Wilderness First Responder (WFR)

Train for Real Emergencies in Real Conditions

Our immersive 9-10 day WFR certification course prepares you to make critical medical decisions when help is hours — or days — away. From day one, you’ll train outdoors in all weather conditions, building the hands-on skills and confidence needed to manage medical emergencies in remote environments.

Whether you’re pursuing a career as a professional guide, leading backcountry expeditions, or joining a search and rescue team, NOLS’ wilderness first responder certification courses remain the industry standard for wilderness medicine training, trusted by outdoor professionals worldwide.

What to Expect From Your NOLS WFR Course

This 10-day WFR training course offers you a dynamic blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical skills development. You will receive in-depth wilderness-based experiential education that goes beyond conventional medical training, targeting those moments when immediate medical care is hampered by distance or unreliable communication.

You’ll learn the full scope of backcountry medical care, including:

Patient Assessment

• Perform thorough physical examinations
• Gather critical patient history
• Monitor and interpret vital signs over extended timeframes

Emergency Medical Care

• Administer emergency treatments for trauma and medical illness
• Manage wounds, burns, and environmental injuries
• Reduce dislocations and stabilize musculoskeletal injuries

Long-Term Patient Management

• Provide extended care when evacuation is delayed
• Make sound evacuation decisions based on patient condition and resources
• Apply selective spine immobilization protocols

Technical Skills

• Package patients for litter evacuation
• Administer epinephrine via auto-injector
• Perform adult, child, and infant CPR and airway management

WFR Course Format

This WFR certification course offers sessions that run for 9 consecutive days or 10 days with a rest day on day 6, both totaling 9 days of intensive, experiential training.

• Daily Schedule: 8am-5pm with two additional evening sessions
• Training Environment: Outdoor scenarios conducted in all weather conditions — because real emergencies don’t wait for clear skies.
• Learning Approach: Hands-on practice from the first day. You’ll work through realistic rescue scenarios, treat simulated patients, and apply skills immediately as you learn them.
• Evaluation: Written examination and practical skills assessments ensure you’re fully prepared to respond in the field.

Upon Completion: Certifications Earned

Upon successful completion, you will earn the following certifications along with the confidence to tackle medical emergencies, make critical evacuation decisions, and offer reassurance and guidance when it’s needed most:

• Wilderness First Responder (WFR) Certification
• Adult/Child/Infant CPR & Airway Management Certification
• Epinephrine Auto-Injector Certification

How long does WFR certification last?

Your wilderness first responder certification remains valid for two years. NOLS offers recertification courses to maintain your credentials.

Who is this WFR Course for?

Whether you’re a seasoned wilderness enthusiast, a dedicated outdoor educator, or an aspiring wilderness guide, this WFR course is designed to empower you with the experience and practical skills required to stay calm and responsive in a variety of austere settings.

The NOLS WFR is ideal for:

• Professional guides and outfitters seeking the credential employers require
• Search and rescue team members who respond to backcountry emergencies
• Outdoor educators and trip leaders responsible for group safety in remote settings
• Expedition members traveling to areas with limited medical access
• Serious backcountry travelers who want comprehensive emergency response skills

Embark on this transformative journey, where medical knowledge, outdoor practicality, and leadership development converge. Prepare to be challenged and inspired, gaining the tools to be a confident and competent wilderness first responder.

NOLS Wilderness Medicine has trained over 300,000 students. Join us and become a part of a community dedicated to the well-being of individuals venturing into the great outdoors!

The outdoor portions of our courses take place regardless of weather, so come prepared for wet, muddy, cold, or hot environments!

Course Policies
Please review our policies including cancellation policies, attendance requirements, minimum age requirements, and more.