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This Quarter: GES7A

This fall we will teach an introductory wilderness skills class, focusing on backpacking in summer and fall conditions. Show up to the first class if you're interested. Class on Wednesday nights in room 320-220, in the geology corner. The first class will be Wedensday, September 23.

Trip Dates for Fall Quarter

1. October 3 - 4 (Backpacking)
2. October 17-18 (Mountaineering)
3. October 31 - November 1 (Rock Climbing)
4. November 14 - 15 (Student led)

For more information about what the class entails and how it works, read the FAQ below or check out our resources for students.

About the Class

Heralded as the most fun class on campus, GES7 is a one-unit class that teaches introductory outdoor, camping, and climbing skills. You do not need any prior backpacking or climbing experience to participate in the class. You will need appropriate personal clothing, but we can outfit you with all the necessary equipment and group gear.

GES7 is a quarter-long course offered for one course credit through the geology department. It includes one classroom session each week (Wednesdays, 7-9 pm) and four weekend trips each quarter. The course emphasizes the themes of minimum impact, leadership and group dynamics, and technical skill development. The fall course covers introductory backpacking and rock climbing; the winter course covers introductory winter backpacking and backcountry skiing; and the spring course is an advanced course covering backpacking, rock climbing, mountaineering, and backcountry skiing, while emphasizing leader development. The course accommodates 12 students each quarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it really that much fun?

Yes! Going into the mountains of California with 12 other Stanford students 4 weekends during fall quarter could be the best thing you do at Stanford! You'll also be introduced to an incredible group of people who love to go on wilderness trips.

What will I learn?

The class is geared for students who have little or no experience backpacking, camping, or climbing in the backcountry. We will teach skills required for safe and fun backcountry travel over a variety of terrains, as well as introductory rock climbing techniques. Class topics include selection and proper use of clothing and gear, nutrition and hydration, first aid, backcountry navigation, weather assessment, minimum impact camping, group dynamics, and outdoor leadership.

Is there a class fee?

Yes. This quarter, the fee is tentatively set at $200 to cover the food, gas, permits, and gear necessary for your four wilderness trips. However, we try to ensure that the fee is not a barrier to anyone. We offer the Chris Hooyman Memorial Scholarship every quarter.

What sort of gear do I need?

OEP provides most of the gear for all of your trips, including tents, stoves, sleeping bags and pads, cookware, and first aid kits. You will need your own clothing (like jackets, long underwear, hiking boots, etc). Come to the first class or email the instructors list oep-teachers@stanford.edu for information on where to get reasonably-priced gear. We may even have some you can borrow!

GES 7A

This fall we will offer an introductory wilderness skills course, including backpacking, mountaineering, and rock climbing. For more information, see the Class Page, or come to our first meeting, Wednesday September 23 in room 320-220.

Next BCWs

Coming Soon
We haven't planned our BCWs for spring quarter yet. Check back soon!