Get the truth behind common misconceptions about NOLS gap year courses, watch this video to see what José González, NOLS alum and founder of Latino Outdoors, has to say about the power of wilderness, and check out four spring break trips off the beaten path.

5 Myths about Taking a Gap Year with NOLS

Five students circle up on a grassy knoll in New Zealand with mountains shrouded in clouds

Photo by Nick Garrett

’Tis the season to start making gap year plans! As you consider your options, don’t get fooled by common misconceptions about NOLS expeditions—that you’re not outdoorsy enough, can’t afford it, or will miss out on academic credit.

Get the Real Scoop on Gap Year Expeditions

4 Spring Break Trips You Haven’t Considered (but Probably Should)

underwater shot of a woman snorkeling in Baja looking toward the camera

Photo by Alisha Bube

Forget the crowded ski lifts and touristy beaches. Instead, go kayaking and snorkeling in Baja, learn to backcountry ski, or take your rock climbing skills beyond the gym.

Find Your Spring Break Trip

Meet José González, Founder of Latino Outdoors

NOLS Wilderness Medicine alum and Board member José González is a passionate educator and the founder of a nonprofit that engages and inspires Latinx leadership in the outdoors. He believes that spending time in the wilderness is about “reminding people of the power they already have.”

Watch the Video

Girls Idaho Backpacking Adventure

Photo by Lucy Rogers

Explore wild and beautiful mountains of the western U.S. with a group of teens ages 14 and 15. Challenge yourself and build self-confidence on a new kind of summer adventure.

See Course Details

Get Ready for Spring with a NOLS Med Kit

It’s time to get your gear in order for warmer weather adventures, and a well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any outdoor trip. This year, plan ahead with a NOLS med kit.

See All First Aid Kits

Get Your Gap Year Questions Answered

Photo by Kirk Rasmussen

Have questions about financial aid, academic credits, and what a NOLS gap year looks like? Submit them on Instagram Stories from 8am–5pm MST on Wednesday, February 26!

Submit Your Questions on Instagram

Wind River Wilderness Backpacking Expedition

Photo by Eric Page

Climb glacier-carved peaks and camp beside sparkling alpine lakes in Wyoming’s Wind River Range. Return with great memories and the skills to lead your next adventure.