NCOAE in the Pacific Northwest

An aerial view of a group of people on a raft.

From the high desert plains of the Pacific Northwest, our Oregon Base camp serves as a hub for transformative outdoor education and leadership development. Nestled in the scenic landscapes of the high desert Pacific Northwest., this base camp is the launching point for a variety of immersive courses and specialized trainings designed to empower individuals with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in both wilderness and everyday settings.

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SUMMER PROGRAMS

Experience the rugged beauty of Oregon through backpacking and whitewater rafting adventures that combine outdoor exploration with in-depth learning in leadership and environmental stewardship. This course takes participants on a journey through Oregon’s diverse landscapes, from lush forests to exhilarating rivers, offering hands-on experience in both wilderness travel and swiftwater navigation. Along the way, you’ll delve into the principles of outdoor leadership, honing skills in group management, decision-making, and sustainable practices.

A boy with backpacking gear.
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HIGH SCHOOL SEMESTER

The NCOAE Oregon Summer Block-Semester for 10th and 11th grade students is an Honors/Advanced Topic program that combines theory and practice in outdoor leadership with environmental sciences and extensive fieldwork and research. This immersive academic experience blends rigorous curricula study with hands-on practice in outdoor leadership, offering students a unique opportunity to explore advanced environmental science topics in real-world settings. Participants will develop leadership skills while engaging in fieldwork that deepens their understanding of environmental systems, preparing them for future academic and outdoor pursuits.

A group of students whitewater paddling.
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GAP SEMESTER

The NCOAE Fall Gap Semester is an extraordinary journey that begins in the wild landscapes of Oregon and concludes in the vibrant and diverse environments of Ecuador. This immersive semester-long program is designed for students seeking adventure, personal growth, and a deeper understanding of outdoor leadership and global environmental stewardship. Participants start their journey in Oregon, mastering skills in backpacking, whitewater rafting, and wilderness medicine, before heading to Ecuador to explore its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. The program offers a unique blend of hands-on learning, cross-cultural experiences, and environmental education, making it an unforgettable adventure that prepares students for leadership roles in a global context.

Two people kayaking on a lake with mountains in the background.
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EMT TRAINING

The NCOAE EMT training is an immersive and intensive program designed for individuals seeking certification as Emergency Medical Technicians. The course combines online coursework and classroom instruction with hands-on training and experience in real-world scenarios, equipping students with the skills and knowledge required to handle medical emergencies in both urban and wilderness settings. NCOAE’s EMT training emphasizes critical thinking, quick decision-making, and effective teamwork, preparing participants to confidently respond to emergencies and provide life-saving care in a variety of environments.

Students in an Intensive EMT course at NCOAE.
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WILDERNESS MEDICINE TRAINING

NCOAE offers comprehensive Wilderness Medicine Training in North Carolina- designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to respond effectively to medical emergencies in remote and challenging environments. These courses combine interactive classroom instruction with hands-on practical experience, covering topics such as patient assessment, emergency care, and evacuation techniques tailored for wilderness settings. Check wither our Hybrid WIlderness First Responder or Hybrid Wilderness First Aid courses today!

A wilderness EMT student examining a patient.

Continue Exploring

Learn more about how to prepare for your program, from what a typical day looks like to what you can expect to eat while on expedition.

FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

Where will my program be in the Pacific Northwest?

Our programs begin and end in Oregon’s wilderness and will take you through the Cascade Mountains range.

How old do you have to be to go on an NCOAE expedition in the Pacific Northwest?

To participate in an NCOAE expedition in the Pacific Northwest, you must be 13 years and older.

How long are your Pacific Northwest programs?

Our programs in the Pacific Northwest range from 7-25 days long.