Learn Outdoor Skills Like Backpacking, Mountain Biking

Cleveland Metroparks Institute of the Great Outdoors provides a wide range of outdoor recreational classes, like these:

Beginner Backpacking Trip:

Have you ever wanted to go backpacking, but were nervous about the experience? Join IGO staff for an overnight trip to experience and learn about backpacking essentials including backcountry hygiene, cooking, safety, and more. A port-a-john will be available for the introductory class.

Activity level: Easy

Ages: 14 years and up

Pre-trip: June 13, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at Garfield Park Nature Center, Garfield Park Reservation

Date / Location: June 23 - 24 , 1 p.m. - noon  at Hinckley Reservation

Cost: $55

Mountain Bike Lessons: Beginner:

Build basic skills to enjoy negotiating beginner level mountain bike trails with confidence. Discover how to prepare for a ride, avoid beginner pitfalls and find limitations while having fun on the trail. Body position, shifting, braking, trail etiquette and "hills and holes" are just a few topics that are covered. All participants must bring their own mountain bike and ensure that the bikes are in good/safe working condition prior to the class. IGO staff strongly recommend that the bike be fully serviced by a knowledgeable person prior to the class. Helmets required.

Activity level: Easy

Ages: 14 years and up

Date / Location: June 19 , 6 - 8 p.m. at Royalview Picnic Area, Mill Stream Run Reservation -or- June 30 , 9 - 11 a.m. at  Royalview Picnic Area, Mill Stream Run Reservation -or- July 10,* 6 - 8 p.m. at Royalview Picnic Area, Mill Stream Run Reservation

Cost: $15

Mountain Bike Lessons: Intermediate:

This class is designed for mountain bike riders with a little experience who want to continue building skills. Learn techniques to increase speed and acquire skills for wheel hops, steep grades and "ride-able drop offs." Hone bike set-up, braking and cornering techniques, and more. All participants must bring their own mountain bike and ensure that the bikes are in good/safe working condition prior to the class. IGO staff strongly recommend that the bike be fully serviced by a knowledgeable person prior to the class. Helmets required.

Pre-Requisite: Complete Beginner Class

Activity level: Moderate

Ages: 14 years and up

Date / Location: June 26, 6 - 8 p.m. at Royalview Picnic Area, Mill Stream Run Reservation -or- July 24,  6 - 8 p.m. at Royalview Picnic Area, Mill Stream Run Reservation -or- July 28, 9 - 11 a.m. at Royalview Picnic Area, Mill Stream Run Reservation

Cost: $20

Adventure Race Training:

Want to participate in IGO's adventure race on Sept. 22, but don't know how to get started? Join IGO staff for a multi-sport training series on the trail and on the water. The class focuses on skills and endurance needed for paddling and trail running. Equipment provided for paddling sessions, but participants are required to bring their own running gear.

Activity level: Moderate to strenuous

Ages: Adults

Date / Location: July 7, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Hinckley Lake Boathouse, HinckleyReservation -or- Aug. 11, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Hinckley Lake Boathouse, Hinckley Reservation

Cost: $35

For more information on these Outdoor Recreation Skills courses, a complete list of all IGO courses and trips, or to register, call 216-341-1704 or visit clevelandmetroparks.com.