Hi Guarav! Glad to hear you have participated in some of the great trips that we offer, and that they have inspired some bigger goals for you! I have taken the Wilderness First Responder course through NOLS, and feel like this is a great step for any outdoor enthusiast. The knowledge gained in that program can help you recreate more responsibly, and troubleshoot any unforeseen injuries that happen in the backcountry. These courses sometimes are taught by experienced guides who know any use these skills! It's an intense educational setting, with a lot of info over a short amount of time - but the bonus is you are surrounded by likeminded individuals and great opportunity to network! I made a vacation out of the experience by picking a destination-based location - the course was based in Wyoming, and I spent the following week backpacking in the Bighorn National Forest. It was a super fun getaway! I have heard through folks who have taken them, that the longer field-based programs hosted by NOLS and Outward Bound are super immersive, educational, and life changing! If you're interested in more self-study and exploration of skills, I'd recommend looking into some Wilderness Risk Management info, as well! Kindly, Dave ... View more

Hi @Joe  Thank you for attending the Oboz virtual event today, glad to hear you enjoyed! They certainly covered a lot of information in a short amount of time. To address your question about managing calluses while hiking, and in relation to your footwear – you may be able to follow some of the same principles as advised in blister treatment & prevention. Check out the REI Expert Advice article on Blister Care & Prevention To highlight a few key points that I think may serve the topic at foot (<--pardon the pun), try these: Tape: Studies suggest that inexpensive “tear-to-size” paper surgeon’s tape is effective and has a gentle adhesive; kinetic tapes also work very well; cloth and synthetic medical tapes are additional options, as is duct tape in a pinch. Blister bandages with pads and gels: Products like 2nd Skin can be used on both hot spots for prevention and for blister treatment. Reducing as much friction as possible will be helpful in this situation, which can be achieved by having a proper boot/shoe fitting done at an REI store to make sure you have the right footwear for your need, and getting hiking socks that are moisture wicking (maybe liners too? Total preference-based option). Since you’re an Oboz fan, it’s likely that you’ve gone through some of these steps! I also tossed this question over to our friends over at Oboz, and will see what sort of advice they send back. I’ll be sure to follow-up! If this goes beyond the purview of a proper boot-fit and hiking gear, it may be worth seeing a medical professional if the problem persists and prevents you from doing what you love! Hope you have some great Autumn hikes coming up soon! ... View more

Hey @jbomforman! As @REI-JenK mentioned there are some truly remarkable places to backpack in WA state. The answer to your question will vary on your level of experience and interest in some colder season hiking. There will undoubtedly be precipitation - be it snow at higher elevations or rain in most parts of the state. This article by the Washington Trails Association: 13 Winter Backpacking Destinations  has some really good suggestions. If you want to stick to the lower elevations to (potentially) avoid snow - check out some of the classics on the Olympic Peninsula, such as Shi Shi Beach and Cape Alava Loop (AKA the Ozette Triangle).  Having quality rain gear and warm layers is a must! We have great Virtual Outfitters if you need some tips and suggestions for layering systems and beyond. Glad to answer more questions that you might have, and happy that you're looking to explore some of the gems of the PNW! ... View more