Sign up now for Spring 2016 PE courses!  All COE classes are open to the public.  Most classes don't require any previous expereince.  Please review our enrollment and fee policies .  You can click on the courses below for dates, times, and fees. To sign up call our registrar at (607) 255-6183 or email akw2@cornell.edu, or find us on student center during the enrollment period.   The drop deadline for all COE PE courses is Friday, January 27, 2016.

BACKPACKING AND CAMPING  |   BIKING  |   CAVING  |   HIKING 
  PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT | PADDLING  |   ROCK AND ICE CLIMBING  | 
 SKIING  | TREE CLIMBING  |  WILDERNESS FIRST AID   

 

 

BACKPACKING AND CAMPING  

Backcountry Cooking		Start Date - Thu Apr 7   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Ever wanted to learn how to make true gourmet food in the field?  This class will introduce students to gourmet skills that can be used in the backcountry including dutch ovens and twiggy fires.
Backcountry Photography		Start Date - Wed Apr 6   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		This class combines photography skills, appreciation for nature, and a weekend backpacking class. Enjoy the beautiful sights in and around the Fingerlakes as you and your fellow students learn about some basic nature photography techniques, such as the rule of thirds, and how to maximize your use of exposure to get the shots you want.  No prior experience is necessary, but you will need a camera. Fall semester class may go to the Adirondacks to catch the colors as we transition from summer to fall.
Backpacking in the Finger Lakes **FREE**		Start Dates: Section 1 - Wed Mar 2, Section 2 - Wed Apr 6, Section 3 - Wed Apr 6  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Backpacking in the finger lakes will provide you with a basic introduction to backpacking including such topics as pack selection and fitting, campsite selection, route planning and navigation, as well as giving you an opportunity to get off campus and explore some of the beautiful natural scenery around Ithaca.
Intro to Winter Camping		Start Date - Thu Feb 18   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Learn the essentials of traveling and camping in the winter. Build a snow shelter, travel on snowshoes, melt snow for water, and learn to sleep toasty warm. Winter camping opens up whole new horizons for exploration, without the bugs, crowds or mud.
Wilderness Survival Skills		Start Date - Thu Apr 7  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Learn what you can do, should you become lost or stranded in the backcountry. This course covers general backcountry safety, and wilderness survival skills.

 

BIKING 

Bike Touring		Start Date - Thu Apr 7   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Take your bicycle riding to the next level and come learn the ins and outs of bike touring! The course will take you on weekly rides to develop your knowledge of bike safety, road riding and route planning and will culminate in an overnight trip.
Mountain Biking		Start Dates:  FR - Mon Apr 4, SA - Tue Apr 5, SU - Wed Apr 6   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Cruise along double and single track trails, grind up hills, splash through creek crossing, pause at scenic vistas and explore the local trails in style. Along the way we'll cover essential cycling skills for clearing logs, navigating downhill terrain, climbing hills and getting the most out of your mountain bike.
Mountain Biking - North Carolina		Start Dates - Mon Mar 14  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Come ride what many people consider to be the best mountain biking destination east of the Mississippi.  Western North Carolina offers miles and miles of singletrack for an adventure packed week of fat tire bliss.  Trails range from beginner friendly to advanced, so there is something for everyone and opportunity to improve your skills.  We'll spend the week camping, enjoying the scenery and getting a glimpse of the growing mountain bike scene.

 

 

CAVING  

Caving		Start Dates: Section 1 - Mon May 2   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Join us for a weekend of exploring undeveloped "wild" caves.  Learn about cave geology, maps, equipment, and environmental concerns.  All gear included.

 

HIKING   

Day Hiking		Start Dates: FR - Wed Apr 6, SA - Thu Apr 7   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Day hiking classes provide students with an opportunity to get off campus and explore some of the beautiful natural areas around Ithaca.  Learn some basic navigation and hiking skills while you make new friends.
Geocaching		Start Date - Sun Mar 13 (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		This class will introduce students to Geocaching, no expereince is necessary.  Students should come to class prepared to be outside for the entire class length.
Outdoor Adventure		Start Date - Wed Apr 6   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Having trouble deciding what outdoor class to try?  Outdoor Adventure does a little of it all!  Classes will spend a day canoeing, a day rockclimbing, a day hiking trip, and then tops it all off overnight backpacking trip.  No experience is necessary.
Outdoor Birding Basics		Start Date - Tue Mar 22 (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Outdoor Birding basics is an introductory birding class offered by COE and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.  No experience is necessarry, come enjoy the spring migration of birds that pass through central NY.
Snowshoeing & Winter Travel		Start Dates: FR - Thu Jan 28, SA - Thu Jan 28  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Snowshoeing and winter travel, depending on the current weather conditions this class will explore snowshoeing or winter hiking. Be prepared for beautiful winter scenery and cold temperatures. Hope for snow!
Trail Running		Start Dates: Section 1 - Fri Mar 18, Section 2 - Wed Apr 13, Section 3 - Tue Apr 12  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		This class will get you out on the spectacular local trails, provide training tips, teach you how to navigate in the woods, and run you over hill and dale, through forests, fields, and mudpits.

 

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT  

Outdoor Tai Chi		Start Date - Tue Mar 22   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Enjoy the outdoors?  Interested in learning Tai Chi?  This class, an introduction to Tai chi will combine both of these elements.  The class will occur on locations in and around campus, transportation is provided with the class.  No previous experience necessary.
Outdoor Yoga		Start Date - Wed Mar 23   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Enjoy the outdoors?  Interested in Yoga?  this class an introduction to Yoga combines Yoga and the Outdoors.  Classes will be held at various locations on and off campus, transportation is provided with the class.  No previous experience necessary.
Advanced Outdoor Yoga		Start Date - Tue Apr 5   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		This class is an Advanced yoga class building on skills taught in the COE Introduction to Yoga class, prerequisite is that you must have taken an introductory yoga class, this class is not for beginners.

 

PADDLING 

Intro to Sea Kayaking		Start Date - Tue Apr 19   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Learn the basics to get you started with sea kayaking out on the lake. This class will cover information about equipment, loading, launching & landing your kayak, exiting and re-entering your kayak in open water, and basic paddling stroke technique. Class meets at the Helen Newman Pool for the evening classes and will paddle on local lakes for the day trips. No previous paddling experience necessary.
Kayak Rolling Clinic		Start Date - Tue Feb 23  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Kayaking can be alot more fun when you can easily turn your boat upright. Gaining confidence in your roll will make you a better paddler and give you an edge when taking your skills outdoors. Take advantage of this indoor-pool setting to learn, and/or fine-tune, kayak rolling techniques. Whether you are more interested in whitewater kayaking or sea kayaking; if you are a brand new paddler or you are just looking to take your skills to the next level, our instructors will work with you to ultimately make you a more skilled and confident boater. This three-evening class is designed to help progress your skills by working on bracing, edge control, different types of rolling, and more advanced skills . Not for PE credit.
Pool Paddling **FREE**		Start Date - Thu Feb 11   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Learn the fundamentals of kayaking in the controlled environment of the pool. This class will give you a solid progression of skills that will be easily transferable to an open water or river experience.  Learn and practice a wide range of skills in whitewater kayaks including fundamental paddling strokes, bracing, rolling and boat handling skills like edging and carving. Paddling games, a slalom gate course, and focused exercises will provide a fun and interactive group learning experience.
Recreational Canoeing		Start Date - Mon May 2  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		This class is designed to teach you the fundamentals of canoeing in a relaxed environment. Enjoy being outside for class as you explore Beebe Lake and other Finger Lakes area waterways. Meet new friends, learn new skills, and experience nature all while you keep active.
River Canoeing		Start Date - Fri Apr 12  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Learn the skills to manuever a tandem canoe on moving water.  Experience nature in a new way this spring as you paddle with new friends and camp out in beautiful places. Students are required to have some basic canoeing skills to register for this class. If you are brand new to canoeing please check out our Recreational Canoeing classes first.
Stand Up Paddle boarding		Start Date - Wed Apr 20  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Try paddling standing up. We are excited to show you how much fun you can have on stand up paddleboards.  Experience Cayuga Lake from a new vantage point.  Stay active and engage your whole body. Learn something fun in a small group setting. Our instructors will teach you all the basics including: stance, paddling technique, turning, and more. No previous paddling experience is necessary but you must be a comfortable recreational swimmer to take this course.
Whitewater Kayaking		Start Date - Thu Apr 21   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		This is an introduction to whitewater kayaking including classes to get you comfortable in a kayak in the pool and progressing to class II / III whitewater. Learn basic boat handling skills such as edging, bracing, rolling, and paddle strokes. Kayaking on the river will give you the opportunity to learn how to read the water and practice maneuvering across current with ferries, eddy turns, and peel outs. River destinations will be dependent on river levels. This class culminates in a weekend camping trip with two days of paddling.

 

 

ROCK CLIMBING  

Basic Rock Climbing		Many Sections   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Our Basic Rock Climbing course requires NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE.  We will introduce you to rock climbing equipment, knots, rope handling, belaying, rappelling, safety, and various climbing techniques. Classes have at least a 1:4 instructor-to-student ratio, ensuring a high degree of individual attention. Graduates of the class will be certified to belay at the Lindseth Climbing Wall.
Women’s Basic Rock Climbing		Start Date - Sun Feb 7  (Drop Deadline1/27/16)
		Join us to explore the adventure and excitement of rock climbing in a close and supportive community. Whether it is to develop grace and coordination, to reach a deeper sense of personal achievement, to learn technical skills, or to share in a challenging activity, rock climbing is a dynamic sport that is drawing ever-increasing numbers of women. This class is open to all women and is similar to Basic Rock Climbing in all other respects.
High Adventure		Start Date - Fri Apr 8   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Rock climbing, rappelling, belaying, 40 foot high challenges, and a 400 foot long zipline.  Every session has a new adventure for you. Activities are designed to teach you rope work and safety in addition to teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. This multiple-element course goes to Ithaca's most popular vertical playgrounds: the Lindseth Climbing Wall and the Hoffman Challenge Course. Graduates will be belay tested at the climbing wall and challenge course.
Ice Climbing - Adirondacks		Start Date - Mon Feb 8    (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Join us as we climb snow covered peaks in the beautiful High Peaks of the Adirondacks.  Learn the skills needed to climb one of New York's 4000' peaks and camp in a winter wilderness.  You'll learn around gear selection and use, route considerations and staying safe in a winter environment.  This course will take place outside in very cold temperatues.
Ice Climbing - Fingerlakes		Start Date - Thu Feb 18   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Join us as we tiptoe up frozen waterfalls. Come learn the fundamentals of this incredibly unique form of climbing while enjoying two full days in the beauty of a Northeastern winter.
Introduction to Outdoor Rock Climbing		Start Dates: Section 1 - Mon Apr 11, Section 2 - Mon Apr 18   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Learn basic rock climbing skills on real rock! We’ll spend a glorious weekend climbing, camping, and relaxing at Minnewaska State Park in the heart of the Catskill Mountains. We will cover climbing equipment and technique, knots, belaying, rappelling, and natural history. As always, an instructor- to-student ratio of 1:4 ensures lots of personal attention and climbing time. NO PRIOR EXPERIENCE NECESSARY.
Performance Rock Climbing		Start Date - Wed Feb 24  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Performance Rock Climbing focuses on developing and refining your climbing technique.  Our most accomplished staff will teach you about sequencing, dynamic movement, high angle footwork and composure, as well as training and mental conditioning.  Classes are held on the Lindseth and Kay2 Climbing Walls.
Shawangunks Rock Climbing		Start Date - Sun Apr 24  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Enjoy world-class rock climbing at one of the premier areas in the US, the Shawangunks! After introductory classes at the Lindseth Climbing Wall, we will travel to the 'Gunks for a 3-day rock camp that will introduce the skills and systems to do multi-pitch climbs.
Wellness Rock Climbing		Start Date - Tue Feb 9  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Whether you're a complete beginner or a more experienced rock climber, why not spend your lunch break on the climbing wall? If you have ever wanted to try rock climbing, Cornell is the place to begin! Our Wellness Rock Climbing course requires NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE.
Winter Mountaineering - Adirondacks		Start Date - Thu Feb 4   (Drop Deadline1/27/16)
		Join us as we climb snow covered peaks in the beautiful High Peaks of the Adirondacks.  Learn the skills needed to climb one of New York's 4000' peaks and camp in a winter wilderness.

 

 

SKIING

24 + Cross Country Skiing		Start Dates - Thu Feb 4  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		The "best of cross country skiing" for a more mature audience!  Join us for this version of Basic Cross Country designed for faculty, staff, and graduate students.  Not for PE credit.
Cross Country Skiing		Many Sections  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Thoroughly enjoy your winter in upstate NY with cross-country skiing. Learn the basics to effectively glide across snow-covered landscapes. Start out with getting comfortable on skis on flat land and progress to learning how to navigate hills and trails on cross-country skis. Explore Ithaca’s local forests and ski trails. This is a beginner friendly class and no previous skiing experience is required. Stay active this winter, meet new people, and experience the beauty of winter. Transportation, equipment, and instruction are all included.
Telemark Skiing		Start Date - Tues Feb 2 (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		"Free the heel and your mind will follow."  A cross between downhill and cross country skiing, telemark involves a graceful free heel turn that can be a joy and a challenge to learn to perfect.  The course starts with the basics of skiing downhill, including braking and turning, then moves to the tele turn, and finally progresses to linked turns.  A low instructor to student ratio ensures individual attention and progression.  The class is taught at Greek Peak and includes transportation to and from the slopes and includes telemark skiing equipment rental.

 

TREE CLIMBING  

Redwoods Tree Climbing		Start Dates: Mon Apr 11 (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Join Cornell Tree Climbing Institute staff for the experience of a lifetime - climbing some of the largest trees on the planet! During senior week we will travel to the western slope of the High Seirra mountains of California.
Tree Climbing		Start Dates: Section 1 - Fri Apr 15, Section 2 - Sat Apr 16, Section 3 - Sun Apr 17   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Everyone likes to climb trees, but what do you do if you can't reach the first branch?  Learn to use ropes and harnesses to climb big trees! All instruction, equipment, and transportation is included in the course fee.

 

WILDERNESS FIRST AID  

Wilderness First Aid		Start Dates: Section 1 - Sat Feb 6, Section 2 - Sat Mar 19, Section 3 - Sat Apr 9, Section 4 - Sun Apr 10, Section 5 - Sat May 28    (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Essential first and second aid with an empahsis on backcountry and wilderness issues.  Includes  WFA, Standard First Aid, and CPR certificate of course completion.
Wilderness First Responder		Start Date - Wed Apr 27   (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		This nationally recognized course provides the training and certification that is increasingly necessary for professional outdoor instructors or guides. The curriculum goes beyond the basics to emphasize the skills and knowledge needed in remote situations when extended care is necessary. This 8-day course covers assessment, and treatment for a variety of medical problems commonly found in the backcountry, ranging from minor injuries and illnesses to major trauma and life threatening sickness. Video analysis of simulations used to enhance learning.
WFR Recertification		Start Date - Fri Feb 12  (Drop Deadline 1/27/16)
		Re-certs for 3 years Wilderness First Responder. Topics include patient assessment, body systems, equipment improvisation, trauma, environmental medicine, toxins, backcountry medicine, wilderness protocols, and wilderness rescue.  Completion of pre-course study packet is required for all participants.