This course is offered sliding scale $850-$950. Please choose the option that best meets your financial needs. If you have any questions, reach out to info@riseoutside.org.

Winter Skills Crash Course - January 23rd-27th, 2026

Come hang out with us in the Adirondacks! This Winter Skills Crash Course (January 23rd-27th, 2025), will give you all of the tools you need to start enjoying the backcountry in winter on your own. We will spend time building community together, camping in the beautiful Adirondack mountains, and learning skills to become more proficient in the backcountry, in winter. On this course, you can expect to:

  • meet and connect with amazing people

  • understand the process of planning and executing a wilderness trip in the winter from top to bottom, including the use of trip planning documents and checklists,

  • learn backcountry trip skills, including: snowshoe movement, self arrest, snow assessment, pulling a pulk, setting up a winter campsite, first aid, and staying safe, warm and comfortable in a winter setting

  • experience the magic of the Adirondacks in winter

  • and to leave the experience feeling fully prepared to plan and go out on your own wilderness trip in winter!

This program is open to those from underrepresented communities interested in building community and expanding backpacking skills. Camping gear and food included in the price of the trip

Itenirary

  • Day 1: Meet in the Adirondacks, go over skills, prep for our backcountry hut adventure!

  • Day 2: Travel to the backcountry hut while pulling our gear in a pulk

  • Day 3: Leave the backcountry hut and head to the Adirondack Loj. Get ready for our big camping adventure!

  • Day 4: Hike out to Marcy damn and spend the night under the stars! Learn winter camping skills and enjoy time in community.

  • Day 5: Pack up camp, head out, and have a celebratory meal together!

Provided Gear

  • Communal cooking equipment, food, and seasoning,

  • First aid,

  • Tents,

  • Sleeping bags,

  • Sleeping pads,

  • Snowshoes

Not included

  • Personal gear/clothing (we will send out a packing list ahead of time)

  • Personal snacks

  • Transportation (although we will set up a carpool list to support folks with this)

  • Gratuities for your guides