Founded in 1965 by legendary mountaineer Paul Petzoldt, NOLS--a 501(c)(3) not for profit educational institution--takes people of all ages on remote wilderness expeditions, teaching technical outdoor skills, leadership, and environmental ethics in some of the world’s wildest and most awe-inspiring classrooms. What NOLS teaches cannot be learned in a classroom or on a city street. It takes practice to learn outdoor skills and time to develop leadership. The wilderness provides the ideal setting for this unique education.

With courses ranging from 10 days to a full academic year, we attract highly motivated students who want to learn how to lead. Our hands on, learn-by-doing approach means that our graduates get the skills they need to be competent, responsible wilderness travelers long after their course is over.

Explore NOLS: Our Mission and Values Expedition Leadership at NOLS History of NOLS Alumni and staff profiles Partnerships including Preferred Retailers What is NOLS-fun? Events calendar NOLS Strategic Plan 2009 State of the School Report (pdf)