Classes for Outdoor Enthusiasts to Be Offered at North Campus

For those who enjoy the outdoors and want to learn how to backpack or rock-climb, Pennsylvania College of Technology is offering Introduction to Backpacking and Rock Climbing 101 courses this spring at its North Campus near Wellsboro.

Introduction to Backpacking is a fun, six-week noncredit course geared toward the novice. It will cover basic equipment and skills for two- to five-day trips in the backcountry. The class will be held on Tuesdays, April 3 to May 8, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Liz Berkowitz is the instructor for the course, some of which will be held outside on the grounds of the campus. Students should wear appropriate outerwear and footwear. No previous knowledge or experience is needed to participate.

Rock Climbing 101 is for those who are interested in vertical adventures but don't know where to start. This noncredit course is an introduction to the basic components, equipment and safety measures used in the sport. Instructor Ben Nevin is a certified rock-climbing specialist and brings much experience from the increasingly popular activity. The class will be held on Mondays, April 2 to May 7, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. An optional field trip to a climbing wall may be arranged, depending upon interest from class participants.

The cost for each class is $49, and pre-registration is required at least one week before the class begins.

The North Campus is located three miles east of Wellsboro on Route 6. For more information, or to register, call (570) 724-7703.