The Leader in Wilderness Education | 2011

THE LEADER IN WILDERNESS EDUCATION | 2011 Where in the world could a NOLS course take you? In addition to our classic 13 bases around the globe, we've added NOLS Northeast to our offerings this year, and the fall of 2011 will likely mark NOLS' return to Africa.

Front cover: Student Lydia Ode backpacks through the iconic tussock grasses of © Copyright NOLS, August 2010 • Printed in Portland, Oregon, on New Zealand's South Island. Big Hill Range; Photo by Fredrik Norrsell Forest Stewardship Council certiﬁed recycled paper with soy-based Back cover: Students traverse a ridge toward their lofty goal: Mt. Baker's summit. ink. For more about our environmental commitment, see page 110. North Cascades, Washington; Photo by Madhu Chikkaraju Produced by NOLS in Lander, Wyoming.

A special thanks to all the NOLS instructors and students who captured their NOLS adventures on camera for this year’s catalog! If you’d like to submit your course photos, email [email protected] to find out how. WELCOME TO OUR WORLD. Welcome from the Director ...... 3 The Leader in Wilderness Education ...... 4 Core Curriculum and Leadership Model ...... 6 Alumni Stories ...... 9 Faculty and Support Staff ...... 14 College Credit ...... 16 Financial Aid ...... 17 Course Finder: Your Place at NOLS ...... 18 Courses by Operating Area NOLS Rocky Mountain ...... 20 NOLS Teton Valley ...... 34 NOLS Pacific Northwest ...... 40 NOLS Southwest ...... 46 NOLS Northeast ...... 54 NOLS Alaska ...... 56 NOLS Yukon ...... 64 NOLS Mexico ...... 68 NOLS TANZANIA/AFRICA •• NOLS TANZANIA NOLS Patagonia ...... 72 NOLS Amazon ...... 78 NOLS India ...... 82 NOLS Australia ...... 86 NOLS New Zealand...... 90 NOLS Scandinavia ...... 94 Custom Courses by NOLS Professional Training ...... 96 Wilderness Medicine Institute of NOLS ...... 100 Become a NOLS Instructor ...... 104 Course Dates and Tuitions ...... 105 Environmental Commitment ...... 110 Alumni Benefits and Networks ...... 112 Risk Management at NOLS ...... 113 Application and Admission Policies ...... 114 NOLS Course Application ...... 115

1 This page: Abe Goodale, Photos opposite: Brad Christensen WELCOME FROM THE DIRECTOR

In a world consumed by technology and modernization it has become easy and commonplace to forget about our natural surroundings. Convenience and comfort have become the norm, and our connection to nature has suffered. At NOLS, students get excited about leaving those amenities behind and experiencing our planet by learning in a hands-on setting. Instead of taking a passive role in your life, come to NOLS to learn through experiential education how to be a real leader in this world. We'll show you the value of being an active participant rather than a static observer. For over 45 years NOLS has been leading trips into the wilderness, and students have continually returned home with the tools needed to succeed in their lives to come. By summiting tall mountains or descending exhilarating whitewater, by climbing steep COME TO NOLS TO crags or exploring deep caves, NOLS will provide the support you’ll need to ﬁ nd success. LEARN THROUGH Throughout your course you will be challenged as well as taught to turn those challenges into “ opportunities. You will become a leader in your own life and connected to the natural world EXPERIENTIAL around you. Your strengths will become noticeable and you’ll harness the ability to confront EDUCATION HOW your weaknesses. No matter your skill level or experience, NOLS has a course for you. TO BE A REAL What we do here at NOLS is take the path less traveled; we choose to explore and embark on adventures that change lives. So grab your pack and join us this year for an LEADER IN THIS educational trip that you’ll talk about for the rest of your life! WORLD.

” John Gans NOLS Executive Director

NOLS Board of Trustees | Tori Murden McClure, Chair • F. Fox Benton III, Vice Chair • Jane F. Fried, Secretary • Kei Yamamoto, Treasurer • Joseph P. Allen • Douglas E. Dalquist • AJ Grant • Jay Jacobs • Jonathan Kleisner • William C. Murdock • Robert W. Nimmo • Herbert G. Ogden, M.D., Medical Advisor • Michelle Sarti • Edward M. Schmults • Diana McCargo • Kate Gunness Williams • Amy E. Wyss • Joan K. Chitiea, Trustee Emeritus • Homer L. Luther, Chairman Emeritus • Gene R. Tremblay, Chairman Emeritus

The National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) is a private, nonproﬁ t, educational corporation. NOLS is an organization described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and all contributions to NOLS are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Facing Page: The learning process doesn't stop with the setting sun as students dig into their wilderness library in the darkness of their tents. Wind River Range, Wyoming

3 WHAT MAKES NOLS THE LEADER IN WILDERNESS EDUCATION? Roo RileyRoo Abe Goodale Abe Jamie O'Donnell Jamie

Left: Grow with your coursemates to become conﬁdent and successful leaders. Hyland River, Yukon. Center: Figuring it out. That peak is right....here. Wind River Range, Wyoming. Right: Experiential education means hands-on, relevant lessons. North Cascades, Washington. Facing page: With NOLS, the vast ocean wilderness could be your next classroom. Baja California, Mexico

Experience. More than 45 years of it, in NOLS DEVELOPS LEADERS. We attract highly motivated students who want to learn how to lead. And that’s just what happens—our graduates ﬁnd success whether at school, fact. Founded in 1965 by legendary moun- at play, or at work. taineer Paul Petzoldt, NOLS takes people of all NOLS IS THE SKILLS SCHOOL. Our hands-on, learn-by-doing approach means that our ages on real wilderness expeditions, teaching graduates get the skills they need to be competent, responsible wilderness travelers long after their course is over. outdoor skills, leadership, and environmental ethics in some of the world’s wildest and NOLS EXPLORES REMOTE WILDERNESS ON EXTENDED EXPEDITIONS AND SHAPES WILDERNESS ETHICS. What NOLS teaches cannot be learned in a classroom or on a city most awe-inspiring classrooms. With courses street. It takes practice to learn outdoor skills and time to develop leadership. The wilderness provides the ideal setting for this unique education. ranging from ten days to a full academic year, students learn the skills necessary to be com- NOLS TEACHES REAL LIFE LESSONS THROUGH EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION. More than 95% of NOLS students say they’ll use what they learned at NOLS in other aspects petent, responsible wilderness travelers and of life. In fact, NOLS graduates value their education so much that 97% of them recommend NOLS to a friend. leaders long after their course is over. AT NOLS, YOU’LL GET THE SUPPORT OF THE BEST FACULTY AND SUPPORT STAFF IN WILDERNESS EDUCATION. NOLS instructors get their start at other outdoor programs and then, after a competitive selection process and training by NOLS, they are ready to instruct for us.

NOLS’ COLLEGE CREDIT AND FINANCIAL AID PROGRAMS ARE UNPARALLELED IN WILDERNESS EDUCATION. More than $1 million in scholarship aid is available every year for eligible NOLS students. In addition, more than 75% of NOLS students who are of college age take a NOLS course for college credit. Students have successfully transferred credits to over 400 colleges around the country.

NOLS EMBRACES DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION. NOLS is committed to ensuring an environment in which inclusion is a fundamental value. We welcome students from a wide variety of backgrounds regardless of race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion or belief systems, creed, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, veteran status, prior outdoor experience, or economic standing.

4 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] Abe Goodale Abe

5 NOWHERE BUT NOLS. NO BETTER TIME THAN NOW. Abe Goodale Abe

The core curriculum at NOLS is made up WHAT WE TEACH: of four integral parts: leadership, outdoor LEADERSHIP AND TEAMWORK ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES skills, environmental studies, and risk manage- The 4-7-1 Leadership Model • Leave No Trace camping and resource protection • Four leadership roles • Natural history: animal and plant identification, ment. Every course at NOLS uses these ele- • Seven leadership skills astronomy, weather, and geology • Your signature leadership style • Regional environmental issues ments as a foundation, and the lessons learned • Function and organization of land management OUTDOOR SKILLS agencies within this framework in the backcountry are • Equipment care and selection • Sustainability of ecological, social, and economic systems lessons that will be transferred to your everyday • Ration planning • Preparing nutritious meals using a camp stove • Wilderness ethics and practices for everyday life life—at home, at work, and at play. Whether it's and fire RISK MANAGEMENT • Staying warm and dry a long, stormy hiking day or a long, stormy • Route-finding, navigation, map reading, and • Health and comfort maintenance compass use • Wilderness injury prevention and treatment recession, you’ll have the tools to endure, to • Campsite selection • Judgment and decision-making • Sanitation and waste disposal • Identification and mitigation of subjective and overcome, and to succeed. objective risks • Emergency procedures WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: "NOLS was critical to the development of my..." ABILITY TO SERVE IN A LEADERSHIP ROLE ABILITY TO FUNCTION EFFECTIVELY UNDER DIFFICULT CIRCUMSTANCES ABILITY TO WORK AS A TEAM MEMBER ABILITY TO PLAN AND ORGANIZE ABILITY TO GET ALONG WITH DIFFERENT TYPES OF PEOPLE ABILITY TO COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY OUTDOOR SKILLS COOKING SKILLS PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE ON HOW LIFE CAN BE SIMPLER DESIRE TO BE IN THE OUTDOORS APPRECIATION OF NATURE ABILITY TO MAKE INFORMED AND THOUGHTFUL DECISIONS ABILITY TO MANAGE CONFLICTS WITH OTHERS 0 VERY FALSE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 VERY TRUE 10 Average survey responses from graduates of NOLS wilderness, adventure, and semester courses. Adapted from: Sibthorp, J., Paisley, K., Furman, N., & Gookin, J. 2008. Long-term impacts attributed to participation in wilderness education: Preliminary findings from NOLS. Research in Outdoor Education, 9, 86-102. See the full study at www.outdooredcoalition.org/research08.htm.

6 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] Ignacio Grez Ignacio

Above: Each member of every expedition is utilizing parts of the 4-7-1 leadership model no matter what end of the rope they're on. Powell Glacier, Alaska. Facing page: Learn how to care for our environment, yourself, and those around you while exploring nature's beauty. Wind River Range, Wyoming

LEADERSHIP IS SITUATIONALLY APPROPRIATE ACTION THAT DIRECTS OR GUIDES YOUR GROUP TO SET AND ACHIEVE GOALS. OTHER PROGRAMS TALK ABOUT “LEADERSHIP—AT NOLS, YOU’LL DO IT! John Kanengieter, NOLS Director for Leadership ” 4 Leadership Roles On every successful expedition, each member of the team ﬁ lls a variety of leadership roles Designated Leadership in order to achieve the group's ultimate goals. There are four types of leadership at NOLS, and Self Leadership all are equally important. Peer Leadership Active Followership The seven leadership skills are a holistic skill set that needs to be applied situationally and 7 Leadership Skills in combination with each other and the four leadership roles. A NOLS graduate should be able to incorporate these skills into their everyday behavior in both the backcountry and at home. Expedition Behavior Competence Signature style is the leadership style that works best for you as an individual. This style is Communication based on your multiple intelligences, learning preferences, social intelligence, conﬂ ict management Judgment & Decision-Making styles, and other personal strengths and preferences. While taking on the four different leadership Tolerance for Adversity & Uncertainty roles and honing the seven basic leadership skills, your signature leadership style will have a Vision & Action Self-Awareness chance to shine. Come discover your style with NOLS. 1 Signature Style

7 Fredrik Norrsell NOLS DEVELOPS

Stephen Shames Stephen LEADERS. Facing page: NOLS' leadership curriculum will give you the tools and conﬁdence to become a leader in your own life as well as the lives of others. Hurunui River, New Zealand. Above: NOLS grad Jabali Sawicki credits his NOLS education to his success as principal of the Excel- lence Boys Charter School (left) in Brooklyn, New York.

A CONVERSATION WITH JABALI SAWICKI Principal, Excellence Boys Charter School; Alaska Backpacking ’93 Albert Vecerka Albert

abali Sawicki is the founding principal of Excellence Boys Charter School in dence and presence of mind. There is no JBrooklyn, New York, an all-boys K-8 charter school with a student body that is work more urgent than what we’re doing 99 percent African American. As a graduate of a 1993 NOLS Alaska Backpacking at Excellence Boys. Working with an all- course, Jabali does everything possible to expose his boys to the outdoors. He also boys population is challenging, but being believes that NOLS introduced him to the leadership skills that have made Excel- aware of my own strengths and weak- lence Boys one of the highest performing schools in New York. Here he reﬂects on nesses as a leader has helped me to better his NOLS experience and how it has led him to where he is today: serve our scholars and our families.”

What was the most important leadership learned from my NOLS instructors to be How did you ﬁrst hear about NOLS? lesson you gained from NOLS? “I think of present, aware, and calm. In those mo- “I heard about NOLS through Summer leadership in the context of being a part ments of calmness we learn to identify Search, a program that connects inner of something bigger than myself. My how we can impact change and how we city students of color with leadership NOLS experience helped me understand can identify solutions.” opportunities while they are in high what it meant to be part of a team; it school. I was 16-years-old when I took taught me that group efforts and mission How do you apply these leadership lessons my NOLS course. Initially I was more are often bigger than my own personal in your everyday life? “Being a principal is interested in doing some community efforts and mission. Excellence Boys a pretty demanding job, and working at service projects in a warm tropical envi- Charter School is only able to function an urban school with the expectations of ronment, but when I was encouraged to as a school because we connect our work being high performing means we move do something that would challenge me as school leaders and teachers to the at a pretty frantic pace. I feel like I am and push me beyond my limits, I went work and beliefs of families, the larger able to calmly and peacefully deal with with NOLS.” community, and national education re- anything that comes my way. After hav- form. That perspective is something that ing carried a heavy pack up a mountain, Hear more from Jabali on leadership, my NOLS course fundamentally altered I’m able to face the smaller things that education, and NOLS at NOLS.TV. in a very positive and profound way. I might have made me anxious with conﬁ-

9 NOLS IS THE SKILLS SCHOOL.

Be prepared to use your NOLS skills for the rest of your life. Below: NOLS grad Shane Young dropped what he was doing and went to Haiti to provide aid after the 2010 earthquake. Photos courtesy of Shane Young

A CONVERSATION WITH SHANE YOUNG Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician, wilderness ﬁreﬁghter, and humanitarian; WEMT '09

n Eagle Scout and captain of his high school track and field team, Shane Young buying lunch from him. On day one, the Ahas always been a leader. After graduating from Georgetown University in 2008, money in my pocket bought me one six- Shane spent a year camping and backpacking, culminating with a Wilderness Emer- inch sandwich. On day 30, after I had gency Medical Technician (WEMT) course with the Wilderness Medicine Institute of administered to the medical needs of the NOLS in 2009. As fate would have it, he was newly trained when a devastating earth- vendor and several of his family members, quake struck weeks later in Haiti. Shane credits NOLS for instilling in him the skills I was able to buy a 15-inch sandwich and and confidence to drop everything to go to Haiti and “be useful.” After this experience, three sodas for the same price. Plus, I am he now feels even more prepared for his next adventure as a wilderness firefighter. now the vendor’s newborn child’s godfa- ther. My NOLS training was the bridge What was most memorable about your tion outside a damaged hospital building to this new friendship.” WEMT course? “The most memorable where we could treat patients; set up all part was the mass casualty rescue scenar- the supplies and equipment such as medi- Would you recommend NOLS to others, and io, a plane crash, especially because of the cations, bandages and gloves; triaged pa- why? “Of course! At NOLS, you find real-life makeup and the fact that some of tients as they arrived on site; instructed yourself learning alongside others with the ‘patients,’ who were fellow students, them on keeping hydrated in the hot en- similar interests in the outdoors, and in were amazing actors, making us truly be- vironment; dealt with major wound care; my case, classmates who were interested lieve they were injured.” and had considerable leeway to diagnose in knowing how to rescue someone in the and treat due to my WEMT skills.” backcountry. But above all, the teachers— What technical skills did you transfer to who included people who had worked at your volunteer work in Haiti? “Even arriv- If there was a single experience in Haiti that high altitude camps on Denali and Ever- ing three weeks after the quake, I applied left you feeling truly rewarded, what would est—had firsthand knowledge and expe- nearly all of my WEMT skills. I took the that be? “When I arrived in Haiti, I found rience and were truly inspiring. I can’t lead in establishing a safe and clean loca- an amazing sandwich vendor and started imagine anyone better to learn from.”

10 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] Photo courtesy of Ellie Johnston

Learn what it takes to care for our wild places and develop a strong wilderness ethic with NOLS. Above: Grad Ellie Johnston in her element. Huascarán National Park, Peru NOLS EXPLORES REMOTE BACKCOUNTRY ON EXTENDED EXPEDITIONS AND SHAPES WILDERNESS ETHICS. What wilderness concepts did you take A CONVERSATION WITH ELLIE JOHNSTON away from NOLS? “The Leave No Trace University of North Carolina-Asheville, biology major; Semester in the Pacific Northwest '05 principles taught at NOLS helped me to draw the relationship between my ac- t has been six years since Ellie Johnston’s NOLS course and she continues to dem- tions and their effects in a way that was Ionstrate and implement the leadership training and wilderness ethics she learned in more concrete than any lessons previously the backcountry. Committed to fighting climate change, she has been an active leader taught to me within four walls. For me, on campus as a part of the UNC Asheville Student Government Association, as well as the wilderness setting provides both inspi- with organizations such as Active Students for a Healthy Environment and the South- ration and reflection for whenever I return ern Energy Network. In 2010, Ellie attended the UN Climate Change Conference in to our built environments.” Copenhagen, Denmark, as part of the SustainUS youth delegation. Would you recommend NOLS to others, How did your NOLS course lead to your issues at the campus, community, state, and why? “Since my course, I’ve always participation in wilderness advocacy? regional, and international levels.” been quick to recommend NOLS to oth- “The impacts from my NOLS course ers. With the average person increasingly are intertwined into all aspects of my How did living and learning in the wilder- spending the vast majority of their lives life today. I did my NOLS course dur- ness inspire you? “The experience of being indoors, it is invaluable to have opportuni- ing a critical part of my life, right after in the wilderness for many continuous days ties like NOLS for people to get outside high school graduation, which for me always renews my appreciation of the vast and learn about the world that we depend was a time when the lessons of self-aware- interconnections that people have with the on. Without first knowing the world ness were very new. I think without my natural world. This awareness has been es- around us, how can we know when it is NOLS experience I wouldn’t have taken sential to my motivation in working to en- irrevocably lost?” the amount of initiative that I have in the sure our needs as a species do not continue past few years in working around climate to outstrip the world’s natural limits.”

11 Photo courtesy of Erica Perez

NOLS TEACHES REAL LIFE LESSONS THROUGH EXPERIENTIAL

EDUCATION. Baynes/STEP Tracy A NOLS education is an education that sticks. NOLS grad Erica Perez went from her NOLS courses in Alaska (above and facing page) to the U.S. Naval Academy (left) with conﬁdence and capability.

A CONVERSATION WITH ERICA PEREZ Midshipman, U.S. Naval Academy; STEP Expedition '07 & '08

aised in Los Angeles, Erica Perez didn’t realize until she paddled for three weeks me. A lot of the things they were telling R along the pristine Alaskan coastline with NOLS that she was passionate about me, like ‘you can’t get through this place the outdoors, and more importantly, that she was destined to be a leader. She learned alone’ were the same things my NOLS valuable technical skills at NOLS, but she says the most important lessons she learned instructors told me.” were those she gained from dealing with real situations that had real consequences. Since her first NOLS course, Erica has repeatedly embraced those lessons, has continu- Did your NOLS experience have any part in ally challenged herself, and is now in her second year at the U.S. Naval Academy. your decision to attend the Naval Academy? “Absolutely. The whole ‘getting out of your What was it like to learn in the field ver- kan wilderness, not having a cell phone element’ experience of NOLS gave me the sus in the traditional classroom? “I never on me, getting through arguments with courage to take on a challenge like the Na- struggled in the classroom, but being in my group—being able to overcome all of val Academy. When I was accepted, I knew the field really tested me. To learn leader- that made me realize I could overcome I would be challenged physically and aca- ship you need to be placed out of your ele- anything. My self-esteem, self-confidence, demically. I am going to face certain dilem- ment and in an challenging situation and and courage grew as a result of NOLS.” mas where I have to learn to do the right overcome that situation, which is what my thing, and do it honorably. I have never had NOLS course was all about. How have you used your NOLS experience at anyone in my family do military fieldwork, the Naval Academy? “Our Plebe Summer but I wanted to do something big, which What were some of the lessons you took exercises were very similar to NOLS les- came from my NOLS experience.” away from your course? “The course was sons. In the mornings we would engage a blast, but also challenging. My growth in drills that were purposefully designed NOLS partners with the Student Expedition as a person was much greater than any of so that you couldn’t get through them on Program (STEP) to provide skills and lead- the technical skills I learned. I grew up your own. It is required that you bond ership training to underprivileged, college- in Los Angeles, surrounded by buildings, with people around you and work togeth- bound youth (www.stepexpedition.org). and never left the city. Being in the Alas- er as a team. That was a big flashback for

12 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] Tracy Baynes/STEP Tracy

13 NOLS Environmental NOLS Curriculum and Research:

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You’ll learn more because NOLS demands o d L I more experience and training from its P instructors than any other outdoor program. h i l R R a n t h r p o r t o 14,000 o p i c S u p u E t e graduates s each year P X E NOLS Alumni and Development: NOLS PROFESSIONAL TRAINING PROVIDES Through strong relationships with T 97% of our graduates CUSTOM LEADERSHIP TRAINING our alumni, we further our mission N E recommend NOLS and support scholarships, research, D to a friend FOR BUSINESSES, SCHOOLS, AND ORGANIZATIONS. and capital improvements for our T U nonprofit school. S nce 95% of our graduates transfer sfere an their NOLS education to other Tr aspects of their life

OUR VALUES NOLS: STUDENT CENTERED, VALUES DRIVEN WILDERNESS EDUCATION THE MISSION of the National Outdoor LEADERSHIP SAFETY COMMUNITY EXCELLENCE Leadership School is to be the leading source STUDENT TO INSTRUCTOR RATIO 5:1 and teacher of wilderness skills and leadership ORIGINAL DATA 1965 that serve people and the environment. CONTOUR INTERVAL 30 DAYS NOLS BOARD OF TRUSTEES AJ-JK-BP SERIES EDITION REVISED 2010

NOLS GIVES YOU THE BEST FACULTY AND SUPPORT STAFF IN WILDERNESS EDUCATION.

BEST STAFF, BEST RESULTS NOLS’ strength is its staff of nearly 800 individuals worldwide, every one of them dedicated to delivering high quality wilderness education. They are driven by the school’s mission and inspired by our graduates who are active, positive leaders with environmental ethics and outdoor skills.

THE BEST SUPPORT NOLS support staff take care of all those little details that make your NOLS experience a great adventure: great gear properly ﬁt; good, nutritious food and

Fredrik Norrsell Fredrik plenty of it; awe-inspiring backcountry; cutting-edge curriculum; and industry-leading risk management. This attention to detail means that NOLS consistently delivers the most fun and educational wilderness adventures available anywhere.

THE BEST INSTRUCTORS NOLS is without peer when it comes to selecting and training our instructional staff. NOLS instructors get their start at other outdoor programs. After gaining experience and a competitive selection process, they are ready for NOLS instructor training and an apprenticeship. Only then are they able to teach for NOLS

Fredrik Norrsell Fredrik and even that is just the beginning. NOLS instructors can participate in more than 60 instructor seminars to further hone their skills and, with help from the NOLS Instructor Providing food, gear, and logistics, NOLS in-town staff will help you depart for your course and support the Development Fund, they embark on ambitious expeditions worldwide. Their training and success of your backcountry adventure. NOLS Alaska experience means that you’ll learn skills, develop leadership, and have the time of your life!

14 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] NOLS AND WMI FIELD STAFF ARE A DIVERSE BUNCH OF OVER 500 INSTRUCTORS! HERE ARE A FEW YOU MIGHT RUN INTO:

TYSON LEHMANN EMILY LEDINGHAM NOLS Instructor since 2008 NOLS Instructor since 2008 WMI Instructor since 2004 Emily worked in town at NOLS Yukon and NOLS A native Australian absconded to Canada, Tyson Mexico before becoming an instructor. She has has worked NOLS field courses in locations rang- since worked hiking, mountaineering, canoeing, ing from the Gila to the Himalayas. He spent years and winter ski courses. When she is not in the working in the global outdoor industry before field, Emily works for a nonprofit in Vancouver NOLS, and when not instructing, he works as a that provides outreach to at-risk women. flight medic. SAM TALUCCI MADHU CHIKKARAJU NOLS Instructor since 1992 NOLS Instructor since 2006 A grad from 1977 and an instructor for 18 years, Madhu has over 100 weeks of NOLS field experi- Sam is a staple at NOLS. His most memorable ence as a hiking, climbing, and mountaineering moments vary from seeing a mountain lion in the instructor in locations worldwide. Known for his middle of the day to watching a sunrise with stu- creativity, this native of Bangalore, India, teaches dents to listening to his own children’s stories of students how to pack for the field using Bolly- their NOLS adventures. wood dancing skills. LIZA HOWARD CLAIR PARRISH NOLS and WMI Instructor since 2003 f member profiled. member f NOLS Instructor since 2003 A nurse, a mom, and an ultramarathon runner, Clair was a second-grade teacher and lacrosse this ever-humble Texas native was in the spotlight coach in Virginia for eight years before she moved last year when she came in second at the Rocky to Wyoming and became a full-time NOLS in- Raccoon 100-mile race. The word is she took six structor. She now has over 100 weeks in the field, hours less this year because she didn’t have to is mentoring others on NOLS Instructor Courses, stop every 20 miles to nurse her baby. So Liza is and enjoys bringing her bag of costumes on stu- also a supermom, to boot. dent courses just to keep things interesting. BRAD SWANDER CLAUDIO VEGA NOLS Instructor since 2001 NOLS Instructor since 2007 After spending time in the Navy and with the Claudio began his career with NOLS by volunteer- National Park Service, Brad came to NOLS to ing in the NOLS Patagonia issue room. Four years teach hiking courses in Alaska and the South- later, he has taught whitewater paddling in Utah west. An electrical engineer and electrician by and Idaho, canoeing in Brazil, and sea kayaking in trade, Brad takes special pleasure in being the Patagonia. A native Chilean, Claudio travels and “fix-it” guy for NOLS Alaska and special projects paddles as much as he is able, holds a degree in coordinator for NOLS Southwest when he’s not in hotel management, and is carnivorous in his diet. the field.

LENA CONLAN MARGO VAN DEN BERG NOLS Instructor since 1986 NOLS Instructor since 2006 WMI Instructor since 1999 Margo was born and raised in the Netherlands, Lena considered herself a climber 25 years ago, went to college in Ireland, and ﬁnished graduate but NOLS Mexico needed sea kayaking instruc- school in New York. She has devoted herself to tors so she seized the opportunity. When NOLS what makes her happy: a simpler outdoor life- began operating in Scandinavia in 2008, Lena style, rock climbing, and tango. helped the sea kayaking program off to a successful start. For more staff bios, visit Madhu Chikkaraju Jewell, by Tony Margo van den Berg by Nick Cross, Sam Talucci by Rich Brame, all other photos courtesy of staf www.nols.edu/about/proﬁles

15 COLLEGE CREDIT Betsy Winston Betsy

Every NOLS course is approved for college UNIVERSITY OF UTAH UNDERGRADUATE AND GRADUATE CREDIT credit and more than 75% of our college- • Concepts in Biology: Natural History of Regional Ecosystems • Natural Resources Learning: Environmental Ethics age students take advantage of this option. • Natural Resources Learning: Leadership Techniques • Natural Resources Learning: Skills Practicum For nearly 30 years NOLS has offered credit • Risk Assessment, Management, and Decision-Making through the University of Utah, one of the • Wilderness First Responder • Expedition Behavior nation’s premier research universities. Further- • Outdoor Education more, 400 colleges and universities nation- These courses are offered through the University’s departments of Biology; Health Edu- cation; and Parks, Recreation, and Tourism. Details are available from the NOLS Ad- wide have accepted NOLS/University of Utah mission ofﬁce. This optional college credit is $65 per credit hour. credit, and many others grant their own credit ASSOCIATE DEGREE PROGRAMS NOLS and Central Wyoming College (CWC) in Ri- verton, Wyoming, have partnered to offer two degree programs: for NOLS courses. We also offer two associate • Associate of Science in Environmental Science and Leadership: During the NOLS por- degrees in partnership with Central Wyoming tion of this degree program, you’ll develop environmental awareness and conservation College and have many direct credit and ar- ethics. At CWC you’ll complement this with a classic natural science education. • Associate of Arts in Outdoor Education and Leadership: Designed for students interested in ticulation agreements with other colleges and careers in outdoor education or environmental education and activism, this degree program combines one or more NOLS courses with education and liberal arts courses at CWC. universities around the globe. DIRECT CREDIT These colleges offer their own credit and process ﬁnancial aid for a NOLS education:

Brock University, St. Catherine's, Ontario, Canada • Central Wyoming College, Riverton, WY • College of the Atlantic, Bar Harbor, ME • Ferris State University, Big Rapids, MI • Green Mountain College, Poultney, VT • Northland College, Ashland, WI • Ohio State University, Columbus, OH • Penn State University, University Park, PA • Radford University, Radford, VA • Sterling College, Craftsbury Common, VT • SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY • SUNY Cortland, Cortland, NY • SUNY Plattsburgh, Plattsburgh, NY • Texas A&M University, College Station, TX • University of Baltimore, Baltimore, MD • University of Montana-Western, Dillon, MT • University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada • University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY • Western State College, Gunnison, CO

ARTICULATION AGREEMENTS The following colleges allow the easy transfer of University of Utah credit and process ﬁnancial aid for a NOLS education:

Alaska Paciﬁc University, Anchorage, AK • Algonquin College, Pembroke, Ontario, Canada • Aurora Uni- versity, Aurora, IL • Clemson University, Clemson, SC • Collège Mérici, Québec City, Québec, Canada • Hartwick College, Oneonta, NY • Houghton College, Houghton, NY • Ithaca College, Ithaca, NY • Kyushu Contact the NOLS Admission ofﬁce or Lutheran College, Kyushu, Japan • Northwest College, Powell, WY • Paul Smith’s College, Paul Smiths, NY • visit www.nols.edu/courses/credit Quest University Canada, Garibaldi Highlands, BC, Canada • Unity College, Unity, ME • University of Maine, for more college credit information. Presque Isle, ME • Utah State University, Logan, UT

16 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] Betsy Winston Betsy

Above: Affording a NOLS course have you tied in knots? We know knots and ﬁnancial aid; just give us a call. Uspallante River, Patagonia. Facing Page: NOLS college credit will keep you on track for your educational summit. Cordon Contreras, Patagonia FINANCIAL AID

A NOLS course is a great value; most of them NOLS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM: More than $1 million in scholarship dollars is available at NOLS every year. Scholarship aid is available to students who are enrolled on a NOLS cost just $150 per day. The reality, though, is course, show great potential to excel, and would be unable to attend without financial as- many students must seek assistance to achieve sistance. Scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis. their educational goals. That’s why we offer a CONSORTIUM AGREEMENTS: Students at a college that accepts credit earned for a NOLS semester may be able to use their federal financial aid through a consortium agreement number of different financial aid resources for between NOLS and the college. our students and their families. Don’t let our FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID AND AMERICORPS: Central Wyoming College (CWC) processes federal financial aid and AmeriCorps stipends for NOLS students. price tags turn you away without first asking VETERANS ADMINISTRATION BENEFITS: Many NOLS courses are eligible for VA about these opportunities. Benefits. VA refund policies apply.

Contact the NOLS Admission ofﬁce or visit www.nols.edu/courses/ﬁnancialaid for more information and applications.

17 COURSE FINDER: YOUR PLACE AT NOLS NOLS/ORVIS WILDERNESS FLY-FISHING AND FLY-FISHING BACKPACKING PATAGONIA WILDERNESS HORSEPACKING WIND RIVER MOUNTAINEERING RANGE MOUNTAINEERING WADDINGTON CASCADES MOUNTAINEERING NORTH ALASKA MOUNTAINEERING DENALI MOUNTAINEERING MOUNTAINEERING HIMALAYA MOUNTAINEERING PATAGONIA ROCK CLIMBING ROCK AND RIVER WIND RIVER WILDERNESS ADVENTURE WYOMING BACKPACKING ABSAROKA BACKPACKING ADVENTURE ADIRONDACK BACKPACKING ADVENTURE IDAHO BACKPACKING BACKPACKING NORTHWEST PACIFIC ADVENTURE BACKPACKING NORTHWEST PACIFIC ALASKA BACKPACKING YUKON BACKPACKING BACKPACKING HIMALAYA AUSTRALIA BACKPACKING BACKPACKING SCANDINAVIA SEA KAYAKING SCANDINAVIA AND SEA KAYAKING BACKPACKING SCANDINAVIA AND SEA KAYAKING ALASKA BACKPACKING AND SEA KAYAKING AUSTRALIA BACKPACKING NEW ZEALAND BACKPACKING SOUTHEAST ALASKA SEA KAYAKING PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SEA KAYAKING BAJA SEA KAYAKING SAILING BAJA COASTAL AMAZON BASIN RIVER EXPEDITION LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACKING ROCKY MOUNTAIN SOUTHWEST LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACKING AND RAFTING SALMON BACKPACKING AND RAFTING ADVENTURE SALMON BACKPACKING BROOKS RANGE BACKPACKING AND RIVER BROOKS RANGE BACKPACKING AND PACKRAFTING ALASKA BACKPACKING AND WILDERNESS CANOEING YUKON BACKPACKING AND SAILING SEA KAYAKING NORTHWEST PACIFIC

LEARN TO LEAD MASTER SKILLS PAGE 21 23 22 55 38 41 41 60 65 83 87 95 95 95 58 87 91 57 57 69 69 79 22 47 35 38 61 61 60 65 43 24 73 25 26 42 42 59 59 83 73 26 27 Backpacking •••••••••••• •••• •••••••• •• •••••••• Mountaineering ••••••• Canyon Caving Rock Climbing •• ••• •• Fly-Fishing •••••• •• • •• • • •••• • Horespacking • Canoeing ••• River Kayaking •• Rafting •• • • Sea Kayaking •••• ••• • Sailing •• Skiing Snowboarding Culture ••• • • ••• • •• 2 Weeks & Under •••• • ••••• ••• 2-3 Weeks •••••• 4-6 Weeks ••• • ••••• ••••• • •• ••••• ••••••••• Academic Semester Academic Year January/February •••• • March/April •• • • May •• • • • • • June •••••• •••• ••• • • •••• •••••• • July ••••••••• •••••• •• •• •• ••••• •••••• •• August ••• •• • ••• •• • •• •••• • • ••• •• September/October • • ••• ••• November/December •• 14 &15 years old •••• • 16 & over •• ••• • ••• • •••• •• 17 & over ••• 16 & 17 only •• • • 18 & over ••••• •• • • •• • ••• 21 & over 23 & over • • •• • • •• ••

18 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] COURSE FINDER

REFINE YOUR LEADERSHIP SKILLS, TAKE THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME OR PREPARE FOR A CAREER IN OUTDOOR EDUCATION. WE HAVE A COURSE FOR YOU!

LEARN TO LEAD Leadership is what sets NOLS apart from the rest. All NOLS courses will teach you the skills to lead others long after you’ve graduated, but these courses give students the greatest chance to put their leadership skills to work with numerous student leader- WHITEWATER RIVER EXPEDITION WHITEWATER SNOWBOARDING BACKCOUNTRY SKIING BACKCOUNTRY OUTDOOR EDUCATOR ROCKY MOUNTAIN OUTDOOR EDUCATOR NORTHWEST PACIFIC TRIP LEADER NORTHWEST PACIFIC SOUTHWEST OUTDOOR EDUCATOR ALASKA OUTDOOR EDUCATOR YUKON OUTDOOR EDUCATOR WINTER OUTDOOR EDUCATOR SEMESTER IN THE ROCKIES SEMESTER FOR OUTDOOR EDUCATORS NORTHWEST SEMESTER IN THE PACIFIC SEMESTER IN THE SOUTHWEST SEMESTER ON THE BORDERS SEMESTER IN ALASKA SEMESTER IN THE YUKON SEMESTER IN BAJA SEMESTER IN PATAGONIA SEMESTER IN THE AMAZON SEMESTER IN INDIA SEMESTER IN AUSTRALIA SEMESTER IN NEW ZEALAND YEAR IN PATAGONIA YEAR IN THE SONORAN

ADVANCE YOUR CAREER WANT MORE? of-the-day and independent student travel opportunities. 27 36 37 24 43 41 47 58 65 36 28 32 44 48 50 62 66 70 74 80 84 88 92 76 52 MASTER SKILLS •••••••••••••••••••••••• Since 1965 people have come to NOLS to learn the skills they need ••••••••to climb mountains, run rivers, and ski deep backcountry powder. •• Our extended expedition format means you’ll have time to truly ••master the skills you learn. NOLS is the premier skills school and •• • ••••• •• these courses give you what you need to be a competent, respon- ••••• sible wilderness enthusiast. • ADVANCE YOUR CAREER •••••••• Get outdoors and get paid for it. These courses are designed for •• classroom teachers who want to expand the traditional classroom, •••outdoors people who want to develop their teaching skills, and • • •• •• •••• students from college outdoor education programs. •• • •• •••• WANT MORE? Three to five months of outdoor living, college credit, and much • more. The outdoor semester and the outdoor year are uniquely •••••••• NOLS. Spending several months as a part of an expedition means •• • you’ll be both a leader and an active follower, practicing commu- •• • nication, conflict resolution, and decision-making. You will return •• ••• home changed. Most students on NOLS semesters or years come ••••••••••••• on hiatus from their college campus or as a gap year between high •• school and college. Adult learners are also taking a longer NOLS •• • ••• • •• ••• experience as a time-out between careers. • •• •• •• ••••• •••••••Having trouble deciding? We have NOLS grads standing by to • ••• • ••• •• answer your questions. Call 1-800-710-NOLS or log on to www.nols.edu • ••• •• • •• • to chat with our admissions officers and student service representatives. • ••• •• • • •• • Can’t find a course that matches your needs? • •••• •••• ••• Contact NOLS Professional Training about custom •••• •••• ••• courses for your group or organization. See page 97 for details or call 1-800-710-NOLS, ext. 3.

••Planning your own outing or training for a ﬁeld •• • ••• • job? Be prepared for backcountry emergencies with the leader in wilderness medicine education, the Wilderness ••••••• • ••••••• Medicine Institute of NOLS. See page 101 for details or call, you guessed it, 1-800-710-NOLS, ext. 4. • •

19 ROCKY MOUNTAIN Jamie O’Donnell Jamie

20 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKY The ﬁrst NOLS courses ventured into the wilderness here over 45 years ago. Generations of students have been exploring the stunning glacier-carved granite cirques of the famous Wind River Mountains, the sprawling meadows and deep rivers of the Absarokas, and the hidden red canyons of Utah’s slickrock country with NOLS Rocky Mountain. The heart of our operation is in Lander, Wyoming, the small town that NOLS founder Paul Petzoldt handpicked in 1965 as the base of operations for his innovative outdoor school. We also operate the Three Peaks Ranch in Boulder, Wyoming. Set on the western edge of the Wind Rivers, this working ranch is where we run our horsepacking courses and re-supply other courses on horseback. Our river base in Vernal, Utah, specializes in whitewater rafting, canoeing, and kayaking. With a wide range of course offerings and exquisite landscapes, being here—backpacking, climbing, skiing, scrambling, exploring, and paddling—is what NOLS is all about. Josh Beckner Josh

Become a leader as you and your coursemates learn to live in and navigate through Wyoming’s wilderness. Cathedral Cirque, Wyoming

WIND RIVER WILDERNESS This is the original NOLS course and the most popular expedition we offer. For 30 days, you’ll explore the Wind River Mountains, a wilderness range renowned for its pristine lakes and rugged mountain beauty. After carrying a pack efficiently loaded with everything you need to the top of your first high mountain pass, you’ll descend into a glacial valley and help lead your hiking group to camp. You and your peers will take turns baking pizzas over a camp stove and catching cutthroat trout for dinner. At night, a star-filled sky will shroud your tent as you rest for the next stimu- lating day of exploration and learning. In addition to hiking as many as 120 miles on and off trail, you’ll fly-fish, learn how to use a GPS, summit towering granite mountains, and may have an opportunity to rock climb. The leadership skills you master here will serve you well in the wilderness and beyond.

DETAILS Features world-famous Orvis™ ﬂy-ﬁshing curriculum and gear. Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average age: 19 • Duration: 30 days 16 & 17 Only • Duration: 30 days

Matt Sime Matt 23 & Over • Average age: 35 • Duration: 14 days Tuition: $4,035 (16 & Over); $4,400 (16 & 17 Only); $3,310 (23 & Over) Above: Step outside the typical classroom and learn in a beautiful setting that makes Optional College Credit: 2 hours each Environmental Ethics, Leadership Techniques, going to class an adventure. Temple Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming Skills Practicum (16 & Over; 16 & 17 Only); 2 hours Skills Practicum (23 & Over) Facing page: Explore the pristine beauty of Wyoming’s mountains. Coon Lake, Wind Dates: page 105 River Range, Wyoming

21 NOLS WAS A GREAT TRANSITION TO COLLEGE. EVERYTHING NOLS TEACHES YOU IS PERFECT FOR FRESHMAN YEAR. AFTER YOU DO NOLS, YOU CAN DO ANYTHING. “Eliza Kern, Student at University of North Carolina, Wind River Wilderness ’08 See more of Eliza at www.nols.tv ” Ryan Hutchins-Cabibi Ryan Abe Goodale Abe

Big wilderness instills a deep appreciation for how important your actions really are. Cut your pack weight and explore miles of pristine Wyoming wilderness on a NOLS Younts Peak, Absaroka Range, Wyoming Lightweight Backpacking course. Fremont Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming

ABSAROKA BACKPACKING ROCKY MOUNTAIN LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACKING Yellowstone National Park’s wild eastern neighbor is Wyoming’s Let us help you lighten your load. The first lightweight backpack- Absaroka (Ab-sor-ka) Range, a vast wilderness region with some of ing course in the world of outdoor education is in its sixth year the most remote territory in the Lower 48. You will travel through at NOLS. Partnering with GoLite to provide cutting-edge equip- broad river valleys surrounded by sheer glacier-carved cliffs, camp ment, we will help you shave ounces for this lightweight back- under towering conifers, and hike across alpine plateaus where the country adventure. Outfitted with 25- to 30-pound packs (10–15 tallest plants are only a few inches high. You will hone your fly- pounds without food and fuel), you and your coursemates will fishing cast, ford high mountain rivers, practice GPS and com- be off to one of Wyoming’s most remote and wild ranges—such pass navigation, and learn how to camp and travel in bear country. as the Wind Rivers, the Big Horns, the Absarokas, or the Bear- Along with grizzlies, other fauna you are likely to see include eagles, tooths—to enjoy the wilderness as you never thought imaginable, bighorn sheep, elk, moose, black bears, coyote, and recently rein- without the burden of a heavy load. Plan to learn innovative light- troduced gray wolves. For students craving remote, rugged land weight techniques like cooking one-pot meals and staying warm filled with wildlife, this is your course. In the Absarokas, you will and dry with minimal gear while honing traditional backpacking live the leadership lessons you need to travel skillfully and safely in skills like navigation and Leave No Trace. After two weeks, you’ll the mountains long after your course ends. have the knowledge and skills to plan and execute your own lightweight adventures. How light can you go? DETAILS Features world-famous Orvis™ fly-fishing curriculum and gear. DETAILS Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average age: 19 • Duration: 30 days Age and Length: 23 & Over • Average age: 37 • Duration: 14 days Tuition: $3,945 Tuition: $3,325 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, Optional College Credit: 2 hours Skills Practicum 2 hours Skills Practicum Dates: page 105 Dates: page 105

22 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKY Abe Goodale Abe

Environmental education comes to life when you’re smack in the middle of it. Wind River Range, Wyoming

WYOMING BACKPACKING ADVENTURE FOR 14- AND 15-YEAR-OLDS A Wyoming Backpacking Adventure is a true wilderness expedition designed for young people. For the entire 30 days of the course, your mode of travel will be your own two feet. You will be with students your own age, and your instructors are skilled educators who value teaching young adults. Gain independence and take responsibility for yourself and your companions. When you get back home, you will have the skills to enjoy outdoor activities on your own and the leadership qualities to help you advance in the classroom, on the playing fields, or anywhere you want to succeed. Having fun, learning about the outdoors, rock climbing, fly-fishing, exploring beautiful places, and achieving goals you never thought possible—your summer adventure with NOLS is about to begin!

DETAILS Features world-famous Orvis™ ﬂy-ﬁshing curriculum and gear. Age and Length: 14 & 15 Only • Duration: 30 days Tuition: $4,925 Rainbow Weinstock Rainbow Dates: page 105 Students plan the day’s route in Wyoming’s Wind River Mountains. Dinwoody Cirque

23 I SEE LEADERSHIP AS TWO THINGS: SEEING WHERE YOU WANT TO GO AND GUIDING YOURSELF TOWARD IT. I THINK NOLS, BEYOND THE PRACTICAL THINGS WE LEARNED WHILE “WE WERE THERE, TAUGHT ME THAT I HAD THE ABILITY TO DO IT IN THE FIRST PLACE.EE.. Tom Scott, Founder of Nantucket Nectars and Plum TV, Semester in the Rockies ’98 See more of Tom at www.nols.tv ” Kevin Emery Kevin Rainbow Weinstock Rainbow

Learn from the best: Instructor Madhu Chikkaraju demonstrates bouldering skills. Excited by his catch, instructor Kevin Emery decides between catch-and-release or Deep Lake, Wind River Range, Wyoming dinner. Snake River, Idaho

ROCKY MOUNTAIN OUTDOOR EDUCATOR: NOLS/ORVISTM WILDERNESS FLY-FISHING BACKPACKING WITH ROCK CLIMBING OR WFR This mix of mountain expedition skills, leadership, and fl y-fi shing is NOLS specializes in teaching teachers. In fact, we have been in- any angler’s dream. Orvis guides will teach you the fl y-fi shing skills spiring and teaching outdoor educators for 45 years. On this you need to be an ace on the water while your NOLS instructors course, whether you’re an aspiring or current outdoor leader, you’ll turn you into an outdoor living expert. After an intensive three-day learn the latest skills and techniques from some of the best-trained fl y-fi shing seminar to help you perfect your cast, learn to “match the outdoor educators in the world in order to support you in your hatch,” and read the water, you’ll shoulder your pack and head into outdoor profession. This course offers either a 23-day backpack- the Wind River Mountains for a 21-day wilderness backpacking ing expedition that includes four days of rock climbing at a base and fi shing expedition where cutthroat, brook, brown, golden, and camp or a 30-day backpacking expedition that includes a Wilder- rainbow trout abound. Your course will end on a world-renowned ness First Responder (WFR) certifi cation. Both formats are packed trout-fi shing river with an Orvis-certifi ed guide for fi ve days of per- with how-tos on living, traveling, and leading groups in the back- sonal instruction in drift boat handling, rowing techniques, and big country. Granite peaks that reach 13,000 feet, rugged terrain, and water fi shing. By the end of this monthlong course you will be a high mountain lakes and rivers will teach you what it takes to lead high functioning member of any fl y-fi shing expedition. and educate others in the West’s rugged ranges and beyond. DETAILS DETAILS Features world-famous Orvis™ fl y-fi shing curriculum and gear. Features world-famous Orvis™ fl y-fi shing curriculum and gear. Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average age: 20 • Duration: 30 days Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 27 • Duration: 23 days (with rock climb- Tuition: $6,500 ing) or 30 days (with WFR; no rock climbing) Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, Eligibility: Qualifi ed practicing or potential outdoor educators 2 hours Skills Practicum Tuition: $3,385 (23 days); $4,870 (30 days) Dates: page 105 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Outdoor Educator, 2 hours Risk Management (23 days); 2 hours Outdoor Educator, 2 hours Risk Management, 3 hours WFR (30 days) Dates: page 105

24 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKY Jeff Wohl Jeff

Yearning for a Western adventure? There’s nothing quite like exploring Wyoming on the back of a horse. Lizard Head Meadows, Wind River Range, Wyoming

WILDERNESS HORSEPACKING There’s nothing quite like seeing the wilderness on horseback. We’ll take you from the NOLS-owned and -operated Three Peaks Ranch into the wilderness of the Wind River Range and immerse you in the basics of Western horsepacking skills—care and feeding, horse behavior and herd dynamics, tack, saddling, and riding— and other unique experiences of packing and traveling with horses. You’ll care for your saddle horse and work together with a partner to load and lead your packhorse. You’ll also be in charge of your own well-being in the backcountry, learning how to choose a good campsite and cook a good meal. Share this wilderness experience not only with your fellow students and instructors, but also with the worthy companionship of horses.

DETAILS Features world-famous Orvis™ ﬂy-ﬁshing curriculum and gear. Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average age: 19 • Duration: 21 days 23 & Over • Average age: 27 • Duration: 14 days Tuition: $4,930 (16 & Over); $3,330 (23 & Over) Optional College Credit: 2 hours Skills Practicum, 2 hours Environmental Ethics (16 & Over); 2 hours Skills Practicum (23 & Over) Dates: page 105 Becca Parkinson Becca

Tie on your bedroll and explore the West on horseback, crossing rivers and climbing to beautiful vistas. Red Desert, Wyoming

25 MYM 19-YEAR-OLD TOOK A NORTH CASCADES MOUNTAINEERING COURSE, AND MY 17-YEAR-OLD WHO WENT ON THE ROCK CLIMBING COURSE IN THE WIND RIVERS LAST SUMMER, JUST SIGNED UP FOR A RIVER EXPEDITION “NEXT. SO, YES, OUR FAMILY LOVES NOLS. WE CONSIDER NOLS TO BE THE IVY LEAGUE OF OUTDOOR PROGRAMS.S. Sue Lovelace, Parent of NOLS Grads Anne and Katie Lovelace ” Dane Sherstad Dane Andy Davis Andy

Work together as a team to accomplish great feats. Yukon Learn about the gear and techniques that are necessary to successfully climb Wyoming’s rock walls. Fremont Canyon, Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming Wyoming

WIND RIVER MOUNTAINEERING ROCK CLIMBING The rugged, glacier-carved Wind River Range is famous for its This backcountry climbing expedition is a comprehensive immer- granite headwalls, soaring spires, and towering 13,000-foot sum- sion into the sport of traditional (“trad”) rock climbing. You’ll mits covered with rock and surrounded by glaciers. This remote learn the fundamentals of climbing as well as backcountry living range is also famous for mountaineering expeditions that have a and travel skills amidst some of Wyoming’s famous sheer granite perfect blend of glacier travel, snow ascents, and rock climbing. walls and towering spires. Your instructors will emphasize skills You’ll learn fundamental mountaineering skills such as belaying, such as movement on rock, rope systems, anchors, rappelling and rappelling, climbing techniques, and anchor construction—all belaying, protection placement, risk management, and lead climb- while traveling over, around, and through the rocky, steep terrain ing philosophy. You’ll have ample opportunity to practice your of the Wind Rivers. Your route will allow you to learn rock, snow, climbing skills as you develop a strong foundation in wilderness and ice climbing techniques that will lead to longer, more tech- ethics away from the frontcountry crags. With a student to in- nical climbs such as the 13,804-foot Gannett Peak, Wyoming’s structor ratio of 4:1, you’ll get the personal attention necessary to highest mountain. At the same time, you’ll master the camping, develop your climbing and backcountry skills rapidly. hiking, and leadership skills necessary to thrive in the mountain environment and beyond. DETAILS Features world-famous Orvis™ fl y-fi shing curriculum and gear. Age and Length: DETAILS 16 & Over • Average age: 19 • Duration: 21 or 30 days Features world-famous Orvis™ fl y-fi shing curriculum and gear. 16 & 17 Only • Duration: 21 days Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average age: 19 • Duration: 30 days Tuition: $4,150 (21 days); $5,030 (30 days) Tuition: $4,290 Optional College Credit: 2 hours each Skills Practicum, Risk Management (21 days); Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Skills Practicum, 2 hours each Environmental Ethics, Skills Practicum, Risk Management (30 days) 2 hours Risk Management Dates: page 105 Dates: page 105

26 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKY Ashley Wise Ashley

The river is your classroom as you learn the skills to navigate some of the West’s most exciting whitewater. Hell’s Half Mile Rapid, Gates of Lodore, Green River, Colorado

ROCK AND RIVER WHITEWATER RIVER EXPEDITION Imagine learning two skills in two very different wilderness envi- Imagine expeditioning 125 miles through the breathtaking canyons ronments: the stunning crags of Wyoming and the whitewater of of Utah and Colorado’s wild Green River, the birthplace of white- Utah and Colorado’s Green River. The climbing section in either water boating. This course offers a thorough introduction to travel Sinks Canyon outside Lander, Wyoming, or Vedauwoo near Lara- skills on the same river that launched General John Wesley Powell’s mie, Wyoming, explores granite, limestone, and sandstone rock famous 1869 expedition. You’ll learn to kayak, captain a paddle raft, as well as stunning scenery. You’ll learn movement on rock, knots, and row an oar rig as you negotiate the whitewater of Desolation and rope handling, belaying, anchors, protection placement, tradition- Lodore canyons. You begin in calm water and progress to moving al and sport climbing systems, rappelling, and risk management. If water, learning increasingly advanced maneuvers. As the canyons you are ready, experience the thrill of being on the sharp end of the get steeper and the rapids get bigger, instruction shifts to hydrology, rope while lead climbing. The second component of your course hazard evaluation, and rescue techniques. Rapids like Disaster Falls will take you through Green River’s Desolation and Gray canyons, and Hell’s Half-Mile, named by Powell himself, offer exciting chal- where you’ll get the chance to row an oar rig, captain a paddle raft, lenges while exploring this magniﬁcent river. and steer a whitewater kayak—all through Class I–III+ rapids. You’ll live and travel within the canyon’s sandstone walls rimmed DETAILS Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average age: 18 • Duration: 16 days with sage and piñon pine, experiencing what it takes to organize Tuition: $3,705 and lead your own river trips. Optional College Credit: 2 hours Skills Practicum Dates: page 105 DETAILS Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average age: 20 • Duration: 30 days Tuition: $5,520 Optional College Credit: 4 hours Skills Practicum, 2 hours Risk Management Dates: page 105

27 SEMESTER IN The Rockies

NOLS INVENTED THE OUTDOOR SEMESTER, and this course is where it all began. A Rockies

Semester will take you on a Wild West “tour de force” while giving you a complete set of skills to lead and teach in the backcountry, whether in the field of outdoor education or with your own friends and family. Our grads are among the most well-rounded and self-sufficient backcountry travelers in the world. Learn to paddle a canoe down a class-III rapid, make sound Becca Parkinson Becca first aid decisions miles from the nearest road, O’Donnell Jamie and navigate through winding slot canyons. Spend a semester in the Rocky Mountains and every day will be hands-on, from learning to climb to developing good expedition behavior with your coursemates. Wind River Range, Wyoming You’ll see some of the great American West’s most treasured spots, carving a telemark turn ROCK CLIMBING (all seasons) This fast-paced section takes place in some of the West’s most famous climbing areas, from Nevada’s Red Rocks to Idaho’s City of Rocks and the through the winter wilderness on one section Needles in South Dakota. It begins with a foundation of skills such as bouldering, belaying, rappelling, knots, and climbing techniques. We’ll also emphasize advanced topics and jamming your hands into cracks while such as anchor construction, direct aid, belay escapes, and gear selection. If you’re ready, climbing one of Wyoming’s world-class crags there will also be opportunities to lead climb. on the next. Because the Rockies are a hotspot RIVER TRAVEL (all seasons) This multi-day expedition through Utah’s scenic river canyons will introduce you to the fun and excitement of whitewater. Whether in a kayak, a for outdoor activities, this semester offers a va- canoe, an oar raft, or a paddle raft, you’ll learn to read the water, scout rapids, and execute riety of skill sets, allowing students to choose maneuvers such as eddy-turns, peel-outs, and ferries. Depending on your craft, advanced skills such as surfing, playboating, raft captaining, and solo canoeing will also be taught the combinations they prefer. and practiced on this very hands-on section.

WINTER (fall and spring option) The Rocky Mountains’ harsh and beautiful winter environment will create some of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of your semester. After breaking trail from camp to camp, you’ll “dig in,” building a snow shelter for you and your coursemates to camp in. Much time will also be devoted to practicing your telemark turn on backcountry slopes and assessing snow and avalanche conditions.

CANYON (fall and spring) Developing and expanding your own leadership style and environmental ethics are the focus of this section, which culminates in a multi-day, student- led expedition. You will travel through the unmistakable red rock canyons of southern Utah where you’ll study Anasazi rock art and ruins, desert ecology, and land-use policies. Craig Muderlak Craig Jamie O’Donnell Jamie Fried pasta, calzones, and scrambled brownies: A BACKPACKING (summer and fall option) Map reading, route finding, cooking, and few of the delicacies you’ll cook at NOLS. Snake River Leave No Trace practices will become second nature as you travel through Wyoming’s Range, Idaho Wind River or Absaroka ranges. Advanced topics covered on this section include fly-fish- Facing page: The canyon walls are your handrails ing, baking, off-trail navigation, GPS use, and environmental ethics. while navigating and map reading. Sam’s Mesa Box, Dirty Devil Canyon, Utah Semester in the Rockies sections continued on page 30

28 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKY Ashley Wise Ashley

29 SEMESTER IN The Rockies Marco Johnson Marco Pascal Beauvais Jamie O’Donnell Jamie O’Donnell Jamie

Instructor Alexis Alloway assesses the snowpack and level of avalanche hazard before a day of winter travel. Tosi Creek Basin, Bridger-Teton National Park, Wyoming

Continued from page 28 MOUNTAINEERING (fall option only) The rugged glacier-carved Wind River Range is the ideal environment for learning wilderness mountaineering. The climbing, belaying, and rappelling skills you’ll learn on this section will enable you to challenge yourself on technical peak ascents while honing other fundamental backcountry living and traveling skills.

HORSEPACKING (spring option only) From NOLS’ Three Peaks Ranch at the base of the Wind River Range, you’ll learn and practice the skills needed to enjoy an extended horsepacking expedition. Four days at the ranch encompass saddling, riding, packing, and getting to know your horses, then you’ll embark on a two-week trip exploring Wyo- ming’s wilderness on horseback.

WILDERNESS FIRST AID (WFA) (fall and spring option) The Wilderness Medicine In- stitute of NOLS (WMI) presents this 16-hour section speciﬁ c to wilderness emergencies. Pascal Beauvais The course is the approved certiﬁ cation for the American Camp Association, the United States Forest Service, and many other governmental agencies and outdoor programs.

WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER (WFR) (fall and spring option) Offered by WMI of NOLS, this 80-hour section is for outdoor professionals and will give you the tools to make sound ﬁ rst aid and evacuation decisions in remote settings.

LEAVE NO TRACE (all seasons) Earn your Leave No Trace (LNT) Master certiﬁ cation, which will allow you to teach LNT ethics to others in the future.

DETAILS SPRING SUMMER FALL Age and Length: 17 & Over • Average age: 20 • Duration: 87 days (spring); 68 days (summer); 89 days (fall) Tuition: $11,510 (spring); $12,275 (spring with WFR); $10,510 (summer); $11,775(fall); $12,525 (fall with WFR) Fall and Spring Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 6 hours Skills Practicum, 2 hours Risk Management; 3 credit hours for sections with WFR

Craig Muderlak Craig Summer Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 6 hours Skills Practicum, 2 hours Risk Management Learn to tape an ankle, perfect your tele turn, and nail Dates and Sections: page 105 a roll in a kayak: Do it all on a NOLS semester. Absorka Range, Wyoming; Gros Ventre Mountains, Wyoming; Green River, Utah Are you between high school and college? Facing page: Awe-inspiring landscapes help you to GAP There’s a special Semester in the Rockies for you! YEAR! reﬂ ect on all your new experiences. Green River, Utah See page 105 for dates labeled “Gap.”

30 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKY Shanan Sussman Shanan

31 SEMESTER FOR Outdoor Educators

THERE’S ONLY SO MUCH YOU CAN LEARN about outdoor education indoors. That’s why we’ve created the NOLS Semester for Outdoor

Educators, a chance for aspiring and practicing professional educators and students studying outdoor education to get into the wilderness and out of the classroom. This 89-day semester is jam-packed with an entire curriculum dedicated to the field of outdoor education. You’ll be with other professionals and students ages 21 and Craig Muderlak Craig older who want to learn outdoor skills and leader- Winter travel can be daunting, but with the help of your instructors it’s a cinch. Wind River Range, Wyoming ship as they further develop their teaching skills. WINTER After a Level I Avalanche seminar and time spent practicing your telemark This is your chance to translate your theoretical turns at a local ski area, you’ll leave from NOLS’ Three Peaks Ranch for the winter wonderland of the mountains. Your backcountry skiing ability will progress as you learn knowledge about outdoor education into reality. practical winter expedition skills like building snow shelters, understanding snow science, and assessing snow and avalanche conditions. The NOLS Semester for Outdoor Educa- tors means more time teaching and more focus CANYON Travel through the red rock canyons of southern Utah for a month as you study and teach natural history, desert ecology, and land-use policies. on topics like group management as well as ROCK CLIMBING You’ll practice teaching basic skills such as bouldering, belaying, and field and in-town administrative practices. By knots while honing your proficiency in more advanced topics such as anchor construction, the end of your semester, you’ll be a competent direct aid, and belay escapes. backcountry expeditioner, the first step to being BACKPACKING (fall only) An introduction to camping and hiking in the Wind River Range will kick off the Outdoor Educator Semester in the fall before heading to our Three ready to work for outdoor educational programs Peaks Ranch for your Wilderness First Responder (WFR) course. across the country. CANOE (spring only) This multi-day expedition through Utah’s scenic river canyons will introduce you to the fun and excitement of whitewater in a canoe. You’ll learn how to read the water, scout rapids, and execute eddy turns, peel-outs, ferries, and basic rescue techniques.

WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER (WFR) Presented by the Wilderness Medicine Insti- tute of NOLS, this 80-hour section prepares outdoor professionals to make make sound ﬁrst aid and evacuation decisions in remote settings.

CERTIFICATIONS In addition to the WFR and Level I Avalanche, you will also earn your Leave No Trace Master certiﬁcation.

DETAILS SPRING FALL Fredrik Norrsell Fredrik Age and Length: 21 & Over • Average Age: 24 • Duration: 89 days Eligibility: Qualiﬁed practicing or potential outdoor educators Timely feedback and formal evaluations are part of how Tuition: $12,655 (spring); $12,905 (fall) NOLS develops leaders. Dirty Devil Wilderness, Utah Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 4 hours Skills Practicum, 2 hours Risk Management, 2 hours Outdoor Educator, 3 hours WFR Facing page: Instructor Brad Benter models crack Dates and Sections: page 105 climbing techniques. Escalante Canyon, Colorado

32 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKY Josh Beckner Josh

33 TETON VALLEY Matt Burke Matt

34 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] Nestled below the western ﬂanks of the magniﬁcent Teton Mountains in Driggs, Idaho, NOLS Teton Valley is our base TETON VALLEY for exploring the western Rocky Mountain region. We specialize in winter and combination backpacking and rafting courses, and we are the hub of the NOLS Adventure programs, offering two-week hiking and four-week hiking and rafting courses for 14- and 15-year-olds ready for a summer outside. Join us this summer to look out over pristine mountain valleys, hike over Lemhi Pass in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, and raft in the Lower 48’s largest designated wilderness area when you paddle the wild and scenic Main Salmon River. Come in the winter to ski or ride unparalleled powder in our Teton classroom where you will develop your avalanche awareness and rekindle your sense of play as you build shelters made of snow. Discover with NOLS the rugged and intriguing mountains of the Old West—the vast backcountry of Idaho, Montana, and western Wyoming—as you explore your leadership style. Elliot Johnston Elliot

Whitewater paddling requires communication, teamwork, and technical skills—all part of the NOLS core curriculum. Salmon River, Idaho

SALMON BACKPACKING AND RAFTING Explore the sculpted peaks of the craggy Lemhis and raft the Main Salmon River, an exceptional blend of whitewater, wildlife, and American frontier history. Your 28-day expedition starts with an 18- day wilderness hiking section. You’ll climb peaks and ﬁsh for trout as you learn to travel through rugged mountain terrain. Group management in steep terrain and map reading are two of the skills you’ll learn on your way to becoming a competent backcountry traveler. Then you’ll swap backpacks for boats. For 10 days you will navigate the Salmon’s whitewater in paddle rafts and oar rigs, learning strokes, commands, guiding basics, and advanced maneuvering. The Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness is home to abundant wildlife, including gray wolves, peregrine falcons, black bears, and bald eagles. It is also full of human history and you will have the chance to stop at one or more of the old homesteads along the river. Following in the footsteps of mountain men like Buckskin Bill, you too will see great sights and learn skills for future exploration in the wilderness.

DETAILS Features world-famous Orvis™ ﬂy-ﬁshing curriculum and gear. Craig Muderlak Craig Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average age: 19 • Duration: 28 days At NOLS, you’ll learn to recognize the strengths of every member of the team. Salmon Tuition: $5,335 River, Idaho. Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 2 hours Skills Practicum Facing page: NOLS Teton Valley will be your portal to a winter wilderness. Kitten Ridge, Dates: page 105 near Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

35 WHENW YOU PUT YOURSELF IN AN EXTREME ENVIRONMENT, THERE’S ALWAYS GROWTH. MY NOLS COURSE TAUGHT ME THAT AS LONG AS YOU HAVE A POSITIVE ATTITUDE, NO MATTER WHAT THE WEATHER IS LIKE OR HOW YOUR “GROUP IS INTERACTING, THAT ATTITUDE REALLY MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE IN YOUR OVERALL SUCCESS.SS.. Annie Kiser, NOLS Alumni & Development Ofﬁ ce Manager, Yukon Outdoor Educator ’06, Backcountry Skiing ’10 ” Craig Muderlak Craig Pascal Beauvais

Come together with other educators and learn to live and teach in the winter environment. Arizona Creek, Wyoming A splitboard and your NOLS instructors will get you to the untracked powder. Teton Range, Wyoming

WINTER OUTDOOR EDUCATOR BACKCOUNTRY SNOWBOARDING Designed for practicing and aspiring winter outdoor educators, Are you seeking the exhilaration of a perfect ride in untracked this course gives you the skills to teach in any winter wilderness. powder? Want to learn the skills to transition from being an area We begin with ﬁ ve days of workshops, including a Recreational rider to a backcountry boarder? Then come snowboarding with Level I Avalanche clinic and two days of professional ski instruc- NOLS! You’ll venture through the mountains on your split board, tion at Grand Targhee Resort. Then we’ll move into the backcoun- improve your snowboarding skills, and learn to be comfortable try for miles of skiing in pristine powder. You’ll build elaborate and happy outside in the winter. In this snow-covered playground, snow shelters complete with kitchen counters, benches, and a cozy you’ll learn to travel responsibly in avalanche terrain—an impor- bedroom. With coaching from your instructors, you’ll teach class- tant skill for riders who want to venture out of ski areas into the es of your own and be taught by fellow students. For educators untamed snowy wilderness. The adventure starts with snowboard- of all levels, teaching in the winter will polish your presentation ing instruction at Grand Targhee Resort. Once in the backcoun- skills and hone your class management. The longest of our winter try, you’ll construct elaborate snow shelters, learn about teamwork, courses, these 21 days provide some of the best expedition train- and carve turns in fresh powder. Camping and traveling in the ing at the school, preparing you to camp and lead well in any cold, winter is a lot of hard work, and surﬁ ng down the mountain in snowy environment. knee-deep powder is a very cool reward.

DETAILS DETAILS Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 28 • Duration: 21 days Age and Length: 17 & Over • Average age: 22 • Duration: 14 days Eligibility: Qualiﬁ ed practicing or potential outdoor educators, moderate skiing ability. Tuition: $2,215 Tuition: $2,635 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Skills Practicum Optional College Credit: 2 hours Outdoor Educator, 2 hours Risk Management Dates: page 105 Dates: page 105

36 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] TETON VALLEY Ashley Wise Ashley

With expert instruction and plenty of fresh powder, you’ll be linking turns in no time. Teton Valley, Idaho

BACKCOUNTRY SKIING 23-AND-OVER BACKCOUNTRY SKIING Start with two feet of fresh powder. Now imagine the solitude of a This course is the close cousin of our 17-and-over Backcountry winter night, the sky blanketed in endless stars. This is backcountry Skiing course. The slightly shorter 12-day format allows for week- skiing. Living and traveling in this wild environment requires new end travel for those who have limited time to be away from family skills and offers new challenges. To be a competent backcountry or work. The course begins with the same great ski instruction at winter traveler, you’ll need a strong foundation in avalanche educa- Grand Targhee Resort, and the ﬁrst two backcountry nights are tion. We will teach you the skills and put you in terrain where you spent in a yurt—a semi-permanent soft-walled structure complete need to make real decisions. This course is also excellent preparation with a wood stove and an outhouse! This allows participants to for any big mountain expedition where snow and cold are everyday ease into the challenging winter environment and gain quick ac- factors. You’ll start with two days of skiing instruction at Grand cess to untracked powder skiing. After such relative luxury, the Targhee Resort before heading into the backcountry with a pack course moves further into the backcountry to build snow shelters, and sled, where the snow is deep, the tracks are few, and a lifetime of hone avalanche skills, and seek fresh powder. winter fun is about to begin. DETAILS DETAILS Age and Length: 23 & Over • Average age: 35 • Duration: 12 days Age and Length: 17 & Over • Average age: 23 • Duration: 14 days Tuition: $2,150 Tuition: $1,855 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Skills Practicum Optional College Credit: 2 hours Skills Practicum Dates: page 105 Dates: page 105

37 THETH THING THAT I WOULD SAY TO GIRLS IS: DON’T WORRY, YOU’LL BE ABLE TO DO IT. WITH EFFORT, YOU WILL SUCCEED. YOU WILL HAVE AN EXPERIENCE THAT WILL “SHOW YOU HOW TRULY COMPETENT YOU ARE.EE.. Jane Fried, Dean of Admission at Phillips Academy, Wilderness Horsepacking ’07 See more of Jane at www.nols.tv ” Craig Muderlak Craig Tony Jewell Tony

Accomplish more than you’ve ever imagined on a co-ed or all-girls Adventure Course Adventure students get a chance to be a leader to their peers and gain experience and in some of America’s most remote wilderness. Salmon River, Idaho skills they can use the rest of their lives. Big Hole Mountains, Idaho

IDAHO BACKPACKING ADVENTURE SALMON BACKPACKING AND RAFTING FOR 14- AND 15-YEAR OLDS ADVENTURE FOR 14- AND 15-YEAR-OLDS Independence, responsibility, achievement, and fun—these qualities This course is for young teens who want to traverse a little known are the essence of this course. In a word: adventure. Whether you section of the Rocky Mountains near the Idaho-Montana border travel in the Wyoming Range, the Palisades, the Beaverheads, the and raft the Main Salmon River, all in one action-packed month. Beartooths, the Lemhis, or the Absarokas, the mountains will be un- In two very different environments, you’ll learn how to make deci- like any classroom you’ve ever experienced with their fresh air and sions, develop conﬁ dence, and work through challenges with your fresh opportunities. You’ll learn skills—backpacking, cooking, camp- coursemates (we call this “expedition behavior”). While backpacking, and navigation with a map—and you’ll also learn things like how ing, you’ll become a competent map reader and backcountry cook, to turn challenging situations into opportunities, how to get along and you’ll develop your Leave No Trace skills and stewardship and with your group, and how to be a leader even when you’re following. sustainability values. Then, after climbing peaks, crossing rivers, and This isn’t a kid’s version of other NOLS courses. You’ll get the famous hiking through pristine meadows, you’ll trade your backpack for a NOLS curriculum taught by the same experienced instructors who dry bag. For 10 days on over 80 miles of the wild and scenic Main teach for NOLS worldwide. And, as with every NOLS course, these Salmon River, you’ll navigate deep canyons and whitewater in paddle are entirely ﬁ eld-based experiences where you’ll travel the country on rafts and oar rigs. You will learn basic river skills like paddle strokes, foot and sleep under a blanket of stars. hazard evaluation, and boat rigging. Overall, you’ll work hard, have fun, and return home with leadership skills to last a lifetime. DETAILS Age and Length: 14 & 15 Only • Duration: 14 days DETAILS Tuition: $3,060 Age and Length: 14 & 15 Only • Duration: 28 days Dates: page 106 Tuition: $5,575 Dates: page 106 Yes, you can! Recognize your full leadership potential in an GIRLS all-female environment with our girls-only Adventure Course Facing page: Paddle rafts gear up for a day’s lesson on the river. Main Salmon LEAD! option. See page 106 for dates. River, Idaho

38 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] TETON VALLEY Casey Kanode Casey

39 PACIFIC NORTHWEST Jamie O’Donnell Jamie

40 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] PACIFIC NORTHWEST PACIFIC Forest and ocean. Glacier and river. Heather and pine. This is the Pacific Northwest, with its temperate rain forests, stunning ice-covered volcanoes, hidden bays and coves, and lush old-growth forests. Home to bald eagles, black bears, mountain goats, elk, porpoises, and whales, this will be your classroom. The Pacific Northwest is the birthplace of the outdoor industry and NOLS has been the region’s outdoor education pioneer for more than 35 years. We specialize in courses for outdoor educators and trip leaders, and our easy-to-access facilities in Conway, Washington, an hour north of Seattle, were specifically designed to support NOLS’ educational expeditions. We’ll outfit you with everything you’ll need for an expedition into spectacular backcountry, from Oregon to British Columbia. Whatever your method of exploration—sea kayaking, rock climbing, glacier mountaineering, backpacking, or sailing—you’ll be in for the experience of a lifetime.

PACIFIC NORTHWEST TRIP LEADER Washington’s wilderness areas are ideal training grounds for learning how to lead backpacking trips. Here you’ll join a diverse group of trip leaders for an overview of the NOLS curriculum in a setting designed for leaders and educators who don’t have a lot of time or a huge budget. You’ll learn common leadership strategies through dynamic, on-the-trail teaching methods including scenarios, real- time problem solving, and experiential learning. You’ll learn the intricacies of trip planning and how to organize expeditions of your own. Our students leave the Paciﬁc Northwest with a higher level of competence and an inspiration to lead.

DETAILS Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 31 • Duration: 9 days

Betsy Winston Betsy Eligibility: Practicing trip leaders Tuition: $1,150 As an aspiring trip leader, you’ll learn how to plan routes, communicate with course- Optional College Credit: 2 hours Outdoor Educator mates, and make sound backcountry decisions. Olympic National Park, Washington Dates: page 106

NEW PACIFIC NORTHWEST BACKPACKING PACIFIC NORTHWEST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE FOR 14- AND 15-YEAR-OLDS The Pacific Northwest is a richly diverse wilderness classroom, This course is a 14-day expedition specifically designed for ranging from jagged, glacier-carved mountains and valleys to ev- young people wanting to learn backcountry skills and explore ergreen forests and stands of lodgepole pine. This popular back- the natural world. With your experienced NOLS instructors, packing course has two options for exploring this region. Early you will explore the Pasayten Wilderness or Olympic National season students travel in the Pasayten Wilderness in northcentral Park, backpacking through some of the Pacific Northwest’s Washington, while late season students backpack through Olym- most pristine wild lands. These wilderness classrooms provide pic National Park on the Olympic Peninsula. The Pasayten boasts an ideal setting to challenge yourself and build your leadership almost 150 peaks over 7,500 feet in elevation. Rugged ridges in abilities. You’ll work hard traveling over varied terrain and be the west flatten into expansive plateaus toward the east, with deep rewarded with views of towering peaks, clear alpine lakes, and drainages on both sides. Courses that travel in Olympic National dense old-growth forests. You’ll sleep under the stars, learn to Park will traverse from east to west while viewing the area’s rugged cook with flair on a camp stove, and make lifelong friends glacier-capped mountains and wide alpine meadows. Like the first with fellow coursemates. When you return home, you’ll have Western explorers, you’ll travel along the wild and rugged Pacific the skills needed to plan your own backcountry trips and the coast, seeing stands of moss-covered old-growth and temperate leadership qualities to succeed in school and whatever else you rain forest. You’ll experience some demanding off-trail hiking as put your mind to. you visit pristine and rarely seen parts of the park.

DETAILS DETAILS Age and Length: 14 & 15 Only • Duration: 14 days Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average age: 19 • Duration: 31 days Tuition: $3,060 Tuition: $3,825 Dates: page 106 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 2 hours Skills Practicum Facing page: The Paciﬁc Northwest will teach you how to competently travel across Dates: page 106 tricky terrain as a team. Glacier Peak Wilderness, North Cascades, Washington

41 Madhu Chikkaraju Madhu

Work together on your NOLS course to achieve expedition goals and build lifelong relationships with your coursemates. Mt. Baker, North Cascades, Washington

WADDINGTON RANGE MOUNTAINEERING NORTH CASCADES MOUNTAINEERING This demanding expedition travels into British Columbia’s Coast Washington’s North Cascades, often referred to as the “American Mountains, including the Waddington Range, Whitemantle Range, Alps,” encompass some of America’s most spectacular scenery— and Homathko Icefield, for a monthlong experience in rock, snow, jagged peaks, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls, and more glaciers and ice mountaineering skills. Here you’ll get to experience some than any other location in the Lower 48. Many of the world’s of the biggest and most remote glaciers NOLS travels on and you top mountaineers use this area as their training ground; the rea- will have more time to practice actual mountaineering since these sonable access combined with challenging mountain classrooms courses travel either in or out of the field via plane. In this area of continue to make this range one of the best places in the world to huge glacial plateaus, long granite spires, deep fjords, and snow- learn to be a mountaineer. The pace is gradual in the beginning capped peaks along the rugged coast of British Columbia, you’ll as you travel through lush, old-growth forests and tangled alder learn what it takes to get a team ready to summit. Whether or not thickets, and it gains momentum as you ascend to the North Cas- you’re the first one to the top, you’ll get to practice your newfound cades’ majestic, snow-clad peaks. You’ll get a well-rounded base skills on at least one peak attempt. With tons of technical glacier of snow, ice, and crevasse rescue mountaineering skills, with some mountaineering and a chance to visit a place few people have ever potential for rock climbing. With a student to instructor ratio been, this expedition is a true alpine adventure. of 5:1 and many days of practice, you’ll receive an unparalleled NOLS mountaineering education. DETAILS Age and Length: 17 & Over • Average age: 21 • Duration: 31 days DETAILS Tuition: $5,130 Age and Length: Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Skills Practicum, 17 & Over • Average age: 20 • Duration: 31 days 2 hours Risk Management 23 & Over • Average age: 33 • Duration: 17 days Dates: page 106 Tuition: $4,175 (17 & Over); $3,390 (23 & Over) Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Skills Practicum, 2 hours Risk Management (17 & Over); 2 hours Skills Practicum (23 & Over) Dates: page 106

42 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] ITIT WAS ONE OF THE MOST CHALLENGING EXPERIENCES, BUT ALSO ONE OF THE MOST PACIFIC NORTHWEST PACIFIC REWARDING. I REALLY CAME BACK APPRECIATING WHAT IS AUTHENTIC. I BECAME “MUCH MORE AWARE OF MY SURROUNDINGS, CAPABILITIES, AND POTENTIAL.AAL.L. Yi Wei, Student at Harvard University, Paciﬁ c Northwest Backpacking ’07 ” Marco Johnson Marco Alan Neilson Alan

Wind power is all the rage. Sails open up an expanse of a Instructors teach on land so students can perform on the water: A proper hip snap and high brace are key to executing water-ﬁ lled wilderness. Strait of Georgia, British Columbia the Eskimo roll. Wilke Point, British Columbia

PACIFIC NORTHWEST OUTDOOR EDUCATOR: PACIFIC NORTHWEST SEA KAYAKING MOUNTAINEERING AND SAILING With a team of dedicated teachers and a facility that’s ideal for ex- Find the full beauty of the Pacifi c Northwest on this all-ocean pedition planning, we specialize in courses for educators at NOLS coastal exploration. You will sea kayak the remote waters of Van- Pacifi c Northwest. On this outdoor educator course you’ll get a couver Island’s outer coast, visiting pristine sandy beaches and hid- variety of skills—backpacking, mountaineering, and rock climb- den tidal lagoons while traveling in the wake of the many First ing—and experience a variety of terrain, from forests to glaciers to Nations peoples and early explorers who opened the trade routes in alpine rock. You’ll join a group of other motivated educators and this region. Along the way, learn a range of technical skills includ- outdoor leaders for 31 days of action-packed learning. You’ll start ing fundamental paddling strokes, weather analysis, and interpre- out in temperate rain forests, working up to the jagged, snow-clad tation of tides and currents. During the sailing section, you’ll fi nd peaks of either the North Cascades or the Olympics. Here you’ll yourself aboard a 36-foot keelboat to explore the remote Strait of practice mountaineering skills, attempt a peak ascent, and learn Georgia and Desolation Sound. Along these precipitous coastlines, the ins and outs of teaching and leading in the backcountry. You’ll you’ll learn boat handling under sail and power, chart reading, then switch gears for rock climbing at either Squamish, B.C., or coastal navigation, and seamanship. From helm to foredeck to Leavenworth, Washington. Throughout the course, your veteran navigation station, you will get a hands-on opportunity to crew all instructors will pass along an in-depth look at NOLS’ time-tested the positions above and below deck. With a combo course like this teaching and programming methods as well as their strong enthu- one, you’re sure to grow into your sea legs. siasm for teaching in the wilderness. DETAILS DETAILS Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 21 • Duration: 31 days Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 25 • Duration: 31 days Tuition: $4,990 Eligibility: Qualifi ed practicing or potential outdoor educators Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, Tuition: $4,065 • Optional College Credit: 2 hours Outdoor Educator, 2 hours Risk 2 hours Skills Practicum Management, 2 hours Environmental Ethics Dates: page 106 Dates: page 106

43 SEMESTER IN THE Paciﬁc Northwest

THE WILDERNESS OF THE NORTHWEST— your home for two and a half months—is like no other region in the country. In close proximity to the NOLS Pacific Northwest headquarters are steep, heavily glaciated mountains, impressive forests of towering evergreens, Sam Slosburg Sam Jamie O’Donnell Jamie outstanding rock climbing areas, and miles of Offered exclusively on the Pacific Northwest Semester, coastal backpacking provides a unique natural history opportunity and a chance to explore a breathtaking environment. Olympic National Park, Washington wilderness coastline. You’ll explore all these WILDERNESS FIRST AID (WFA) Hosted by the Wilderness Medicine Institute of NOLS, environments, from jamming your hands into this 16-hour section covers first aid specific to wilderness emergencies and is essential for anyone spending extended time in the outdoors. granite cracks on a climb to taking the helm of a 36-foot sailboat in British Columbia waters. MOUNTAIN TRAVEL The intricacies of backcountry living are revealed as you move through this stunning environment, from packing your pack efficiently to staying warm Throughout, you’ll be experiencing things few and dry in a wet and sometimes chilly climate. You’ll travel in canoes for four days of this section to see the area from a unique perspective, and then you’ll hike up through forested other semesters at NOLS offer, including keel- valleys to areas of snow and ice where you’ll learn specialized mountaineering skills such boat sailing in Canada and a coastal hiking sec- as ice axe and crampon use, rope systems, and crevasse rescue. tion where you’ll study the coast’s marine life COASTAL BACKPACKING On the outskirts of Olympic National Park, you’ll visit the Port Townsend Marine Science Center and then embark on a coastal expedition, studying life in and end at the Makah Indian Nation. From the tidal pools and camping and traveling beside the ocean. You’ll learn about tide charts, weather patterns, and identifying coastal hazards. You’ll also visit the Makah Cultural Center for a snow-capped peaks and clear mountain lakes glimpse into the region’s human history. This section culminates in a student-led expedition. to old-growth forests and tidal waters, you’ll ROCK CLIMBING At a base camp at one of the Northwest’s many great climbing areas, explore, navigate, learn, and practice your you’ll immerse yourself in the finer points of rock climbing techniques and systems. You’ll progress at your own speed, learning skills such as belay and rappel techniques, protection skills, returning home with a solid foundation placement, risk management, and single pitch versus multi-pitch climbing. in wilderness expeditioning. SAILING A 36-foot keelboat will be your moving classroom during this segment of your adventure. Boats will sail in pairs, each carrying five students and one instructor, as you learn the finer points of seamanship, including how to handle your boat under sail or power, navigate using charts, and function with your coursemates as one tight-knit crew.

SEA KAYAKING (optional dates only) You’ll paddle the remote waters of British Colum- bia’s central coast while learning a range of technical skills, from basic to advanced sea kayaking strokes to weather awareness and knowledge of tides and currents.

BACKPACKING (optional dates with sea kayaking) This section begins on the western edge of the North Cascades National Park and traverses spectacular old growth forest and rugged ridges to the shores of Ross Lake and beyond in the Pasayten Wilderness. Benjamin Lester Benjamin DETAILS FALL Learn the ropes as you navigate the coastal beauty of the Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 21 • Duration: 80 days Paciﬁc Northwest. Strait of Georgia, British Columbia Tuition: $11,600 Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 6 hours Facing page: By the end of your semester, no Skills Practicum, 2 hours Risk Management obstacle will be insurmountable. Squamish, British Dates and Sections: page 106 Columbia

44 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] PACIFIC NORTHWEST PACIFIC Rainbow Weinstock Rainbow

45 SOUTHWEST Lindsay Nohl Lindsay

46 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] SOUTHWEST Welcome to the American Southwest: A horizon studded with saguaro cactus, hidden nooks lush with watercress, granite strongholds glowing orange in the setting sun, the call of a Gambel’s quail, the smell of mesquite washed in a pound- ing desert rain. Now put yourself in the picture. You will be climbing, hiking, canoeing, and caving in terrain as varied as those skills. From our headquarters on the outskirts of Tucson, Arizona, we explore the amazing diversity of this desert region, a land of mountain lion, javelina, and white-tailed deer. Birds such as the elegant trogon and white-eared hummingbird ﬂy the same skies as red-tailed hawks and turkey vultures. It’s a land that famed naturalist Aldo Leopold called “near to being the cream of creation." Courses pass through areas also rich in human history, areas originally inhabited by ancient cultures and areas with a more recent Spanish inﬂuence. With easy access, amazing contrasts, and challenging technical skills, a course at NOLS Southwest is hard to beat. Ryan Hutchins-Cabibi Ryan Josh Beckner Josh

The Southwest is an ideal learning ground for outdoor educators to strengthen their Going lightweight allows students to push the limits of their gear and put more miles teaching and technical skills. Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, Arizona under their feet. Galiuro Mountains, Arizona

SOUTHWEST OUTDOOR EDUCATOR: SOUTHWEST LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACKING BACKPACKING AND ROCK CLIMBING Leave your hiking boots and water bottles at home; trail shoes and Are you an active or aspiring outdoor educator? This is your hydration bladders are all the rage these days. Partnering with Go- opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills necessary for Lite, we are proud to offer this cutting-edge course in the deserts teaching and leading field-based wilderness education programs. of the Southwest. Your adventure starts in the equipment room as While in the desert, you’ll learn basic outdoor living skills such NOLS instructors inspect and weigh your lightweight gear and as minimum-impact camping, first aid, and map reading. We’ll pull together a specialized ration for your expedition, helping you also give you an inside track into the fundamentals of running shave ounces for the lightest possible load without compromising wilderness education courses with an overview of program su- functionality. Then, for the next two weeks, you'll explore either pervision, risk management, and NOLS administrative practices. the Galiuro Mountains or the Gila Wilderness, some of the South- While building a foundation of program knowledge, the course west’s most remote ranges, in a way you may never have thought dives into a 19-day backpacking expedition in the pristine desert possible: with only 25 pounds on your back. The only thing we landscape of the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge followed by 10 won’t go light with on this course is our core curriculum. You’ll still days of rock climbing at Cochise Stronghold, a maze of granite master the leadership and outdoor living skills that NOLS is built pinnacles in the Dragoon Mountains. upon while learning the specific skills of lightweight backpacking. Expect to leave this course with the skills and background neces- DETAILS sary to plan and execute your own future lightweight adventures. Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 26 • Duration: 31 days Eligibility: Qualified practicing or aspiring outdoor educators Tuition: $4,215 DETAILS Optional College Credit: 2 hours Outdoor Educator, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 23 • Duration: 14 days 2 hours Environmental Ethics Tuition: $3,325 Dates: page 106 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Skills Practicum Dates: page 106 Facing page: Consistently good weather and solid rock contribute to another amazing climbing day in the Southwest. Cochise Stronghold, Arizona

47 SEMESTER IN THE Southwest

A SEMESTER IN THE SOUTHWEST WILL GIVE you a unique glimpse into the American South- west’s living desert. You will discover the desert to be alive with plants and animals like coyote, javelina, mountain lions, peregrine falcons, mesquite, and cactus. The different sections on this semester will take you from the rushing waters of the Rio Grande to the ponderosa pine forests of the Gila Range. You will find yourself jamming Rainbow Weinstock Rainbow your fingers and feet into granite cracks and ex- Chikkaraju Madhu ploring with all your senses through decorated Explore the ruins of the Southwest and see how local ancestors once lived. Gila Cliff Dwellings, Gila Wilderness, New Mexico limestone caves. WILDERNESS FIRST AID (WFA) Hosted by the Wilderness Medicine Institute of Along with natural history, you’ll also dis- NOLS, this 16-hour section covers first aid specific to wilderness emergencies and is cover the desert’s rich human history and have essential for anyone spending extended time in the outdoors. plenty of time to travel through the areas once BACKPACKING The Gila Range in New Mexico, the first designated wilderness area in the U.S., or the rugged Galiuro Mountains in southeastern Arizona will be your class- inhabited by ancient cultures, discovering draw- room for the backpacking section. Both destinations offer varied terrain and beautiful surroundings in which to hone your backcountry living skills. ings and other traces left behind by our ances- CAVING tors. In this land of constant sun, backpacking, (if available) On this section you’ll explore the miraculous underground world visiting many caves either near the famous Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico or in the caving, climbing, and canoeing will prepare you varied terrain of southeastern Arizona. You’ll have a unique chance to marvel at a subterranean wilderness few people ever see or even know exists. for the independent student expedition that is ROCK CLIMBING Cochise Stronghold, a land of towering granite domes, is one of the best the grand finale of your semester. climbing locations in Arizona. As you hone your climbing risk management and judgment skills, you’ll move at your own pace from the fundamentals of top-roping and anchor building to more complex techniques like multi-pitch climbing.

CANOEING You’ll paddle down the Rio Grande in Big Bend National Park, Texas, where water has carved out spectacular canyons in the Chihuahuan Desert. You’ll learn how to read whitewater, practice river rescue techniques, and identifying hazards while scouting rapids.

STUDENT EXPEDITION Upon successful completion of the previous sections, you’ll have the opportunity to apply all of your accumulated knowledge by planning and executing an autonomous student expedition. Heading out in either the Galiuro or Gila mountains, this is the highlight of the Southwest semester.

Nick Cross Nick DETAILS SPRING FALL Age and Length: 17 & Over • Average age: 20 • Duration: 88 days Discover a new world underground. Lake Cave, New Tuition: $11,725 (spring); $11,990 (fall) Mexico Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 6 hours Skills Practicum, 2 hours Risk Management Facing page: Helmets off, sun hats on: a calm moment Dates: page 106 on the Rio Grande. Upstream of Lower Canyons, Texas

48 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] SOUTHWEST Brian Murphy Brian

49 SEMESTER ON THE Borders

THERE’S NO DOUBT ABOUT IT, THIS IS ONE of the most geographically diverse semesters at

NOLS. Your adventure will begin in the desert

Southwest, a land of cactus and javelina, and as winter subsides you will move north, to the lush

Pacific Northwest with its snow-covered peaks and forested islands. During the only spring semester that combines both desert travel and maritime skills, you’ll experience a wide variety of adventures that will allow you to be a well- rounded wilderness traveler on land and sea. Alan Neilson Alan You’ll begin at NOLS Southwest in Tucson, Thirty-six-foot Catalina keelboats will be both your transportation and your home on your sailing section. Smuggler Arizona, for wilderness first aid, backpacking, Cove, British Columbia and climbing, and then transition to NOLS Pacific WILDERNESS FIRST AID (WFA) Hosted by the Wilderness Medicine Institute of Northwest outside Seattle, Washington, for sail- NOLS, this 16-hour section covers first aid specific to wilderness emergencies and is essential for anyone spending extended time in the outdoors. ing and sea kayaking. From scaling a rock wall in Arizona to slicing through the waters of British BACKPACKING Whether hiking in Arizona's rocky Galiuro Mountains, with rugged cliffs and natural springs, or New Mexico's Gila Range, the first designated wilderness area Columbia, you’ll have the time of your life and see in the U.S., you will learn the essentials of backcountry living and soak up life outside. just how versatile the NOLS curriculum is. ROCK CLIMBING Arizona’s Cochise Stronghold promises warm, sunny weather and enough climbing routes to keep you roped up and cranking hard. The area’s tall domes make it an ideal base from which to learn top-roping, anchor building, climbing movement, and even multi-pitch skills.

SAILING The coastal sailing section takes place in the northern reaches of the Strait of Georgia and Desolation Sound in British Columbia, Canada. You’ll learn how to sail and navigate 36-foot keelboats, each carrying a group of students and an instructor. On-water classes include boat handling, charts, coastal navigation, and seamanship.

SEA KAYAKING You’ll paddle the remote waters of British Columbia’s central coast on this section, visiting pristine sandy beaches, majestic fjords, ancient moss-covered rain forests, and remote islands and sea caves. At the same time, you’ll learn a range of technical skills, from basic to advanced sea kayaking strokes to weather awareness and knowledge of tides and currents. Whales, sea lions, and wolves are just a sample of the wildlife you could see on this amazingly wild waterway. Josh Beckner Josh

Student Sean Bryant stays hydrated in the deserts of DETAILS SPRING the American Southwest. Kofa National Wildlife Refuge Age and Length: 17 & Over • Average Age: 21 • Duration: 86 days Tuition: $13,465 Facing page: Southwest rock climbing sections start Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 6 hours with the basics: top-roping, belaying, and movement. Skills Practicum, 2 hours Risk Management Cochise Stronghold, Arizona Dates: page 106

50 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] SOUTHWEST Rainbow Weinstock Rainbow

51 YEAR IN THE Sonoran

NOLS RUNS THE LONGEST COURSE IN THE history of outdoor education, 135 days, or the equivalent of a year at college. The Sonoran Year will take you far from the classroom and give you an education of practical and experiential learning. The Sonoran Desert spans 120,000 square miles from the American Southwest Abe Goodale Abe to the tip of Baja California, Mexico. On your Instructor Alan Coulter demonstrates the strokes as students practice in their kayaks. Now that's hands-on learning. NOLS year you will explore both the desert Conception Bay, Baja California BACKPACKING Backpacking will be the thread that runs through your entire year, learn- and the sea. You’ll sea kayak, sail, climb, cave, ing the camping and travel skills that will set the foundation for your entire course. You’ll and hike in the unique Sonoran ecosystem, the hone your backpacking proﬁciency in both the Southwest and Mexico, and if your skills are up to par, the end of your year will culminate in a student-led expedition—an oppor- most lush, diverse desert in North America, tunity to apply all of your accumulated knowledge, independent of your instructors. while also learning about the distinctive local ROCK CLIMBING Cochise Stronghold is a beautiful remote climbing area in the Dra- cultures through Baja human and natural his- goon Mountains of Arizona that provides excellent opportunities to cover a comprehensive technical curriculum, including climbing movement, anchor systems, and multi- tory. Whether its through the culture of Mexican pitch climbing.

fishermen and rancheros, whales breaching WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER (WFR) Presented by the Wilderness Medicine In- stitute of NOLS, this 80-hour certification designed for outdoor professionals will give you within sight, or leading a group of your peers the tools to make sound first aid and evacuation decisions in remote settings. through the wild Southwest, you’ll leave NOLS CAVING (if available) This section is a rare chance to marvel at a subterranean wilderness with new skills, new motivation, and a year’s that is rarely visited. You'll explore many caves either near the famous Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico or in the varied terrain of southeastern Arizona. worth of college credit. LEADERSHIP EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT SEMINAR (LEADS) This seminar takes a closer look at the NOLS leadership curriculum and explores in greater depth your personal style of leadership and that of your coursemates.

SEA KAYAKING Paddling the desert coastline of the Baja Peninsula includes hands-on expedition planning, interpreting tides and currents, reading weather conditions, and exploring the underwater world by snorkeling, free diving, and, potentially, spear ﬁshing.

COASTAL SAILING, BAJA NATURAL HISTORY, AND WHALE-WATCHING While on our 22-foot Drascombe Longboat you’ll work toward mastering the mechanics of sailing this open boat, including sail and line handling, wind awareness, anchoring procedures, and capsize recovery. Then you will spend time with local naturalists, students, and ﬁshermen observing endemic ﬂora and fauna, global warming evidence, and the migra-

Rainbow Weinstock Rainbow tion of gray whales. Nate Steele Nate

Become master of the seas as you learn to navigate using DETAILS ACADEMIC YEAR nautical charts. Punta Rosa, Sea of Cortez Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 20 • Duration: 135 days; 65 days (fall), 70 days (spring) Tuition: $21,750 Facing page: Learn to move conﬁdently and efﬁciently Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 4 hours Leadership Techniques, on vertical rock as you master the techniques needed to 8 hours Skills Practicum, 4 hours Risk Management, 2 hours Expedition Planning, 3 hours WFR credit get to the top. Cochise Stronghold, Arizona Dates: page 106

52 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] SOUTHWEST Dave Anderson Dave

53 NORTHEAST David Durant David

54 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] NORTHEAST A patchwork of public and private lands, the Adirondack Park in northern New York is the largest park in the Lower 48 and is just hours from major population centers such as Montreal, New York City, and Boston. This is NOLS’ newest wilderness classroom and the ideal place in the Northeast for a unique wilderness experience. Sparkling lakes, tannin- colored ponds, and rivers large and small punctuate this landscape, while Mount Marcy and other high peaks preside over countless lesser peaks and valleys of the Adirondack Mountains to provide a spectacular setting for adventurous mountain travel. Experience the landscape that provided shelter and sustenance to the Algonquian and Mohawk In- dians, and the unique boreal forests that are home to beaver, deer, moose, ﬁsher, pine marten, osprey, lynx, and over 250 species of birds. Come along with NOLS Northeast and explore the Adirondack Mountains while practicing real leadership and outdoor living skills. David Durant David

The Adirondacks, with their mixed conifer and hardwood forests, mountains, and lakes, are a premier wilderness destination. Henderson Lake

NEW ADIRONDACK BACKPACKING ADVENTURE FOR 14- AND 15-YEAR-OLDS Designed for young teens with a sense of adventure, this course takes you to the Adirondack Mountains where you will hike, learn, and explore with your peers for two weeks. The Adirondacks are the premier wilderness destination of the northeastern United States with mountain summits, conifer and hardwood forests, wetlands, lakes, ponds, and rivers—in a nutshell, a mosaic of ecosystem discovery. Under the mentorship of the same experienced NOLS instructors who teach for the school worldwide, you will experience the time-tested NOLS core curriculum: leadership, backpacking, environmental ethics, camping, ﬂy-ﬁshing, navigation, map reading, and much more. You will challenge yourself, gain trust and support from your coursemates, and develop new leadership skills that transfer to your everyday life. In short, you will work hard, have fun, and bring home unforgettable stories and memories for a lifetime.

DETAILS

Age: 14 & 15 • Duration: 14 days Durant David Tuition: $3,060 Feel the accomplishment of traveling and working as a team through exciting and Dates: page 106 beautiful terrain. Northville-Placid Trail, Silver Lake Wilderness Area, Adirondack Park

Facing page: You’ll feel ten-feet tall when you complete your NOLS course. High Peaks Wilderness, Adirondack Park

55 ALASKA Madhu Chikkaraju Madhu

56 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] ALASKA The boundlessness of the place will grab you first, for there is nowhere as far-flung as Alaska. It will alter your concept of space. Glaciers calve into the sea, Arctic tundra stretches beyond the horizon, rugged and expansive mountains reach into the sky, wildlife is abundant, and humans are scarce. The Land of the Midnight Sun has a whopping 238 million acres of public land. The around-the-clock daylight of summer, the vast geographic distance from the Lower 48, and the variety of cultures set it apart. From our state-of-the-art headquarters in the historic Matanuska Valley outside Palmer or one of our operations bases in Fairbanks or Petersburg, we’ll outfit you with everything you need for an expedition into the wild. No other organization offers the breadth of opportunities in Alaska that NOLS does, from the Arctic Circle to the South- central coastal ranges to the Southeast archipelagos. Backpacking, sea kayaking, or mountaineering: no matter how you choose to explore Alaska, you’ll learn with NOLS all you need to know about living and traveling in this vast wilderness. Elliot Johnston Elliot Tracy Baynes/STEP Tracy

Learn to navigate your way through Alaska's awe-inspiring fjords by sea kayak. Become one with the rhythm of our planet as you paddle the rolling tides of Alaska's Harriman Fjord, Prince William Sound coastal waters. Inside Passage

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND 23-AND-OVER SOUTHEAST ALASKA SEA KAYAKING SEA KAYAKING Since 1971, NOLS students have been exploring the wilds of Alas- Our 23-and-over courses paddle in Alaska’s world famous Prince ka in sea kayaks. There’s no better way to take in Alaska’s dramatic William Sound, past towering tidewater glaciers that moan and coastline than by gliding on the water. Your launching point for crackle, crystal-blue icebergs bobbing on the ocean’s surface, and this course is Petersburg, located in the heart of Southeast Alaska’s wooded coves perfect for camping. The sea teems with various Inside Passage. This archipelago is a remote land of forest and forms of life, and you’ll have the ideal vantage point to view it all. ocean. Beaches jut up against dense temperate rain forests, where Sea birds wheel in the sky overhead while tidal pools with star- giant spruce and hemlock rise to neck-craning heights. Much of ﬁsh, anemones, and other small creatures dot the shorelines. You’ll your time will be spent near Kuiu Island, an ancient forest home to work hard paddling with all your gear stowed in your boat, but black bears, wolves, Sitka black-tailed deer, moose, and river otters. you’ll have opportunities to play as well. There are ﬁsh to catch You’ll learn to plan routes and navigate them using nautical charts, and so many things to learn about in your surroundings. You’ll as well as hone technical skills such as paddling and open-water hone your wilderness skills, have fun, and practice your leadership crossings. You may be rewarded by catching halibut or salmon or as you explore wild, wonderful Alaska. seeing the humpback and orca whales that abound in the area.

DETAILS DETAILS Age and Length: 23 & Over • Average age: 33 • Duration: 14 days Age and Length: Tuition: $3,310 16 & Over • Average age: 18 • Duration: 30 days Optional College Credit: 2 hours Skills Practicum 16 & 17 Only • Duration: 30 days Dates: page 106 Tuition: $4,100 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 2 hours Skills Practicum Dates: page 106

Facing page: A snow class at NOLS. Soon "rest step" and "self arrest" will be part of your outdoor vocabulary. Matanuska Glacier

57 ONEO OF THE GREATEST LESSONS I LEARNED ON THE TRIP IS TO BE MINDFUL OF HOW DIFFERENT PEOPLE’S EXPERIENCES COLOR THE WAY THEY REACT TO A SITUATION.N. “Ilana Saxe, Teacher, Alaska Outdoor Educator ’07 Fredrik Norrsell Fredrik Madhu Chikkaraju Madhu

Take a deep breath. Exhale. You'll see and experience all Alaska has to offer. Prince Take a break and pass the trail food. Peanut butter pretzel, anyone? Matanuska Valley William Sound

ALASKA BACKPACKING AND SEA KAYAKING ALASKA OUTDOOR EDUCATOR: Alaska is a land of incredible fjords, forested ocean coasts, and BACKPACKING AND SEA KAYAKING high alpine meadows. Your monthlong adventure will give you a If you’re a practicing or aspiring outdoor educator, you know that chance to learn two wilderness travel skills, backpacking and sea learning to lead groups in two different skill areas is a professional kayaking. While kayaking, you’ll follow a route in Prince William advantage. This course will prepare you to do just that, giving you Sound where glaciers ﬂ ow directly into the ocean and a variety the chance to learn how to lead on land and sea. Your classroom for of marine animals are easy to spot. You’ll learn how to handle the sea kayaking section is Prince William Sound with its plentiful your boat in different conditions of wind and tide, and also how wildlife and booming tidewater glaciers. Using either Whittier or to be a good leader and keep a positive attitude after a long day of Valdez as a starting point, you’ll learn how to glide along the coast paddling. The mountains of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the in a sea kayak and have a chance to practice your teaching skills in Talkeetnas, the Kenai Mountains, or the Chugach Range will be some of the most beautiful parts of the Sound. For the backpacking your home for the backpacking section. Here you’ll start below portion of the course, you’ll be in either Wrangell-St. Elias National tree line and head into the mountains along glacier-carved river Park, the Talkeetna Mountains, or the Kenai Mountains. In this valleys, reaching open high country known as tundra. The vistas land of tundra and rocky passes, you’ll work with our veteran educa- here are wide, the mountains rugged, and the lessons lifelong. tors to learn skills such as risk management, ration planning, and program supervision. By the end of this expedition, you’ll be better DETAILS equipped to teach, lead, and explore, whether in a boat or on foot. Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average Age: 19 • Duration: 30 days Tuition: $4,770 DETAILS Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average Age: 26 • Duration: 30 days 2 hours Skills Practicum Eligibility: Qualiﬁ ed practicing or potential outdoor educators Dates: page 106 Tuition: $4,175 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Outdoor Educator, 2 hours Risk Management, 2 hours Environmental Ethics Dates: page 106

58 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] ALASKA Bryan Palmintier Bryan

Being so small in Alaska's big wilderness will magnify your and your coursemates' accomplishments. Turtle Flats, Matanuska Glacier

ALASKA MOUNTAINEERING DENALI MOUNTAINEERING This course takes you to a place in Southcentral Alaska often re- (Alumni only) The highest peak in North America—known ferred to as “the mountain kingdom of North America,” where a as Denali or “Great One” by Alaska Natives—is the site for chain of rugged mountain ranges and spectacular glaciers converge this expedition designed for qualified NOLS graduates. to make a mountaineer’s dreamscape. Within this region you’ll Denali offers extremely challenging glacier travel and some explore the coastal Chugach Range, the interior Alaska Range, of the most difficult weather in the world, so this course is or the vast Wrangell-St. Elias Range. The specific route for each one of the most demanding NOLS offers, both physically course is entirely season dependent, with expeditions in the early and mentally. During the course you’ll attempt to climb the season climbing mostly above snow line to access terrain via huge Muldrow Glacier route on the north side of the mountain. The snowfields, and courses operating in the later season completing expedition begins with several days of tundra hiking followed technical ice routes on glacier. All routes on the course for students by navigating up the lower expanses of the Muldrow Glacier. ages 17 and older are classically Alaskan with long approaches on After a resupply at McGonagall Pass, you’ll continue up the large glaciers. The shorter course for students ages 23 and older Muldrow, encountering crevasses and deep snow, and ascend flies directly onto a glacier to maximize time for technical skill the dramatic Karsten’s Ridge to the Harper Glacier. There you’ll development. Both courses provide an ideal training ground for establish high camp at approximately 17,000 feet, from which learning to live and travel responsibly and efficiently in challeng- you’ll attempt the 20,320-foot summit. This route has a remote ing mountain terrain. wilderness flavor that is not found on the more frequented routes up the mountain. DETAILS Age and Length: DETAILS 17 & Over • Average age: 21 • Duration: 30 days Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 26 • Duration: 34 days 23 & Over • Average age: 29 • Duration: 14 days Eligibility: Qualified NOLS graduates Tuition: $5,750 (17 & Over); $3,750 (23 & Over) Tuition: $7,750 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Skills Practicum, Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Skills Practicum, 2 hours Risk Management (17 & Over); 2 hours Skills Practicum (23 & Over) 2 hours Risk Management Dates: page 106 Dates: page 106

59 Evan Horn

Packrafting is the latest technique for exploring Alaska's deep wilderness. Paxon Lake

NEW ALASKA BACKPACKING ALASKA BACKPACKING AND PACKRAFTING An Alaska Backpacking course is a wilderness expedition in every Packrafting is at the forefront of Alaskan exploration and NOLS sense, allowing you to explore beautiful landscapes in the Talk- is right there with it. Designed for students 18-and-over, this eetna Mountains, the Alaska Range, or Wrangell-St. Elias Na- 30-day land- and water-based expedition uses packrafts—single- tional Park, where the trees disappear and the land stretches into person inﬂatable rafts weighing four pounds each—to open up alpine tundra plains with a backdrop of rugged and heavily eroded some of the world’s most remote country that would be otherwise mountains. Up here where it’s still light at midnight, you’ll follow inaccessible to overland travel. With this equipment and the the tracks of the seasonal caribou migration. How to hike on tun- help of experienced instructor teams, you will navigate the dra; identify the birds, ﬂowers, wildlife, and plants of the North rivers of the eastern Alaska Range and the Talkeetna Mountains Country; and keep warm, dry, and happy even when it’s wet are that would otherwise be obstacles on a traditional backpacking all part of your backcountry curriculum. You’ll become a seasoned course. On this self-sustained monthlong expedition you’ll wilderness traveler, learning how to read a map, navigate off trail, learn how to live comfortably in the backcountry, hike through and scan the horizon for grizzly bears, black bears, moose, wolves, mountains and across tundra, and paddle your packraft through and Dall sheep. Class II rapids. You might even see Dall sheep, moose, caribou, wolves, and black and grizzly bears along the way. DETAILS Age and Length: DETAILS 16 & Over • Average age: 19 • Duration: 30 days Age and Length: 18 & Over • Duration: 30 days 16 & 17 Only • Duration: 30 days Tuition: $4,770 Tuition: $4,110 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 2 hours Skills Practicum 2 hours Skills Practicum Dates: page 106 Dates: page 106

60 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] ATAT NOLS IT'S ALL ABOUT CREATIVITY, IT'S ALL ABOUT INNOVATION, ALASKA IT'S ALL ABOUT EXPLORING THE EDGES OF ONE'S ABILITIES.SS.. “Tori McClure; Author, Adventurer, and President of Spaulding University; Semester in Alaska '85, Semester in Kenya '86 See more of Tori at www.nols.tv ” TC Rammelkamp TC Rammelkamp TC

Learn the value of a bluebird day as you navigate Arctic Scouting the right path through pristine and fragile tundra is the perfect place for students to practice their Leave No rivers. Noatak River, Gates of the Arctic National Park Trace skills. Brooks Range

BROOKS RANGE BACKPACKING AND RIVER BROOKS RANGE 23-AND-OVER BACKPACKING The Brooks Range is one of the wildest mountain ranges in North North of the Arctic Circle and aptly dubbed Land of the Midnight America. Stretched across the tundra north of the Arctic Circle, Sun, much of the landscape in the Brooks Range lies above tree line this Land of the Midnight Sun is defi ned by big open river bot- and elevations range from sea level to over 9,000 feet. Designed toms, steep mountain slopes, and expansive tundra. After fl ying especially for students ages 23 and older, this 14-day backpacking into the area with an experienced Alaskan bush pilot, you’ll spend course packs in backcountry travel lessons in the steep shale moun- the fi rst 10 days of this extended Arctic expedition on foot, mov- tains and expansive tundra of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge ing across the tundra and up braided river channels. Then you’ll and the Philip Smith Mountains. This is not a guided tour. You’ll swap boots and backpacks for folding canoes and touring kayaks learn the skills in these two weeks needed to travel in a mountain for a three-week river trip in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge environment long after your course ends. or Gates of the Arctic National Park, one of North America’s largest mountain-ringed river basins. The mountains are spectacular DETAILS Age and Length: 23 & Over • Average age: 36 • Duration: 14 days and rugged and the rivers fl ow through wilderness for hundreds of Tuition: $4,350 miles. It’s possible to see Dall sheep, moose, caribou, wolves, black Optional College Credit: 2 hours Skills Practicum and grizzly bears, and lynx as you travel. Dates: page 107

DETAILS Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 23 • Duration: 40 days Tuition: $7,400 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 4 hours Skills Practicum Dates: page 106

61 SEMESTER IN Alaska

YOUR SEMESTER IN ALASKA INCLUDES everything from forested coastlines to the snow and ice of the high mountain peaks to the tundra and rivers in between. In the long days of the northern summer, you’ll have plenty of time to learn about and travel through wild Alaska.

Hiking takes you to the continent’s largest assemblage of glaciers and itss greatest collection of peaks over 16,000 feet in elevation. The semester’s mountaineering section travels even further into this area, an ideal training ground for learning to live and climb on snow and ice. Finally, you will spend 23 days sea kayaking in Prince

William Sound. Amidst all this activity, you can also expect an extensive environmental studies Chikkaraju Madhu Alaska's mountains and rivers set the stage for your course to work as a team through expedition behavior, com- curriculum, giving you a unique perspective on munication, and setting goals. Matanuska Valley some of the world’s most stunning wilderness. SEA KAYAKING You’ll explore the wilderness coastline of Prince William Sound by After honing skills and leadership for 75 days at starting with basics, such as learning how to load your sea kayak, then moving to more advanced topics in a gradual progression that allows for quality learning. Classes will NOLS Alaska, you can be conﬁdent traveling in include paddling techniques, ocean hazards, tidal evaluation, natural history, and risk management. You’ll camp among the spruce or on rocky beaches and live and learn with a variety of wilderness settings. your instructors and coursemates.

BACKPACKING Learning how to pack a backpack and walk lightly on the tundra of Alas- ka's Southcentral mountain ranges kicks off this section. Then you’ll progress to studying ﬂora and fauna of the region, learning practical leadership skills, and practicing Leave No Trace camping techniques. Map reading, river crossing, bear camping, hazard identiﬁca- tion, and decision-making will all be part of your continuing education.

GLACIER MOUNTAINEERING This section includes intensive skill training for living and climbing in Alaska’s glaciated mountains. You’ll learn things such as belaying, anchors, rope systems, crevasse rescue, and ice climbing techniques while practicing basic glacier camping and travel. Crossing vast ﬁelds of snow and ice in rope teams will require using the clear judgment, technical know-how, and decision-making skills that you have honed all semester. Fredrik Norrsell Fredrik

Another day in paradise. Beats four walls and an un- DETAILS SUMMER comfortable chair! Prince William Sound Age and Length: 17 & Over • Average age: 21 • Duration: 75 days Tuition: $11,000 Facing page: Student Caroline Cheung ties a trucker's Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 6 hours hitch like a champ. Divide Basin, Black Rapids Glacier, Skills Practicum, 2 hours Risk Management Eastern Alaska Range Dates: page 107

62 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] ALASKA Fredrik Norrsell Fredrik

63 YUKON Ashley Wise Ashley YUKON The Yukon Territory is an undiscovered wilderness paradise with little development, few people, and pristine backcountry. Located in the far northwest of Canada, this territory encompasses almost 500,000 square kilometers of pure, untouched wilderness and you’ll have access to it from our base in Whitehorse, dubbed “The Wilderness City” and capital of the Yukon. This northern paradise of wild, technical rivers and sweeping tundra begs exploration. During the summer, the land explodes from its winter months of darkness for a season of continuous daylight. In this Land of the Midnight Sun, you’ll share the wilderness with caribou, bear, wolf, moose, and migrating birds. The only trails you’ll follow are those made by the wildlife and likely the only people you’ll see are your fellow coursemates. Whether you call Canada home or you’re traveling from abroad, the Yukon’s stunning rivers and little-used mountain ranges provide the ideal setting for a wilderness adventure. The NOLS Yukon experience is one you won’t want to miss.

YUKON BACKPACKING Roam through the Yukon’s expansive and trail-less wilderness of forest and mountains. This is the perfect training ground for mastering camping and traveling skills as well as for developing leadership skills and teamwork. You’ll explore and learn in the Yukon’s wild and remote mountain ranges, where you’ll climb far above tree line for awe-inspiring views. You’ll enjoy untapped fly-fishing and spin fishing in wild rivers and clear alpine lakes. Hiking here can be hard work, but the rewards of endless ridges and open tundra are well worth the effort. After just 30 days, you’ll come home with the skills and know-how to lead your own backpacking trips, although you’ll always long for the freedom of the Yukon.

DETAILS Steve Javorski Steve Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average age: 19 • Duration: 30 days Rivers are the highways and canoes are the vehicles in the Yukon's untrammeled Tuition: $3,970 wilderness. Hess River Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 2 hours Skills Practicum Dates: page 107 YUKON BACKPACKING YUKON OUTDOOR EDUCATOR: AND WILDERNESS CANOEING BACKPACKING AND WHITEWATER CANOEING Take full advantage of the remote, pristine Yukon wilderness on this This 30-day expedition for practicing and aspiring outdoor educators self-supported 30-day expedition. This course is perfect for students combines the skills of wilderness backpacking with northern whitewa- wanting to develop two distinct skills—hiking and canoeing—be out ter canoeing in Canada’s Yukon Territory. A remote Yukon mountain for a month without re-supply, and get the quintessential Yukon ex- range is the perfect classroom for developing the skills of the backcoun- perience. With the diverse, captivating terrain, you’ll be able to focus try professional. You’ll find an abundance of mountain wildlife amidst on developing the skills to lead your peers in small groups. With all of the alpine wildflowers and chest-high forests of dwarf birch and wil- your supplies for the month packed into a canoe, you’ll experience true low. While learning the hiking and camping skills needed to manage expedition river travel with weeklong backpacking loops that provide groups in the remote backcountry, you’ll also spend time on technical incredible views of the wild Yukon peaks and spectacular ridge walks. canoeing skills, teaching techniques, and river rescue concepts. After a You may even catch a glimpse of bear or caribou or get to experience month in the rugged mountains and on the river, you’ll have a power- the world-class fly-fishing. After this combo course, you’ll come home ful set of water and mountain skills for future professional and personal an excellent camper and leader with an unparalleled appreciation for adventures in the backcountry. Canada’s history and environment. DETAILS DETAILS Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 28 • Duration: 30 days Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average age: 21 • Duration: 30 days Eligibility: Qualified practicing or potential outdoor educators Tuition: $4,135 Tuition: $3,840 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, Optional College Credit: 2 hours Outdoor Educator, 2 hours Risk Management, 2 hours Skills Practicum 2 hours Environmental Ethics Dates: page 107 Dates: page 107

Facing page: NOLS Yukon students are true explorers, visiting isolated wilderness few people have ever seen. Ogilvie Mountains

65 SEMESTER IN THE Yukon

AN ACTION-PACKED LEARNING ADVENTURE, this semester begins and ends in Whitehorse,

Yukon Territory, Canada, and is one of our most unique wilderness leadership programs. It takes place entirely in Canada’s North Country, where remote, wild land stands unparalleled. For 76 days your expedition will explore the wilds of the

Yukon with a backpack, canoe, and rope team, seeing few people along the way. In fact, with a ratio of six caribou and one moose to every Yu- kon resident and a grizzly bear to every Yukon family of four, you’re more likely to share this vast wilderness with animals than with humans.

Along your route, you will fish, cross un- Pascal Beauvais named rivers, summit unnamed peaks, and Leader-of-the-day opportunities allow students to think independently and implement the skills they have learned. Coast Mountains explore the same areas as turn-of-the-century BACKPACKING From our base in Whitehorse, you’ll embark on the first phase of your gold seekers. After this semester, you’ll be a adventure: a backpacking section through the river valleys, alpine tundra, and boreal forests of the Yukon Territory. You’ll move up remote mountain valleys, planning routes and comfortable traveler in the backcountry with choosing campsites. You’ll learn camping and travel skills pertaining to bear country—and unmatched technical expeditionary skills in a metric tonne about being comfortable outdoors—while traveling through alpine meadows and tundra and bushwhacking through trees and over passes in all kinds of weather. backpacking and whitewater canoeing, as MOUNTAINEERING What you learn about mountain weather, leadership, and route find- well as glacier, snow, and ice mountaineering. ing on the backpacking section will prepare you to face the high glaciers on the mountaineering section. The Yukon’s mountains are an ideal classroom for learning technical mountaineering skills such as negotiating rocky mountain passes, icefalls, and glaciers. You’ll climb stunning peaks while learning rope-team, crampon, and other techniques to move over snow, ice, and rock terrain.

WHITEWATER CANOEING The Yukon provides some of the best whitewater expeditioning in the world. For over three weeks, you’ll learn all the skills necessary to effectively paddle a variety rivers, including assessing, running, lining, and portaging rapids; river rescue techniques; and river management and navigation. As your technical maneuvers improve, you’ll be polishing your backcountry and leadership skills while you explore and live under the midnight sun. Roo RileyRoo

SUMMER The cross-bow draw is a difﬁcult stroke that your NOLS DETAILS instructors will be sure to help you master. Hess River Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average age: 22 • Duration: 76 days Tuition: $10,270 Facing page: Get your feet wet with NOLS: Fording Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 6 hours rivers is sometimes the only way to get from point A to Skills Practicum, 2 hours Risk Management point B. Tributary of the Chilkat River Dates: page 107

66 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] YUKON Pascal Beauvais

67 Para inform ación en esp añol, visítenos en MEXICO www.nols.mx TC Rammelkamp TC

68 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] MEXICO Imagine a land of stark contrasts: ocean and desert, cactus and pine, teeming seas and sparse shores. This is the Baja Peninsula, a land of unique wilderness opportunity. NOLS Mexico is the home of our ocean-based programs where you can learn how to sea kayak and sail as well as backpack. You’ll learn about the rich diversity of this marine ecosystem, about the whales and sea birds and fish that call this place home. There will also be occasion to interact with the people of Baja California. We provide educational opportunities for local educators, students, and land managers, as well as financial aid and scholarships for NOLS courses in both Spanish and English. We have a long-standing partnership with the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur, collaborating with their departments of marine biology, geology, and alternative tourism. We have been off-the-grid in Coyote Bay near Mulegé in central Baja for over 30 years, and our high-tech, low-impact facility was specifically designed to meet the needs of our students. Abe Goodale Abe Plank Alex

The Drascombe Longboat is the perfect venue to learn how to sail and develop as a With personal coaching from your NOLS instructors you'll master surf landings and team. Coyote Bay more. La Zorra Beach, San Nicholas Bay

BAJA COASTAL SAILING BAJA SEA KAYAKING A NOLS sailing course will get you well on your way to sailing on Baja Sea Kayaking has it all—technical skills, incredible scenery, your own and being a competent crew member. You’ll be aboard a leadership practice, and unique opportunities for cultural ex- unique yawl-rigged open boat, the Drascombe Longboat, which is a changes. On this course you’ll navigate the Sea of Cortez, carry- light, maneuverable craft perfect for learning sailing basics, exploring everything you need for your journey inside the hull of your ing shallow coves, or hauling onto desert beaches. You’ll learn coastal sea kayak. Your instructors will teach you how to maneuver this navigation on waters rich with marine life, from intricate sea fans to craft onto remote beaches surrounded by cliffs and how to handle raucous sea lions. This course follows nature’s rhythms, so you may the boat when waves and winds pick up. On land, you’ll practice find yourself up before dawn or sailing until dusk to take advantage cooking, Leave No Trace camping, and maybe some beginning of a favorable breeze. There are bound to be some long, challenging Spanish. Free diving is a special part of this course, and you’ll of- days on the water, but there should also be time to wonder at the ten spend afternoons exploring coastal reefs and the vast array of night sky or at the sea stars in a tidal pool. You’ll learn to read winds multi-colored fish that inhabit them. You may even have the op- and waves with confidence, work as a crew with your coursemates, portunity to enjoy the catch of the day from local fishermen. By and on windless days, practice rowing and towing. The boat will the end of your expedition, you’ll walk away with the ability to be your home on the water, but you’ll also practice Leave No Trace lead your own sea kayaking adventure and an appreciation for this camping on shore in this unique desert that greets the sea. dramatic Mexican coastline.

DETAILS DETAILS Age and Length: 16 & Over • Average age: 23 • Duration: 22 days Age and Length: Tuition: $3,955 16 & Over • Average age: 23 • Duration: 22 days Optional Optional College Credit: 2 hours Risk Management, 2 hours Leadership 23 & Over • Average age: 35 • Duration: 14 days Techniques Tuition: $3,410 (16 & Over); $3,235 (23 & Over) Dates: page 107 Optional College Credit: 2 hours each Environmental Ethics, Leadership Techniques (16 & Over); 2 hours Skills Practicum (23 & Over) Dates: page 107 Facing Page: Running with the wind, these students enjoy the ride. Isla San Marcos

69 SEMESTER IN Baja

FLANKED BY THE PACIFIC OCEAN ON THE west and the Sea of Cortez on the east, the

Baja California Peninsula is a land of extremes and contrasts. Granite and volcanic mountain ranges extend over 1,000 miles down the peninsula’s central spine, and Picacho del Diablo, a 10,126-foot peak in the northern mountains, is snow-covered in winter months. The rest of Baja California, while still very rugged and mountainous, is Sonoran Desert country, receiving less than 10 inches of rainfall each year. Here exists an amazing variety of desert life, including more than 110 species of cacti. Leia Berg Group dynamics are an integral part of any expedition. Your NOLS course will concentrate on team building and For three months, you’ll explore these contrast- communication that will help you achieve group goals. Baja California Sur ing environments on foot, in a sea kayak, and BACKPACKING Starting with Leave No Trace camping, route selection, map reading, under sail while having ample opportunities for risk management, and hazard evaluation, your backpacking section takes you deep into the desert and mountains of beautiful Mexico. Classes include discussions on group cultural and Spanish language interactions with dynamics, leadership, geology, wildlife identification, and maybe some informal Span- local students, educators, ranchers, and fisher- ish instruction. men. You will learn the skills you need to visit SAILING Your mode of travel for this section will be a 22-foot Drascombe Longboat, which lets you explore remote coves that larger sailing vessels can’t reach. You’ll move these ecosystems and communities comfort- along the coastline, camping on shore at night and hoisting sail during the day. Expect to learn coastal navigation, teamwork, seamanship, anchoring, sail trim, line handling, and ably and responsibly in the future. steering, as well as snorkeling and diving to check out fish and your anchors!

SEA KAYAKING Along with learning coastal kayaking skills like navigation, rolling, surfing, and paddle strokes, you’ll focus on free diving skills and water risk management. Des- ert natural history classes happen when the sea is too rough for travel. Some semesters make an open water crossing to explore the uninhabited islands of the Gulf of California.

CULTURE Throughout your semester you’ll learn about Baja’s culture and history, gaining insight into the diversity of lifestyles of Baja residents—sometimes en español! Oppor- tunities include visits with local staff during course preparation, travel to remote ﬁshing villages like San Nicolás, tortilla-making classes with ranchero families high in the Sierra, and exchanges with the local university community. Benjamin Lester Benjamin DETAILS SPRING FALL Smile and soak in the warm brine air of Mexico's northern Age and Length: 17 & Over • Average age: 20 • Duration: 78 days coasts. Baja California Sur Tuition: $11,830 (spring); $11,975 (fall) Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 6 hours Facing page: ¡Ay carambaaaa! Cultural interactions Skills Practicum, 2 hours Risk Management abound on international NOLS semesters. Estuche Dates: page 107

70 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] MEXICO Benjamin Lester Benjamin

71 PATAGONIA Kyle Hammons

72 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] Patagonia is a remote wilderness of isolated mountain valleys, ragged icy peaks, turbulent rivers, and island archipela- PATAGONIA gos. This is a land that demands exploration, and you will experience firsthand its dramatic landscape. In the Aisen Region of Chile, our main base is a working farm of several hundred acres near the city of Coyhaique. We do all of the planning and logistics to make your expedition into the wilderness an educational experience that lasts a lifetime. NOLS is an important contributor to the outdoor community in this region as well, offering specialized courses for Chilean educators and students, teaching No Deje Rastro (Leave No Trace), outdoor skills, and leadership. The hall- marks of a NOLS Patagonia course are remoteness, fickle weather, and exploration. Patagonia has mountains that have never been climbed and valleys populated by pobladores (subsistence ranchers). The conditions in this part of the world are extreme, but they are perfect for fine-tuning your outdoor skills and leadership traits. Dane Sherstad Dane Rich Brame Rich

Teamwork is central to success in the Patagonian mountains. Northern Patagonian Ice Field Master the cast and then go after those Patagonian browns. Rio Baker

PATAGONIA MOUNTAINEERING PATAGONIA BACKPACKING AND FLY-FISHING The Patagonian Andes are the site of your mountaineering expedi- For a backcountry expedition that combines scenic hiking and tion. Among the peaks, expansive rivers, and thick coastal rain unique culture with excellent fly-fishing, come to NOLS Patago- forests, you’ll learn the techniques of alpine big-glacier mountain- nia. The fundamental travel and expedition skills that are the hall- eering and camping in challenging weather. You’ll develop all the mark of a NOLS experience are coupled with a tailored fly-fishing skills necessary to carry out remote expeditions and explore rugged progression based on students’ individual knowledge and experi- and little-traveled mountain terrain. Teamwork, motivation, lead- ence. Whether you are picking up a fly rod for the first time or have ership, and communication are critical components of the course, been fishing for years, you will the find wild brown and rainbow as are meticulous glacier travel, hazard evaluation, and technical trout in our pristine lakes and streams an experience to remember. ropework. This course will offer you the challenges of unknown NOLS provides a rural-remote, self-sufficient, educational expedi- terrain and fierce Andean weather, preparing you for travel in any tion in an area renown for its culture and beauty. mountain area in the world. DETAILS DETAILS Age and Length: 23 & Over • Average Age: 33 • Duration: 14 days Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 23 • Duration: 34 days Tuition: $3,470 Tuition: $6,155 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Skills Practicum Optional College Credit: 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 2 hours Skills Practicum, 2 Dates: page 107 hours Risk Management Dates: page 107

Facing page: Put traditional education on ice when you learn in this classroom. Glacier Soler

73 SEMESTER IN Patagonia

DEEMED ONE OF THE MOST CHALLENGING

NOLS courses, the Semester in Patagonia has strong leadership outcomes on account of adapt- ing to and operating in harsh weather. Teamwork, communication, and problem solving are critical to the success of this expedition. You begin your semester in Coyhaique, Chile, for five days of wilderness first aid training and expedition preparation before stepping into the backcountry for 75 days. Once on this unique continuous expedition, your transition between sections includes swap- Kyle Hammons Pod up! Work together to navigate to the next take-out. Canal Martinez ping gear in the field with another Patagonia semester group on an opposite route. WILDERNESS FIRST AID (WFA) Before embarking into the field, you and your course- You’ll hike and camp in Patagonia’s valleys mates will receive a 20-hour WFA training taught by staff of the Wilderness Medicine Institute of NOLS. Fast paced and hands-on, this three-day course covers a wide range of and mountains and sea kayak in breathtaking wilderness medicine topics for people who travel and work in the outdoors. archipelagos, stopping to visit with locals along MOUNTAIN TRAVEL You’ll move up remote mountain valleys, plan daily routes, and choose campsites. Early in the course, your instructors will lead you, helping you to read the way. The grand finale of this remote adven- maps, find routes, and judge and evaluate hazards. They will then step back incrementally ture is the extended student expedition, when you until you find yourself in charge. Some days you’ll be named “leader of the day” and be responsible for a small group of your fellow coursemates. Depending on the weather and and a small group of your peers earn the privilege how your entire group is progressing, you may have a chance to cross glaciers and work on such skills as tying knots, handling ropes, and ice climbing. of planning and traveling a route on your own. SEA KAYAKING Most of Chile is off the beaten path for world travelers, and the island chains of the southern part of the country are no exception. You’ll learn about the dynamic environment of the region, strong currents, tidal fluctuations, and fickle weather. Instruction will include paddling techniques, rescue skills, route planning, and coastal weather patterns. You’ll also study the natural history of the area while you continue to hone your leadership and communication skills.

STUDENT EXPEDITION After you’ve successfully completed the previous three sections, you’ll move into the student expedition. Typically, groups of four to six students travel without immediate instructor supervision for a 7- to 10-day hike through the wilds of Patagonia. Before setting out, and under the supervision of your instructors, your group will craft a travel plan, work out a proposed route, and get ready to use and reﬁne what you’ve learned over the past months. Betsy Winston Betsy DETAILS SPRING FALL A shared cup of maté warms the soul and always brings Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 21 • Duration: 80 days out smiles. A campo near Rio Baker Tuition: $14,670 (spring); $14,900 (fall) Facing page: Cramponing on dry glacier is just one Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 4 hours of many skills you'll learn on your Patagonia semester. Skills Practicum, 4 hours Risk Management Glacier Soler Dates: page 107

74 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] PATAGONIA Betsy Winston Betsy

75 YEAR IN Patagonia

THIS IS IT—THE LONGEST COURSE TYPE at NOLS. This extended expedition packs in outdoor skills, wilderness certifications, and international culture to create an unparalleled adventure. From mountain travel on remote peaks to sea kayaking along Patagonia’s ar- Betsy Winston Betsy chipelagos and rock climbing at the foot of the When in Chile....have a traditional feast! Students enjoy an asado with a local rancher. Valley of Rio Canal Andes, the components of this course form a comprehensive backcountry immersion. BACKPACKING In order to have a successful year, it is essential to build a foundation of both technical and interpersonal skills. This first section of the year gives you a chance to focus on With a strong focus on Spanish language getting the basics down so you can expand to more advanced skills in the following months. and cultural interaction, the Patagonia Year SERVICE PROJECT You will participate in a backcountry service project that will posi- allows you to spend one section living and tively contribute to the care of the land. This project will focus on land stewardship and will range from two to four days in length. working with local poblador families. Along WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER (WFR) As part of your comprehensive wilderness with developing an appreciation of Patagonian education, the Year in Patagonia includes an 80-hour WFR course taught by staff of the culture, you’ll also see more of this region’s re- Wilderness Medicine Institute of NOLS. mote and breathtaking scenery than most visi- MOUNTAINEERING The large glaciers and rarely climbed peaks of the Patagonian Andes will be your classroom for this section. Alpine mountaineering techniques and how to live tors. Also, the course offers certifications for and camp in a harsh-weather Andean environment are parts of the curriculum. students interested in outdoor careers around SEA KAYAKING The fjords of southern Chile offer breathtaking scenery and changing weather. Your expedition into this region will include lessons in navigation, paddling tech- the world, including Leave No Trace Master niques, rescue skills, planning routes, and Patagonia’s natural history. certification and Wilderness First Responder. CULTURE During this section you’ll live on mountain campos with poblador families, helping them with the daily chores of subsistence living. This is your chance to further develop your language skills while fully experiencing the extraordinary Patagonian culture.

ROCK CLIMBING You’ll set up a base camp for your rock climbing experience at the foot of the Andes. It begins with a foundation of skills such as climbing techniques, knot craft, belaying, rappelling, and bouldering. As you progress we will focus on more advanced topics such as anchor construction, belay escapes, and gear selection. If you are ready, and weather permits, there will be opportunities for multi-pitch and lead climbing.

STUDENT EXPEDITION Typically, groups of four to six students travel without immediate instructor supervision for an 8- to 10-day hike through the wilds of Patagonia. Your group will craft a travel plan and work out a proposed route in order to practice what you’ve learned over the past months. Betsy Winston Betsy

Hazard assessment is an important skill on technical ter- DETAILS ACADEMIC YEAR rain and back in town. Cerro Largo Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 21 • Duration: 135 days; 67 days (fall), 68 days (spring) Tuition: $26,250 Facing page: Explore stunning Chilean peaks and pris- Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 4 hours Leadership Techniques, 6 hours tine mountain lakes. Lago General Carrera Skills Practicum, 4 hours Risk Management, 2 hours Expedition Planning, 2 hours Outdoor Educator, 3 hours WFR Dates: page 107

76 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] PATAGONIA Kika Bradford

77 AMAZON Dalio Zippin Neto Zippin Dalio

78 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] AMAZON Adventure and challenge in the wildest place on earth. NOLS Amazon demands commitment and hard work. Based in the state of Mato Grosso in southcentral Brazil, we are located in a transition zone between the two largest biomes of the country, the dry forest and savannah of the southern uplands known as the cerrado and the moist lowland forests of the Amazon Basin. Our location puts us in a good position to access some of largest tributaries of the Amazon River, and these rivers provide ideal corridors for wilderness and wildlife exploration. Our courses offer opportunities for real expedition adventure, including remoteness from civilization and the challenges of self-care in the tropical forest. As well as its natural diversity, Brazil also has a diverse and fascinating human culture. The Amazon region is still frontier country. Its inhabitants have a fascinating way of life that we are privileged to sometimes share, and we are pleased to be collaborating with land management agencies in Brazil as a pioneer in outdoor education in this region. Come explore with us. Atila Rego-Monteiro Atila

Solid communication and trust in your coursemates help to successfully navigate the jungle’s river corridors. Rio Juruena

NEW AMAZON BASIN RIVER EXPEDITION This 40-day course offers a classic expedition experience on one of the large southern tributaries of the Amazon River. Beginning at our base in the dry upland forests where the river has its source, you will transition through a variety of tropical environments as you travel north to the equator and the rain forest. The journey is done in canoes and the river offers both a ﬂat-water and whitewater component. In addition to the core NOLS curriculum, natural history and technical canoe skills will receive special emphasis. Heat and humidity, insects, and the remoteness from modern infrastructures are some of the particular challenges of an expedition in the Amazon Basin, but we will teach you the basics of self-care that will enable you to survive and thrive in this environment. There are also excellent opportunities for interactions with the people who lead subsistence lifestyles on the banks of the river. Your whole visit to Brazil will be rich in cultural experience and diversity. Come see the Amazon and have the adventure of a lifetime on a real expedition! DETAILS Age and Length: 18 & Over • Duration: 40 days Neto Zippin Dalio Tuition: $6,900 Land the canoes. It’s class time in the Amazon Basin. Rio Juruena Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 4 hours Skills Practicum Facing page: The Amazon is the perfect place for students to learn about forest ecol- Dates: page 107 ogy and environmental ethics. Sumauma, Rio Juruena National Park

79 SEMESTER IN THE Amazon

THIS SEMESTER IS AN EXPEDITION THROUGH the southern part of the Amazon Basin. You will experience the natural environment—the diverse forest types and their myriad insects, birds, and mammals—as well as the fascinating culture of some of the people who live there.

The Amazon region is an incredibly beautiful part of the world but a highly challenging place to travel through. For 80 days you’ll explore Dalio Zippin Neto Zippin Dalio a variety of environments that transition from A river ecology class is more meaningful, and cooler, when you’re actually in the river. Rio Juruena National Park dry upland forests known as the cerrado, to the WILDERNESS FIRST AID (WFA) The first few days of your course will be spent learn- lowland rain forest closer to the equator. You ing first aid at the NOLS Amazon base before leaving on your expedition. Being oriented to the various health concerns of the tropics and practicing good hygiene are will see the southern sources of the Amazon part of our basic curriculum. River in the highlands and also travel by ca- AMAZON RIVER TRAVEL The Juruena River in the state of Mato Grosso is our river of noe on some of the huge lowland clear-water choice and canoes are our mode of transportation. You’ll begin this section by practicing paddling and other travel skills on flat water for seven days before entering areas of tributaries. If you crave a remote, extended, and the river with more rapids. There are cultural experiences along the way with chances demanding tropical expedition that enables you to visit remote subsistence communities and meet people who make a living along the river. This is where you will experience the classic style of Amazon Basin river travel to visit part of the Amazon Basin, this unique as you hone your paddling skills and learn both tropical and river risk management while negotiating rapids one day and paddling long stretches of still water the next. NOLS program is the best option. BACKPACKING There are two hiking sections during which you will practice backpacking skills and land navigation: one in the Brazilian Highlands on the southern rim of the Amazon Basin and another in the lowland rain forest. Each of the areas offers different learning opportunities. On hiking sections, occasions for small group travel and independent student expeditions are possible.

CULTURE The Amazon Basin’s biodiversity is matched only by the cultural diversity of its inhabitants. Locals live off the land and use the rivers as their main avenue of transport. During your semester you will spend time with caboclos, seringueiros, and other inhabitants of the Amazon backcountry in their communities as you travel by foot, canoe, voadeira (a small dugout canoe with an outboard), and riverboat. Our options include staying with local families, contributing to community projects, and visiting isolated riverside communities.

FALL

Dalio Zippin Neto Zippin Dalio DETAILS Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 21 • Duration: 80 days Discover Amazon culture as you engage with locals in Tuition: $14,800 day-to-day tasks. Rio Madeira Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 4 hours Skills Practicum, 4 hours Risk Management Facing page: Experience the raw power of the Amazon Dates: page 107 watershed up close and personal. Serra Ricardo Franco

80 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] AMAZON Mario Friedlander Mario

81 INDIA Pascal Beauvais

82 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] INDIA Dev Bhoomi, called “The Abode of the Gods,” is a land steeped in culture, history, and mythology. It is the setting for some of NOLS’ most culturally oriented courses. You will explore the Kumaon and Garhwal regions of India—places of staggering beauty, high ranges, and ancient civilizations. The holy river Ganga (Ganges) is born in these mountains, and some of the trails here are the oldest trade routes between India and Tibet. Our base is in the mountain town of Ranikhet in the state of Uttarakhand, a peaceful rural haven with spectacular views of the Himalayas where you will acclimatize before heading for the high country. On our courses, there is at least one Indian NOLS ﬁeld instructor, and you’ll beneﬁt from this person’s extensive knowledge of the region and its human and natural history. You will get a complete introduction to the languages, myths, cultures, and wild beauty of this country. You’ll hike through subtropical forests and high alpine meadows, attaining heights you never thought possible—both in elevation and in what you are able to achieve as a NOLS student. Madhu Chikkaraju Madhu Chikkaraju Madhu

Class time. What will it be today—Hindi, leadership, meteorology, or ﬁrst aid? The With a history of famed ascents and unmatched beauty it is easy to see why India is a NOLS syllabus is packed. Ralam Valley popular NOLS location for learning mountaineering. Pindari Valley

HIMALAYA BACKPACKING HIMALAYA MOUNTAINEERING The Kumaon and Eastern Garhwal regions of the Indian Hima- The remote and spectacular Kumaon region in the state of Ut- laya are rugged glacially carved ranges world famous as destina- tarakhand is the setting for this high-altitude mountaineering tions for climbing and trekking. Long ago, these low-lying val- course. In these surroundings, you’ll learn how to carry out an leys provided traditional trade routes between India and Tibet. international expedition, focusing on topics such as expedition You’ll make your way up high mountain passes, some reaching planning, cultural awareness, high altitude physiology, and 15,000 feet above sea level, and travel through river valleys lush mountaineering skills. Beginning your trek into the moun- with foliage. You’ll visit teahouses and hike past ﬁelds that are tains at 5,500 feet, you’ll travel on trails through forests and still worked with water buffalo. You’ll accumulate backcountry small villages, interacting with the local people. Taking advan- skills and learn the core NOLS curriculum while experiencing tage of non-moving days to learn the technical skills necessary the land and culture on a staggering scale. All the while, your to move higher in an alpine environment, this course has the cultural studies and classes in conversational Hindi will aid in potential for camping as high as 18,000 feet. The breathtaking your interactions with local villagers. You’ll go beyond the nor- scenery, variety of terrain and travel, and tremendous opportu- mal parameters of tourist treks and see an India that few foreign- nities for cultural interactions are what make this a once-in-a- ers ever encounter, deep into the remote Himalayan wilderness. lifetime experience.

DETAILS DETAILS Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 23 • Duration: 35 days Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 24 • Duration: 40 days Tuition: $6,590 Tuition: $7,095 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Skills Practicum, 2 hours Skills Practicum 2 hours Risk Management, 2 hours Leadership Techniques Dates: page 107 Dates: page 107

Facing page: Explore the amazing Himalaya and indulge yourself in big wilderness on a NOLS India course. Milam Valley

83 SEMESTER IN India

TOUCH DOWN IN THE ANCIENT WORLD OF the Himalayas and prepare for a semester packed with unparalleled language and cultural opportunities in one of the most breathtaking backcountry classrooms in the world. The Hi- malayas, or “Abode of Snow,” swing in a wide arc across four countries and are home to both

Everest and K2. Your Semester in India begins Chikkaraju Madhu at NOLS Pacific Northwest in Conway, Wash- Discover India’s wilderness on foot, including remote villages and farms amidst the hills and high peaks. Kathi Village, Pindari Valley ington, to prepare rations and gear before flying to New Delhi. A bus ride through the plains of WILDERNESS ADVANCED FIRST AID (WAFA) While in Ranikhet, you’ll experience rural mountain life while you receive your WAFA certification through the Wilderness northern India to the mountain town of Ranikhet Medicine Institute of NOLS. This 40-hour course focuses on injury stabilization, treat- in Uttarakhand will deliver you to the NOLS ment, and evacuation guidelines of patients in backcountry environments. base, located in an idyllic setting at 6,500 feet WHITEWATER RAFTING This 12-day section is based in the area around Rishikesh, one of the holiest places for Hindus and home to many of their rituals and mythology. You in the foothills of the Himalaya. From here, you will begin rafting on the holy Ganges River as you hone paddling fundamentals. Once your skills advance and you begin to “read” the water, you’ll be ready for a few multiday will travel through the valleys of the Kumaon expeditions where you will learn to be paddle captain and row an oar raft. and Garhwal regions where the thick conifer CULTURE The village of Kalika, a tiny hamlet at 6,000 feet near the town of Ranikhet, and broad-leaf trees of the lower altitudes turn will be the hub for these ten days. Pairing up with a fellow coursemate, you will participate in a homestay to experience firsthand what it takes to live in remote, rural India. You will be to evergreens, rhododendron, and juniper for- engaged in domestic chores and eat meals with your host family. Group classes will include subjects such as landscapes, forest use and farming as a means of livelihood, and yoga. You ests in the high ridges and shrubs, grasses, and will travel to learn about local food products, economy, and alpine ecology, as well as to visit wildflowers in the alpine zone. Gandhi Ashram, a national monument to the Indian independence movement. MILAM VALLEY BACKPACKING The Milam (Johar) Valley was once the trade route between India and Tibet. You’ll travel in those traders’ footsteps over high altitude passes, through remote villages, and across lush river valleys and flower-strewn meadows, all with alpine glaciers in the distance. STUDENT EXPEDITION Your semester will culminate in India’s Pindari Valley with an opportunity for a student expedition, a chance to apply with a small group of your coursemates all the skills you have learned over the past months. Although groups will travel without the immediate supervision of your instructors, you will work closely with them to craft a travel plan, work out a proposed route, and plan for contingencies. In- dependent student group travel is typically 7 to 10 days in length and is a reward for working hard throughout your entire semester. TC Rammelkamp TC

Whitewater rafting and Hindu religion mesh on the holy DETAILS SPRING FALL river Ganges. Rishikesh Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 21 • Duration: 80 days Tuition: $14,950 (spring); $15,250 (fall) Facing page: Find time to reﬂect on your NOLS ex- Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 4 hours perience and how it will impact the rest of your life. Skills Practicum, 4 hours Risk Management Milam Valley Dates: page 107

84 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] INDIA

85 Madhu Chikkaraju Madhu AUSTRALIA Jen Klewitz Jen

86 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] AUSTRALIA It’s name alone—Australia —brings to mind unusual wildlife and wide-open space, ﬂora found nowhere else on Earth, friendly people, and different cultures. The Land Down Under is a wild continent of waterfalls and crocodiles, of adventure and exploration. Our headquarters is located in Broome, a community of less than 25,000 that was founded in the 1880s as a hub of the pearling industry. Since 1996 we’ve concentrated our explorations from Broome to northwestern Aus- tralia, in places like the Kimberley and the Pilbara that are characterized by dramatic landscapes and intense colors, vast plains, ancient mountains, huge tidal rivers, and breathtaking gorges. You’ll never tire of the unique beauty of either place but you will discover their remoteness, learning from your instructors and enjoying the opportunity to explore a landscape not known to many. We are also honored to be able to collaborate with local Aboriginal groups, from whom our students have fantastic opportunities to learn about different ways of life. NOLS Australia is an adventure and an experience. Leslie Palotas Leslie Jen Klewitz Jen

NOLS has been exploring the Australian outback by foot, canoe, and sea kayak for Hiking past a classic Australian billabong, a watering hole to native plants and animals more than 14 years. Dampier Archipelago endemic to the Land Down Under. The Kimberley

AUSTRALIA BACKPACKING AND SEA KAYAKING AUSTRALIA BACKPACKING Western Australia has it all: rugged plateaus, blue waters, and The rich cultural history, subtropical habitats, and ancient land white sandy beaches. You’ll begin your sea kayaking adventure formations of the Kimberley make this part of Western Australia in the waters surrounding the Dampier Archipelago, where ideal for a backpacking expedition. Among tight canyons, dry you’ll have plenty of opportunity for learning sea kayaking plateaus, and secluded waterfalls, you’ll be challenged by this skills, exploring the marine ecosystem, and discovering the land of extremes, where days can be hot and nights cool, and area’s rich human history, which includes the most proliﬁc Ab- explore areas very few people have ever seen. You’ll navigate original petroglyph site in the world. You’ll backpack either in through woodlands of gum trees and cane grass one moment and the Kimberley or Pilbara, both offering ideal terrain to explore hike to the top of an escarpment the next. You’ll see crocodiles, the Australian outback. The Kimberley has tight canyons, se- kangaroos, wallabies, geckos, and birds, including cockatoos, cluded waterfalls, and plateaus, while the Pilbara has escarp- kookaburras, and honeyeaters. You’ll also learn about the Ab- ments, deep basalt gorges, and cool oases. Western Australia is original culture by spending a couple of days with our Aboriginal home to a variety of exotic wildlife, it can be rugged, and it is guides, discovering their traditional and contemporary lifestyles. hot here, but the natural history and unique Australian setting Through informative classes and discussions, interaction with will give you an unparalleled NOLS education. our guides, and travel through local cattle stations, you’ll leave this course with a new understanding of the rich and diverse nat- DETAILS ural and cultural history of the Kimberley and Australia. Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 21 • Duration: 45 days Tuition: $7,340 DETAILS Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 20 • Duration: 35 days 4 hours Skills Practicum Tuition: $5,865 Dates: page 107 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 2 hours Skills Practicum Facing page: Learning map reading skills is crucial in the vast interior of the Austra- Dates: page 107 lian bush. Drysdale National Park

87 SEMESTER IN Australia

AUSTRALIAN SEMESTERS ARE EXPEDITIONS of discovery in a land of great contrasts. The spring semester consists of canoeing, backpacking and cultural sections. For 75 days, you’ll travel as a group through northwestern Australia’s Kim- berley region, a place so remote you’ll get there by four-wheel drive vehicle or light plane, and you won’t return to civilization until the semester ends. The 68-day summer semester includes

ﬁrst-aid, backpacking, sea kayaking, and cultural sections, where you’ll explore the Kimberley and Jen Klewitz Jen the Pilbara regions, learning how to be comfort- Spending a semester in Australia’s sun-soaked land is the perfect time to learn outdoor skills, environmental ethics, and leadership. King Leopold Range, The Kimberley able in both bush and marine environments.

You’ll see crocodiles, kangaroos, wallabies, BACKPACKING Your backpacking section will be in the Kimberley, in areas that offer everything from gorges and grasslands to billabongs (watering holes) and waterfalls. You’ll and kookaburras, as well as huge termite mounds. learn about the local cattle stations and how to backpack effectively in this hot, dry environment. You may also get the opportunity for a student expedition, hiking close by, yet Both semesters spend time on the coast, spotting independent of, your instructors. sea turtles, reef fish, coral and other marine ani- CULTURE For a week of your semester you’ll have an opportunity to explore the Bardi mals. The uniqueness of Australia’s natural sur- Aboriginal homelands, studying marine ecology and learning Bardi crafts and traditions like boomerang and spear making, or visit another local Aboriginal community, like Jarl- roundings makes this an ideal place for you to madangah, learning about their traditional and contemporary lifestyles. challenge yourself, learn, and have fun. CANOEING (spring only) During this five-week section, you’ll travel through the heart of the Kimberley, both by canoe and on foot. You’ll paddle and portage your boat and gear down the Drysdale River, one of the most remote rivers in the world, while you learn the intricacies of canoe travel and develop your leadership style. You’ll also take exploratory day hikes into the wilderness. SEA KAYAKING (summer only) You’ll begin your sea kayaking adventure in the waters surrounding the Dampier Archipelago, a group of 42 rocky islands offering scrubby euca- lyptus valleys and isolated coral reefs. Here you’ll have the opportunity to learn sea kayaking skills, explore the colorful marine ecosystem, and visit the most prolific Aboriginal petroglyph site in the world. WILDERNESS FIRST AID (WFA) (summer only) Hosted by the Wilderness Medicine Institute of NOLS, this 16-hour section covers first aid specific to wilderness emergencies and is essential for anyone spending extended time in the outdoors. Jen Klewitz Jen DETAILS SPRING SUMMER Learning Bardi crafts and culture is a highlight for NOLS Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 20 • Duration: 75 days (spring); 68 days (summer) Australia students. Sunday Island Tuition: $13,870 (spring); $11,500 (summer) Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 4 hours Facing page: Quiet stretches of river will give you time Skills Practicum, 4 hours Risk Management to appreciate the unique scenery of the region. Drysdale Dates and Sections: page 107 River, The Kimberley

88 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] AUSTRALIA Jen Klewitz Jen

89 NEW ZEALAND Fredrik Norrsell Fredrik

90 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] NEW ZEALAND NEW New Zealand is a land of contrasts. The South Island’s west coast drips with rain. Its forests are dense with tree ferns and towering podocarps, ancient remnants of conifer forests that existed when New Zealand was part of a gigantic continent called Gondwonaland. On the eastern side of the island, in the rain shadow of the Southern Alps, the hills are brown in late summer and backcountry travel is often across open slopes covered with tussocks of grass or through beech forests that smell like honey. Raw and young, this landscape is steep and rugged and its weather is capricious. You can go from hot sun in the morning, to cold winds, rain, and snow in the afternoon. We leave behind the tourist routes and plunge deep into the forests or climb high up into remote alpine areas. Some courses ﬂoat down its rivers or explore its coastlines, experiencing the country’s rich marine life—whales, dolphins, and seals—and its wide variety of endemic birds. New Zealand is a dramatic place that engages your senses, challenges you physically and mentally, and promises to give you the adventure of a lifetime. Alice Hill Alice

Maori culture, leadership classes, and mountaineering: The NOLS syllabus is packed with excitement. Maruia Valley

NEW NEW ZEALAND BACKPACKING New for 2011, New Zealand’s 30-day backpacking course takes you into the South Island’s rugged interior: a land of mountains, rivers, waterfalls, tundra, and forests. The routes here are demanding, but the rewards great. Most backcountry travelers in New Zealand stick to the main tramping paths; we leave them behind. So you’ll see few people as you explore the island’s tangled forests and cruise its rocky “tops” (mountaintops). The length of this course allows you time to delve into New Zea- land’s unique natural history. You’ll encounter plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth: Strange trees that look like they’re straight out of Dr. Seuss’ imagination and large mountain parrots that live high in the alpine zones. You can expect challenging travel. The mountains are precipitous, and the rivers are prone to sudden rises after a rain. You can also expect to learn the skills required to travel safely and comfortably in this environment—skills that will serve you later in life wherever you may go.

DETAILS

Age and Length: 18 & Over • Duration: 30 days Norrsell Fredrik Tuition: $6,025 (includes 15% New Zealand Goods and Services Tax) Become a leader and decide your route to the top! Big Hill Range Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 2 hours Skills Practicum Facing page: Get your bearings at NOLS. A NOLS experience is the perfect time out. Dates: page 107 Tennyson Inlet, Marlborough Sounds

91 SEMESTER IN New Zealand

JOIN US FOR AN EXCITING EDUCATIONAL opportunity in a remarkable country. New Zea- land’s South Island is a varied region of alpine grasslands, snowﬁelds, rain forests, rugged mountains, spectacular gorges, and broad valleys with unique birds and plants found nowhere else in the world, such as the only mountain parrot, the Kea. For 77 days, you’ll learn about the region’s natural history and culture as you travel through the island’s forests, which contain remnants of Gondwanaland, RileyRoo Instructor Dave Pigott points out river features. Clarence River a prehistoric continent. Along the way, you’ll spend some time with the local Maori who will BACKPACKING A common element to all New Zealand semesters, tramping (Kiwi for backpacking) is where you will learn all the basics of backcountry travel. New teach you about their culture and connection to Zealand is known for its spectacular landscape, and during your semester you will the land. Then, whether you choose to canoe, explore all it has to offer. Be ready for steep terrain and variable weather. Students ﬁnd this a physically demanding section but also the one with the greatest learning sea kayak, or sail, you’ll practice technical skills opportunities. along New Zealand’s coastlines or rivers. And CANOEING (optional dates) For three weeks, you’ll follow the South Island rivers like no matter where this semester takes you, you’ll the Clarence (Wai-au-toa), Hurunui, or Waiau. You’ll learn the essentials of canoe expeditioning as you paddle through some of New Zealand’s most classic hill country. experience the varied and unpredictable weather SEA KAYAKING (optional dates) Set in the waters of the Marlborough Sounds, this of the “Roaring Forties”—an apt nickname for section will begin with basic maneuvering and move to additional classes on paddling the area between latitudes 40° and 50° south techniques. You’ll also have classes on navigation, tides and currents, marine weather and communications, and other aspects of seamanship. known for strong and prevailing winds. MOUNTAINEERING SKILLS (fall only) Up to three weeks long, this section provides a solid foundation of mountaineering skills that build on the skills you learn backpacking. You will travel in the challenging and dramatic alpine environments of one of several areas: Arthur’s Pass National Park, the Arrowsmith Range, Ahuriri/Ruataniwha Conservation Park, or Nelson Lakes National Park.

SAILING (spring only) This 10-day section takes place in the Cook Strait and Mar- lborough Sounds regions. You will cook and live aboard two sailing yachts, rotating crew positions and learning the fundamentals of basic coastal cruising.

SPRING FALL Tom Attwater Tom DETAILS Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average Age: 21 • Duration: 77 days Your home for 10 days of coastal sailing. Queen Char- Tuition: $16,100 (spring, includes New Zealand’s 12.5% Goods and Services Tax); $16,675 (fall, includes New Zealand’s lotte Sound, South Island 15% Goods and Services Tax) Facing page: There’s a reason New Zealand’s lati- Optional College Credit: 4 hours Biology, 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, 6 hours tude is called the “Roaring Forties.” Ashburton Glacier, Skills Practicum, 2 hours Risk Management Arrowsmith Range Dates and Sections: page 107

92 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] NEW ZEALAND NEW Fredrik Norrsell Fredrik

93 SCANDINAVIA Caitlin Buttor-Feoderl Caitlin

94 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] SCANDINAVIA With remote Arctic coastlines and lush tundra, Scandinavia beckons. Your NOLS expedition along the Arctic Circle will take you around rugged islands, in and out of fjords, and along coastal brim, the lowland area stretching from the ocean to the steep glaciated peaks of the Scandinavian Mountains. Lying along the same latitudes as Siberia, Greenland, and Alaska, Arctic Scandinavia will provide long summer days of midnight sun as you learn technical sea kayaking or backpacking skills needed for an expedition anywhere in the world. From the coast to the limestone caves to forested valleys and high peaks, this unique backcountry classroom provides ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the core NOLS curriculum. And as one of the newest NOLS operating locations, Scandinavia will provide a sense of adventure and expedition that is very much exploratory. You may go where no NOLS student has gone before. Whether in your boat or on your feet, you’ll master leadership and outdoor living skills while immersing yourself in the culture and wilderness of Scandinavia.

SCANDINAVIA SEA KAYAKING The Norwegian coastline is unlike any place else in the world. Its proximity to the Arctic Circle provides long daylight hours to witness abundant sea life and breathtaking views. From cod to herring to halibut, fishing opportunities abound. You will travel by sea kayak in and out of fjords, past small fishing villages, around rugged islands, and next to land punctuated by steep, glaciated mountains. As you explore the beautiful coast, you’ll learn to read nautical charts, hone your paddling skills, and navigate different wind and tidal conditions, all while having fun and refining your leadership skills.

DETAILS Age and Length: 18 & Over • Duration: 22 days

Lena Conlan Lena Tuition: $4,400 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, Kayak the rugged coastlines of this unique territory while learning what it means to 2 hours Skills Practicum have good expedition behavior. Salten Coast, Norway Dates: page 108

SCANDINAVIA BACKPACKING AND SEA KAYAKING SCANDINAVIA BACKPACKING The Kingdom of Norway is the westernmost country of the If you have always dreamed of hiking near the Arctic Circle, Scandinavian Peninsula in Europe. Sea kayaking its impres- this exploratory backpacking course will take you north into sive coastline offers a mix of remote paddling without any hu- those remote regions of Norway and Sweden. You may go where man encounters and days where you can purchase fresh food no NOLS student has gone before. With the expert guidance of in the small ﬁshing communities that dot the rugged shores. your instructors, you’ll learn to travel and camp in areas such The Norwegian Sea has a rich marine life, abundant with cod, as Tromsø, Finnmark, or Lyngen. With roots reaching back to herring, and halibut, and is home to the largest deepwater coral the indigenous Sami traditions as well as the migrations of the reef in the world. Your trekking section will start in Norway at Vikings during the late 800s, Scandinavia is a unique place rich fjord level and move to higher elevations that are remarkably in culture, history, and wilderness. Here you will dive into the unspoiled. A mix of rolling hills and snow-covered peaks punc- NOLS core curriculum—honing your leadership skills, back- tuated by glaciers, this area has been home to the indigenous country navigation savvy, and Leave No Trace ethics. Students Sami peoples for over two thousand years. Whichever skill you 18 and older can opt for a 30-day expedition. We also offer tackle ﬁrst, you’ll walk away with a comprehensive understand- a shorter, though no less intense or beautiful, 14-day trek for ing of the land, water, and culture of Scandinavia. students 23 and older.

DETAILS DETAILS Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 22 • Duration: 30 days Age and Length: 18 & Over • Duration: 30 days Tuition: $6,185 23 & Over • Duration: 14 days Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, Tuition: $5,240 (18 & Over); $3,495 (23 & Over) 2 hours Skills Practicum Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques, Dates: page 108 2 hours Skills Practicum (18 & Over); 2 hours Skills Practicum (23 & Over) Dates: page 108 Facing page: No, it’s not a dream. Explore all this desolate and rugged landscape has to offer. Above Sorfjorden, Norway

95 CUSTOM COURSES & CONSULTING by NOLS Professional Training Ignacio Grez Ignacio

96 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] NOLS PROFESSIONAL TRAINING PROFESSIONAL NOLS NOLS Professional Training offers innovative, customized NOLS courses for businesses and organizations, focusing on any aspect of the NOLS core curricula—leadership, technical skills, risk management, or environmental studies. Our program coordinators help you select course dates and an optimum group size to meet your desired outcomes. Then, we build a curriculum and progression around concrete learning objectives. To meet these objectives, our many operating locations offer unique opportunities to utilize various technical outdoor skills, from backpacking to mountaineering to sea kayaking and sailing. Additionally, NOLS consultants can train administrators in program risk management, review programs, and train your staff. We can bring our expert educators to you or you can join us in one of our wilderness classrooms around the world.

Find client outcomes stories at www.nols.edu/nolspro/clients.shtml. Brian Fabel Brian Dave Anderson Dave

Working together in a high-performing team is one expected outcome of NOLS Profes- Invest in your people. Invest in their leadership. The payoff is a highly functioning sional Training wilderness expeditions. Sinks Canyon, Wyoming team that spends more time driving your mission. Lander, Wyoming

CUSTOM WILDERNESS EXPEDITIONS LEADERSHIP NAVIGATION CHALLENGE NOLS Professional Training teaches leadership on multiday The Leadership Navigation Challenge (LNC) is a focused team wilderness expeditions. Unlike many guided travel adventure leadership development program. The training delivers core as- programs, our expeditions focus on learning and practicing pects of the NOLS leadership curriculum customized to your work your own travel and camping skills and environmental stud- context and needs in a facilitated environment. The culminating ies as part of leadership training. These expeditions include activity of the LNC requires participants to practice their skills our most complete leadership curriculum, using the same and actively engage in an outdoor GPS orienteering mission that model with which we train NASA astronauts and shuttle requires in-the-moment decision-making, collaboration, analyti- crews. Participants rotate serving as designated leaders each cal thinking, and strategic planning. This hands-on condensed day, while others learn active followership to help make an expedition mimics challenges that teams face anywhere: making optimal team. Time is prioritized for individual and group expedient decisions, balancing task achievement with group devel- reflection about effective situational leadership. The NOLS opment, blending distinct individuals to form a cohesive team, and curriculum provides a shared language and real-time experi- working through unforeseen hurdles. Through group coaching ence for examining personal leadership skills and improving that includes shadowing and debriefing, our clients see increased team performance. Research shows the skills most valued by functionality in their teams and return to their organizations more NOLS participants after their courses are as applicable in the resilient, productive, and efficient. The LNC is highly portable boardroom as they are in the backcountry. and can be delivered in a classroom and green space near you. Your team is removed from the distractions of the daily routine in order DETAILS Duration: 7–30 days to focus and examine critical work issues, processes, and patterns. Dates, locations, and tuition vary by client. Contact our program coordinators to design your custom course today: [email protected] or 1-800-710-NOLS, ext. 3. DETAILS Curriculum: see pages 6–7 Duration: 1–3 days Dates, locations, and tuition vary by client. Contact [email protected] or call us at Facing page: NOLS Professional Training custom courses focus on helping your 1-800-710-NOLS, ext. 3. team reach its potential. Wind River Range, Wyoming Curriculum: see page 7

97 IFIF IT WEREN’T FOR THE NOLS TRAINING, WE WOULD HAVE Read more about how NOLS training helped Bering’s save $400,000 at www.nols.edu/nolspro/ BEEN HIT REALLY HARD BY THE ECONOMIC DOWNTURN.N. custom_courses/berings_store.shtml. “ Augie C. Bering V, Executive Vice President, Bering’s Retail Store ” RISK MANAGEMENT SERVICES Brian Fabel Brian TC Rammelkamp TC

Whether you are working to build a thorough risk management plan or test established NOLS is a cosponsor and the convener of the Wilderness Risk Management Conference strategies, our four specialized services empower you to manage risks within the con- (WRMC), the foremost annual gathering of risk management professionals and outdoor text of your time, budget, and organizational priorities. Green River, Utah edcuators in the nation. Jackson Hole, Wyoming, 2008 WRMC

RISK MANAGEMENT TRAINING RISK MANAGEMENT CONSULTING Improve your curriculum, administrative processes, staff hiring, We’ll provide a professional assessment of your risk management fi eld support services, and crisis planning in this open-enrollment strengths and defi ciencies and identify specifi c opportunities for seminar offered at predetermined locations. Our main objective is improvement in your risk management strategies with a targeted to help you build or improve on your comprehensive risk manage- list of recommendations. ment plan. DETAILS DETAILS Duration: 3–10 days • Stage of Client Program: Building or Established Duration: 2 days (16 hours) • Stage of Client Program: Building Tuition: Varies (see website) Tuition: $565 Dates and locations are client dependent. Contact us at [email protected] Dates and locations: page 108 WILDERNESS RISK MANAGEMENT CUSTOMIZED STAFF TRAINING CONFERENCE (WRMC) Enhance staff performance through this customized training. We Connect and learn with other risk managers while sharing risk will help you identify and refi ne staff training priorities using case management practices. This annual three-day event provides prac- studies and protocols from your organization. tical solutions for challenging risk management issues.

DETAILS DETAILS Duration: 2–3 days • Stage of Client Program: Established Duration: 3 days Tuition: Varies (see website) Conference Registration Costs: Varies (see website) Dates and locations are client dependent. Contact us at [email protected] Dates and locations: page 108

98 www.nols.edu/nolspro • (800) 710-NOLS ext. 3 • [email protected] NOLS PROFESSIONAL TRAINING PROFESSIONAL NOLS Craig Muderlak Craig Jaret Slipp Jaret Betsy Winston Betsy Abe Goodale Abe

NOLS Professional Training builds strong relationships and delivers successful courses to a diverse group of clients. Clockwise from top left: Salmon River, Idaho; Hidden Valley, Patagonia; Sinks Canyon, Wyoming; NOLS Mexico

SOME WHO HAVE CHOSEN NOLS PROFESSIONAL TRAINING:

Secondary Schools Government Fort Washakie Charter High School Interagency Wildland Fireﬁ ghters Fremont County School District 1, Wyoming NASA Lawrenceville Academy Uganda Wildlife Authority Rangers Sun Valley Community School UNESCO

Universities and Colleges Corporate Harvard Medical School Google Kellogg School of Management (Northwestern University) Merrill Lynch (Wharton Executive Education) United States Naval Academy Mountain Equipment Cooperative Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania) Wyoming Catholic College AFTERAAFF WORKING IN THE OUTDOOR INDUSTRY FOR 15 YEARS, Scholars and Fraternities Beta Theta Pi (leadership fraternity) I AM AMAZED TO BE ABLE TO RETURN TO NOLS AND STILL HAVE Robertson Scholars Program SO MUCH TO LEARN. THE DEPTH AND INSIGHT OF YOUR RISK Levine Scholars Program “MANAGEMENT TRAINING AND THE THOROUGH INQUIRY INTO Camps and Youth Organizations CONCEPTS AND PRINCIPLES LEFT ME HUMBLED, INSPIRED, Boy Scouts of America AND WELL-PREPARED TO MOVE AHEAD WITH MY CLIENTS.TSTS.. National Military Family Association’s Operation Purple® Camp North Country Camps Steve Smith, Owner and Consultant, Experiential Consulting, LLC Student Expedition Program (STEP) Hear other professionals talk about NOLS at www.nols.tv”

99 WILDERNESS MEDICINE INSTITUTE Bradly J. Boner J. Bradly

100 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] WILDERNESS MEDICIINE INSTITUTE WILDERNESS When 911 is not an option, the rules change—plain and simple. For two decades and with over 100,000 graduates, the Wilderness Medicine Institute of NOLS (WMI) has defi ned the standards in wilderness medicine training. Our mission is to provide the highest quality education and information for the recognition, treatment, and prevention of wilderness emergencies. WMI empowers people to act with confi dence in emergency situations by providing students with the tools and training to respond to and evaluate potentially complex medical situations in remote environments. Our curriculum is evidence-based, relevant, and practical and our faculty are seasoned and professional. We seek out the best medical science to support our practices and work closely with a medical advisory panel to ensure our students are receiving the most up-to-date material available. We don’t just teach lessons that work in the classroom; we teach skills that work in the outdoors and offer a wide range of course and certifi cation opportunities tailored to meet your needs.

TRAINING FOR OUTDOOR PROFESSIONALS

WILDERNESS FIRST AID WILDERNESS EMT Fast paced and hands-on, this two- or three-day course covers a The Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician (WEMT) is wide range of wilderness medicine topics for people who travel and the highest level of wilderness medicine training available. This work in the outdoors. monthlong intensive program combines wilderness medicine with urban medical care practices, including time at a hospital and in DETAILS an ambulance. After four weeks of classroom education, practical Age: 16 & Over • Duration: 16-24 hours • Tuition: Varies (see website) Dates and locations: www.nols.edu/wmi/courses/schedule.shtml skills, scenarios, and full-scale mock rescues, you will be ready to handle medical emergencies in the wilderness or right in town. Successful completion of the course and both written and practi- WILDERNESS ADVANCED FIRST AID cal examinations will certify the student as a National Registry of A more extensive training program than the Wilderness First Aid EMT’s Basic EMT and as a Wilderness EMT. course, this ﬁ ve-day course focuses on stabilization, treatment, and DETAILS evacuation guidelines of patients in backcountry environments. Age: 18 & Over • Duration: 180 hours • Tuition: $3,290 More emphasis is placed on long-term patient care management Eligibility: Current healthcare provider-level CPR (most commonly called CPR for and speciﬁ c injury evaluation. the Professional Rescuer or BLS Healthcare Provider CPR) and a TB test completed within one year of the last day of the course. DETAILS Optional Credit: 9 semester hours of college credit Dates: page 108 Age: 16 & Over • Duration: 40 hours • Tuition: Varies (see website) Optional Credit: 32 hours of CEUs available for EMTs. Dates and locations: www.nols.edu/wmi/courses/schedule.shtml

WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER I SPECIFICALLY CHOSE TO TAKE MY Essential for a professional career in the outdoors, the Wilderness First Responder (WFR) will increase your medical conﬁ dence, WILDERNESS EMT THROUGH WMI OF skills, and knowledge. This 80-hour course includes a comprehen- NOLS BECAUSE OF THE HIGH QUALITY sive wilderness medicine curriculum that focuses on extended care “ and unique wilderness therapies. OF EDUCATION I RECEIVED DURING MY

DETAILS WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER WITH THEM. Age: 16 & Over • Duration: 80 hours • Tuition: Varies (see website) Optional Credit: 3 semester hours of college credit; 70 hours of CEUs available for I FIRMLY BELIEVE MY WMI EDUCATION HAS EMTs; Approved for up to 59.5 hours of credit towards a FAWM. Dates and locations: www.nols.edu/wmi/courses/schedule.shtml HELPED IN MY PROFESSION AND WITH MY CONFIDENCE IN THE MEDICAL FIELD. I WILL BE A LIFELONG ADVOCATE OF NOLS.

Molly K. Caldwell, Wildfi re Crew, National Park Service Facing page: Realistic fi eld senarios are a part of WMI’s WEMT course, and the hard work pays off. WMI graduates have a 92% fi rst-time pass rate on the National Registry Basic EMT exam compared to a 68% national average. Wind River Range, Wyoming ”

101 AFTERAAFF MY WMI COURSE, I HAVE GAINED CONFIDENCE IN TRANSFERRING MY KNOWLEDGE AS A DOCTOR IN A LARGE HOSPITAL TO THE WILDERNESS SETTING. I AM INCREDIBLY IMPRESSED BY YOUR TEACHING ABILITIES... “CONVEYING INFORMATION IN AN EASY, CONCRETE, USEFUL, AND FUN WAY. YOUR CLASSES WERE TOP-NOTCH.H. Sara Selander, 2009 ” EDUCATION FOR MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS

WILDERNESS MEDICINE FOR THE PROFESSIONAL PRACTITIONER Managing a patient in a wilderness, remote, or disaster setting requires you to adapt your existing medical knowledge into a new context. This two-day course focuses on the critical wilderness medicine skills needed to take care of a patient in an extended care environment. These skills include orthopaedic injury management and improvised splinting, focused spine assessment, improvised litter construction, environmental emergency management, and leadership and communication skills. We will provide you with the latest information on decision-making principles that guide wilderness treatment and evacuation decisions and allow you to apply your new knowledge through practical scenarios and case studies.

DETAILS Age: 18 & Over • Duration: 16 hours • Tuition: Varies (see website) Eligibility: Current status as an EMT, physician, or nurse Optional Credit: 16 hours of CEUs available for EMTs; 16 hours of Category 1 CMEs available for physicians; Approved for up to 16 hours of credit towards a FAWM. Dates and locations: www.nols.edu/wmi/courses/schedule.shtml John Hovey John

Medicine in the Wild students gain familiarity with a portable ultrasound during their elective in the Gila Wilderness, New Mexico.

WILDERNESS UPGRADE FOR MEDICINE IN THE WILD MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS MEDICAL STUDENT ELECTIVE Building on your background in urban emergency care you will WMI and the Harvard Affi liated Emergency Medicine Residency learn how to improvise equipment, deal with challenging environ- (HAEMR) partner to offer the ultimate combination of wilderness mental conditions, and make diffi cult medical decisions in remote medicine, leadership, and medical education in a remote environ- locations. This intense, hands-on curriculum utilizes daily role- ment. This is the ideal course for third- or fourth-year medical plays, case studies, and practical scenarios. It covers a wide breadth students looking for a uniquely challenging opportunity to practice of wilderness medicine topics, current controversies, and an ex- medical decision-making in a backcountry setting. This is an un- tended night rescue. paralleled opportunity to gain profi ciency in wilderness medicine, leadership, wilderness travel and living skills, and medical education DETAILS techniques. No other medical school elective offers this breadth of Age: 18 & Over • Duration: 48 hours • Tuition: Varies (see website) curriculum or a true extended wilderness expedition. Eligibility: Current status as an EMT, physician, or nurse Optional Credit: 4 semester hours of college credit; 48 hours of CEUs available for DETAILS EMTs; 36 hours of Category 1 CMEs available for physicians; Approved for up to Age: 23 & Over • Duration: 26 days • Tuition: $4,450 35.75 hours of credit towards a FAWM. Eligibility: 3rd- and 4th-year medical students and residents Dates and locations: www.nols.edu/wmi/courses/schedule.shtml Optional Credit: Approved individually at student’s medical school Dates and locations: page 108

Custom Training WMI also offers customized wilderness medicine and medical educator trainings and presentations for medical professionals. We work with student interest groups, medical schools, residencies, and clinical training programs. Contact us to discuss your needs.

102 www.nols.edu/wmi • (800) 710-NOLS ext. 4 • [email protected] WILDERNESS MEDICIINE INSTITUTE WILDERNESS Alan Neilson Alan Lena Conlan Lena Pascal Beauvais Casey Kanode Casey

Wilderness medicine and a NOLS ﬁ eld course—the perfect combination. Clockwise from top left: Strait of Georgia, British Columbia; Titcomb Basin, Wind River Range, Wyoming; Main Salmon River, Idaho; Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden

WILDERNESS MEDICINE EXPEDITIONS CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS FOR MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS These expeditions offer an unparalleled opportunity for physicians, nurses and EMTs who want to learn practical, hands-on wilderness • Our courses are accredited through the Continuing Education Coordinating medicine and decision-making in a true wilderness environment. Board for Emergency Medical Services (CECBEMS) to provide continuing Whether your passion is backpacking, sailing, rafting or sea kayak- education for EMTs. ing, we have an expedition for you. Each expedition includes WMI’s • Category 1 CMEs are available for physicians and nurses. These activities signature Wilderness Medicine for the Professional Practitioner have been planned and implemented in accordance with the essential areas course. The expedition allows you to learn and practice the NOLS and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education outdoor skills curriculum while moving your team through the wil- (ACCME) through the joint sponsorship of the Wilderness Medical Society derness. Evenings are dedicated to exploring the NOLS leadership and WMI. curriculum and its application to medical practice. Our Wilderness • For active members of the Wilderness Medical Society, these courses have Medicine Expeditions are truly unique and showcase the best of what been approved for designated hours towards a Fellowship of the Academy NOLS has to offer. of Wilderness Medicine (FAWM).

DETAILS Age: 23 & Over • Duration: 7-9 days • Tuition: Varies (see website) Eligibility: Current status as an EMT, physician, or nurse Optional Credit: 16 hours of CEUs available for EMTs; 16 hours of Category 1 CMEs available for physicians; Approved for up to 28 hours of credit towards a FAWM. Dates and locations: page 108

Visit WMI of NOLS online at www.nols.edu/wmi for more course information, eligibility, and dates.

103 This could be your job.

If you love the outdoors and have great communication skills, instructing for NOLS may be your opportunity of a lifetime. Launch your NOLS instructor career with: • NOLS Instructor Course (IC), a month-long course for aspiring NOLS instructors. You’ll get the tools to teach the next generation of NOLS students—in-depth instruction on teaching the NOLS curriculum and training about NOLS protocols. • Professional Instructor Course (PIC), a 16-day course for very experienced practicing outdoor educators. We’ll recognize your accomplishments and put you on the fast-track to working for NOLS. • Wilderness Medicine Instructor Training Course (ITC), You’ll become a part of a highly qualiﬁ ed team of WMI instructors who are leaders in the ﬁ eld of wilderness medicine education. Year-round work, instructor seminars to continue your growth, and NOLS support for personal expeditions are all part of the package. Work and travel the world with NOLS! For more information, check out: www.nols.edu/alumni/employment Fredrik Norrsell Fredrik The most up-to-date course date and tuition information can be found on COURSE DATES AND TUITIONS the web at www.nols.edu.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS HORSEPACKING PAGE 25 FALL 16 & Over Tuition: $11,775; $12,525 w/WFR • Equipment WIND RIVER WILDERNESS PAGE 21 Tuition: $4,930 • Equipment Deposit: $300 Deposit: $700 16 & Over Optional College Credit: 4 hours Optional College Credit: 16 hours; 19 hours w/WFR Tuition: $4,035 • Equipment Deposit: $350 June 1–21, 2011 July 7–27, 2011 Section 1 & 2 • Aug. 26–Nov. 22, 2011 Optional College Credit: 6 hours June 12–July 2, 2011 July 19–Aug. 8, 2011 WFR, Canoe, Backpacking, Climbing, Canyon May 30–June 28, 2011 June 30–July 29, 2011 June 25–July 15, 2011 Aug. 2–22, 2011 Section 3 • Sept. 2–Nov. 29, 2011 WFA, Backpacking, Climbing, River Travel, Canyon June 2–July 1, 2011 June 27–July 26, 2011 23 & Over Section 4 (Gap) • Sept. 2–Nov. 29, 2011 June 9–July 8, 2011 July 7–Aug. 5, 2011 Tuition: $3,330 • Equipment Deposit: $300 WFA, Backpacking, Climbing, River Travel, Canyon June 16–July 15, 2011 July 11–Aug. 9, 2011 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Section 5 • Sept. 5–Dec. 2, 2011 June 20–July 19, 2011 July 18–Aug. 16, 2011 Aug. 28–Sept. 10, 2011 June 23–July 22, 2011 July 21–Aug. 19, 2011 Backpacking, River Travel, WFA, Canyon, Winter (Ski) Section 6 • Sept. 5–Dec. 2, 2011 16 & 17 Only WIND RIVER MOUNTAINEERING PAGE 26 Backpacking, Climbing, WFA, Canyon, Winter (Ski) Tuition: $4,400 • Equipment Deposit: $350 Tuition: $4,290 • Equipment Deposit: $350 Section 7 • Sept. 9–Dec. 6, 2011 Optional College Credit: 6 hours Optional College Credit: 6 hours Mountaineering, River Travel, Canyon, Winter (Ski) June 9–July 8, 2011 June 30–July 29, 2011 June 6–July 5, 2011 June 20–July 19, 2011 Section 8 & 9 (Gap) • Sept. 12–Dec. 9, 2011 June 13–July 12, 2011 July 7–Aug. 5, 2011 June 13–July 12, 2011 WFA, Backpacking, Climbing, Canyon, Winter (Ski) June 20–July 19, 2011 July 11–Aug. 9, 2011 ROCK CLIMBING PAGE 26 June 23–July 22, 2011 July 14–Aug. 12, 2011 June 27–July 26, 2011 July 18–Aug. 16, 2011 21-day SEMESTER FOR OUTDOOR EDUCATORS PAGE 32 Tuition: $4,150 • Equipment Deposit: $250 23 & Over SPRING Optional College Credit: 4 hours Tuition: $3,310 • Equipment Deposit: $250 Tuition: $12,655 • Equipment Deposit: $700 Optional College Credit: 2 hours 16 & Over Optional College Credit: 19 hours July 17–30, 2011 Sept. 4–17, 2011 July 14–Aug. 3, 2011 July 28–Aug. 17, 2011 Feb. 10–May 9, 2011 July 31–Aug. 13, 2011 July 21–Aug. 10, 2011 WFR, Winter, Canyon, Canoe, Climbing, Leave No Trace Master’s 16 & 17 Only ABSAROKA BACKPACKING PAGE 22 July 14–Aug. 3, 2011 July 21–Aug. 10, 2011 FALL Tuition: $3,945 • Equipment Deposit: $350 Tuition: $12,905 • Equipment Deposit: $700 Optional College Credit: 6 hours 30-Day Optional College Credit: 19 hours May 30–June 28, 2011 July 11–Aug. 9, 2011 Tuition: $5,030 • Equipment Deposit: $350 Sept. 16–Dec. 13, 2011 June 6–July 5, 2011 July 21–Aug. 19, 2011 Optional College Credit: 6 hours Backpacking, WFR, Climbing, Canyon, Winter, June 27–July 26, 2011 July 7–Aug. 5, 2011 Leave No Trace Master’s ROCKY MTN. LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACKING PAGE 22 Tuition: $3,325 • Equipment Deposit: $150 ROCK AND RIVER PAGE 27 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Tuition: $5,520 • Equipment Deposit: $350 TETON VALLEY July 17–30, 2011 July 31–Aug. 13, 2011 Optional College Credit: 6 hours June 6–July 5, 2011 July 3–Aug. 1, 2011 SALMON BACKPACKING AND RAFTING PAGE 35 WYOMING BACKPACKING ADVENTURE FOR Tuition: $5,335 • Equipment Deposit: $250 Optional College Credit: 6 hours 14- & 15-YEAR-OLDS PAGE 23 WHITEWATER RIVER EXPEDITION PAGE 27 July 1–28, 2011 July 17–Aug. 13, 2011 Tuition: $4,925 • Equipment Deposit: $350 Tuition: $3,705 • Equipment Deposit: $225 June 9–July 8, 2011 June 27–July 26, 2011 Optional College Credit: 2 hours WINTER OUTDOOR EDUCATOR PAGE 36 June 16–July 15, 2011 July 14–Aug. 12, 2011 June 1–16, 2011 July 13–28, 2011 Tuition: $2,635 • Equipment Deposit: $250 June 23–July 22, 2011 June 30–July 15, 2011 Aug. 1–16, 2011 Optional College Credit: 4 hours Jan. 10–30, 2011 ROCKY MTN. OUTDOOR EDUCATOR PAGE 24 SEMESTER IN THE ROCKIES PAGE 28

Backpacking with Rock Climbing SPRING BACKCOUNTRY SNOWBOARDING PAGE 36 Tuition: $3,385 • Equipment Deposit: $350 Tuition: $11,510; $12,275 w/WFR • Equipment Tuition: $2,215 • Equipment Deposit: $250 Optional College Credit: 4 hours Deposit: $700 Optional College Credit: 2 hours June 6–28, 2011 Sept. 2–24, 2011 Optional College Credit: 16 hours Jan. 6–19, 2011 Feb. 14–27, 2011 July 14–Aug. 5, 2011 Section 1 & 2 • Feb. 14–May 11, 2011 Winter (Ski), WFR, Canyon, Canoe, Climbing BACKCOUNTRY SKIING PAGE 37 Backpacking with Wilderness First Responder Section 3 & 4 • Feb. 21–May 18, 2011 Tuition: $1,855 • Equipment Deposit: $250 Tuition: $4,870 • Equipment Deposit: $350 WFA, Winter (Ski), Canyon, River Travel, Climbing Optional College Credit: 2 hours Optional College Credit: 7 hours Section 5 • March 3–May 28, 2011 Jan. 2–15, 2011 Feb. 22–March 7, 2011 June 13–July 12, 2011 July 17–Aug. 15, 2011 WFA, Canyon, River Travel, Climbing, Horsepacking 23-AND-OVER BACKCOUNTRY SKIING PAGE 37 TM NOLS/ORVIS WILDERNESS FLY-FISHING PAGE 24 SUMMER Tuition: $2,150 • Equipment Deposit: $250 Tuition: $6,500 • Equipment Deposit: $350 Tuition: $10,510 • Equipment Deposit: $700 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Optional College Credit: 6 hours Optional College Credit: 16 hours Dec. 29, 2010–Jan. 9, 2011 June 16–July 15, 2011 June 30–July 29, 2011 June 6–Aug. 12, 2011 Feb. 6–17, 2011 March 1–12, 2011 Backpacking, Climbing, River Travel

105 IDAHO BACKPACKING ADVENTURE Section 1 • Aug. 17–Nov. 4, 2011 ALASKA FOR 14- & 15-YEAR-OLDS PAGE 38 Sea Kayaking, Climbing, WFA, Backpacking, Sailing Tuition: $3,060 • Equipment Deposit: $200 Section 2 • Aug. 24–Nov. 11, 2011 PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND 23-AND-OVER SEA June 17–30, 2011 Girls only: June 25–July 8, 2011 Mountain Travel, WFA, Sailing, Rock Climbing, KAYAKING PAGE 57 July 7–20, 2011 July 26–Aug. 8, 2011 Coastal Backpacking Tuition: $3,310 • Equipment Deposit: $200 July 14–27, 2011 Section 3 • Aug. 31–Nov. 18, 2011 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Mountain Travel, Rock Climbing, WFA, Coastal July 17–30, 2011 SALMON BACKPACKING AND RAFTING ADVENTURE Backpacking, Sailing FOR 14- & 15-YEAR-OLDS PAGE 38 Section 4 • Sept. 7–Nov. 25, 2011 SOUTHEAST ALASKA SEA KAYAKING PAGE 57 Tuition: $5,575 • Equipment Deposit: $250 Mountain Travel, WFA, Sailing, Rock Climbing, Tuition: $4,100 • Equipment Deposit: $350 June 16–July 13, 2011 July 10–Aug. 6, 2011 Coastal Backpacking Optional College Credit: 6 hours June 24-July 21, 2011 Section 5 • Sept. 14–Dec. 2, 2011 16 & Over Mountain Travel, WFA, Rock Climbing, Coastal June 10–July 9, 2011 June 14–July 13, 2011 Backpacking, Sailing PACIFIC NORTHWEST 16 & 17 only July 17–Aug. 15, 2011 July 20–Aug 18, 2011 PACIFIC NORTHWEST TRIP LEADER PAGE 41 SEMESTER ON THE BORDERS PAGE 50 Tuition: $1,150 • Equipment Deposit: $100 SPRING ALASKA BACKPACKING AND SEA KAYAKING PAGE 58 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Tuition: $13,465 • Equipment Deposit: $700 Tuition: $4,770 • Equipment Deposit: $350 June 8–16, 2011 Aug. 10–18, 2011 Optional College Credit: 16 hours Optional College Credit: 6 hours July 27–Aug. 4, 2011 March 10–June 3, 2011 May 24–June 22, 2011 June 23–July 22, 2011 June 14–July 13, 2011 July 10–Aug. 8, 2011 PACIFIC NORTHWEST BACKPACKING PAGE 41 Tuition: $3,825 • Equipment Deposit: $350 SOUTHWEST ALASKA OUTDOOR EDUCATOR: BACKPACKING Optional College Credit: 6 hours AND SEA KAYAKING PAGE 58 May 25–June 24, 2011 June 22–July 22, 2011 SOUTHWEST OUTDOOR EDUCATOR: BACKPACKING Tuition: $4,175 • Equipment Deposit: $350 June 8–July 8, 2011 June 29–July 29, 2011 AND ROCK CLIMBING PAGE 47 Optional College Credit: 6 hours June 15–July 15, 2011 July 20–Aug 19, 2011 Tuition: $4,215 • Equipment Deposit: $350 July 21–Aug. 19, 2011 Optional College Credit: 6 hours PACIFIC NORTHWEST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE Jan. 6–Feb. 5, 2011 ALASKA MOUNTAINEERING PAGE 59 FOR 14- AND 15-YEAR-OLDS PAGE 41 17 & Over Tuition: $3,060 • Equipment Deposit: $200 SOUTHWEST LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACKING PAGE 47 July 10–23, 2011 Tuition: $5,750 • Equipment Deposit: $350 Tuition: $3,325 • Equipment Deposit: $150 Optional College Credit: 6 hours Optional College Credit: 2 hours WADDINGTON RANGE MOUNTAINEERING PAGE 42 June 24–July 23, 2011 June 28–July 27, 2011 Jan. 10–23, 2011 Sept. 20–Oct. 3, 2011 Tuition: $5,130 • Equipment Deposit: $350 23 & Over Optional College Credit: 6 hours SEMESTER IN THE SOUTHWEST PAGE 48 Tuition: $3,750 • Equipment Deposit: $200 June 15–July 15, 2011 July 13–Aug. 12, 2011 Optional College Credit: 2 hours SPRING June 29–July 29, 2011 July 3–16, 2011 July 24–Aug. 6, 2011 Tuition: $11,725 • Equipment Deposit: $700 NORTH CASCADES MOUNTAINEERING PAGE 42 Optional College Credit: 16 hours DENALI MOUNTAINEERING PAGE 59 Jan. 11–April 8, 2011 Jan. 29–April 26, 2011 17 & Over Tuition: $7,750 • Equipment Deposit: $350 Tuition: $4,175 • Equipment Deposit: $350 FALL Optional College Credit: 6 hours Optional College Credit: 6 hours Tuition: $11,990 • Equipment Deposit: $700 June 8–July 11, 2011 May 25–June 24, 2011 July 6–Aug. 5, 2011 Optional College Credit: 16 hours June 1–July 1, 2011 July 13–Aug. 12, 2011 Sept. 5–Dec. 1, 2011 ALASKA BACKPACKING PAGE 60 Tuition: $4,110 • Equipment Deposit: $350 23 & Over SEMESTER ON THE BORDERS PAGE 50 Optional College Credit: 6 hours Tuition: $3,390 • Equipment Deposit: $250 16 & Over Optional College Credit: 2 hours SPRING June 7–July 6, 2011 June 30–July 29, 2011 Aug. 10–26, 2011 Aug. 31–Sept. 16, 2011 Tuition: $13,465 • Equipment Deposit: $700 Optional College Credit: 16 hours June 13–July 12, 2011 July 7–Aug. 5, 2011 PACIFIC NORTHWEST OUTDOOR EDUCATOR: March 10–June 3, 2011 June 21–July 20, 2011 July 15–Aug. 13, 2011 MOUNTAINEERING PAGE 43 June 26–July 25, 2011 July 18–Aug. 16, 2011 YEAR IN THE SONORAN PAGE 52 Tuition: $4,065 • Equipment Deposit: $350 16 & 17 Only Optional College Credit: 6 hours FALL June 16–July 15, 2011 July 7–Aug. 5, 2011 May 18–June 17, 2011 July 20–Aug. 19, 2011 Tuition: $21,750 • Equipment Deposit: $750 June 21–July 20, 2011 July 12–Aug. 10, 2011 June 1–July 1, 2011 Optional College Credit: 27 hours Oct. 1, 2011–March 14, 2012 ALASKA BACKPACKING AND PACKRAFTING PAGE 60 PACIFIC NORTHWEST SEA KAYAKING (Holiday Break: Dec. 5, 2011–Jan. 4, 2012) Tuition: $4,770 • Equipment Deposit: $350 AND SAILING PAGE 43 Optional College Credit: 6 hours Tuition: $4,990 • Equipment Deposit: $350 June 24–July 23, 2011 Optional College Credit: 6 hours NORTHEAST June 8–July 8, 2011 June 22–July 22, 2011 BROOKS RANGE BACKPACKING AND RIVER PAGE 61 ADIRONDACK BACKPACKING ADVENTURE Tuition: $7,400 • Equipment Deposit: $350 SEMESTER IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST PAGE 44 FOR 14- AND 15-YEAR-OLDS PAGE 55 Optional College Credit: 8 hours FALL Tuition: $3,060 • Equipment Deposit: $200 July 8–Aug. 16, 2011 Tuition: $11,600 • Equipment Deposit: $700 June 30–July 13, 2011 July 17–30, 2011 Optional College Credit: 16 hours

106 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] BROOKS RANGE 23-AND-OVER BACKPACKING PAGE 61 YEAR IN THE SONORAN PAGE 52 SEMESTER IN INDIA PAGE 84 Tuition: $4,350 • Equipment Deposit: $200 FALL SPRING Optional College Credit: 2 hours Tuition: $21,750 • Equipment Deposit: $750 Tuition: $14,950 • Equipment Deposit: $700 Aug. 7–20, 2011 Optional College Credit: 27 hours Optional College Credit: 16 hours Oct. 1, 2011–March 14, 2012 March 9–May 27, 2011 March 22–June 9, 2011 SEMESTER IN ALASKA PAGE 62 (Holiday Break: Dec. 5, 2011–Jan. 4, 2012) FALL SUMMER Tuition: $15,250 • Equipment Deposit: $700 Tuition: $11,000 • Equipment Deposit: $700 Optional College Credit: 16 hours Optional College Credit: 16 hours PATAGONIA Aug. 23–Nov. 10, 2011 Sept. 7–Nov. 25, 2011 May 25–Aug. 7, 2011 June 4–Aug. 17, 2011 PATAGONIA MOUNTAINEERING PAGE 73 Tuition: $6,155 • Equipment Deposit: $350 AUSTRALIA YUKON Optional College Credit: 6 hours Jan. 6–Feb. 8, 2011 AUSTRALIA BACKPACKING AND YUKON BACKPACKING PAGE 65 SEA KAYAKING PAGE 87 Tuition: $3,970 • Equipment Deposit: $350 PATAGONIA BACKPACKING AND FLY-FISHING PAGE 73 Tuition: $7,340 • Equipment Deposit: $350 Optional College Credit: 6 hours Tuition: $3,470 • Equipment Deposit: $250 Optional College Credit: 8 hours June 20–July 19, 2011 Optional College Credit: 2 hours June 23–Aug. 6, 2011 July 6–Aug. 19, 2011 March 9–22, 2011 YUKON BACKPACKING AND AUSTRALIA BACKPACKING PAGE 87 WILDERNESS CANOEING PAGE 65 SEMESTER IN PATAGONIA PAGE 74 Tuition: $5,865 • Equipment Deposit: $350 Tuition: $4,135 • Equipment Deposit: $350 SPRING Optional College Credit: 6 hours Optional College Credit: 6 hours Tuition: $14,670 • Equipment Deposit: $500 June 29–Aug. 2, 2011 June 8–July 7, 2011 July 12–Aug. 10, 2011 Optional College Credit: 16 hours SEMESTER IN AUSTRALIA PAGE 88 YUKON OUTDOOR EDUCATOR: BACKPACKING Jan. 14–April 3, 2011 Jan. 19–April 8, 2011 AND WHITEWATER CANOEING PAGE 65 FALL SPRING Tuition: $3,840 • Equipment Deposit: $350 Tuition: $14,900 • Equipment Deposit: $500 Tuition: $13,870 • Equipment Deposit: $700 Optional College Credit: 6 hours Optional College Credit: 16 hours Optional College Credit: 16 hours July 26–Aug. 24, 2011 Sept. 22–Dec. 10, 2011 Sept. 30–Dec. 18, 2011 March 18–May 31, 2011 March 24–June 6, 2011

SUMMER SEMESTER IN THE YUKON PAGE 66 YEAR IN PATAGONIA PAGE 76 Tuition: $11,500 • Equipment Deposit: $700 SUMMER FALL Optional College Credit: 16 hours Tuition: $10,270 • Equipment Deposit: $700 Tuition: $26,250 • Equipment Deposit: $750 June 10–Aug. 16, 2011 Optional College Credit: 16 hours Optional College Credit: 27 hours June 11–Aug. 25, 2011 Oct. 16, 2011–March 14, 2012 (Holiday Break: Dec. 22, 2011–Jan. 6, 2012) NEW ZEALAND MEXICO NEW ZEALAND BACKPACKING PAGE 91 AMAZON Tuition: $6,025 (includes 15% NZ Goods and BAJA COASTAL SAILING PAGE 69 Services Tax) • Equipment Deposit: $350 Tuition: $3,955 • Equipment Deposit: $225 AMAZON BASIN RIVER EXPEDITION PAGE 79 Optional College Credit: 6 hours Optional College Credit: 4 hours Tuition: $6,900 • Equipment Deposit: $100 Feb. 10–March 11, 2011 Jan. 3–24, 2011 Oct. 13–Nov. 3, 2011 Optional College Credit: 6 hours SEMESTER IN NEW ZEALAND PAGE 92 July 18–Aug. 26, 2011 BAJA SEA KAYAKING PAGE 69 SPRING 16 & Over SEMESTER IN THE AMAZON PAGE 80 Tuition: $16,100 (includes 12.5% NZ Goods and Tuition: $3,410 • Equipment Deposit: $225 FALL Services Tax) Optional College Credit: 4 hours Tuition: $14,800 • Equipment Deposit: $100 Equipment Deposit: $700 Jan. 4–25, 2011 March 3–24, 2011 Optional College Credit: 16 hours Optional College Credit: 16 hours Oct. 18–Nov. 8, 2011 Sept. 7–Nov. 25, 2011 Section 1 • Jan. 27–April 13, 2011 Canoeing, Sea Kayaking, Backpacking, Culture 23 & Over Section 2 • Jan. 27–April 13, 2011 Tuition: $3,235 • Equipment Deposit: $225 Sea Kayaking, Backpacking, Sailing, Culture Optional College Credit: 2 hours INDIA Section 3 • Feb. 6–April 23, 2011 Feb. 3–16, 2011 HIMALAYA BACKPACKING PAGE 83 Canoeing, Sea Kayaking, Backpacking, Culture SEMESTER IN BAJA PAGE 70 Tuition: $6,590 • Equipment Deposit: $350 Section 4 • Feb. 6–April 23, 2011 Optional College Credit: 6 hours Backpacking, Sea Kayaking, Sailing, Culture SPRING May 1–June 4, 2011 Sept. 21–Oct. 25, 2011 Tuition: $11,830 • Equipment Deposit: $500 FALL May 12–June 15, 2011 Optional College Credit: 16 hours Tuition: $16,675 (includes 15% NZ Goods and Services Tax) Jan. 12–March 30, 2011 Jan. 19–April 6, 2011 HIMALAYA MOUNTAINEERING PAGE 83 Equipment Deposit: $700 Tuition: $7,095 • Equipment Deposit: $350 FALL Optional College Credit: 16 hours Optional College Credit: 8 hours Tuition: $11,975 • Equipment Deposit: $500 Section 1 • Sept. 15–Nov. 30, 2011 April 2–May 11, 2011 Sept. 1–Oct. 10, 2011 Optional College Credit: 16 hours Mountaineering, Sea Kayaking, Backpacking, Culture Sept. 7–Nov. 23, 2011 Sept. 21–Dec. 7, 2011 Section 2 • Sept. 15–Nov. 30, 2011 Sea Kayaking, Mountaineering, Backpacking, Culture Section 3 • Sept. 22–Dec. 7, 2011

107 Canoeing, Backpacking, Mountaineering, Culture MEDICINE IN THE WILD PAGE 102 UPCOMING: TANZANIA Section 4 • Sept. 29–Dec. 14, 2011 Tuition: $4,450 Backpacking, Canoeing, Sea Kayaking, Culture Credit: Awarded individually at student’s school. Fall 2011 could ﬁnd NOLS back in Africa! Stay Section 5 • Sept. 29–Dec. 14, 2011 April 4–28, 2011 • Gila Wilderness, NOLS Southwest tuned to www.nols.edu for details about this exciting Backpacking, Sea Kayaking, Canoeing, Culture new offering in the wilderness and culture of WILDERNESS MEDICINE EXPEDITIONS PAGE 103 Tanzania. Tuition: Varies (see below) SCANDINAVIA Optional Credit: 16 hours of CEUs available for EMTs; 16 hours of Category 1 CMEs available for SCANDINAVIA SEA KAYAKING PAGE 95 Physicians. Approved for up to 28 hours of credit Tuition: $4,400 • Equipment Deposit: $100 towards a FAWM. Optional College Credit: 4 hours July 29–Aug. 19, 2011 Backpacking in the Galiuros October 16–23, 2011 • NOLS Southwest • $1,950 SCANDINAVIA BACKPACKING Sailing in British Columbia AND SEA KAYAKING PAGE 95 June 4–11, 2011 • NOLS Paciﬁc Northwest • $2,850 Tuition: $6,185 • Equipment Deposit: $100 Optional College Credit: 6 hours Sea Kayaking in Prince William Sound June 9–July 8, 2011 June 26–July 25, 2011 July 9–16, 2011 • NOLS Alaska • $2,550 Rafting the Main Salmon River SCANDINAVIA BACKPACKING PAGE 95 August 26–Sept. 3, 2011 • NOLS Teton Valley • $2,950 18 & Over Backpacking in the Wind River Range Tuition: $5,240 • Equipment Deposit: $100 August 28–Sept. 4, 2011 • NOLS Rocky Mountain • $2,200 Optional College Credit: 6 hours July 14–Aug. 12, 2011 Backpacking in the Galiuros Sept. 25–Oct. 2, 2011 • NOLS Southwest • $1,950 23 & Over Tuition: $3,495 • Equipment Deposit: $100 Optional College Credit: 2 hours INSTRUCTOR COURSES July 31–Aug. 13, 2011 Johnston Elliot STANDARD INSTRUCTOR COURSES (IC) PAGE 104 Tuition: $4,590 • Duration: 35 days NOLS PROFESSIONAL TRAINING Equipment Deposit: $250 Optional College Credit: 2 hours Leadership RISK MANAGEMENT TRAINING PAGE 98 Techniques, 2 hours Risk Management, 2 hours Tuition: $565 Outdoor Educator March 5–6, 2011 • Seattle, WA, USA April 5–6, 2011 • Atlanta, GA, USA MOUNTAIN May 11–12, 2011 • San Francisco, CA, USA Rocky Mountain May 5–June 8, 2011 October 4–5, 2011 • Northeast USA July 6–Aug. 9, 2011 November 3–4, 2011 • San Antonio, TX, USA May 19–June 22, 2011

WILDERNESS RISK MANAGEMENT Alaska May 20–June 23, 2011 CONFERENCE PAGE 98 Southwest April 1–May 4, 2011 Registration: see www.nols.edu/wrmc October 14–16, 2010 • Colorado Springs, CO RIVER October 5–7, 2011 • Boston, MA Rocky Mountain April 17–May 20, 2011 Yukon June 1–July 5, 2011 WILDERNESS MEDICINE INSTITUTE SAILING Tracy Baynes/STEP Tracy Visit www.NOLS.edu/wmi/courses for the latest Mexico Nov. 2–Dec. 6, 2011 WFA, WAFA, and WFR offerings. PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTOR COURSES (PIC) PAGE 104 WILDERNESS EMT PAGE 101 Tuition: $300 • Duration: 16 days Tuition: $3,290 (January–August 2011); Optional College Credit: 2 hours Leadership TBA (September–December 2011 Techniques, 2 hours Outdoor Educator Optional Credit: 9 semester hours of college credit January 3–28, 2011 • Lander, WY, USA MOUNTAIN January 10–February 4, 2011 • Midpines, CA, USA Rocky Mountain May 19–June 3, 2011 February 4–March 25, 2011 • Midpines, CA, USA April 11–May 6, 2011 • Lander, WY, USA WILDERNESS MEDICINE INSTRUCTOR May 9–June 3, 2011 • Midpines, CA, USA TRAINING COURSES (ITC) PAGE 104 May 16–June 10, 2011 • Lander, WY, USA Tuition: Call WMI for more info June 13–July 8, 2011 • Midpines, CA, USA

June 20–July 15, 2011 • Lander, WY, USA Wilderness First Responder ITC Kyle Hammons July 18–August 12, 2011 • Midpines, CA, USA November 6–15, 2011 Work independently and as a group as you become an July 25–August 19, 2011 • Lander, WY, USA Wilderness First Aid ITC efﬁcient and enthusiastic backcountry traveler. From top November 6–12, 2011 September 19–October 14, 2011 • Lander, WY, USA to bottom: Point Hamilton, Inside Passage, Alaska; Prince October 24–November 18, 2011 • Midpines, CA, USA William Sound, Alaska; Isla Merino Jarpa, Patagonia

108 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] NOLS is an equal opportunity service provider, operating under permit and in part- Sinks Canyon State Park, Smith Rock State Park, State of Alaska Department nership with the USDA Forest Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Man- of Natural Resources, Texas State Parks, The Access Fund, The Nature Conser- agement, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, state organizations, and international land vancy, Utah Division of State Lands and Forestry, Washington State Parks and management agencies. Recreation Commission

NATIONAL PARKS AND REFUGES: Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Big INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS: Arthur’s Pass National Park, Nelson Bend National Park, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, City of Rocks National Lakes National Park, Kahurangi National Park, Lewis Pass Scenic Reserve, Lake Scenic Reserve, Colorado National Monument, Crooked River National Grass- Sumner Conservation Park, Craigieburn Conservation Park, Bardi Aboriginal land, Denali National Park and Preserve, Devils Tower National Monument, Community, Department of Conservation-Te Papa Atawhai, Drysdale River Dinosaur National Monument, Gates of the Arctic National Park, Glen Canyon National Park, Jarlmadanga Burru Aboriginal Community, King Leopold Ranges National Recreation Area, Grand Canyon National Park, Grand Teton National Conservation Park, Marlborough Sounds Maritime Park, Ngati Kuri subtribe of Park, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Humboldt National For- Ngai tahu, Western Australia Department of Environment and Conservation, est, Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, Mount Rainier National Park, Mount Rush- Alacalufes National Reserve, Alberto de Agostini National Park, Bernardo more National Monument, Noatak National Preserve, North Cascades National O’Higgins National Park, Hornopiren National Park, Isla Magdalena National Park, Olympic National Park, Ouray National Wildlife Refuge, Wrangell-St. Park, Lago Palena, Laguna San Rafael National Park, Mapu lahual Indian Elias National Park and Preserve, Yellowstone National Park Reservation, Parque Pumalin Puyehue National Park, Queulat National Park, San Pedro de Atacama, Torres del Paine National Park, Villarrica National Park, BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT: Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Reservas Nacionales: Katalalixar, Tamango, Lago Jeinimeni, Cerro Castillo, Rio Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming Simpson, Manihuales, Las Guaitecas, Lago Rosselot, Coyhaique, Trapananda, Lago Carlota, Rio Cipreces, Juruena National Park, Amazonia National Park USDA FOREST SERVICE: Ashley National Forest, Beaverhead National For- (ICM), Ricardo Franco State Park, Secretaria de Medio Ambiente y Recursos est, Bighorn National Forest, Black Hills National Forest, Bridger-Teton National Naturales (SEMARNAT), Comisión Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas Forest, Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Chugach National Forest, Coronado (CONANP), Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH), Parque National Forest, Custer National Forest, Deschutes and Ochoco National For- Nacional Marino Bahía de Loreto, Área de Protección de Flora y Fauna: Islas del est, Gallatin National Forest, Gila National Forest, Gunnison National Forest, Golfo de Baja California Norte, Área de Protección de Flora y Fauna: Islas del Kaibab National Forest, Klamath National Forest, Lincoln National Forest, Golfo de Baja California Sur, Reserva de la Biosfera el Vizcaíno, Reserva de la Lolo National Forest, Manti-LaSal National Forest, Medicine Bow National Biosfera Valle de Los Cirios, Parque Nacional Sierra de San Pedro Mártir, Reserva Forest, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Ocala National Forest, Okano- de la Biosfera Sierra La Laguna. Sierra de la Giganta, Canada Heritage River gan National Forest, Quachita National Forest, Salmon-Challis National For- System: Bonnet Plume River, First Nation Lands: Tr’ondek Hwech’in Nacho est, Shoshone National Forest, Sierra National Forest, Tongass National Forest, Nyak Dun, Tetlin Gwich’in, Vuntut Gwitchin, Kaska, Teslin Carcross Tagish, Wenatchee National Forest, White River National Forest, Willamette National British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Sports and the Arts, British Columbia Forest, Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Ministry of Environment: BC Parks, Paciﬁc Rim National Park and Reserve, Tombstone Territorial Park, Yukon Territory, Yukon Territorial Government: Peel OTHER U.S. PARTNERS (STATE PARKS, ETC.): Alaska State Parks, River Watershed Area, The Tahltan Nation, Yukon and Northwest Territories American Legion State Forest, Anacortes Park and Recreation, Ahtna, Incorpo- Canada, Kluane National Park, Uttaranchal Tourism and the Forest Department rated, Colorado Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, Custer State Park, Government of Uttaranchal state (India)

SHAPING THE Future of Travel

NOLS is the proud nonprofit, educational partner of the Adventure Collection, a collaboration of ten leading independent outdoor travel organizations. Founded in 2000, the Adventure Collection has been shaping the future of adventurous exploration with a laser focus on responsible travel and a dedication to innovation. To learn more, visit www.adventurecollection.com.

109 NOLS’ ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT Creating a Climate For Change Rainbow Weinstock Rainbow

Part of the NOLS curriculum is environmental studies, and here at NOLS we take environmental issues seriously. We are striving as an organization to be a leader in sustainable business practices. Arizona Creek, Wyoming

Let’s face it. NOLS students travel the globe MAXIMUM IMPACT EDUCATION At the end of the day, our students and graduates are NOLS’ greatest contribution to the to far-flung locations. We use outdoor gear and environment. They experience our planet’s power and beauty, and they understand its fragil- clothing made from synthetics derived from pe- ity. NOLS grads are skilled positive leaders with an environmental awareness and a strong ethical foundation. Through our students, NOLS is creating a climate for change. troleum. We hike and paddle in pristine wilder- MINIMUM IMPACT PRACTICES ness. NOLS makes a mark, and not just with the From our off-the-grid facility on Mexico’s Bahía Concepción to our geo-thermal facility in Chile, NOLS has a long tradition of finding unique and environmentally responsible ways incredible education our students receive. of supporting our educational expeditions. We’ve made a centralized and coordinated effort Since 1965, NOLS has constantly refined to strengthen our environmental sustainability practices at every level schoolwide. its environmental practices to minimize the foot- ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE The NOLS Sustainability Initiative gained even more momentum this year. Sustainability print we leave, whether we are educating stu- at NOLS doesn’t mean just reducing our impact; we want to teach others how to as well. Our five-year plan includes goals pertaining to conservation, education, and outreach, and dents in the backcountry or conducting business we made significant strides in each of these areas. around the world. We research, reduce, reuse, Highlights from 2010: recycle, and most importantly, lead by example. • Exceeded our 2010 schoolwide carbon goal of a 10% reduction below 2006 levels. • Received over $370,000 in grant funding to retrofit our Wyoming facilities for greater energy efficiency. • NOLS Teton Valley’s solar project (grant and NOLS funded) will cover nearly 30% of their energy usage.

110 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] REDUCING OUR CARBON FOOTPRINT WE MET OUR 2010 GOAL IN 2009! With a few carbon measurements under our belt and one reduction goal already met (see graph), we 2000 feel good about the path we’re taking, but we know we can’t rest easy based on our early successes. 1800 1,865 We’re committed to continuing to reduce our facility emissions, to move forward with transportation 1600 Goal: 1,679* 1,572 efﬁciencies, and to measure the impact of our instructor travel to course locations. Each time we Emissions 1400 2 measure our carbon footprint, we learn how to manage it a little bit better. 1200 Goal: 1,306 1000 In terms of this catalog, we strive to reduce our footprint by choosing paper with high recycled 800 content. This year, by using New Leaf Paper’s Primavera and Frontier, and West Linn Paper Company’s 600 Nature, NOLS saved the following resources: 224 trees, 88,687 gallons of water, more than 400 8 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, over 10,000 pounds of solid waste, and 139 million 200 Metric Tons of CO of Tons Metric * 0 BTUs of energy. 2006 2009 2010 2020 *Paper calcaulations based on research by Environmental Defense and other members of the Paper Task Force.

• Created a NOLS student impact poster to highlight backcountry practices that can preserve resources in our frontcountry lives. • Moved toward 100% local sourcing for rations in Mexico and India. • Reduced fuel use in India 50% by shifting student and instructor travel from private vehicles to public transportation. • Implemented schoolwide “Environmentally Preferable Purchasing” and “Sustainable Foods” protocols to raise our environmental standards. • Expanded our website resources (check us out at www.nols.edu/creating_a_climate_for_ change). • Reduced vehicle emissions by replacing gasoline vehicles with more efﬁcient diesel counterparts that can transport more students with fewer trips.

• Hosted the Popo Agie Riverbank Clean-Up community event in Lander, Wyoming, to Weinstock Rainbow make our community green spaces greener. At NOLS, you won’t just read about biology, you’ll experience it. Wind River Range, Wyoming SUSTAINABLE PRINTING PROCESSES The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) sets forth principles, criteria, and standards that span economic, social, and environmental concerns. Like last year, both the papers and printer we’ve chosen for this year’s catalog are FSC chain-of-custody certiﬁed. Furthermore, one paper mill is just 25 miles away from the printer in Portland, Oregon, which keeps the bulk of the project local and minimizes the transportation of paper. The result is not only a great ﬁnal product, but one that contributes to conservation, responsible management, and the local economy while creating markets for better recycled paper options. We also post a virtual paper catalog and a PDF version to www.nols.edu as paperless alternatives to the hard copy.

WHAT CAN YOU DO? As a NOLS student, you can join our conservation and alternative energy efforts. Carbon offsetting is a small, yet worthwhile, last step you can take before heading into the backcountry for your NOLS expedition. While planning travel to your course location, visit www.nols.edu and use our Travel Calculator to buy offsets. Ignacio Grez Ignacio

Traveling through fragile ecosystems can be a challenge, but with the right Leave No Trace skills it’s a FPO: breeze. Chugach Mountains, Alaska FSC Logo & info here

111 YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH NOLS IS A LIFELONG EXPEDITION Alumni Beneﬁts and Networks

We’re all that and a bag of chalk. Don’t think your NOLS adventure ends after taking a course. NOLS grads reap beneﬁts beyond technical skills, college credit, and wilderness experience long after their course is over.

SOCIAL NETWORKING • Alumni Representatives: Most of our students learn about NOLS from a grad. Become a volunteer to help spread the word. • Alumni Chapters: A chance to join other NOLS alumni in your area for outings, networking, social events, and more. • NOLS.TV: Find videos that capture the NOLS experience at www.youtube.com/nols1965 and www.vimeo.com/nols. • Facebook: Become a fan of NOLS at www.facebook.com/nolspage. • Flickr: Share your course photos at www.ﬂickr.com/groups/nols. • Twitter: Follow “nols_alumni” or “NOLSedu” and catch up on NOLS news in 140 characters or less.

ALUMNI RESOURCES • NOLS Alumni Website: From reunion details to obtaining your transcripts and evaluations, www.nols.edu/alumni is

your one-stop source. Christensen Brad • The Leader: Our alumni newsletter brings you school news and alumni adventures three times a year. • NOLS Alumni Jobsnetwork: A free electronic subscription sends outdoor job openings to your inbox every day. • NOLS Store: Books, gear, gifts, and more at www.nols.edu/store.

ALUMNI EVENTS • Alumni Courses: Demanding backcountry trips reserved speciﬁcally for NOLS expedition grads. • Alumni Trips: Shorter backcountry trips designed for alumni, friends, and families. • Alumni Seminars: Short, skills-intensive workshops for alumni, friends, and families. A great way to learn a new skill. • Alumni Reunions: Get-togethers and presentations organized Rich Brame Rich by alumni volunteers in your area. • For a full inventory of alumni trips and events, visit www.nols.edu/alumni.

Keep a ﬁnger on the pulse of NOLS, visit http://nols.blogs.com.

Top: The excitement never ends! NOLS Social Networking Engineer William Roth checks in online to see what NOLS grads around the world are up to. NOLS Headquarters. Center: Take friends and family on an alumni trip and show them what NOLS is all about. Wind River Range, Wyoming. Bottom: Find solitude and beauty in the wilderness for the rest of your life. Dolomites, Italy Brame Rich

112 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] RISK MANAGEMENT AT NOLS Ashley Wise Ashley Marco Johnson Marco Betsy Winston Betsy

Left: Hazard assessment is a key element of the NOLS curriculum. Wind River Range, Wyoming. Center: Instructors clarify risk management protocols before engaging students in a new skill. Blue John Canyon, Dirty Devil, Utah. Right: Student to instructor ratios average 5 to 1 and vary according to skill being taught and student age. Northern Iceﬁeld, Patagonia

At NOLS we embrace the physical and emotional challenge of the present in the outdoor environment. Indeed, much of the value of natural environment to attain our learning objectives. NOLS cours- a NOLS course lies in learning how to identify hazards and adapt es are not easy and involve the pursuit of adventurous activities in behavior to strive to avoid injury or illness. rugged terrain in which there are real dangers. Risk, both physical and emotional, is an important element of a NOLS education. INDEPENDENT STUDENT TRAVEL The uncertainty posed by nature combined with the judgments and On many courses, one of the ways we help you develop into an abilities of students and staff leads to risk. Risk management, in this outdoor leader is by giving you the opportunity to travel without context, is the ability to make a decision when the outcome is un- instructors. Our students say that this is a highlight of their course certain and relies on our ability to perceive and quantify the risks and one of the best ways that they learn to be leaders. we face. Risk management is taught and practiced on every course. By the second week, you will travel in student groups with- NOLS is committed to promoting the physical and emotional well- out instructors for a day at a time. To prepare for this you’ll have being of all students and we are proud of our excellent record man- classes and gain practical experience in backcountry travel while aging the risks of wilderness travel. being coached by your instructors as they help you develop your Wilderness adventure involves hazards: rockfall, fast-flowing riv- leadership skills. ers, and steep terrain can pose a risk to even the most experienced If your instructors decide that your group is ready, the culmi- outdoor leader. Activities ranging from simple day hikes to climbing nating experience of many courses is the student expedition where, glaciers can, due to the unpredictable forces of nature or an error in for several days, you and a few of your coursemates will travel judgment, become dangerous and potentially life-threatening. without an instructor. Your instructors help the course divide into Students transport their own gear; sleep outdoors, possibly in groups, select a leader, and plan a route. You will know your in- co-ed tent groups; prepare their own meals; and are expected to care structors’ route and campsites (no more than a day away), instruc- for themselves in weather conditions that can be extreme. Each stu- tors will carry a phone, and each student group will carry a satellite dent plays an important role in the success of a NOLS course. Good location transmitter or phone. You and your group make the daily physical conditioning and a positive mental attitude are essential. leadership decisions but still have all the benefits of NOLS’ sup- Our courses are expeditions that travel through remote areas port systems. that can create complex situations should an emergency arise. The majority of medical incidents that might occur are simple and of- LEADERS IN WILDERNESS EDUCATION ten treated in the field. A more serious incident, such as a fracture, When you come to NOLS, you will be attending the school that will require evacuation to a medical facility. It is not uncommon sets the standards in wilderness risk management, wilderness med- to be days from medical help, but NOLS instructors are trained in icine, and student well-being. We have published one of the lead- wilderness first aid and backed by comprehensive wilderness emer- ing texts on wilderness medicine, and the Wilderness Medicine gency response and evacuation systems. Institute of NOLS (WMI) is at the cutting edge of this growing We carry satellite telephones, radios, or other electronic com- field. We are the leaders in promoting professional standards in munication devices on each course for life threatening emergen- wilderness risk management and each year convene the Wilderness cies, but this does not guarantee communication from the field to Risk Management Conference for outdoor educators and adven- our support bases. Portable telephones and radios can be unreliable ture program administrators. depending on terrain, atmospheric conditions, and other variables. Before you arrive on your NOLS course, thoroughly read all It is important you understand that there are risks. Some ad- materials we send you and call us if you have questions. A report venture programs say that they can guarantee your safety. NOLS on NOLS risk management and history is available from our ad- does not. The risk of injury, even serious injury or death, is always mission office.

113 APPLICATION AND ADMISSIONS POLICIES

HOW TO APPLY The easiest way to apply for a NOLS course is online at www.nols.edu. You can also ﬁll out the application in this catalog and fax or mail it along with the $65 non-refundable application fee. After reviewing your application, we will enroll you on the course of your choice. If appropriate, be sure to provide several choices in order of preference. An enrollment packet containing a course description, equipment list, travel information, and other materials to help you prepare for your course will be forwarded to you. You must return the follow-

ing information from the enrollment packet: Weinstock Rainbow • health form No experience necessary: A good attitude and a desire to learn are the most important • student agreement and release form factors for success on a NOLS course. Snow King Peak, North Cascades, Washington • insurance form • statement of good standing, transcript, and student information form (semester students only) For all other courses, if you cancel or leave for any reason: All forms and a $500 non-refundable deposit are due 14 days • between 15 and 29 days from the course starting date, NOLS after the receipt of your packet. The remaining tuition is due 75 will retain 25 percent of the course tuition. days before your course. • between 8 and 14 days from the course starting date, NOLS will retain 50 percent of the course tuition. ADMISSION POLICIES • less than 8 days prior to the course starting date or once the Final acceptance is contingent upon the receipt and approval of course has begun, there will be no refunds. the materials listed above. NOLS seeks students who are motivated to learn outdoor skills and develop leadership, are in good health TRANSFER POLICIES physically and emotionally, and are socially responsible. For semesters, academic years, and courses in India, if you transfer NOLS is not an appropriate choice for individuals dealing from one course to another: with behavioral, motivational, or rehabilitation issues. We will deny • more than 60 days prior to the ﬁrst course starting date, there admission to anyone we believe to be unable to meet the physical, will be a $50 processing charge. mental, social, or safety demands of our courses. • 60 days or less prior to the course starting date, regular cancellation and refund charges will apply. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY NOLS students come to us from a wide variety of backgrounds. Some For all other courses, if you transfer courses: have quite a bit of outdoor experience; many others’ greatest outdoor • 30 or more days prior to the ﬁrst course starting date, there accomplishment has been sleeping out in their backyard. If you are will be a $50 processing charge. in good health physically and emotionally and are motivated to learn • 29 days or less prior to the course starting date, regular cancel- you can excel on a NOLS course. The desire to learn and participate lation and refund charges apply. is the most important factor for success. Although we rarely need to do so, we reserve the right to cancel a STUDENT BEHAVIOR AND DISCIPLINE course or change a course duration, tuition, or location. NOLS is not NOLS will expel any student who exhibits behavior that is unsafe or responsible for costs associated in these cases. We recommend that disrupts or distracts from the educational mission of a course. Harass- you consider refundable airplane tickets and tuition insurance. ment; use of alcohol, illegal drugs, and other substances; misuse of prescription medications; theft or misuse of property; low motivation; CONTACT US and disregarding instructions are examples of behavior that will lead to expulsion. If a student is expelled, there will be no refund. NOLS Admissions Phone: (800) 710-NOLS (6657) CANCELLATION POLICIES Fax: (307) 332-1220 For all semesters, academic years, and courses in India, if you can- Email: [email protected] cel or leave for any reason: Talk to a NOLS Alumni Rep: [email protected] • between 30 and 60 days from the course starting date, NOLS Hours: will retain 25 percent of the course tuition. Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Mountain Time • between 15 and 29 days from the course starting date, NOLS will retain 50 percent of the course tuition. Extended hours January 3–July 15: • less than 15 days prior to the course starting date or once the Monday–Thursday, 7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Mountain Time course has begun, there will be no refunds. Friday, 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Mountain Time

114 www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • [email protected] NOLS APPLICATION The easiest way to apply for a NOLS course is online at www.nols.edu. Or, fill out this application and fax or mail it along with the $65 non-refundable application fee. For more information about financial aid, please visit www.nols.edu/courses/financialaid. NAME First Last Middle Preferred Please check only one box indicating where you want your information sent: PERMANENT ADDRESS ❏ Send information to this address TEMPORARY ADDRESS ❏ Send information to this address

Street (include apt., box, etc.) Address good from: / / to: / /

City State/Province Zip/Postal Code Street (include apt., box, etc.)

Permanent Phone Number City State/Province Zip/Postal Code

Cell Phone Number Temporary Phone Number

E-mail address Birthdate / / Age Sex ❏F ❏M Height Weight Citizen of Names and ages of siblings ETHNIC ORIGIN (Optional. Your response will help us meet student needs more effectively.) U.S. citizens: ❏ American Indian or Alaska Native ❏ Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander ❏ Asian ❏ Black or African American ❏ Hispanic ❏ White ❏ Two or more races ❏ Other Non-U.S. citizens: Please specify your race/ethnicity HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT NOLS? ❏ NOLS Graduate (who?) ❏ NOLS Instructor (who?) ❏ NOLS Parent (who?) ❏ NOLS Staff (who?) ❏ Magazine/newspaper article ❏ Television program ❏ Educational consultant ❏ Outdoor retail store ❏ Conference/trade show ❏ School counselor or teacher ❏ Web search ❏ NOLS catalog ❏ Parent/friend EDUCATION AND WORK HISTORY Current or last school attended Are you currently enrolled ❏Yes ❏No If yes, estimated year of completion: Highest level completed (check one): ❏H.S. Diploma ❏B.A./B.S. ❏M.A./M.S. ❏Ph.D. Other Employer Title Industry

PARENT/LEGAL GUARDIAN INFORMATION (required for students age 25 or younger) ❏ Mother (Mrs.,Ms.,Dr.)or ❏ Legal Guardian 1 ❏ Father (Mr., Dr.) or ❏ Legal Guardian 2 ❏ Address is the same as the student’s permanent address. ❏ Address is the same as the student’s permanent address.

First name Last name Middle Initial First name Last name Middle Initial

Street (include apt., box, etc.) Street (include apt., box, etc.)

City State/Province Zip/Postal Code Country City State/Province Zip/Postal Code Country

Home Phone Number Work Phone Number Home Phone Number Work Phone Number

Cell Phone Number Cell Phone Number

E-mail E-mail

Employer Title Employer Title

COURSE REGISTRATION Have you applied for a NOLS course before? ❏ Yes ❏ No Course Course Date / / Indicate your course selections in order of preference. If available, we will enroll you in one of these. 1st Choice Course Title Start date 2nd Choice Course Title Start date 3rd Choice Course Title Start date Outdoor Educator Applicants: Are you currently employed, or are you seeking employment, in outdoor education? ❏ Yes ❏ No

(continued on the other side) 115 STUDENT QUESTIONNAIRE This questionnaire is designed to help you identify your reasons for electing to pursue a NOLS course, while providing us with an opportunity to get to know you better.

What has been your greatest success in the last six months?

A NOLS course is very physically demanding. Describe your regular physical activities or sports, including what types of exercise you do, how often and for how long. If you do not exercise regularly, tell us how you plan to prepare for your course.

A NOLS course requires that all participants commit physically, mentally, and emotionally to the success of the expedition. Identify an activity to which you have made a major commitment. Describe how you demonstrated that commitment.

PERSON TO NOTIFY IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY (required for all applicants) Name Phone Home Work Cell Address Street City State/Province Zip/Postal Code Country Relationship to applicant (check one): ❏ parent ❏ spouse ❏ other relative ❏ friend ❏ guardian ❏ employer ❏ partner I have read, understand, accept and agree to abide by the rules, policies and guidelines set forth in this catalog. I understand that the relationship between me and NOLS will be governed by the substantive laws of the State of Wyoming and any suit, mediation or arbitration of any dispute with NOLS must be filed exclusively in the State of Wyoming. I understand that I am not accepted on my course until all enrollment forms have been received and approved by the NOLS Admission Office. I give NOLS permission to share my contact information with other NOLS students or graduates and/or with environmental organizations or strategic partners in which NOLS graduates may be interested. I also give NOLS permission to use my name, contact information and picture in promotional materials and press releases. Signature of Applicant Date / / Signature of Parent or Guardian is also required, to reflect agreement, if applicant is under 18 years of age: Date / /

Applications without the application fee will not be processed. Complete the credit card information below or attach the $65 application fee, payable to NOLS, to the front of application and forward to:

NOLS Admission Office 284 Lincoln Street Lander, WY 82520-2848 (800) 710-NOLS (6657) [email protected] NOLS also accepts applications by fax: (307) 332-1220 If faxing, the application fee must be paid by credit card. Please charge my application fee to my ❏ VISA ❏ MasterCard

Name on card: Expiration Date: Signature: Catalog 2011

Account number: WE WROTE THE BOOKS ON WILDERNESS EDUCATION

NOLS Bear Essentials: NOLS River Rescue: NOLS Cookery: Bear Essentials River Rescue COOKERY Hiking and Camping in Bear Country Hiking and Camping Essential Skills for Boaters Essential Skills NATIONAL OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP SCHOOL Field Edition Field Edition NEW in Bear Country NEW for Boaters NEW Edited by Claudia Pearson By John Gookin and Tom By Nate Ostis $19.95, 4” x 6”, 96 pages Reed, $9.95, 4” x 6”, 84 pages $9.95, 4” x 6”, 106 pages waterproof, spiral-bound 1st edition © 2009 NOLS 1st edition © 2010 NOLS © 2010 NOLS Published by Stackpole Books Published by Stackpole Books Published by Stackpole Books

John Gookin and Tom Reed Nate Ostis Edited by Claudia Pearson

NOLS students beneﬁt from over 45 years of curriculum innovation, but you don’t have to spend 30 days in the backcountry to get a taste of NOLS expertise. Our library of wilderness books contains titles ranging from wildland ethics to wilderness medicine.

Used in university classrooms and an essential part of any outdoor book collection, NOLS titles represent the cutting edge in outdoor literature.

The textbooks of wilderness skills from the leader in wilderness education. Available at www.nols.edu/store or your local bookseller.

NOLS Library of Wilderness Skills: WMI Titles: The National Outdoor Leadership School’s Backcountry First Aid and Extended Care Wilderness Guide Wilderness First Responder Textbook NOLS Wilderness Medicine New NOLS Titles Coming Soon: NOLS Wilderness Mountaineering NOLS Expedition Planning NOLS Soft Paths: How to Enjoy the Wilderness Without Harming It NOLS Mountain Weather NOLS Cookery NOLS Wilderness Ethics: Valuing and Managing Wild Places NOLS Wilderness Navigation NOLS Winter Camping NOLS Wilderness Wisdom NOLS Backcountry Cooking: Creative Menu Planning for Short Trips NOLS Backcountry Nutrition: Eating Beyond the Basics Fredrik Norrsell The National Outdoor Leadership School 284 Lincoln Street Lander, Wyoming 82520-2848 www.nols.edu | [email protected] Phone: (800) 710-NOLS | Fax: (307) 332-1220

EDUCATIONAL MEMBER H AINLOTORLAESI COL 2011 COURSE CATALOG • THE NATIONAL OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP SCHOOL

www.adventurecollection.com

Expedition leadership means setting goals, planning, teamwork, and achievement. It’s a model that works everywhere, from the classroom to the boardroom. Tolerance for adversity, vision and action, expedition behavior: These are some of the NOLS skills you’ll master as you become a leader. Other programs talk about leadership. At NOLS, you’ll do it! (800) 710-NOLS • www.nols.edu