A Sample of what students from past courses are saying about IWLS:

Alex was an excellent instructor! He was very friendly, responsible, passionate about his job and the Khumbu region of Nepal. He taught me a lot because aside from some backpacking in the states, I had little previous experience. Tirtha our sherpa was excellent He is the sweetest, gentlest man I have ever met.

– Alyssa H.

My Sea Kayaking course ran very smoothly and was well organized. Sarah is an excellent leader and showed honest concern for all members of our group. Her extensive wilderness knowledge and instruction made us feel at ease and safe on and off the water. We saw loads of harbor seals, bald eagles, sea otters, and other wildlife. After taking this course I can’t wait to plan my next adventure and feel much more comfortable planning my own trips.

– Nancy A.

Safety played into every decision made on the trip.

-Matt A.

I recently finished a IWLS semester and I wanted to say thanks for an amazing summer. I learned a l ton and had so much fun in Haines, Skagway the East Arm and surrounding mountains. You guys did a great job and I appreciate all your hard work, advice and flexibility.

– Shockey F.

Safety was always #1 and it showed with everything we did. I learned so much about mountaineering: how to travel, avalanche safety, rope teams, and how to be a better leader.

– Jeff C.

You guys couldn’t have put together a better group for our climbs of the Ecuador Volcanoes. I love the flexibility in scheduling and the ability to travel to small towns during rest days and visit local sites. I had an amazing time. Couldn’t have been better. Brian was patient and knowledgeable, I trusted him completely. It was a great initial high altitude mountaineering experience!

– Elmy W.

[The course] definitely lived up to my expectations. I came to learn the basics of outdoor leadership and specific skills sets, and I got them both.

– Ben M.

The instructors were very involved and took pride in what they were teaching. They had excellent skill mastery and it is obvious that they love what they do.

– Matt E.

The course was planned very well. Everything we learned built on the previous lesson. I feel way more confident as a leader than I ever have.

– Anthony S.