REI Outdoor School
REI's Outdoor School provides one and two-day educational experiences designed to make it easy for our customers and members to learn the necessary skills to recreate outside. The REI Outdoor School provides equipment and transportation to local parks, and professional instruction. In-store classes, one-day outings and overnight courses are offered in a wide range of interests to anyone wishing to learn a new activity or brush up on existing skills. Course offerings include mountain biking, rock climbing, road cycling, kayaking, hiking, family outings, outdoor photography, navigation and more. Classes and outings are available for a nominal fee, with REI co-op members receiving discounts.
Launched in 2006 in five REI markets, the co-op's Outdoor School program was expanded to seven markets in 2007. Today, Outdoor School operates year-round in:
- Massachusetts and Rhode Island
- Greater Los Angeles (Orange County/Inland Empire)
- Philadelphia and New Jersey
- Sacramento and Reno
- San Diego
- San Francisco Bay-area
- Washington DC and Baltimore, MD
In 2007 the program reached 9,529 participants — more than double the attendance from the previous year.
In the coming year, we are focused on expanding Outdoor School to include a wider range of year-round offerings in each of the markets, including "How to Ride a Bike," "Introduction to Overnight Backpacking," and "Rock Climbing." In addition, we will expand our offerings to several new stores in regions where we currently operate.
REI Outdoor School (individuals)
