Course Descriptions
Backcountry First Aid- Learn the skills needed to address injuries that may occur in remote areas where professional help is not available or will be significantly delayed. Participants will learn how to treat minor injuries and trauma with minimal supplies. There will be hands-on exercises, so dress comfortably.
Backpacking/Hiking 101- Despite what the glossy magazine pictures will show you, it isn’t required that you spend two months of your annual salary for backpacking or hiking gear. Learn about the basic gear, such as backpacks, tents, sleeping bags and a variety of other backpacking/hiking necessities. We’ll talk about how to pack your backpack, trip planning, and tips for hiking with kids. A short hike will be included in this session. Please wear proper foot gear. This class is designed for somebody with very little to no backpacking experience.
Beginning Archery- How do you hold a bow? What is a "nock?" Can you really hit that target? Absolutely! Our expert instructors will have you shooting bows successfully in no time! Students will be exposed to a comprehensive overview of the sport and you will be taught how to safely use basic archery equipment. This is a fun, hands-on experience that promotes archery as a healthy lifetime activity. Equipment will be provided.
Beginning Mountain Biking- Participants will learn the parts of the bike, riding skills and techniques, how to change a flat tire and riding safety. Environmental concerns, pedaling, steering over obstacles, uphill and downhill techniques, as well as riding ethics, will be discussed. Bicycles and helmets will be furnished, but participants are encouraged to bring their own equipment if they have it. Come prepared to ride.
Basic Fishing- Learn to fish with the best of them! You will learn the art of bait fishing as well as lure fishing so you will be ready to catch a lunker this coming summer! This class will introduce participants to basic fishing skills and the types of equipment available, including rods and reels. Casting practice and fishing tips will be the focus for the instructional period of the course . And of course….let’s fish! The class is taught outdoors so bring the appropriate attire for the time of year, sunscreen, sunglasses, and water. All equipment will be provided but if you own your own, please bring it with you.
Camping for Beginners- Everything you have ever wanted to learn about camping and more! Participants will learn about a variety of camping equipment and how to use it. Course will cover camp set up and equipment operation, including tents and stoves and the “Leave No Trace” camping ethic.
Canning and Preserving Your Harvest- In this course you will learn about canning and preserving, how to get started, deciding what to can and preserve, and the various methods of canning. You will learn how to make jams, jellies and pickled products. This course will teach you the importance of reducing safety risks and about all the benefits of taking part in this age-old tradition! Once you finish this course you will be well on your way to getting started in canning and preserving.
Dutch Oven Cooking- Learn the basics of Dutch oven cooking and produce mouth-watering dishes in a camp-like setting. Students will learn how to use these traditional camp cooking utensils as well receive many great recipes to try yourself.
Ten Outdoor Essentials and Basic Survival Skills- Don’t go into the Woods....unprepared! Do you have the skills to handle the unexpected in the wilderness? Do you know items you should never be without when you go on an outdoor adventure? Let us show you some basic wilderness skills that will help you build the confidence you need to enjoy a hike, a float or any other outdoor experience. We will discuss the basic gear you need to be prepared and basic skills such as fire building and simple emergency shelter building and give you a chance to try your hand at building both. We will also cover the basics of women’s outdoor hygiene. Don’t let poor planning ruin a trip; the best time to practice these skills is before you need to use them.
Firearm Safety- A hands-on experience for the novice and a refresher course for the more experienced shooter, this class covers basic gun safety, identifying, loading and unloading various firearms, ammunition types, and definitions of commonly used terms. A prerequisite for rifle shooting.
Fish Filet and Gourmet- Learn to clean, filet, and cook your catch. Recipes and samples will be shared. Fish and materials supplied.
Fly Tying- An introductory course on how to tie flies. Fly types and their uses will be discussed and demonstrated. Participants will get to try their hand at tying flies, which they will be able to take home and try them out on their next fishing trip!
Growing & Producing Natural Dyes- In this hands-on workshop you will create a scarf using natural plant dyes. While we are waiting on the dye bath we will discuss how to sustainably harvest materials for dyeing, which species should be left to grow, and how to create your own dye garden. You will bring home your hand-dyed scarf and seeds of a native dye plant.
Hunting 101- Participants will be introduced to techniques used in hunting, which include equipment, calls, tracking, species identification, habitats and rules and regulations. Hunting opportunities will be explored.
Introduction to Fly Fishing- This fun, step-by-step fly fishing workshop is designed for curious first-timers, as well as for those who want to feel more accomplished out on the water. Our instructors will introduce you to equipment, fly patterns, and help you with hands-on fly casting & knot tying. The class is taught in an outdoor setting so bring clothing appropriate for the time of year, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat & water. All equipment is provided, but if you already own your own please bring it with you, however don't purchase any equipment prior to the class.
Kayaking- Learn the fine art of getting from point A to point B in a kayak without going swimming. This session is an introduction to the basic strokes and safety tips for beginning paddlers. This is a fun hands-on course on flat water with plenty of practice and personalized instruction. Class includes a brief discussion on the types of kayaks available, terminology, and gear suggestions. Please wear shoes that you don;t mind getting wet.
Knot Tying- Afraid of losing the canoe off the top of the car because your knots look like unruly birds' nests? This class is for you. Discover basic knots and how to match the right knot to each situation. You will learn to correctly tie useful knots used in your household as well as boating and fishing. Lots of hands-on practice. Using your new skills, you will make a keepsake that will provide you with a large amount of cord that takes up very little space.
Meditation in Motion/Yoga- We will begin our experience with a short hike enjoying meditation in motion and connecting with the great outdoors. After our hike we will participate in circle yoga to engage with others in a playful, supportive way. No experience necessary.
Navigating the Great Outdoors (using a map and compass)- This course includes classroom and field exercises in map and compass reading. Students will learn to accurately read a US Geological Survey (USGS) map, and how to use them for hiking, hunting, fishing and backpacking trips into wilderness and backcountry areas. Students also learn how to use a hand-held compass and to determine their location and course direction on a USGS map. Practical use of these tools to test your skills will follow class instruction. This is a must for active outdoor enthusiasts who like to get off the trail.
Outdoor Cooking Skills- In this class we will explore the many options for outdoor cooking. You will be given tips and hints that will help you determine which cooking option is best for different types of outdoor adventures. And since this is an outdoor cooking class we will have to make and sample some great recipes!! Handouts will be provided.
Rappelling- We are going to show you the ropes, tips and tricks on how to use the equipment to lower yourself safely on vertical walls. We will talk about the steps to be aware of for safer rappelling. No previous experience necessary. You will have plenty of time to run a few rappels and take lots of pictures.
Rifle Shooting- Different types of rifles and handguns, their uses and other equipment needs will be discussed during the first part of the class. Students will be coached in markswomanship techniques and have the opportunity to practice their shooting skills at a nearby shooting range. Firearms and ammunition will be provided. PREREQUISITE - Firearm Safety Course or Certification in Hunter Education.
Rock Climbing- We are going to provide an opportunity to try outdoor rock climbing. On the way you will learn the essentials to safely enjoy this exhilarating experience, including harness check, figure 8 knot, use of a belay device along with P.B.U.S technique for belaying. We'll also teach the appropriate questions to ask before you or your family goes climbing. You will have plenty of time to climb and take pictures and bond with the fellow climbers.
Scat, Tracks, and Trails- Have you ever wondered what or who left that track? This course will teach you how to identify common wildlife by their tracks and their scat. You will also learn about their general habits and habitats. Dress for being outside since we may go looking for tracks.
Sewing for the Outdoors Woman- When you head outdoors, do you need a little help organizing your gear? Try your hand at some basic sewing skills to create a large and small bag that will help you organize your outdoor gear. No sewing experience necessary.
Trailering Basics- Have you always wanted to be able to back a boat or trailer and not destroy everything in your path? Come learn the skill of backing…it’s a great skill to know! The class covers how to properly hitch a trailer to a vehicle, safely maneuver around curbs and back a trailer into a parking spot.