Explore the Wilderness with Confidence
Women's Wilderness Weekend is a fun and interactive event where we will learn the fundamental basics for survival, get hands-on in the wilderness, and spend quality time in the company of experienced teachers and like-minded women. The weekend includes hands-on education, Wilderness First Aid Certification, and wilderness survival skills training in addition to a hang out by the firepit one evening.
What You'll Learn
- Knife Anatomy & Safety
- Essential Knots
- Shelter Building
- Water Collecting
- Firecraft
- Signaling
- Patient Assessment
- Treatment of Life-Threatening Conditions
- Splinting
- Management of Environmental Hazards
What to Expect
Participants should arrive at NOC’s main campus in Bryson City, NC by 8:00am on Friday. This fun three-day course takes place at our private woodland classroom, Hemlock Ridge. This area is a quarter mile hike from NOC’s main campus. It is a steep climb, so being prepared with appropriate footwear is essential. We have a privy on-site, but there is no running water. Class is held rain or shine, so participants should dress accordingly.
The conclusion of each day will depend on the group and activities. Women's weekend will include a fireside gathering one evening for anyone interested in attending. Students will observe and participate in both indoor and outdoor scenarios, so please dress appropriately for the season. If you are interested in camping, please call 828-366-7517 for more information.
Lodging: Available through NOC
Meals: Available through NOC’s Restaurants
Recommended For: Women Outdoor Enthusiasts
Prerequisites: None
Certifications Received:
- 2 Year Wilderness First Aid Certification
Courses Dates
| Course | Dates | Location | Tuition | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Women's Wilderness Weekend | Sep 12th - 14th, 2025 | Bryson City, NC | $450 |
SOLO Southeast Reviews
"I feel much more prepared for future trips & adventures. Excellent balance of knowledge, humor, and hands-on learning. Very personable, respectful, and helpful!"
— Former SOLO Student
"Excellent instruction. The mix of lecture and practical exercises combined with stories & humor made for a great environment to learn." - Former SOLO Student
Course Outline
Basic skills needed for when the unexpected happens on an outdoor adventure.
Course In Action Photos
Packing List
NOC provides the primary gear needed for each course. We will spend the majority of our time outdoors, so dress appropriately for the season in clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. You can check weather for zip code 28713 prior to packing if needed. The following list is to supplement the clothing you will be wearing.
Necessary Items:
• Backpack to put everything in (min. 24 liters)
• Rain gear (tops and bottoms)
• Warm layers of clothing
• Warm hat or sun hat (weather dependent)
• Closed-toed shoes
• Pen and notepad
• Water bottle (at least 1 quart)
Optional Items:
• Small tarp, rain fly, or groundsheet (optional)
• Fixed-blade or lock back knife (folding knife w/lock). Note: If you don’t own one of these, we recommend trying some of our knives to see what you prefer.
• Leather gloves
• Sunscreen & Insect repellent
• Personal first aid kit
• Trekking poles
Camping on Hemlock Ridge:
Students in our 2-day courses will have the option of camping at our woodland classroom on Saturday night.
Students in our 5-Day Wilderness Survival Instructor course are required to spend 2 nights out with the class.
Please bring the following items:
• Tent/Tarp (or other shelter)
• Sleeping bag and sleeping pad
• Eating utensils (including bowl and cup)
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Non-perishable food (e.g. Mountain HouseTM camping food)
• Extra water