HANDS-ON TRAINING | REAL-WORLD SKILLS
Wilderness
First Aid Course
Essential Training for Remote Emergencies
Gain the knowledge and hands-on skills to recognize and manage medical emergencies in remote settings. Perfect for hikers, paddlers, outdoor educators, scout leaders, camp staff, and anyone who spends time in the outdoors.
16 hour over 2 days
Age 14+
Multiple locations in Pennsylvania
Starting at $275 per person
UPCOMING COURSES
Outdoor Classroom
November 7 – 8, 2026
Media, PA
Paddling Trip
2027 Dates Coming Soon!
Liverpool, PA
Backpacking Trip
2027 Dates Coming Soon!
Thornhurst, PA
Immersive Learning Options
Outdoor Classroom Course
Outdoor experience in a convenient location. Utilizing local parks and greenspaces we use classroom style instruction in an outdoor setting combined with hands-on exercises that simulate real world conditions without having to venture into the backcountry.
Backpacking Trip on the Pinchot Trail
Hiking ~10 miles over two days, spend on night at a backcountry campsite and practice first aid skills directly in the environments where they’re needed most. Meals are included and optional gear rentals are available.
Paddling Trip on the Susquehanna River
Paddle scenic sections of the Susquehanna river, spend the night on a river island, and apply wilderness medical skills in a water-based backcountry setting. Canoes/kayaks and meals are included, optional camping gear rentals are available.
Course Overview
When emergencies occur in remote areas, knowing what to do can make all the difference. Our Wilderness First Aid Course equips you with the knowledge and skills to recognize and manage injuries and medical emergencies in the outdoors. This training goes beyond the classroom, offering realistic, hands-on experiences where emergencies are most likely to occur. Taught by trained and experienced medical professionals, this course is licensed by the American Red Cross and participants receive a two year certification upon completion.
What You’ll Learn
Primary and secondary assessments for injury evaluation
Stabilization and management of head, brain, neck, and spinal injuries
Wound, burn, and infection care using limited supplies
Splinting and stabilization of bone and joint injuries with improvised materials
Recognition and treatment of hypothermia, heat-related illnesses, and altitude sickness
Identification and management of allergies and anaphylaxis
Scenario-based exercises to reinforce decision-making in realistic environments
2-Year Adult CPR/AED certification included in the course
Do I need previous medical or first aid experience?
No previous medical experience is required. This course is designed for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals who want to build their knowledge and confidence in responding to emergencies in remote environments.
Who should take this course?
Recommended for ages 14 and older, this course is ideal for hikers, backpackers, paddlers, outdoor educators, guides, scout leaders, camp staff, and anyone who spends time outdoors where professional medical help may be delayed.
How long is the course, and what will I learn?
The course includes 16 hours of instruction over two consecutive days plus the online CPR/AED pre-course work. You’ll practice patient assessment, wound care, splinting, environmental illness management, and evacuation planning through hands-on training and realistic scenarios. Hiking, camping, and paddling time is in addition to the times listed above.
Will I receive a certification?
Yes. Participants who successfully complete the course requirements receive a two-year American Red Cross Wilderness and Remote First Aid certification. An additional Adult CPR/AED certification is also included, giving you additional essential skills for responding to emergencies.
What’s the difference between the backpacking, canoeing, and classroom/field options?
All options cover the Wilderness First Aid curriculum, but the learning environment differs. The backpacking option incorporates trail and backcountry camping scenarios, the canoeing option applies skills in a river-based setting, and the classroom/field hybrid combines structured instruction with practical outdoor exercises.
- Backpacking: Practice skills on the trail and at a backcountry campsite.
- Canoeing: Apply wilderness medical concepts in a paddling and riverside camping environment.
- Classroom/field hybrid: Combine structured instruction with hands-on practice in nearby outdoor spaces.
Review the individual session details for location-specific equipment, meals, and packing requirements.
READY TO GER STARTED?
Reserve Your Spot Today
Spaces fill quickly – choose your preferred location to register.