Programs, Classes and Events
Upcoming Events
Basics: Camino de Santiago, Spain
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
People have been walking across northern Spain on the Camino de Santiago for over 1200 years. Originally, a religious pilgrimage to the tomb of St. James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. One of only two pilgrimage routes worldwide designated a UNESCO World Heritage Pilgrimage Route.
Walked or biked by thousands each year for adventure, recreational, religious, spiritual and personal reasons. Hikers, called pilgrims or peregrinos backpack across the Pyrenees, through Basque Country, the Meseta and Galicia. Pilgrims stay at hostels (albergues) sharing the walk with people from all over the world.
On the Camino de Santiago Frances Route there are over 600 established places to stay. Camino basics is designed to help the first-time walker and offer support for future walkers. Learn about footwear, clothing, rain gear, backpacks, sleeping bags, trekking poles and other equipment that work best on Camino.
We will demonstrate how to properly and efficiently fill your backpack keeping track of weight and long mileage requirements. We offer our experience in what to expect physically and emotional facing day to day challenges. Buen Camino to all!
Winter Camping: Beyond the Basics
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
This clinic is for those that have already attended Winter Camping: The Basics or those who have winter camped a few times and are looking to expand their knowledge.
Bear Paulsen will discuss choosing a campsite, shelter options and the all important – how to sleep comfortably through the long winter nights. He'll cover winter travel from backpacking on foot to pulling a pulk sled through the BWCA. Sled design will also be covered.
Climbing 101
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Take yourself to new heights and learn the ropes through hands on experience in our Climbing Cave. Learn the basics of bouldering, top roping and what you need to know to get started in this invigorating sport from American Alpine TC Chapter Leader, Steve Schreader. All equipment provided. Wear comfortable clothing!
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Pre-registration required – limited to 10 participants. Cost $5, no refunds. Minimum age 15.
Note: If no one has registered for the class by 12pm the day-of, we will cancel the class. Register early!
Beyond the Valley: Hiking Yosemite's High Country
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Want to get out of the Valley and explore the secrets of Yosemite's High Country?
Jeff Cepek has spent 6 years living and working in Yosemite. Through this, he has had the opportunity to explore places only 5% of visitors will ever see. Jeff will bring his expertise, photos, and videos to present on hikes in 3 amazing locations: Mount Hoffman, Mount Dana and Parker Pass.
Join us and get inspired to plan your next trip in this beautiful place!
Ladies Bouldering
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Come one come many to the all women, ONLY women, evening of bouldering in the Cave! Shannon, member of the American Alpine Club, will be on hand to answer questions and help provide a fun and relaxing atmosphere. All abilities welcome from the, "I've never done this before", to those who want to set routes, and everyone in-between.
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Minimum age 15. Climbing shoe rental is $3.
PCT: How to Hike 2650mi
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
One of the most popular National Scenic Trails, and part of the coveted Triple Crown of hiking, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) presents an intensely challenging and rewarding journey for those who attempt to hike its 2650 mile length between Canada and Mexico. You can find every type of major North American ecosystem, from the dry and scratchy Mojave basin to the austere, rocky heights of the High Sierra, to the dense and fragrant Boreal forests of the Cascades. The trail traverses some of the finest public lands in the West, purposefully designed to bring travelers to sites of natural beauty and historical importance. Along the way, hikers face intense and often unexpected challenges- weather, trail conditions, budgets, bio-mechanical, and more- that require fortitude and the ability to adapt quickly to overcome.
Join experienced thru-hiker Henry "Righteous" Slocum for a discussion focused on preparing for a long walk on the PCT. Whether your start date is fast approaching, or you are just seeking to learn more about this incredible trail, Henry will review some basic trail anatomy and planning strategies aimed to prepare you for a successful and FUN hike. There will be ample time for questions after the presentation.
Women's Climbing 101
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Women, take yourself to new heights and learn the ropes through hands-on experience in our Climbing Cave. Wear comfortable clothing and get ready to soar! All equipment provided. Led by member of the American Alpine Club, Shannon. Sign up early because these classes are popular!
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Pre-registration required – limited to 10 participants. Cost $5, no refunds. Minimum age 15.
Note: If no one has registered for the class by 12pm the day-of, we will cancel the class. Register early!
Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) w/ Kim Fishburn
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Join SHT expert Kim Fishburn and learn about the Superior Hiking Trail. He will cover what you need to know for a backpacking trip and the many volunteer opportunities available for maintaining our Minnesotan trail systems!
Intrigued by Mountain Climbing?
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Are you intrigued by mountain climbing, but don’t know where to start?
Hear how one 50-year-old caught the mountaineering bug and now summits annually - and you can too with climbforhope.org
We introduce aspiring climbers to alpine skills from beginner (12’280 ft. Mount Adams - parent & child-friendly) to advanced (14’411 Mount Rainier - crampons, belays, crevasses.) As a bonus, climbers raise funds for cancer and MS research. Experience the surprise and delight that comes from unzipping your tent and discovering that you are looking down on clouds.
Presenter Bio:
Tiger is a cancer survivor who began mountaineering at 50. He’s summited Adams, Shasta, Whitney, Eldorado, Rainier & crossed the Grand Canyon raising funds for cancer research.
Climbing 102
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
The Climbing 101 clinic is a prerequisite for this clinic. American Alpine TC Chapter Leader, Steve Schreader will provide this opportunity to expand your technical skills and help prepare you for more advanced climbing. We’ll review knots, commands, and belaying, along with more in-depth explanations and uses of climbing gear. Don’t worry; we will still have time to climb!
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Pre-registration required – limited to 10 participants. Cost $5, no refunds. Minimum age 15.
Note: If no one has registered for the class by 12pm the day-of, we will cancel the class. Register early!
Climbing 101
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Take yourself to new heights and learn the ropes through hands on experience in our Climbing Cave. Learn the basics of bouldering, top roping and what you need to know to get started in this invigorating sport from American Alpine TC Chapter Leader, Steve Schreader. All equipment provided. Wear comfortable clothing!
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Pre-registration required – limited to 10 participants. Cost $5, no refunds. Minimum age 15.
Note: If no one has registered for the class by 12pm the day-of, we will cancel the class. Register early!
Big City Mountaineers Volunteer Information Session
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
For over thirty Big City Mountaineers has provided opportunities for under resourced youth to experience wilderness areas through weeklong expeditions. Through outdoor experiences we teach critical life skills that help students grow as individuals, leaders, and members of their communities.
We rely on adult volunteer mentors to participate on our expeditions and both connect with students as well as be engaged members of the group. In this session you’ll learn more about what volunteer opportunities look like and how to get involved and help us ensure all young people can have a positive wilderness experience.
Please RSVP for this event by clicking here.
formstack.io/45065
For more information please contact Fred Sproat at [email protected]
Ladies Bouldering
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Come one come many to the all women, ONLY women, evening of bouldering in the Cave! Shannon, member of the American Alpine Club, will be on hand to answer questions and help provide a fun and relaxing atmosphere. All abilities welcome from the, "I've never done this before", to those who want to set routes, and everyone in-between.
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Minimum age 15. Climbing shoe rental is $3.
Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) w/ Kim Fishburn
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Join SHT expert Kim Fishburn and learn about the Superior Hiking Trail. He will cover what you need to know for a backpacking trip and the many volunteer opportunities available for maintaining our Minnesotan trail systems!
Exploring Isle Royale NP: Wolves, Moose, & Wilderness
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Learn everything you need to plan an adventure to this remote wilderness island, and hear updates on the island's charismatic and somewhat-famous wolf and moose residents.
Isle Royale National Park is a 45-mile-long island surrounded by smaller islands in Lake Superior, almost entirely designated wilderness, and open to the public from April to October.
The talk will be led by Liz Dengate, an ecologist and science educator who worked as a park ranger on Isle Royale for three seasons.
How does one get to the island? What are the highlights of this wild archipelago? When to go, what to pack, and how many wolves are there now? Get all of your questions answered, and meet other island enthusiasts!
Join a Trail Crew on the "Kek"
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Will you consider volunteering on this historic Boundary Waters trail that is a vital link in the 4,600-mile North Country National Scenic Trail?
The Kekekabic Trail Chapter is looking for volunteers for trail maintenance crews on the "Kek” in May. You can play a role in keeping this historic trail open for hikers looking for a unique wilderness hiking experience.
Trail maintenance trips:
· range from 3-8 days;
· feature canoe-in, backpack-in, and day hiking options;
· are led by trained crew leaders experienced in BWCAW travel.
Join us to learn more about the “Kek”, the 2020 volunteer opportunities, and the basics of basic trail clearing.
More information about the Kekekabic Trail Chapter:
Website: kek.org
Facebook group: fb.com/groups/kekekabic/
Join the chapter: northcountrytrail.org/membership
Climbing 102
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
The Climbing 101 clinic is a prerequisite for this clinic. American Alpine TC Chapter Leader, Steve Schreader will provide this opportunity to expand your technical skills and help prepare you for more advanced climbing. We’ll review knots, commands, and belaying, along with more in-depth explanations and uses of climbing gear. Don’t worry; we will still have time to climb!
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Pre-registration required – limited to 10 participants. Cost $5, no refunds. Minimum age 15.
Note: If no one has registered for the class by 12pm the day-of, we will cancel the class. Register early!
Women's Climbing 101
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Women, take yourself to new heights and learn the ropes through hands-on experience in our Climbing Cave. Wear comfortable clothing and get ready to soar! All equipment provided. Led by member of the American Alpine Club, Shannon. Sign up early because these classes are popular!
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Pre-registration required – limited to 10 participants. Cost $5, no refunds. Minimum age 15.
Note: If no one has registered for the class by 12pm the day-of, we will cancel the class. Register early!
Grand Canyon's Remote Side Presentation
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
The Grand Canyon’s South Rim offers many scenic, uncrowded backpacking options. The Tonto Trail is one of the only trails to traverse the Canyon lengthwise. Her route gets you to Phantom Ranch as well as a night on the banks of the Colorado River, with giant cliffs towering above. Michelle Schroeder, Founder of Backpack the Trails LLC with share tremendous photos, tips about permits, when to go, water access and food storage.
Michelle has been an outdoor enthusiast for 40+ years and was raised by a father who wished to be a mountain man. Her favorite backpacking trails include the JMT, Grand Canyon, The Wonderland Trail (Mt. Rainier), Mt. Robson (Canada), California’s Lost Coast, and New Zealand. Michelle teaches people how to backpack and is a NOLS-Certified Wilderness First Responder.
BWCA: What You Need to Know
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Find out everything you need to know about paddling in the BWCAW. Bear Paulsen, General Manager of Northstar Canoes, will share his knowledge of permits, routes, wilderness tripping techniques, and mix in a dose of BWCA history. He'll give you hints on avoiding the crowds whether you're base-camping or traveling daily. He'll also share ways to avoid the two most threatening parts of canoe country – bugs and bears.
Climbing 101
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Take yourself to new heights and learn the ropes through hands on experience in our Climbing Cave. Learn the basics of bouldering, top roping and what you need to know to get started in this invigorating sport from American Alpine TC Chapter Leader, Steve Schreader. All equipment provided. Wear comfortable clothing!
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Pre-registration required – limited to 10 participants. Cost $5, no refunds. Minimum age 15.
Note: If no one has registered for the class by 12pm the day-of, we will cancel the class. Register early!
Ladies Bouldering
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Come one come many to the all women, ONLY women, evening of bouldering in the Cave! Shannon, member of the American Alpine Club, will be on hand to answer questions and help provide a fun and relaxing atmosphere. All abilities welcome from the, "I've never done this before", to those who want to set routes, and everyone in-between.
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Minimum age 15. Climbing shoe rental is $3.
Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) w/ Kim Fishburn
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Join SHT expert Kim Fishburn and learn about the Superior Hiking Trail. He will cover what you need to know for a backpacking trip and the many volunteer opportunities available for maintaining our Minnesotan trail systems!
Women's Climbing 101
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Women, take yourself to new heights and learn the ropes through hands-on experience in our Climbing Cave. Wear comfortable clothing and get ready to soar! All equipment provided. Led by member of the American Alpine Club, Shannon. Sign up early because these classes are popular!
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Pre-registration required – limited to 10 participants. Cost $5, no refunds. Minimum age 15.
Note: If no one has registered for the class by 12pm the day-of, we will cancel the class. Register early!
Lost Coast Trail Presentation
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Northern California’s Lost Coast Trail, the most remote western coastline in the Lower 48, features precipitous 4,000-foot mountains dropping straight down to the Pacific Ocean’s crashing waves. The beautiful 55-mile trail encompasses King Range National Conservation Area and Sinkyone Wilderness State Park.
Backpackers encounter a breathtaking, rugged landscape of sea stacks, remote coves, sweeping views, while crossing or camping in the “Impassable Zones” using tide charts. Witness Roosevelt Elk, sea lions and harbor seals, and perhaps migrating whales, sea otters, and bears.
Michelle Schroeder, Founder of Backpack the Trails LLC, will share tips about permits, planning, resupplying, and what to expect on the spectacular Wonderland Trail.
Michelle has been an outdoor enthusiast for 40+ years and was raised by a father who wished to be a mountain man. Her favorite backpacking trails include the JMT, Grand Canyon, The Wonderland Trail (Mt. Rainier), Mt. Robson (Canada), California’s Lost Coast, and New Zealand. Michelle teaches people how to backpack and is a NOLS-Certified Wilderness First Responder.
Climbing 102
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
The Climbing 101 clinic is a prerequisite for this clinic. American Alpine TC Chapter Leader, Steve Schreader will provide this opportunity to expand your technical skills and help prepare you for more advanced climbing. We’ll review knots, commands, and belaying, along with more in-depth explanations and uses of climbing gear. Don’t worry; we will still have time to climb!
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Pre-registration required – limited to 10 participants. Cost $5, no refunds. Minimum age 15.
Note: If no one has registered for the class by 12pm the day-of, we will cancel the class. Register early!
Exploring Isle Royale NP: Wolves, Moose, & Wilderness
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Learn everything you need to plan an adventure to this remote wilderness island, and hear updates on the island's charismatic and somewhat-famous wolf and moose residents.
Isle Royale National Park is a 45-mile-long island surrounded by smaller islands in Lake Superior, almost entirely designated wilderness, and open to the public from April to October.
The talk will be led by Liz Dengate, an ecologist and science educator who worked as a park ranger on Isle Royale for three seasons.
How does one get to the island? What are the highlights of this wild archipelago? When to go, what to pack, and how many wolves are there now? Get all of your questions answered, and meet other island enthusiasts!
Climbing 101
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Take yourself to new heights and learn the ropes through hands on experience in our Climbing Cave. Learn the basics of bouldering, top roping and what you need to know to get started in this invigorating sport from American Alpine TC Chapter Leader, Steve Schreader. All equipment provided. Wear comfortable clothing!
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Pre-registration required – limited to 10 participants. Cost $5, no refunds. Minimum age 15.
Note: If no one has registered for the class by 12pm the day-of, we will cancel the class. Register early!
Backpacking 101 w/ Backpack the Trails
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Want to learn backpacking basics? Want to avoid common rookie mistakes? Join this hands-on classroom training that is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Come learn the ins-and-outs of backpacking with Backpack the Trails!
You will gain information about what to bring (and what not to bring), how to pack a backpack, keep food safe on trail, filter water, operate a stove, trail permits and more!
These events are hosted by Michelle Schroeder, former Midwest Mountaineering employee and founder of Backpack the Trails. Michelle has been an outdoor enthusiast for 40+ years and was raised by a father who wished to be a mountain man. Her favorite backpacking trails include the JMT, Grand Canyon, The Wonderland Trail (Mt. Rainier), Mt. Robson (Canada), California’s Lost Coast, and New Zealand. Michelle teaches people how to backpack and is a NOLS-Certified Wilderness First Responder.
Learn more about Backpack the Trails on their website: www.backpackthetrails.com
CureSearch's Ultimate Hike 10th Anniversary Information Meeting
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
CureSearch's Ultimate Hike is celebrating 10 years of telling children's cancer to take a hike! Join the Ultimate Hike team to learn how you can lace up and hike 25.5 miles in one day. Whether you're an experienced backpacker or just looking for motivation to get off the couch, our local coaches will explain how they'll prepare you for what may be the most impactful weekend of your life. Lace up for the adventure, the lifelong friendships, and to save kids' lives.
Visit www.ultimatehike.org/sht20 to learn more or to RSVP.
Ladies Bouldering
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Come one come many to the all women, ONLY women, evening of bouldering in the Cave! Shannon, member of the American Alpine Club, will be on hand to answer questions and help provide a fun and relaxing atmosphere. All abilities welcome from the, "I've never done this before", to those who want to set routes, and everyone in-between.
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Minimum age 15. Climbing shoe rental is $3.
Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) w/ Kim Fishburn
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Join SHT expert Kim Fishburn and learn about the Superior Hiking Trail. He will cover what you need to know for a backpacking trip and the many volunteer opportunities available for maintaining our Minnesotan trail systems!
Women's Climbing 101
Midwest Mountaineering309 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis, MN55454 Map
Women, take yourself to new heights and learn the ropes through hands-on experience in our Climbing Cave. Wear comfortable clothing and get ready to soar! All equipment provided. Led by member of the American Alpine Club, Shannon. Sign up early because these classes are popular!
All climbers must have a completed liability waiver on file at Midwest Mountaineering. Liability waivers expire at the end of the calendar year and must be re-submitted every year. Pre-registration required – limited to 10 participants. Cost $5, no refunds. Minimum age 15.
Note: If no one has registered for the class by 12pm the day-of, we will cancel the class. Register early!