Leave your hiking boots and water bottles at home; trail shoes and hydration bladders are all the rage these days.

Partnering with GoLite and BackpackingLight.com, we are proud to offer this cutting-edge course in the deserts of the Southwest.

Southwest Lightweight Backpacking is a chance to explore the backcountry with less gear and lighter packs. Photo: Rainbow Weinstock

Your adventure starts in the equipment room as NOLS instructors outfit you with the latest in lightweight gear and pull together a specialized ration for your expedition, helping you shave ounces for the lightest possible load without compromising safety or functionality.

Then, for the next two weeks, you’ll explore the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, one of Arizona’s most remote ranges, in a way you may never have thought possible: with only 25 pounds on your back.

The only thing we won’t go light with on this course is our core curriculum. You’ll still master the leadership and outdoor living skills that NOLS is built upon while learning the specific skills of lightweight backpacking.

Expect to leave this course with the skills and background necessary to plan and execute your own lightweight adventures.

Due to current economic conditions, NOLS is not offering Southwest Lightweight Backpacking in 2009. There are many other summer courses available here.

Southwest Lightweight Backpacking Duration: 15 days Age: 18 and Over (Average age: 23) Tuition: TBA Dates: TBA College Credit: (Optional) 2 Semester Credit Hours 2 Hours Skills Practicum Course start/end: Tucson, Arizona Equipment Deposit: $150 Fly in/out: Tucson, Arizona Downloads: Course Description (pdf) Equipment List (pdf)

Next Steps Apply Now Request Catalog Contact Us

Related Courses Light and Fast Backpacking Gila Range Backpacking