New England Outdoor School

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Activities

• Snowsports
• Climbing
• Paddling
• Cycling
• Navigation
• Hiking and More
• Outdoor Photography

Snowsports

Introduction to Snowshoeing (Outing)

Ready to head out and enjoy the outdoors in winter? Afraid of being too cold on the trail? Snowshoeing is an aerobic activity that will keep you warm and give you a new way to appreciate the outdoors in winter! Join our REI Outdoor School Instructors as they teach you how to properly size and fit snowshoes. After that, it’s out for our snowshoe hike where you’ll learn techniques such as ascending and descending, breaking trail and edging. Snowshoeing is a great sport for the whole family. We provide the snowshoes—you bring your sense of adventure and join us for a great winter wonderland hike! Trip operates rain or shine unless conditions are unsafe. (If there’s no snow, we’ll head out for a mid-winter hike to explore the area.)

Introduction to Cross-Country Skiing (Outing)

Come find out how to participate in this popular winter sport! Our REI Outdoor School instructors will take you out and show you the basics of starting, stopping, turning and gliding across a fresh blanket of snow on cross-country skis. After our skill-building session, we’ll go out on the trail to practice our new found skills and discover a great way to get outside in the winter! Cross-country skis are not provided; however, they are available for rent at the following REI locations: Reading, Framingham and Boston.

Cross Country Ski Touring (Outing)

Have you learned how to cross country ski, but aren't comfortable venturing out on your own yet? Has it been a while since you were on skis and feel a little shaky going down hills? Join us as our experienced instructors take you on a cross country ski tour thorugh varied terrain in beautiful Western Massachusetts.

Climbing

Rock Climbing Basics (Class)

Learn the basics of climbing in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. This limited-enrollment class will include an overview of the dynamic sport of climbing as well as individualized instruction. All gear provided.

Introduction to Outdoor Rock Climbing (Outing)

Come learn the basics of vertical climbing in a natural setting. We’ll focus on building solid fundamental skills such as belaying, crack climbing technique, face climbing technique and maneuvering through the "crux" (most difficult section) of a climb. If you’ve only climbed inside or you are looking to explore climbing for the first time, this is your opportunity to practice with professional rock climbing instructors. We provide harnesses, helmets and all the necessary gear for you to try out this fun and challenging sport! Recommended for those 14 and older; those under 18 must be accompanied by parent or responsible adult.

Intermediate Outdoor Rock Climbing (Outing)

Take the next step into anchor building, rappelling, and lead climbing with the REI Outdoor School. When completed, you will have the confidence and skills you need to venture forth on your own, whether sport climbing, bouldering or traditional climbing. Prior completion of Introduction to Outdoor Rock Climbing or Rock Climbing Basics recommended.

Climbing Techniques Practice (Outing)

Do you know the basics of climbing but want to improve your technique? Join one of our professional climbing instructors for a small group coaching session and take your climbing to the next level! This course is for people who have learned belaying and basic climbing movement and would like some more time to practice your skills.

Climbing Self-Rescue (Class)

Join our REI rock climbing instructors to learn self-rescue skills no climber should be without. Learn how to get yourself out of tricky situations and also offer help to others when professional assistance is unavailable. This class discusses belay escape methods, ascending to aid an injured climber, and assisting a partner form above. Please bring your own harness, carabiner and belay device. Practicing with your own equipment will better prepare you for “real world” conditions. (If you don’t have your own gear, REI Outdoor School can provide equipment.) All REI rock climbing courses are taught by professional, dedicated climbing instructors.

Climbing Anchors Concepts (Outing)

Learn the basics of building climbing anchor systems. We will cover climbing gear, knots, evaluation and use of natural and fixed protection, and equalizing the forces on the anchor. Traditional climbing gear use is covered in Artificial Climbing Anchors. This is a hands on program where you will build climbing anchors.

Paddling

Basic Kayak Navigation & Trip Planning (Class)

An REI Outdoor School instructor will teach you the basics of kayak navigation. You’ll learn how to read a tide/current log, read nautical charts, plot courses across shipping lanes, and plan your first trip.

Kayak Basics (Class)

There are few better ways to spend a couple hours or a full day for that matter, than in a kayak moving over water. Think portable fun with which you can explore a favorite or soon to be favorite spot. An experienced Instructor will share information about kayaking and recreational kayaks. You will eave knowing which type of kayak, paddle and PFD will best fit your needs, as well as, the skinny on local paddling destinations.

Kayaking: Level 1 (Outing)

New to kayaking? Join us for on-the-water instruction. Lessons cover proper gear selection and fit, boat control, basic safety skills and correct paddling techniques, with the intent of progressing toward kayaking on your own. Then we’ll head out on the water to practice these new skills. Kayak, paddle and PFD (personal flotation device) are provided. Recommended for those 14 and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.

Paddle Strokes Practice (Outing)

Have you learned to kayak but still get fatigued while paddling? This personalized coaching session is for kayakers who have learned the basic strokes - forward, reverse, sweep, draw - but need more practice engaging and rotating those stronger core muscles. You'll learn to maximize torso rotation and stroke efficiency so you can enjoy longer, less fatiguing days on the water.

Kayaking: Level 2 (Outing)

This class expands on the skills learned in our Kayaking: Level 1 class. Gain more advanced paddling skills in touring-style kayaks. In this on-the-water class we will expand on paddle strokes and boat handling skills and we'll teach self-rescue techniques where you will get to practice safe methods of exiting your boat in a capsize, re-entering your kayak with a paddle float, and pumping it dry with a bilge pump. These recovery skills and the safety gear you learn to use are essential to paddling safely on large bodies of water. All kayaks, PFDs, paddles, and rescue equipment provided.

Paddle Float Re-Entry Practice (Outing)

How long has it been since you practiced your Paddle Float Re-entry? This personalized coaching session is for kayakers who have learned the Paddle Float Re-entry, but need more practice before mastering this valuable skill. Your instructor will guide each member through re-entry practices, and may also address the T-Rescue if time and interest permit.

Cycling

Introduction to Road Cycling (Outing)

Experience the rush of road cycling with our instructors as they teach you the proper techniques of shifting, braking, efficient hill climbing, safe descending, proper body position, and reading the road for safety. This is an educational ride, not a guided tour; we want to teach you how to get more out of your cycling experience. This class is designed for folks getting back into cycling and beginners alike. We’ll start by addressing proper bike fit, making necessary adjustments to improve comfort and performance. Next we’ll demonstrate riding techniques and teach important communication and safety skills to prepare you for the ride. Then it’s off for a great ride to practice what we've learned! New Novara road bikes provided at no extra cost for those without a bike of their own. NO RIDER IS LEFT BEHIND! Please bring your helmet and proper riding apparel. Recommended for those 14 and older; those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.

Introduction to Mountain Biking (Outing)

Experience the thrill of mountain biking with our instructors as they teach you the proper techniques of shifting, braking, hill climbing and descent, body and pedal position, and navigating minor obstacles on the trail. This is designed as an educational ride, not a guided tour; we want to teach you how to get more out of your mountain biking experience. We’ll start by addressing proper bike fit, making necessary adjustments to improve comfort and performance. Next we’ll demonstrate riding techniques and teach important communication and safety skills to prepare you for the ride. We’ll teach you the trail etiquette techniques that mountain bikers can use to help keep trails open and safe for all trail users. Then it’s off for a great ride to practice all the skills you’ve learned. Novara mountain bikes provided at no additional cost for those without a bike of their own. Recommended for those 14 and older; those under 18 must be accompanied by parent or responsible adult.  NO RIDER IS LEFT BEHIND!

Navigation

Map & Compass Basics (Class)

Have you been carrying a compass for years and never actually known how to use it? For anyone heading to the outdoors, map and compass skills are essential to navigating safely. Join our Outdoor School Instructors for a class on learning to use a compass and read a map to help you find your way in the wilderness. Our Instructor will teach you all the parts of a compass and how to choose a style that works for you. We’ll talk about magnetic north, true north, and magnetic variation (declination), and help you make sense of it all. Then you’ll learn how to take a bearing, both in the field and projected onto a map, so you can learn how to triangulate your position and plan a route. Speaking of maps, what do all those squiggly lines mean? We’ll also discuss topographic maps and how to read them to understand your terrain. Join us for an optional Map & Compass outing to put your new knowledge into practice.

Introduction to Map & Compass (Outing)

Join us for an instructional trip to learn how to use a compass and read a map to truly find your way in the wilderness. We'll teach you the parts of a compass and how to make use of them. We'll talk about magnetic north, true north, and magnetic variation (declination), and help you make sense of it all. Then we'll learn how to take a bearing from the terrain, and from your map, so you can triangulate your position and plan a route. Speaking of maps, what do all those squiggly lines mean? We'll look at topographic maps and learn how to read them to understand your terrain. We'll also discuss strategies such as using "handrails" for "aiming off' to improve the accuracy of your backcountry navigation. Map and Compass Basics Class is recommended (but not mandatory) to get the most from this outing.

Geocaching Basics (Class)

Come learn about the sport of Geocaching, the exciting, Internet-based hide-and-seek game that's growing by leaps and bounds across the country! Learn strategies for finding a cache as well as how to hide one yourself using a GPS receiver.

GPS Basics (Class)

Join an REI Outdoor School instructors as they lead you through the basics of GPS navigation. Learn how to use your pocket-sized navigator to pinpoint your location, mark waypoints, plot courses, and create routes. As the Instructor reviews the features to consider when choosing a receiver, they will introduce you to some of the fun and practical applications of using a GPS unit in your outdoor activities. At the end of the session, you will get hands-on experience outdoors with a GPS. If you own a GPS unit, please bring it to the class. Some demo GPS units will also be available.

Introduction to GPS Navigation (Outing)

Are you tired of getting lost on the trail? Learn the latest GPS navigation techniques to keep you headed in the right direction. Head out into the field for a day of hands-on navigation training with our expert Outdoor School instructors. You’ll practice pinpointing your location, projecting waypoints, plotting courses and creating routes out on the trail, so that you can successfully navigate through local parks and your favorite backcountry destinations. Learn to transfer information from the GPS to your map and from the map to the GPS. We will even show you how to utilize your GPS to give you driving directions to your destination (not all units have this ability). If you own a GPS unit, please bring it to get detailed instruction on its features. Demo GPS receivers will be available, as well as maps and compasses, as we enjoy a scenic hike through a local park. This class will provide an overview of the different techniques needed to fully utilize your GPS receiver. GPS Basics is recommended but not mandatory to get the most out of this outing.

Hiking and More

Family Hiking (Outing)

This easy excursion will introduce your kids to exploring the outdoors and will leave them wanting more. Join our REI Outdoor School instructors on a kid friendly hike in a local park to discuss tips and tricks for planning family trips into the outdoors. Learn how to pick a good trail and how to keep the kids interested and happy on the hike. A kid-specific version of Leave No Trace principles will be taught to emphasize good habits in the outdoors. The instructor will tailor the class to your family’s needs. Kids need to be old enough to hike or be carried. Bring your child carrier backpack if needed.

Backcountry Cooking (Outing)

Heading out for your first camping trip and not sure what to eat? Tired of always eating the same old camp food? In this hands-on field seminar, our REI Outdoor School instructors teach you how to build a proper camp kitchen, design a menu, and prepare easy, nutritious and tasty meals that will delight your campers and elevate your wilderness experiences! Learn about proper food handling and sanitation techniques and tips on preparing and storing your food to minimize clean-up. You'll also learn all about what stove and fuel types are best for your needs, and then get to prepare and cook your own shared meals on a variety of stoves. We'll be preparing ultra-convenient freeze-dried meals, along with some of our favorite camp recipes from a mix of dried and fresh ingredients that are sure to please! All stoves and kitchen materials, along with all food ingredients provided (options for both vegetarians and meat eaters).

Essential Camping Skills (Outing)

Camping is the foundation of most of our outdoor activities. No matter what sport you pursue, it all comes back to a pack, stove, tent and warm sleeping bag. Join the REI Outdoor School instructors as we teach you how to make a comfortable home for yourself in the wild. We will leave the trailhead for a day hike with all our gear until we find that little patch of ground we can call home. Then, we will set up a model campsite using proper Leave-No-Trace skills. Our instructors will show you where to position your kitchen area, your “bathroom facilities", and your tent site for maximum safety and comfort. Food storage and wildlife safety will also be covered. Our goal is to teach practical camping skills for use in every situation from car camping to long-distance backpacking.

Outdoor Photography

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Basic Wildflower and Macro Photography (Class)

This introductory class will teach you the exposure techniques and composition tips needed to capture the minute details of macro (close-up) photography that are so often lost in typical photography. Join us on an optional field trip to practice what you’ve learned. Please bring your digital camera and owner’s manual to the class. Since we will be discussing macro mode, make sure your camera has that capability: most compact digitals will have a macro mode and will display a flower icon, while digital SLR cameras must have a separate macro lens.

Wildflower and Macro Photography (Outing)

Spend a day in the field under the watchful eye of a pro to learn and practice exposure and composition techniques inherent to macro (close-up) photography. Begin to effectively capture the intimate, finely detailed beauty of wildflowers, plants and trees that is best captured with a macro lens. Please bring your digital camera and owner’s manual, as well as extra batteries and memory. Since we will be shooting in macro mode, make sure your camera has that capability: most compact digitals will have a macro mode and will display a flower icon, while digital SLR cameras must have a separate macro lens.