ll be doing and a list of essential and optional gear items you’ll be asked to bring. You can always reach out with questions or requests for recommendations.

do you have scholarships or discounts?

The short answer is YES!

The long answer is that this varies by location, if we have partners involved in the event, and what our budget looks like in making the outing happen.

Please also keep in mind that we offer many hikes, community events, demonstrations, and engagements that are completely free and educational to participate in. These will also be listed on our classes page.

As often as possible, we will attempt to offer sliding scale payment options for workshops.

If you have any questions about this, or if you are interested in talking through a scholarship or discount opportunity, don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly.

what’s your refund policy?

We’re always working to refine and adapt our refund policy, but you can read more about it here.

how do i sign up for my next class?

To get signed up for a class you are interested in, go to our classes page. Scroll to the class you like and find the “register” button, which will take you to a checkout process where you pay to sign up.

Many free classes will not require a payment, but information about an RSVP or if you can simply show up to attend will be specified in the description for each event.

where should i buy gear? what gear should i buy?

We suggest focusing on purchasing gear that is effective and high quality, and ideally has minimal impact on the earth. Part of the education we aim to provide during our classes is around what brands or places provide quality gear that will last and do the job. And you can always reach out before a class as well with questions. We are not sponsored by any gear brands - our recommendations are from personal tried and true experience outside!

At the end of every course you take, we send a follow up email that includes gear recommendations that we mentioned in class, along with links and resources for additional learning.

What goes into your custom event pricing?

Our custom event pricing is calculated using several factors: length of program (half-day, full-day, multi-day, overnights), location and travel, required materials, number of skills/lessons, food storage and cooking, permits and facility reservations, and extra staff time to accommodate larger group sizes. The best way to learn more about the cost of your event is to reach out to us - we will meet with you for free to hear about your idea and give you a cost estimate.