Learn the basics or take this as a refresher with licensed wilderness guide, Chris Varian.
Join us for this Winter Wilderness Skills session in Trout Brook Valley with Chris as he covers essential winter hiking skills such as map navigation, emergency priorities and skills, winter gear essentials, cold injury prevention, and more.
What to Bring: 1 liter of water, snacks, hiking boots (preferably waterproof and insulated), wool or synthetic layers appropriate for the conditions. (No cotton please)
Trout Brook Valley, Bradley Road entrance
13 yrs and up
Members $20/Non-Members $30
Rain or shine, no dogs for this event please.
There is no internet connection at Bradley Road parking area and no bathroom facilities
Event is open to the public. Priority to members. Maximum 12 people. RSVP required.
An avid rock and ice climber, 4-season backpacker, paddler, volunteer trail steward, and former U.S. Marine, Chris brings an authenticity and genuine joy for living a life outdoors into everything he does – personally and professionally.
Chris is a professional guide and outdoor educator devoted to sharing the skills people need to experience and enjoy the outdoors more safely and responsibly in all four seasons. He leads backpacking and wilderness skills programs, instructs technical climbing skills courses, teaches beginner and intermediate kayak skills, and guides kayak tours on waterways from Hudson River to Long Island Sound.
His certifications include Wilderness First Responder, Adult/Child/Infant CPR, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, ACA Coastal Kayak Instructor (L2 Continued), and NY State Licensed Guide: Tier 1 Rock, Hiking, Camping. Chris is also Leave No Trace certified. He currently lives in Brookfield, CT, and guides programs from New Jersey to New Hampshire.