Being a non-profit in the Presidio has many perks–the ocean views are spectacular, lunchtime means walks along quiet trails, and getting to work with a network of wonderful companies and nonprofits in a national park is unique. One such company... READ MORE

This summer, at Outward Bound California’s High Sierra base camp in Midpines, CA, we piloted a Sustainability Program to address some of the most pressing environmental issues facing the organization. In essence, our staff wanted to practice what we preach on course–as... READ MORE

Bryan Morales, a young man who “grew up on the freeways of LA” was on the first Outdoor Educators Institute cohort in 2012. The Outdoors Educators Institute (OEI) is a Bay Area scholarship-based program that aims at diversifying outdoor education.... READ MORE

To me, it was clear that it was not the destination, but the journey and obstacles that I encountered on my course in the High Sierra that made it unforgettable. Through this 14-day backpacking and rock climbing adventure, I was... READ MORE

Outward Bound California instructors are all trained equally, and yet, are unique in what way they present themselves to their crew. Some are passionate about plant identification, while some enjoy challenging students with brain teasers while they hike. And there... READ MORE

I looked down at my feet while Shawn, the Program Manager at OBCA’s High Sierra office confirmed I understood how many miles I’d be hiking to see a course resupply and service project.  I tried to deflect his concern and... READ MORE

On a 22 day backpacking course this July, a group of teens from around the country took part in a service project around shimmering Rae Lake. This project, located in Sierra National Forest, was the first in a series of service days... READ MORE

  The sun was beginning to set. It was after 8 pm but our group was still hiking. Our students weren’t lost and this wasn’t a Final challenge, in fact we knew exactly where we were. We knew because we... READ MORE

Many, if not all students on an Outward Bound course experience a challenging moment and have to overcome it to continue. It could be eating new foods, being homesick, or, like Curtavia, they could be afraid of heights. Curtavia, a... READ MORE

Megan Smith is this summer’s talented chef at Outward Bound California’s High Sierra basecamp. Originally from Vermont, Chef Megan was a kayaking guide for many years before she enrolled in culinary school, so she knows what instructors want to eat. She has... READ MORE