Mountaineering

Learn rock climbing techniques, leadership, and teamwork through trust, self-awareness, and effective communication with NOLS.

NOLS gap year travel programs blend adventure, experiential education, leadership, environmentalism, and cultural immersion for a life-changing experience.

Learn how to apply to college after a gap year with NOLS for a standout application showcasing growth and skills.

Rock Climbing for Beginners with NOLS - Learn the basics and embrace personal growth, environmental stewardship, and leadership while climbing in breathtaking locations.

Explore NOLS Outdoor Rock Climbing Courses, where you'll gain essential climbing skills, develop leadership abilities, foster environmental stewardship, and immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes!

Discover the best Gap Year Programs for Outdoor Enthusiasts! From East Africa's cultural immersion to the PNW's wilderness skill development, embark on unforgettable adventures with NOLS.

Discover gap year benefits and get tips to support your child's gap year decision with insights from a parent's perspective.

Two days into a picture-perfect autumn backpacking trip in the Wind River Mountains, your companion slips and falls on rocky terrain. His chief complaint: pain in his swollen and tender knee. You’re at mile 5 of a planned 20-mile loop. What do you do?

Interview with NOLS Alumni Trip leader, Sam Talucci

Storks, sardines, and sand! A behind the scenes look at a recent Alumni trip: hiking Portugal's Fishermen's Trail.

Asking yourself, "Why take a gap year?" NOLS has 8 answers to that question that will help you take the plunge toward a truly transformative gap year!

In early June, six NOLS Alumni, two NOLS Instructors, and one incredible local partner set forth on NOLS’ first hiking trip in Croatia.

Looking for affordable gap year programs? Here's how to find programs that offer incredible yet budget-friendly experiences and learning opportunities.

Yearning to dive deep into the heart of global cultures? Uncover the best destinations for an authentic cultural immersion during your gap year abroad.

Explore the gap year pros and cons of solo vs. group programs to find the right balance for you between independence and shared experiences.

Discover the power of taking a gap year after high school—adventure, cultural immersion, and self-reflection highlight this transformative experience.

Discover the 10 best gap year ideas to enhance your professional skill set, gain valuable experiences, and make your resume stand out to future employers.

Dive into gap year statistics to explore how a gap year fosters personal development, cultural immersion, academic momentum, and career success.

NOLS Alumni trip explores new, less visited, route in Iceland.

Celebrating the life of Peter Simer, Executive Director of NOLS from 1975 to 1983, we reflect on a leader, a mountaineer, and a friend.

Astronaut and U.S. Navy Commander Reid Wiseman wrote this missive about expedition behavior from low earth orbit to be read to the astronaut class of 2013 on their NOLS course.

NOLS' first foray into backcountry skiing in Japan with an Alumni Trip.

NOLS Alumni trips announces the closing of our Bahamas program.

Summiting Aconcagua, the tallest peak outside of Asia, is an impressive accomplishment. Learn how you can achieve this with our NOLS Alumni course!