Certifications
Free Courses For Young Adults
If you are between the ages of 17 and 25 years of age, your certification course costs will be fully paid* by Hiking Buddies upon successful attendance and completion. Yes, FREE.
We want the next generation of hikers fully prepared, educated, and as safe as possible on the trails.
Simply sign up for one of our offered Young Adult Courses and show proof of age.
*Registrants who do not show up and attend the full course will be charged the entire course cost.
Proof of age is required.
Hiking Buddies Certifications
Through our partnership with Redline Guiding, we offer exclusive in-person hiking certifications:
- Hiking Buddies Summer Hiking Certification
- Hiking Buddies Winter Hiking Certification
- Hiking Buddies Elite Certification
Earn an exclusive patch for each certification!
Summer Hiking Certification
Education can be fun. You'll incorporate both classroom and boots-on-the-ground activities.
To get certified, attend both of these two (2) in-person, full-day courses:
- Course 1: Hiking, backpacking, river crossing, and trail skills.
- Course 2: Dive into one of the most important safety concepts within hiking: Navigation. You will explore in-depth skills with maps, compass orientation, and determining both where you are, and where you are going.
Winter Hiking Certification
Winter hiking requires different skills, preparation, and knowledge. These courses will not only get you certified, but they could save your life.
To receive your certification, attend both of these two (2) in-person, full-day courses:
- Course 1: Dig into knowledge about gear, survival, & avoiding common mistakes. Practice proper use of crampons & snowshoes.
- Course 2: Learn more about winter mountaineering, use of an ice axe and ropes, and take a guided winter hike to put your winter hiking skills to the test.
Elite Hiking Certification
1. Complete both the Hiking Buddies Summer and Winter Hiking Certifications
2. Complete the SOLO Wilderness First Aid course (offered annually).
FAQs
Q. How much do certification courses cost?
A. Most Hiking Buddies certification classes run $100 for a full day. Attendees 17-25 years of age are eligible for free courses if they complete a Young Adult class and show proof of age.
Q. Who provides the course education?
A. Our partners at Redline Guiding, a Northwoods company supporting hikers since 2016.
Q. How often are the courses provided?
A. Courses will be offered seasonally throughout the year, and must be registered through Hiking Buddies to achieve certifications.
We anticipate certification courses to begin Fall 2023.