Casual day outings in the local mountains, forests and shores have for generations been the soul of the Sierra Club and now, for the first time ever, the Los Padres Chapter (Ventura – Santa Barbara counties) has created a Wilderness Basics Course to take you further into adventure.

The WBC is a course designed to help you go deeper into the wild places in comfort and safety, with low impact and enhancing an appreciation and wonder of the backcountry. A dedicated staff of volunteer leaders will demonstrate the skills in a personal, hands-on approach over eight weeks in classroom and outdoor outings beginning January 20.

“This is a great opportunity to share your love of the outdoors with others,” said Suzanne Tanaka, who is coordinating the outings.

"I have seen such programs literally change a person's life. The confidence people develop as they learn new skills and the joy of adventure they experience in the wilderness combine to deepen their understanding of nature," added Teresa Norris, the WBC Chair, who has been both a student and leader in similar courses.
The lectures will cover backpacking, clothing and equipment, first aid, safety, navigation, weather, animal tracking and much more, such as tips from experienced hikers that you won’t find in books. You’ll also get cooking advice and find out how a meal tastes so much better in the outdoors.

You will also learn how to travel in different conditions through weekend outings led by the staff, which include day hikes, a car camp, and two backpack adventures in the local mountains.

The course will use a tried and true updated guidebook called “Wilderness Basics,” along with handouts of important topics. Each time you go on an outing, you will be given a topographical map of the area and learn how to use it.

Participants must supply their own equipment, which may be purchased, borrowed from a friend or staff, or rented.
Persons 18 years of age who are in reasonable health are eligible to take the course and you need not be a Sierra Club member. To enhance your enjoyment, bring along a friend or family member.

The course runs from January 20 to March 10 with meetings every Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. in the Ventura City Hall Community Room.

Price is $145 for Sierra Club members and $160 for non-members.

For further information or to register, call coordinator Teresa Norris at 524-7170 or email at LosPadresWBC@gmail.com. Details are also on the chapter’s website: www.lospadres.sierraclub.org/wbc.