Manya Gordon
Get ready for a fun and transformative adventure through Wyoming’s stunning Wind River Mountains! Over 30 days, you’ll challenge yourself, build valuable leadership skills, and explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the U.S. From hiking glacial valleys to summiting alpine peaks, this expedition is the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and personal growth.
Photo credit: Rachel Gold
The Wind River wilderness isn’t just an amazing place to explore—it’s the perfect setting for developing your leadership abilities. This course is designed to help you step outside your comfort zone while building confidence, resilience, and practical outdoor skills. Whether leading a group on mountain passes or learning to handle challenging weather, you’ll develop strong decision-making, communication, and problem-solving skills that will serve you long after the trip. With hands-on experience and expert guidance, you’ll better understand yourself and the world around you. It’s also a rare opportunity to disconnect from technology.
Looking for an adventure that offers both excitement and self-discovery? The Wind River Range has it all. On this 60+ mile journey through wild terrain, you’ll experience everything from dense forests and alpine lakes to towering peaks and wide-open valleys. During the day, you and your coursemates will choose routes through glacial passes, cross high alpine meadows, and camp in remote places. With the unpredictable weather and rugged environment, every day will bring something new—and give you the chance to grow in a way you’ve never imagined.
This NOLS expedition is a comprehensive course that blends technical wilderness training with leadership development. You’ll emerge with the skills and confidence to tackle any challenge, both in the wilderness and in your personal and professional life. Here’s what you can expect to learn:
Wilderness Navigation: Master map and compass skills, read terrain, and understand navigation techniques essential for backcountry travel.
Backcountry Skills: Gain proficiency in advanced camping, cooking, and safety protocols, including wilderness medicine and Leave No Trace principles.
Leadership Development: Learn to lead a team, communicate effectively, and make decisions in dynamic environments. Experience hands-on leadership opportunities through group travel and expedition planning.
Risk Management: Develop judgment in assessing hazards, managing risk, and keeping your team safe in challenging and remote environments.
Teamwork & Problem-Solving: Sharpen your ability to collaborate in a team, resolve conflicts, and maintain morale under challenging conditions.
Photo credit: PJ Duffy
This course is structured to balance skill-building with leadership practice. Here’s an overview of what your 30 days will look like:
Day 1: Arrive at the NOLS campus in Lander, Wyoming, for a gear check, course orientation, and introduction to wilderness risk management.
Days 2–5: Begin learning foundational skills, including navigation, cooking, and camp setup. Explore the basics of wilderness medicine and teamwork.
Days 6–15: Expect to hike challenging terrain, develop navigation skills, and start practicing leadership in the field. Each day will focus on practical skills development and leadership exercises.
Days 16–25: Take on more independent travel as your group leads expeditions through increasingly difficult terrain. Your leadership and decision-making abilities will be tested as you navigate glacial valleys and alpine peaks.
Days 26–30: Refine your skills and prepare for the course debrief, focusing on leadership reflection, personal growth, and applying what you've learned to your future adventures and career.
Photo credit: Rachel Gold
The Wind River wilderness is as beautiful as it is inspiring. Along the way, you’ll encounter physical and mental challenges that will encourage you to grow and discover new strengths within yourself.
Unpredictable Weather: Weather conditions can change rapidly, from sunny skies to snowstorms or high winds. Learning to adapt to these fluctuations is key to becoming an effective leader.
Physical Demands: The course includes long days of hiking and carrying a heavy pack over rugged terrain. Expect to push your endurance and develop the resilience to endure tough times.
Group Dynamics: Traveling and living with a small group for 30 days requires strong communication, patience, and empathy. As you support one another through the expedition, you'll develop skills in leadership and teamwork.
Wildlife Encounters: From black bears to elusive moose, the wilderness offers opportunities for wildlife encounters. Learn to coexist with wildlife while respecting their space and habitat safely.
Overcoming these challenges will empower you to emerge as a more confident, capable leader with the skills to succeed in any environment.
When you complete the Wind River Wilderness Expedition, you'll join the global network of NOLS alumni—leaders who are making an impact in outdoor education, environmental stewardship, and beyond. You’ll gain lifelong skills, valuable connections, and a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you. Ready to embrace the challenge? Sign up today and transform how you see the world—and yourself—through the NOLS Wind River Wilderness Expedition.
“On top of Wind River Peak; Well aware of where I stood, I realized I had the power to accomplish extraordinary things and affect the world around me, and this realization ignited a confidence that stands strong today. NOLS gave me so much confidence in who I am and what I can do. My limits have stretched a vast degree and I have realized I have greater potential than I may give myself credit for.”
