San Francisco Bay Area Outdoor School

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Activities

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

Hiking and More

Family Hiking (Outing)

This easy excursion will introduce your kids to outdoor activity and leave them wanting more. Join our REI Outdoor School instructor 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. Instructor will tailor the class to your family’s needs. Kids need to be old enough to hike or to be carried. Bring your child carrier backpack if needed.

Overnight Backpacking (Outing)

Make the leap from car camping to backpacking. Join our instructors on an overnight trip to a local backpacking camp. The South Bay trip focuses on backpacking for the whole family, while the North Bay trip focuses on backcountry navigation principles. You’ll learn camp skills such as proper campsite selection, camp cooking, and Leave No Trace camp etiquette. The instructors will also help you understand the best backpacking equipment for your needs to maximize your comfort and fun. Price includes over $90 in REI rental gear, plus all meals.

Backcountry Cooking (Outing)

Tired of always eating the same old camp food? Heading out for your first camping or hiking trips and not sure what to pack? In this hands-on field seminar, REI Outdoor School instructors will teach you how to build a safe, efficient camp kitchen, design a menu, and prepare nutritious, 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. We will discuss what stove and fuel types are best for your needs, then we will prepare and cook a shared meal on a variety of MSR stoves. We’ll be sampling ultra-convenient freeze-dried meals, along with some of our staff’s favorite camp recipes from a mix of dried and fresh ingredients that are sure to please! All stoves, kitchen materials, and food ingredients provided (with options for both vegetarians and meat eaters.)

Hiking with Dogs (Outing)

You and other dog owners will embark on an afternoon hike through the hills. Along the way, you’ll learn trail etiquette, ways to avoid distractions, doggy social skills and basic dog safety. Only one dog (people- and dog-friendly) per person; please make sure your pup’s vaccinations are up to date. Bring a leash and your dog’s favorite treats as a training aid.

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. Complimentary Tide & Current Log included.

Kayaking: Level 1 (Outing)

Tired of watching from shore as kayakers glide over the water? Now's the time to join us for an on-the-water class designed to teach you the basics of paddling touring-style kayaks. We'll discuss gear selection, proper fit of boat cockpit and gear, and basic safety skills. Then we'll head out on the water to learn and practice the forward, sweep, reverse and draw stroke techniques so you can get your boat to go where you want it to. Come join us and expand your outdoor destinations to include the open water! Kayaks, PFDs (life vests), paddles, and all accessories are provided. Recommended for those 14 and older; those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.

Kayaking: Level 2 (Outing)

This class expands on the skills learned in our Kayak Touring: 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.

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.

Climbing Anchors (Outing)

Learn the basics of placing traditional climbing gear and building top rope anchor systems. We will cover site evaluation, natural anchor selection, and equalizing the forces on the anchor. All gear will be provided by REI outdoor school. This outing will focus on construction and assessment of different anchor types not on climbing movement.

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.

Cycling

How to Ride a Bike (Outing)

If you feel shaky on two wheels, this is the class for you. Our trained instructors will patiently teach you the basic skills of riding a bike, including how to balance, how to adjust the bike to your size, and how to shift and brake. We’ll also teach you how to fall off your bike effectively. This outing can help prepare you for our Introduction to Mountain Biking and Introduction to Road Cycling instructional outings. We provide bikes, but be sure to bring your own helmet. Under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult. Children must provide their own bicycles. Minimum age is 12.

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 Road Cycling – Women Only (Outing)

Focus on techniques to make you a stronger rider and give you the confidence and basic skills you need to ride on your own. Led by women, this outing will cover mounting & dismounting, ascending & descending hills, bike fit and choosing lines. You’ll also learn about women specific equipment selection, basic bike control, and group riding skills. Our instructors will also address unique issues and opportunities in women’s road cycling too! Novara bikes are provided for those without a bike of their own (at no extra cost).  Recommended for those 14 and older; those under 18 must be accompanied by parent or responsible adult. NO RIDER IS LEFT BEHIND!

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!

Introduction to Mountain Biking – Women Only (Outing)

Led by women for women, this outing teaches techniques that will make you a stronger rider and give you the confidence and basic skills you need to ride on your own. Skills covered include mounting and dismounting, ascending and descending hills, fit, trail etiquette, choosing lines and negotiating minor obstacles (roots, rocks, etc.) We’ll also cover women’s specific equipment selection, basic bike handling and terrain skills. Novara mountain bikes are provided for those without a bike of their own at no extra cost. Please bring your helmet and proper riding apparel. 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.

GPS Basics (Class)

Join an REI Outdoor School Instructor 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. Learn about using online maps and transferring route and waypoint information to the GPS. 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.

Advanced GPS: Using Computers and Maps (Class)

Learn about the online tools available for GPS users. Working with various software tools, you’ll learn how to load maps and waypoints, create a trip and download it to a GPS. This class is a must for all GPS users wanting to integrate interactive mapping software to improve their trip planning!

Backcountry Navigation for GPS (Class)

Learn how a GPS can assist you on your next backcountry adventure. The GPS’s ability to pinpoint your present location and provide a bearing and distance to your destination can simplify your trip. We’ll use topographic maps and GPS units (provided) to learn real-world navigation through challenging terrain. If you own a GPS, bring it with you along with your owner’s manual.

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 Navigation Class is recommended but not mandatory to get the most out of this class.

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. For additional information on this family activity, check out www.Geocaching.com and www.thegba.net (Geocachers of the Bay Area, a local organization).

Introduction to Geocaching (Outing)

Young and old alike can enjoy this modern-day game of “hide and seek" using GPS coordinates for clues. You’ll get to spend a day outside with experienced instructors while we find local geocaches. You’ll also learn how to use a GPS unit, including creating waypoints, plotting a course and transferring route information from a map to a GPS. After this day of exploration, you’ll be ready to go off on your own, exploring the globe for hidden caches. For additional information, check out www.Geocaching.com and www.thegba.net (Geocachers of the Bay Area, a local organization).

Outdoor Photography

Basic Composition Techniques (Class)

Join our REI Outdoor School instructor as we teach techniques enabling you to turn everyday snapshots into beautiful compositions. You will learn to see beyond your primary subject so that everything in the frame improves the image. We will analyze numerous photographs as we discuss composition techniques including eliminating distractions, utilizing human subjects, and using leading lines and the Rule of Thirds to create more dynamic images. Begin to shoot with an eye that draws the viewer's attention into a vibrant and stimulating photograph.

Introduction to Composition and Technique (Outing)

Cameras don’t take pictures, people do. But cameras are not always easy to understand. Learn more about your camera and how to make ordinary subjects extraordinary. REI Outdoor School instructors and photographers will introduce composition techniques and demystify some camera functions. Learn how to eliminate distractions, use line and texture and the Rule of Thirds to create more dynamic images. Begin to see beyond your primary subject so that every feature in the frame improves the image and draws the viewer’s attention into a vibrant and stimulating photograph. This trip is open to digital and film photographers of all experience levels.

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.