Give the Gift of Adventure: Outdoor Experiences

Rock climbing, intro to backcountry skiing, a surf lesson, rafting trip, photography workshop...these are all amazing outdoor experiences that should be on the top of your holiday wish list. Don't get me wrong, I love a well stocked gear closet as much as anyone, but at some point you don't need more stuff. You need experiences. With just a few short days left until the holidays, think about purchasing your special someone an adventure in nature instead of a new pair of [insert clothing item of choice here]. As much as I love taking turns on new skis, it's really taking turns in fresh powder that I love the most. Oh yeah, it's vital to take an avalanche course before finding that fresh powder in the backcountry. See what I'm getting at here? Give the gift of adventure this holiday season, and make memories that will outlast any product you'll find under the tree.

Need some inspiration? We've rounded up some great partners who would be happy to help with your last-minute shopping needs.

Photo by Jesse Weber.

For the Rock Dweller

• Full-day guided climbing trip to match your skill level from Kaf Adventures
• Day of guided climbing and instruction from Smith Rock Climbing School
• A multi-pitch climbing tour with Chockstone Climbing
• Women's only Intro to Climbing class from Women's Wilderness
• Passes to a local climbing gym like Seattle Bouldering Project
• Experience the rock a different way with a mountain bike rental from Poison Spider Bicycles in Moab

Photo by Aron Bosworth.

For the Snow Enthusiast 

• 2-Day Intro to splitboarding & AT Skiing or Avalanche Safety Course from Rare Earth Adventures
• Intro to Backcountry Skiing Course with Oregon Ski Guides
• Colrado women's only backcountry skiing trip with Backcountry Babes

Photo by Matt Leidecker.

For the Water Lover

• 6-Day rafting trip on the Main Salmon River with SOAR Northwest
• Camp and surf weekend adventure from Eat, Sleep, Surf
• Surf lesson in LA from Learn to Surf LA 
• Intro to River Kayaking lesson from the Kayak Academy
• Surf the California coast with AQUA Surf School
• Enjoy Oregon surf and brews on a weekend adventure with Rare Earth Adventures 
• Full-day rafting adventure from Indigo Creek Outfitters 

Photo by Duncan Sadava.

For the Adventurer

• A guided adventure of any sort with the folks from Adventures Without Limits
• Night photography workshop from Ben Coffman Photography
• Wilderness survival course with Adventure Out
• Women's backpacking trip with Trail Mavens in California
• A view of the forest from the tree tops with a tree climbing experience from Expedition Old Growth
• Rental for a backpacking kit or car camping kit from The Camp Kit

There are a number of amazing guides and outfitters out there to pick from, just be sure they are licensed, insured, and have the appropriate permits before booking your adventure. You know, you deserve a present too. Don't hesitate to learn something new or have a new outdoor experience next year!

Need more ideas? Check out the sequel: Give the Gift of Adventure: Lodging.