Backpacking / Hiking—Hiking and backpacking are both great ways to explore the natural world. Learn the basics you'll need to plan and enjoy either activity through hand's on learning, expert advice and a short hike. Specific topics include gear wear, food and water safety, Leave No Trace, campsite set-up, basic survival, and fire construction.
Photography I—This class will focus on getting the pictures you want, not technical camera operation. Learn basic techniques used in outdoor photography, including choosing a location, use of blinds, stalking and cover, composition, and the importance of lighting and timing. We will also briefly cover artistic options associated with digital photography. Bring your own digital camera.
Photography II- This is a more advanced photography class. Participants will learn more of he technical operations on a camera. In this class you will venture out into the wildlife and take photos, then return to the classroom to learn how to edit your picture. Bring your own digital camera. Prerequisite: Photography I
Frontier/Survivor Skills from the 1800s—In this class learn how to load and shoot muzzleloading firearms, build a fire with old time flint and steel, use and throw a tomahawk (hand axe), use and throw old time knives, and learn about survival skills from the past and present.
Rock Climbing—Adventurous hands-on session! Conquer your fear of heights. Build self-confidence, and practice safety. Yes, participants actually climb! And, yes, you can do it! New Addition to class: Giant Swing - Participants are put in a full body harness and are attached to a cable and a rope. Their team mates haul them up to the top of a 30’ pole; the participant then pulls the quick release and swings.
Sticks to Staffs - Learn how to select and design your own personalized walking stick. Participants will learn various woody plants from which to choose, then will get hands on as they customize their very own. A real Make and Take!
Edible and Medicinal Plants - Participants will be introduced to both native and non-native plants that can be used for medicinal and edible purposes. Class will start with a hike to meet many of these plants in their "wild homes". Along the hike, participants will gather several specimens to take back to the classroom for preparing teas, wild meals and quick poultices. You will be able to take home your specimens. Cameras are suggested for this class but are not required.
Advanced Edible and Medicinal Plants - After being introduced to plant identification and foraging skills in the first class, learn some more plants and what to do with them in "Advanced Edible and Medicinal Plants". In this class, we will be learning how to prepare plants after harvest and how to use them in basic teas, poultices, infusions, and balms. Prerequisit: Edible and Medicinal Plants.
Face Your Fears - Is something holding you back from trying new outdoor recreational activities? Do you fear creepy crawly things that lurk in the woods or even in your own backyard? Are you afraid you might come across a snake or a bear while hiking and won't know what to do? We have you covered!! Learn all about Alabama's scary, dangerous and seriously misunderstood creatures in a class that is meant to keep you safe and help you to be more comfortable in the woods. The more you know about these critters, the less scary they become! Learn the behavior and biology of these animals, how to avoid dangerous situations and even what to do if the worst happens. This class will feature up close encounters with safe and friendly live animals.
