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Packrafting Basics: A Beginner's Guide to Essential Packrafting Skills

Packrafting has rapidly gained popularity as an exhilarating adventure sport, offering a unique blend of backpacking and river travel.

This activity allows outdoor enthusiasts to explore remote waters and landscapes that might otherwise be inaccessible. The portability and versatility of packrafts make them ideal for traversing both land and water, opening up new opportunities for exploration and discovery.

The 2023 Denali Science Expedition

During the summer of 2023, NOLS instructor and PhD candidate Emma Erwin led a scientific expedition in the high peaks of Denali National Park to ...

Case Study: Heat Cramps on the Rio Grande

On a paddling trip in Big Bend National Park, a participant starts having leg spasms. What do you do?

What is Packrafting?

What is packrafting? Learn the unique history of this adventure sport and what makes it so awesome for exploring water and land!

Recent Posts

How to Prevent Altitude Sickness: From Acute Mountain Sickness to Severe Altitude Illness

Learn how to prevent altitude sickness with NOLS wilderness medicine courses. Take a proactive approach to your next mountain adventure.

Case Study: Burn in the Backcountry

A student gets a hot water burn deep in the backcountry. What do you do?

How to Prevent Hypothermia in Cold Climates

Take a proactive approach to your next adventure. Learn how to prevent hypothermia, manage cold stress, and be prepared for cold illnesses in the ...

Case Study: What to Do About Snakebites

See what you would do to respond to and treat a possible snakebite.

Case Study: Cardiac Arrest at the Crag

A climber collapses at the crag. What do you do next?

Wilderness First Aid vs. Wilderness First Responder: Choosing the Right Training for You

Understand the 'Wilderness First Aid vs Wilderness First Responder' debate to choose the best course for your outdoor medical training needs.

Case Study: Falling Through the Ice

What would you do to help a patient with hypothermia while winter camping?

Backcountry Splitboarding Gear, Techniques, and Training with NOLS

Explore the world of backcountry splitboarding with NOLS! Explore gear, techniques, and backcountry travel for an exhilarating journey beyond the ...

Snowboarding for Beginners: Tips, Terms, and Techniques to Get You Started

Dive into snowboarding for beginners and learn fundamentals, terminology, and gear essentials.

'Society of the Snow' and Roberto Canessa’s Life-Changing Experience

NOLS had the opportunity to chat with Roberto Canessa, one of the survivors of the Andes plane crash in 1978.

Skiing for Beginners: What to Know at the Start of Your Skiing Journey

Learn the essentials of skiing for beginners. Your guide to skiing terms, gear, and techniques for backcountry adventures.

Alumni Trips: Welcome Celia Ripple!

Learn more about the team behind NOLS Alumni Trips.

Skiing vs. Snowboarding: Which one is for you?

Dive into the skiing vs. snowboarding debate and explore the unique challenges, rewards, and equipment differences between these popular winter ...

Case Study: Slip Sliding Away

A skier hits a terrain feature and goes flying. They land hard and don't immediately reply when you ask if they are ok. How do you respond?

Sea Kayak Self-Rescue Techniques: Essential Guidance for Sea Kayakers

Develop essential kayak self-rescue skills with NOLS – from wet exits to advanced techniques. Gain confidence for your next coastal adventure.

Sea Kayaking for Beginners with NOLS: Essential Tips and Techniques

Sea Kayaking for Beginners: Learn essential tips and techniques, from paddling skills to coastal navigation.

Case Study: Flu-Like Illness

Test your wilderness medicine skills with this case study!

Donation of $4 Million Paves the Way for Innovation and Growth at NOLS

Thanks to three anonymous donors, NOLS has secured $4 million in new support. These gifts will be used to match every dollar donated up to $4 million.

Cultivating a Risk Management Culture in Outdoor Organizations: The Importance of Sound Incident Reporting

Enhance your outdoor organization's risk culture with NOLS. Learn the importance of sound incident reporting and effective risk management processes ...

Securing Gap Year Scholarships: Financial Aid Opportunities at NOLS

Explore gap year scholarships, financial aid, and other funding options. Invest in your future today with NOLS.

Rock Climbing Gear Recommendations from NOLS Instructors

Get rock climbing gear recommendations from NOLS instructors! Learn what gear we use and our tips for caring for our equipment.

Case Study: Hyperglycemia in the Mountains

Test your wilderness medicine skills with this case study! You are guiding a 7-day wilderness trip. One of your participants, Stan, is an ...

Beyond Rock Climbing Techniques: Building Leadership and Teamwork with NOLS

Learn rock climbing techniques, leadership, and teamwork through trust, self-awareness, and effective communication with NOLS.

Gap Year Travel Programs: Blending Adventure with Experiential Education

NOLS gap year travel programs blend adventure, experiential education, leadership, environmentalism, and cultural immersion for a life-changing ...

How to Apply to College After a Gap Year: Enhance Your Submission through Experience

Learn how to apply to college after a gap year with NOLS for a standout application showcasing growth and skills.

Rock Climbing for Beginners: Learn Rock Climbing Basics with NOLS

Rock Climbing for Beginners with NOLS - Learn the basics and embrace personal growth, environmental stewardship, and leadership while climbing in ...

Scaling New Heights: NOLS Outdoor Rock Climbing Course Insights

Explore NOLS Outdoor Rock Climbing Courses, where you'll gain essential climbing skills, develop leadership abilities, foster environmental ...

Top 10 Best Gap Year Programs for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Discover the best Gap Year Programs for Outdoor Enthusiasts! From East Africa's cultural immersion to the PNW's wilderness skill development, embark ...

Gap Year Benefits from a Parent's Perspective

Discover gap year benefits and get tips to support your child's gap year decision with insights from a parent's perspective.

Case Study: Injured Knee in the Wind River Mountains

Two days into a picture-perfect autumn backpacking trip in the Wind River Mountains, your companion slips and falls on rocky terrain. His chief ...

Pitching Content to the NOLS Blog

Want to pitch a blog post idea to the NOLS Blog staff? Follow the instructions on this page so your ideas can be considered.

Interview with Sam Talucci

Interview with NOLS Alumni Trip leader, Sam Talucci

NOLS Alumni Trips in Portugal: By the Numbers

Storks, sardines, and sand! A behind the scenes look at a recent Alumni trip: hiking Portugal's Fishermen's Trail.

Why Take A Gap Year: 8 Gap Year Life Lessons

Asking yourself, "Why take a gap year?" NOLS has 8 answers to that question that will help you take the plunge toward a truly transformative gap year!

“It's a Pilot Trip”—Hiking in Croatia Trip Report

In early June, six NOLS Alumni, two NOLS Instructors, and one incredible local partner set forth on NOLS’ first hiking trip in Croatia.

Gap Year on a Budget: How to Find Affordable Gap Year Programs

Looking for affordable gap year programs? Here's how to find programs that offer incredible yet budget-friendly experiences and learning ...

Gap Year Abroad: The Best Destinations for Cultural Immersion

Yearning to dive deep into the heart of global cultures? Uncover the best destinations for an authentic cultural immersion during your gap year ...

Gap Year Pros and Cons: Solo vs. Group

Explore the gap year pros and cons of solo vs. group programs to find the right balance for you between independence and shared experiences.

Exploring the World and Finding Yourself: The Power of a Gap Year After High School

Discover the power of taking a gap year after high school—adventure, cultural immersion, and self-reflection highlight this transformative experience.

Top 10 Resume Boosting Gap Year Ideas: A Guide to Getting the Most Out of Your Gap Year

Discover the 10 best gap year ideas to enhance your professional skill set, gain valuable experiences, and make your resume stand out to future ...

What Gap Year Statistics Tell Us About The Impact of Gap Year Programs on College Success

Dive into gap year statistics to explore how a gap year fosters personal development, cultural immersion, academic momentum, and career success.

Avoiding The Crowds

NOLS Alumni trip explores new, less visited, route in Iceland.

Leadership Lived: a Tribute to Peter Simer

Celebrating the life of Peter Simer, Executive Director of NOLS from 1975 to 1983, we reflect on a leader, a mountaineer, and a friend.

Astronaut Reid Wiseman on Expedition Behavior

Astronaut and U.S. Navy Commander Reid Wiseman wrote this missive about expedition behavior from low earth orbit to be read to the astronaut class of ...

Skiing in Japan: Hot Springs and Cold Powder!

NOLS' first foray into backcountry skiing in Japan with an Alumni Trip.

A Fond Farewell to NOLS Bahamas

NOLS Alumni trips announces the closing of our Bahamas program.

The Summit Experience - Notes from Aconcagua

Summiting Aconcagua, the tallest peak outside of Asia, is an impressive accomplishment. Learn how you can achieve this with our NOLS Alumni course!

Learning to Slow Down in the Winds

Nate had taken lots of adventures in wild places, but nine days traversing with Winds on a NOLS Alumni Trip taught him to slow down and enjoy the ...

Watercolors: Worth the Weight

When packing for a journey into the backcountry, every ounce matters. Knowing this, Isabelle faced a dilemma: is taking my watercolor kit worth the ...

Lessons We Carry Forward

With the help of her strong female instructors, Bella gained the skills and confidence that she carries far beyond her wilderness experience.

Opportunity to Engage

As a queer person of color, Lauren shares her journey to discover the programs NOLS implements on affinity expeditions and instructor-in-training ...

Life Lessons That I Learned

NOLS semester graduate reflects on the lessons learned and the lasting impact of his experience.

Best Senior Project Ever: Inspiration from my NOLS Semester

Jay Clark's fall NOLS Outdoor Educator semester started with questions looming for their senior year. Inspiration struck while traveling in Utah's ...

Wilderness Medicine for Mountain Bikers

To reduce the strain on local health care facilities during a global crisis, you can step up and use your first aid training to treat some injuries ...

Case Study: An Injured Ankle on the Hunt

Test your knowledge with this case study about a patient with an ankle injury on a backcountry hunt.

Case Study: Breathing Difficulty in the Absaroka Range

Test your knowledge with this case study about a patient having breathing difficulty in a remote mountain setting

Case Study: Nauseous in the Heat

This case study focuses on how responders must be creative and thoughtful to adapt plans as they care for patients on a wilderness—not city—timeframe.

My Semester in Baja, as Told in Food and Sunsets [Photo Essay]

NOLS grad Claire Burgeson shares her study abroad experience in Baja through stunning photos of beaches and wildlife, local practices and food, and ...

It's Getting Hot in Here: The Ps and Qs of Heat Illness

It’s important to be aware of the different types of heat illness, and their treatment principles, should an emergency arise—take a look at them in ...

How to Make Deluxe Mac and Cheese in the Backcountry

Mac and cheese is a backcountry classic - use your favorite cheese and veggies for the perfect dinner

Meeting the Unexpected on a NOLS Gap Year Expedition

NOLS gap year expedition grad Luna Rosal gives insight into both the fun and challenges she experienced on a NOLS gap year.

How One Outdoor Educator Builds Sense of Place (and How You Can, Too)

NOLS Instructor Oscar Manguy shares the way he carefully builds a framework for sense of place in order to connect students to nature while on ...

Climbing and the Four Basic Needs: Tuning Into the “Why” Behind the Activity

The more I understand my reasons for rock climbing, the better I can transfer the lessons to the rest of my life.

How to Poop, Pee, and Manage a Period in the Outdoors

What happens if you have to use the bathroom far from a toilet? Read how to do this with minimum impact on the landscape to stay happy, healthy, and ...

Lightning Safety for Anglers

Summer means it’s time to grab your fishing gear and head outside. But have you checked the forecast—and do you know how to manage risk from a ...

How Risk Management Training Improved Our Programming at Move United

Program Manager at Move United Julianne Mills shares how Risk Management Training creates opportunities to expand programming to people of all ...

Grad Set to Tackle 58 Peaks as NOLS Fundraiser

An intrepid WFR graduate sets to climb 58 peaks to raise money for NOLS

The Road Less Traveled: How a NOLS Course Changed my life

A snap, hasty decision in college led me to attend NOLS. Usually a calculated person, l changed my life course in about 60 seconds.

An Artist. An Adventurer. A Q&A with NOLS Grad Dori Bergman

National Outdoor Leadership School graduate and artist, Dori Bergman, talks about how her outdoor adventures inspire her artwork.

Learning Resources for Earth Day (And Every Day)

Join us in reading books, downloading apps, and following influencers who can help self-educate on all topics connected to Earth Day

Turning My NOLS Experience Into a Minimalist Lifestyle

Camper life comes with some challenges; however, it’s the most freeing thing I have experienced since my gap year, and I can’t recommend the ...

Why I Trusted a NOLS Course during COVID

When I say 2020, what comes to mind? Pandemic, quarantine, fear, loneliness, job loss, online overload. It was February 2020 when I began my journey ...

Case Study: Abdominal Pain on the Trail

At 6:30 in the morning some of your participants come and tell you that their tentmate is complaining of abdominal pain. As the WFR-trained course ...

How NOLS Helped Me Thrive After Dropping Out of College

Out of the blue, a tip from an old mentor pointed me towards NOLS as an alternative, and maybe more fitting, way to continue my education.

First Ascent of Cerro Nora in Patagonia

Stretching myself right to the limit, day after day, and finding camaraderie in that challenge gave me a new sense of capacity and bravery as we ...

5 Myths About a NOLS Gap Year

5 Gap Year Myths Debunked - Worried that a NOLS gap year expedition is beyond your reach in terms of timing, finances, or technical skills? Guess ...

Why You Should Take a WFR with NOLS

Discover why the NOLS Wilderness First Responder course is transformative, equipping you with skills, confidence, and a new perspective on handling ...

55th Anniversary: Stories from Our Alumni

Over 55 years, we've learned the value of NOLS isn't in accomplishments so much as the way a NOLS education inspires and empowers our graduates to ...

30 Years of Wilderness Medicine

In 1990, two people started a business that was remarkable for 2 reasons—most important because the business was dedicated to teaching wilderness ...

New Expeditions for Summer 2021

New this summer: Salmon River Rafting Adventure for ages 14-15, and Alaska Women’s Backpacking for adults 23+ (now with a 14-day option!)

Case Study: Suspicious Stomach Pain

Five days into sea kayaking with friends in Prince William Sound, Alaska you feel lousy; some diarrhea, some vague abdominal cramping, not much ...

Marc Randolph, Jimmy Chin, José González, Knight Campbell, & Kit DesLauriers on Their Trails To Success [Video]

What do Marc Randolph, Jimmy Chin, José González, Knight Campbell, and Kit DesLauriers have in common? Listen to their stories to learn how NOLS ...

The WRMC Goes Digital

Adapting to the constantly changing world in 2020 and continuing to serve the industry's risk management needs has been key to moving forward on an ...

NOLSies At Work: Sustainability & Conservation

See the ways NOLS grads are leading in the field of sustainability

Artist Alina Drufovka on her Path to the Outdoors

Artist Alina Drufovka on Being a Latina Backpacker, NOLS Fellow, and Turning COVID into an Opportunity for Art

Intro to Federal Public Lands in the U.S.

America’s federal public lands are an amazing resource for all kinds of recreation—but how much do you know about the different kinds of public land?

How to Make Cheesy Breakfast Bagels

This recipe for cheesy breakfast bagels with sausage is easy to make and easy to adapt to your tastes.

Case Study: Runner Begins Feeling Ill

You and a friend are on a long run in the foothills of the Laramie Range in Wyoming. It’s a hot day. Four hours into the run your companion stumbles, ...

The Leadership Project: Tolerance for Adversity & Uncertainty

Tolerance for adversity and uncertainty is something all of us practice every single day. To conclude our series The Leadership Project, NOLS ...

Celebrating Black in National Parks Week with Carter McBride

Carter McBride joined us to celebrate Black in National Parks Week and share from his experiences in National Parks, as well as perspectives on the ...

The Leadership Project: Judgment & Decision-Making

NOLS Instructor Andy Blair introduces us to the leadership skill judgment & decision-making

The Leadership Project: Communication

NOLS Instructor Jesse Quillian introduces us to the importance of communication, and how it changes in groups over time

Our Top Stories on Getting Others Outdoors

Enjoy reading our posts with advice for parents, role models in outdoor education, and all things focused on getting others outside

Case Study: An Anxious Rappel

A trip participant has trouble on a rappel. When they are safely on the ground, you begin your patient assessment. Test your wilderness medicine ...

The Leadership Project: Competence

NOLS Instructor Sanjana Govind introduces us to competence—being skilled both on our own, and as part of a group.

How to Recognize and Treat Diabetic Symptoms Outdoors

When we travel into the backcountry with someone who has diabetes, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and ...

The Leadership Project: Vision & Action

Vision and action is a two-part leadership skill that combines the planning and the follow-up to move leaders toward their goals.

The Leadership Project: Self Awareness

NOLS Instructor Andy Notopoulos talks about the leadership skill self awareness. Subscribe to the NOLSie News to follow along our series exploring ...

The Leadership Project: Expedition Behavior

NOLS Instructor Molly Herber talks about the power and simplicity of the leadership skill expedition behavior as part of our series The Leadership ...

Case Study: An Undefined Rash

When symptoms are hard to define, the skills of decision-making and problem solving become more important. Test what you know in this case study!

NOLS Wilderness Medicine Courses to Reopen in July 2020

After months of planning, NOLS Wilderness Medicine will start running courses for the first time since suspending courses in March due to the global ...

How NOLS Is Reopening Courses Responsibly in the Field

Through careful planning and preparation to mitigate risks of COVID-19, we will be able to welcome students for select courses this summer.

Growing Access to the Outdoors

Enjoy stories from NOLS alumni and partner organizations focused on increasing outdoor access

Case Study: Cold Injuries on a Hike

Do you know how to prevent, recognize, and treat a non-freezing cold injury (NFCI)? Test your wilderness medicine skills with this case study.

The Leader: Spring 2020 Digital Edition

We're sharing our first ever digital-only publication of The Leader alumni magazine for Spring 2020

How to Communicate with Emergency Services Using a SOAP Note

Knowing the SOAP note steps can help communicate accurate information to providers, which is especially useful now that more providers prefer a phone ...

Our Human Expedition: Stories of Courage in Uncertainty

We are committed to highlighting the inspirational and brave work of those in the NOLS community serving others in need during this crisis

Wilderness Medicine for Summer Runners

Case Study: Spinal Injuries from a Fall

Do you know the proper protocols for a patient with a suspected spine injury?

Students, Sustainability, and Showing Up

An open conversation with NOLS Instructor and Environmental Stewardship Coordinator Jonathan Williams.

Carbon Offsets: Making Outdoor Recreation More Sustainable

What if LNT also meant taking it a step further and trying to reduce your impact before you even set foot in the wilderness?

How to Make (Irresistible) Fudge No-Bake Cookies

Give these tasty no-bake cookies a whirl on your next backcountry trip (they also taste good at home...).

The Hurrier I Go: What This Winter Taught Me about Patience in the Mountains

Instructor Navarana reflects on what it means to practice patience and compassion in the face of adversity, using outdoor experiences to frame her ...

Applying Wilderness Medicine Skills During the COVID-19 Pandemic

What Can Spring Learn from Winter? Lessons for the Transition

Reflecting on seasonal transition, NOLS instructor Jonny Hepburn shares lessons learned during ski season and how they might apply to spring ...

Takeaways from the 2019 Wilderness Risk Management Conference

Why should you bother attending the Wilderness Risk Management Conference? Get the inside scoop on the 2019 WRMC from NOLS staff member Molly Herber.

Backcountry Lessons for Today’s World: Tolerance for Adversity and Uncertainty

Tolerance for adversity and uncertainty (or resilience) is a major element of the leadership model NOLS teaches and it has broad applicability, ...

You Don’t Always Have to Know the Answer: Vulnerability in Leadership

Sometimes being a good leader means admitting you don't know the answer, a lesson Carolyn Highland learned on her outdoor educator course in the ...

What I Wish I Knew Before I Was a Camp Counselor

See why a former camp counselor thinks all camp staff should have wilderness medicine trainings!

Social Distancing Responsibly in the Outdoors

Now's the time to apply lessons learned outdoors, like practicing LNT, having a positive attitude, and managing risk responsibly, to the frontcountry.

Hiking Like a Girl

On an Alaska backpacking and sea kayaking course, NOLS grad Caroline Dooley realized that hiking like a girl is something to celebrate. Here's why.

Getting Down to the Basics: Wilderness First Aid Quiz

Take this Wilderness First Aid quiz to test your knowledge about basic WFA skills.

Expedition Science on the Slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro

The NOLS Tanzania Scientific Expedition is a unique opportunity to design and implement a scientific research study—and summit Mount Kilimanjaro!

Northern Absorption: Backpacking & Canoeing in the Yukon

Katie Raymond relives the unforgettable day when she paddled for 13 hours in stormy weather on her Yukon Backpacking and Whitewater Canoeing ...

How Winning the Iditarod on Foot Started with NOLS

I had no idea I was going to work toward this masterpiece of a race, where I’d blend skills I'd spent years working on for 1,000 miles in the winter ...

Creating Space: Why All-Women's Expeditions Matter

In many ways, an all-women's course is just another NOLS course. But it's also something more.

How Outdoor Adventures Set Teens up for Life Success

Mistakes aren't fun. But they might be just what teens need to succeed! NOLS courses offer an opportunity to make mistakes productively and learn key ...

Stepping into Action: First Aid on the Appalachian Trail

NOLS grad Kimberly Blazzard unexpectedly put her wilderness medicine skills into practice on a solo trip on the Appalachian Trail.

Case Study: Ankle Injuries while Climbing

Do you know how to test an ankle injury for usability?

4 Spring Break Trips You Haven't Considered

Choose a different kind of spring break this year. Forget the touristy beaches and overcrowded ski resorts and dive into a real outdoor adventure!

Watch: Yoga for Sea Kayakers

Check out this video to learn a short and effective yoga routine that's designed specifically for paddlers!

Billycan Romance: A Lifetime Adventure

Once upon a time, two young bankers met by chance, bonding over their NOLS expeditions in Wyoming's mountains. The rest is history—a true NOLS love ...

Jimmy Chin’s Journey from NOLS to the Oscars

NOLS grad, former instructor, and current Board member Jimmy Chin shares reflections on adventure, storytelling, family, and his NOLS experience.

Casting into Spring: Wilderness Medicine for Fly Fishing

Even if you’ve never fly-fished, NOLS Wilderness Medicine has advice to prepare you for the hobby’s common risks, especially in the early season.

Wilderness and Identity: Q&A with NOLS LGBTQ+ Canyonlands Backpacking Grad

NOLS LGBTQ+ Canyonlands Backpacking grad, Mat Pryfogle, recounts his takeaways from NOLS' first LBGTQ+ Expedition.

Cold Weather Recipe: Cheesy Potato Soup

There's nothing better than a hot meal after a day out in the cold! Try this cheesy potato soup recipe from NOLS Cookery on your next outdoor trip.

Case Study: A Freezing Snowmobile Ride

Announcing New Expeditions for Summer 2020

Check out our seven new expeditions for summer 2020 and start planning your next adventure!

How To Build a Winter Snow Shelter

Excited to go winter camping? These pro tips and instructions teach you how to build a quinzhee shelter out of snow instead of using a tent.

Celebrating NOLS in the New Year

NOLS welcomes new president, and celebrates Paul Petzoldt's 112th birthday, our 55th anniversary, and 50th anniversary of 30 Days of Survival ...

New Year, New Outdoor You

Make outdoor-focused New Year's resolutions and achieve them in 2020.

A Can of Calm: Applying Wilderness Medicine in Disaster Zones

NOLS Wilderness First Responder trainings aren't just for outdoor enthusiasts—they're also great prep for humanitarian work in disaster zones.

2019 Holiday Gift Guide

Searching for the perfect gift for an outdoorsy friend but not sure what to get? Check out our 2019 holiday gift guide!

Camping Recipe: How to Make a Backcountry Pie

What's a meal without dessert? Satisfy your sweet tooth and show off your backcountry cooking skills with this tasty fruit pie recipe from NOLS ...

Thankful for Wilderness Medicine

Audrey Goral took a NOLS WFA thinking she would only use the skills for a sprained ankle. She never expected to use the skills on her twin in an ...

Our Favorite Places to #OptOutside

Do something different on Black Friday—join NOLS in opting outside! Here are some of our staff's top picks for awesome places to #OptOutside.

Wilderness Medicine and the Zombie Apocalypse

The horror movies turned out to be real—it's time to adapt your wilderness medicine skills to survive zombies!

Case Study: Anaphylaxis in the Backcountry

This case study tests how well you can adapt when your patient has a potential life threat.

Add Some Wild to Your Halloween with Our Pumpkin-Carving Stencils

Happy Spooktober! Carve some fun nature-themed pumpkins with our first-ever NOLS pumpkin-carving stencils this Halloween.

How Backpacking Sparked a Love for Wilderness Medicine

On a NOLS expedition, Jack Johnson fell in love with wilderness medicine. Read about his journey from a 14-year-old backpacker to a Wilderness EMT!

Managing Risk Outdoors: Backcountry Wildfires

It's no secret: wildfires are scary. If you're planning an outdoor trip in a fire-prone area, adding risk management strategies into your trip plan ...

Spring Break 2020: Get Ready for Adventure

Make spring break 2020 the ultimate outdoor adventure! Join NOLS to paddle the Baja coast, backcountry ski in the Rockies, or rock climb in the ...

Continuing Your Wilderness Medicine Education at the WRMC

Build on your wilderness medicine training and take your outdoor skills to the next level at the Wilderness Risk Management Conference (WRMC).

Alumni in Action: Utah Officials Support National Parks

Randy Aton, NOLS alum and Springdale city councilman, discusses the balance between wilderness and community.

3 Mottos I Learned From My AMGA Ski Guide Training

While she's still not sure if she wants to be a ski guide, NOLS instructor Jesse Quillian has some lessons to share from her recent training.

Learning to Say “Thank You:” The Path to Building Community While Climbing

Instructor Andy thought improving at rock climbing was about knowing enough knots and climbing hard enough routes— but it turns out there's more to ...

Business Undergrads Look to Wilderness Expeditions for Leadership Training

Senior Student Program Coordinator & academic advisor for Canfield Business Honors Program at UT Austin sees her students grow in surprising ways ...

Wilderness First Aid: 5 Steps of a Scene Size-up

Always start with the first 5 steps of the scene size-up when responding to an emergency.

ABCs of Wilderness Medicine: The Initial Assessment

You've spotted a fallen hiker on the trail: thinking back to your NOLS Wilderness Medicine course, do you remember how to perform an initial ...

Welcome to NOLS India: Expeditions in the Himalaya

Come to NOLS India to explore the landscape and culture of the Himalaya. Engage with local communities while backpacking and mountaineering.

Start Dreaming: Summer 2020 Expeditions Now Online

Already dreading the end of summer? Don't despair—check out our 2020 summer expeditions and start dreaming about next year's adventures!

Wilderness Safety Training: Key for Any Risk Management Toolkit

How do you manage the inherent risks, like limited communication or distance from medical care, of exploring remote areas? Take a Wilderness Safety ...

SOAR Act Introduction to the House of Representatives

NOLS and the outdoor recreation industry are rallying behind the Securing Outdoor Access for Recreation Act.

Case Study: When Heat Stress Hits an Entire Group

This case study tests how well you can adapt when you're responsible for not just one patient, but an entire group.

My Path to Outdoor Education from a Semester in Alaska

NOLS grad-turned-instructor Katiya Gombar says that not a single day goes by without thinking of her expedition in Alaska and the lessons she learned ...

Why We Leave Phones Behind on NOLS Courses (and Why You Should Do It More Often)

We're not saying you should never bring your phone camping. But here are some good reasons to consider a tech-free adventure.

5 Ways to Make Sure Your Next Hike is LNT-Approved

You're probably already familiar with the seven Leave No Trace principles—here are some additional tips to guarantee your next hike is low impact.

I Don't Need to Be an Extrovert to Lead: Reflections on Backpacking in Alaska

In Alaska I realized I might not be the most extroverted human, but I didn’t have to be. Someone else could do that and there would still be space—a ...

Case Study: Treating a Feverish Patient

Test your wilderness medicine knowledge with this case study about a patient with flu-like symptoms that may be related to a tick-borne illness.

Winter & Spring 2020 Expeditions Now Online

Don’t let these dates sneak up on you—summer’s going by quickly and winter will be here before you know it.

Taking a NOLS River Expedition

Wondering what a NOLS river course is like? Get the inside scoop from instructors and students.

Wilderness First Responders: #lowkeysuperheroes

NOLS grad Eric Johnson unveils the mystery of a Wilderness First Responder certification: earning your 'Woofer' makes you a #lowkeysuperhero.

There and Back Again, a Patagonia Tale: The Patagonia Cultural Expedition

My friends were confused about why someone who'd just gotten a masters in Public Health would join a NOLS expedition in Patagonia—quite frankly, so ...

Research at NOLS: How NOLS Courses Help Prepare for Extended Expeditions in Space

How can NOLS courses help us plan for long duration space flight? Notre Dame PhD candidate Mallika Sarma does the research to find out.

USNA Midshipman Turned NOLS Instructor

USNA grad and Marine veteran Mike Titzer reflects on the lessons he learned on his student course and his return to Alaska as a NOLS instructor.

Case Study: Bucked off a Horse

You're a first responder helping a patient who was bucked off their horse. The assessment might reveal something more troubling than what meets the ...

5 Things I Learned from Going on a Paddling Expedition with My Spouse

Going on an expedition is one thing—going with your spouse can be something else entirely.

Finding What Makes Others Tick on a Baja Semester

NOLS grad Alison Peterson shares how she developed deeper relationships with those around her on a Semester in Baja.

12 Days That Changed My Life: A Homestay in East Africa

Steve reflects on the lasting impact of his homestay with a host family in Tanzania during his Semester in East Africa with NOLS.

Inside Whitewater Expeditions in the Rockies

NOLS river expeditions offer chances to paddle both calm waters and up to Class III whitewater in kayaks, oar rigs, and rafts.

Case Study: An Abandoned Patient High in the Alpine

After a strenuous hike, you and your team find a tent just off the trail at 11,300 ft. You call out, “Hello, is anyone in the tent? This is search ...

Dream with Your Eyes Open: Women's Baja Sea Kayaking Expedition

Jessey Jansen shares memories from her Women's Baja Sea Kayaking expedition.

Turnback Canyon: A NOLS Instructor Shares Lessons from Whitewater Paddling the Alsek River

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NOLS Releases 2023 Impact Report Highlighting Achievements and Initiatives with a Focus on Innovation

June 4, 2024, the leader in outdoor education and leadership continues to provide valuable experiences due to solid alumni support and the highest fundraising year in the organization’s history.

LANDER, Wyo. – June 4, 2024 /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ –  The National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) has released its highly anticipated Impact Report for the fiscal year 2023. In addition to the continued dedication to its mission and vision, NOLS also had the most successful years in fundraising, the highest in NOLS history, and a 48 percent increase over fiscal year 2022.

The NOLS Impact Report showcases the school’s incredible impact and success in providing outdoor education and leadership training. It features testimonials from students, alumni, and staff who share their transformative experiences and the valuable skills they gained through NOLS programs.

Some highlights of the 2023 NOLS Impact Report include:

• Wilderness Medicine remains a strong pillar at NOLS, with over 92,000 classroom days, 893 courses taught, and over 20,000 students in FY23.
• NOLS Expeditions had 394 courses, over 89,000 days in the field, and 3,885 students.
• The fiscal year of 2023 marked the single-best year of fundraising in NOLS history, with the school receiving $9.8 million in gifts.
• Over 900 students receive nearly $2 million annually through the NOLS scholarship Program, broadening access to wilderness education.

“While we are immensely proud of our achievements, we recognize that there is still much work to be done,” said Sandy Colhoun, President of NOLS. “Our commitment to empowering individuals and stewarding the wilderness remains steadfast. We will continue to evolve and innovate to meet the needs of our students and the challenges of our time, all of which makes what we teach in our outdoor classroom even more critical.”

The 2023 NOLS Impact Report is available HERE

Founded in 1965 in a small cabin in Sinks Canyon, Wyoming, the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) is a nonprofit global wilderness school that seeks to help individuals step forward boldly as leaders. We believe that anyone can be a leader; it’s our role to provide the environment and training to help them discover their full potential. We do that in classrooms close to home and remote wilderness areas worldwide. The scope of NOLS’s mission and impact is broad, with 14 campuses across six countries and educational opportunities worldwide. The school enrolls over 28,000 students and employs over 1,000 full-time and part-time staff and instructors with an annual budget of approximately $40 million in a typical year. NOLS currently has more than 360,000 active alumni.

nols.edu | @nols @nolsedu | 800.710.6657

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Kelli Lusk 307.335.2287 [email protected] www.nols.edu

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College Outside + NOLS Scholarship Giveaway

Move your classroom outside.

College Outside and NOLS want you to get wild, develop your leadership skills, and earn college credit while you’re growing your experiences! Enter now to win a scholarship worth up to $2,500 on an Expedition or Semester course.

We're Awarding:

1 “Grand Prize” winner will receive a scholarship of $2,500 towards a NOLS Expedition course

4 “First Prize” winners receive a $500 gift certificate to buy outdoor gear on College Outside!

To register for the giveaway: Fill out this (very short!) form and you'll be registered for the giveaway.

We’ll also send you (digitally or by snail mail) a copy of the NOLS Expedition Catalog so you can be inspired and decide which Outdoor Educator, Semester, or Year Expedition you want to take.

Must apply by April 30, 2022 , so sign up now!

Register Now for Your Chance to Win!

Contest giveaway terms, must apply by april 30, 2022. winners to be announced on may 2, 2022. by entering this contest, you agree to receive occasional emails from nols and college outside. the grand prize can be applied toward qualifying courses with a fall 2022 or any 2023 start date. the applicant must be enrolled by august 31, 2022. valid for all nols expeditions course types. exclusions apply to all wmr, wilderness medicine courses, alumni trips, instructor courses, and all other non-expeditions as defined by nols. must be a new course application; cannot be applied to existing course enrollment. does not apply to any course with a waitlist. subject to nols expedition admission policies and screening. subject to availability. no substitutions. non-transferrable. offer cannot be combined with other special offers or discounts. grand prize valid on course tuition only. does not apply to travel, equipment deposit, and/or other course expenses. students may qualify for an additional nols scholarship..

Find Your Path

Check out the all-new Outdoor Educator section of the website. Explore courses, certifications and available resources for those pursuing a career in the outdoors.

FEATURED COURSES

Yukon Outdoor Educator

Canada’s Yukon Territory redefines wilderness. Leave all signs of civilization behind and embrace the backcountry. Skills include whitewater canoeing, river rescue, backpacking and earned a Leave No Trace™ Master Educator certification.

Summer Semester in Alaska

The three-skill expedition features backpacking amongst glaciers, mountaineering in Alaska’s famed ranges, and sea kayaking on beautiful Prince William Sound. Dive into an extensive environmental studies curriculum and take advantage of 20-hours of daylight to explore these wild lands.

“I wanted to challenge myself to be the best person I could be. I wanted to live with and in nature and work on my skills in the outdoors.” - Katiya Gombar, Semester in Alaska Grad

Read more about Katiya's Semester in Alaska experience

Specialist - Alumni Trips

• Closing: 11:59pm, 22nd Aug 2023 MDT

Job Description

As the Alumni Trips Specialist you will work with and support the Alumni Trips team with the development, marketing, management, execution, evaluation of global NOLS Alumni Trips, seminars, and coordination of special events that offer continuing education and a continued NOLS experience/connection.

Reporting to the Alumni Trips Director, you will partner in crafting the medium and long term vision and strategic plans of the department. You will be responsible for the oversight of enrollment and operations in addition to working with clients, partners, and other NOLS stakeholders to ensure excellent Alumni Trips experiences. In this role you will need the ability to execute a high level of judgment and independent decision making that is aligned with the department vision. You will be expected to perform all day to day operations of client services, engage in vendor relation management, and carry out fiscally responsible decision making. 

The Alumni Trips team is a full-service operation for our Alumni. As part of the team you will build the annual trip plan, market trips and innovate new offerings, manage all aspects of enrollment, assign trip leaders, and many much more. This role will hold oversight to our primary processes around operations and enrollment. That oversight will be a combination of task supervision and execution and will be collaborative with part-time employees of the department.

Key Logistical Information:

Location: Strong preference for Lander, WY; remote opportunities available.

Start date: September 25, 2023.

Benefits: eligible for Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Flexible Spending account, Life Insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Long Term Disability, Employee Assistance Program, Paid Time off, 403(b), 403(b) contribution.

Questions: Please contact [email protected]

What does the Alumni Trips Specialist do?

Coordinate building of the Annual Trips plan of ~65 trips. Utilizing data to create a successful plan of previously run  and new trips. 

Assist Alumni Trips Director with annual budget projections and ongoing budget management

Orchestrate all trip logistics; including transportation, lodging, and local trip support.

Design and publish marketing and logistics information supporting the enrollment of trips.

Expense management and decision making authority for Instructors regarding travel, trip logistics, and participant information.

Coordinate with NOLS campuses worldwide for trips supported by those locations.

Oversight over enrollment process and exercising independent judgment outside of written policies.

Handle incoming customer service questions via phone and email.

Work independent of direct supervision to prioritize and manage long-term relationships; executing excellent independent decision making.

Track enrollment trends to support program goals

Consistent communication with enrolled participants pre and post trip.

Manage waitlists for trips that are enrolled

Adapt outward facing materials and internal practices/policies based on customer feedback.

Ensure participant paperwork and tuition is received on schedule

What makes a great Alumni Trips Specialist at NOLS? 

We are looking for people who share our values and are keen to learn and develop their expertise. We are looking for candidates with the skills listed below. We expect to provide training and development support in some of the areas.

Experience with NOLS as an employee, or a graduate.

NOLS Expedition Course Leader qualification is highly desired.

Personal or professional history of planning complex domestic and international trips.

Experience building and executing logistics plans for groups.

Demonstrated ability to communicate through multiple channels using a comfortable and professional tone.

Experience with incoming customer service environments.

Confidence and competence with independent decision making that supports organizational and departmental values.

Demonstrated ability to work with limited oversight 

Ability to recognize inefficiencies and improve systems or policies that are not functioning as needed. 

Proficiency in writing and copy editing.

Experience building and executing budgets and financial record keeping.

Developing, engaging with, and running small marketing campaigns.

Comfort with database and web based applications, Word, Excel, the Google suite, Outlook, Hubspot.

The Alumni Trips office provides a concierge style of service to our Alumni. A great Trips Specialist will enjoy answering questions about Trips and sharing excitement about NOLS with our Alumni. 

In your first 6 months, you will:

Work to be fully versed in the details of every Alumni Trip.

Learn the tone and style of communication that is the norm for the Alumni Trips team.

Spend lots of time talking to and emailing with NOLS Alumni.

Participate in strategic planning around the trip mix for the next 1-2 years.

Take on pending projects related to Operational planning and Customer support.

Who are we and what can we offer you?

NOLS is a nonprofit global wilderness school that seeks to help people step forward boldly as a leader.

We believe that anyone can be a leader; it is our role to provide the environment and training to help people discover their full potential. We do that in classrooms close to home and in remote wilderness areas around the world. We are an organization with heart, expertise, and wildness, and these qualities help us support powerful, authentic experiences.

NOLS really is a great place to work:

We have locations in seven U.S. states, and six countries; and courses in all 50 U.S. states and over 10 countries.

We have fantastic employee discounts on top outdoor gear brands

We offer discounts on NOLS Courses for you and your family

All employees can benefit of free Outdoor Equipment "Rental" at our various locations

Insurance Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision benefits are available at a special NOLS rate to seasonal employees. Full-time employees are eligible for benefits packages. 

Wellness Time: Accrued leave that may be used for many HR-approved reasons throughout the season.

Employee Assistance Program: Access to counselors that are available 24/7 to assist employees with work-life balance concerns.

All you need to do is start the process by clicking on the yellow button on the top right.

You’ll answer some questions that are related to your day-to-day job. After the job closes, your answers will go through our sift process: all answers will be anonymized, randomized and then reviewed by a panel of reviewers. If you are shortlisted, we’ll invite you to the next step, which includes an interview.

Additional Information

NOLS can currently employ remote employees who have legal working rights in the United States, Canada, Chile, Mexico, New Zealand, and India. In the U.S. and Canada, we can support remote employees in the following states/provinces: Alaska, Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, Montana, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Utah, Washington, or Wyoming.

Pre-Employment Check

A criminal background check is required from all NOLS employees.

NOLS participates in E-verify for U.S. employees, Certificado de Antecedentes for Chilean or Mexican employees, and other relevant employment verification systems based on location.

Current NOLS employees please note it is NOLS policy to conduct an internal reference check with human resources and/or your current supervisor as part of the reference check process. If you have any questions or concerns about this process please contact [email protected] .

Equal Employment Opportunity

NOLS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetics information, disability unrelated to job or admission requirements, or status as a protected veteran. The school’s nondiscrimination policy applies to all phases of its employment process, its admission and financial aid programs, and to all other aspects of its educational programs and activities. Retaliation directed to any person who pursues a discrimination complaint or grievance, participates in a discrimination investigation, or otherwise opposes unlawful discrimination is prohibited.

Reasonable Accommodation

NOLS values community and fosters a sense of belonging for our employees and applicants. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations in the workplace because they embody these values, as well as our operating principle of promoting a positive, safe, and learning environment. Reasonable accommodations may be requested for disability; limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition; religion; and domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or harassment. Reasonable accommodations may be requested at any point of the employment process, including during recruitment. Please email [email protected] with your request.

Know someone great for this?

Removing bias from the hiring process

Applications closed Wed 23rd Aug 2023

• Your application will be anonymously reviewed by our hiring team to ensure fairness
• You’ll need a CV/résumé, but it’ll only be considered if you score well on the anonymous review