2026 Outdoor Safety Course Series

Hiking Safety Workshops in El Paso, Texas

Adventure begins with preparation. In partnership with We Hike and Visit El Paso, Gear Up and Go 2026 returns with a three-part hiking safety workshop series designed to help outdoor enthusiasts build confidence, sharpen essential skills, and safely explore the stunning desert and mountain landscapes of the Borderland.

Whether you’re stepping onto the trail for the first time or looking to advance your outdoor knowledge, these immersive workshops offer practical, hands-on learning experiences focused on hiking preparedness, navigation, desert awareness, and outdoor safety in urban mountain and desert environments.

Hosted throughout the summer, each workshop combines classroom-style instruction with real-world scenarios, interactive activities, and a guided sunrise hike the following morning to reinforce learned skills on the trail.

Beginner Workshop

• Saturday, June 6, 2026
• 10 Am - 12:30 PM
• Sunrise Hike: Sunday, June 7
• Perfect for new hikers and casual outdoor explorers, this introductory session covers the fundamentals of trail safety, proper gear selection, hydration, desert awareness, and how to confidently prepare for local hikes in the El Paso region.

Intermediate Workshop

• Saturday, July 11, 2026
• 10 AM - 12:30 PM
• Sunrise Hike: Sunday, July 12
• Take your hiking experience to the next level with expanded lessons on route planning, weather considerations, group hiking dynamics, trail etiquette, and emergency preparedness in more challenging terrain.

Advanced Workshop

• Saturday, August 8, 2026
• 10 AM - 12:30 PM
• Sunrise Hike: Sunday, August 9
• Designed for experienced hikers seeking deeper outdoor knowledge, this advanced session explores wilderness decision-making, advanced navigation concepts, risk assessment, and desert survival awareness through hands-on exercises and team-based scenarios.

What to Expect

Each Gear Up and Go workshop includes:

• Expert-led hiking safety instruction
• Hands-on activities and interactive demonstrations
• Real-world group scenarios and preparedness exercises
• Sunrise trail hike experience
• Take-home educational materials and resources
• Opportunities to connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts

Participants will gain valuable knowledge tailored specifically to hiking in the unique Chihuahuan Desert and Franklin Mountains region, helping build safer, smarter, and more enjoyable outdoor experiences.