Wilderness First Responder Recertification

Renew your wilderness medical certification through immersive, real-world field scenarios in the rugged desert landscapes of Moab, Utah. Our Wilderness First Responder (WFR) recertification emphasizes hands-on practice, realistic decision-making, and minimal classroom time, ensuring you return to backcountry leadership prepared for any emergency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about prerequisites, field locations, scenario training, and how to prepare for your recertification weekend with Rescue And Mountain Skills School in Moab.

Who can take this recertification course?
We accept students with current or grace-period Wilderness First Responder certifications from recognized providers, including NOLS, WMA, Desert Mountain Medicine, and other reputable institutions.

What makes renewing a WFR in Moab unique?
We keep class sizes small with a strict 15-student maximum. Training takes place outside in rugged canyons, slickrock, and desert terrain rather than manicured lawns or indoor lecture halls. Plus, you can mountain bike, raft, hike, or ride UTV trails right before or after class.

Is there a night scenario included?
Yes. Unlike most standard recertification clinics, our program includes an intensive night rescue scenario to test assessment and evacuation management under genuine backcountry darkness and challenging conditions.

Do you include CPR training in this course?
We do not teach CPR in this recertification. Removing CPR allows us to dedicate substantially more field time to hands-on wilderness scenarios and critical medical skill refreshers. CPR certification can be easily completed independently with local institutions.

How is the course schedule structured?

The training spans two and a half days, and two nights. Typically kicking off on Friday evening, running all day Saturday into a night rescue scenario, and wrapping up Sunday afternoon.  

Where do students stay during the course?

Courses are based at a federal lands campground where students can camp on-site. Camping directly at the training grounds eliminates daily commute times and maximizes scenario training across local desert and mountain terrain.  Or stay at one of Moab's many hotels and nightly rental accomodations, and commute to the course site.

What clothing and personal gear should I pack?
Bring versatile outdoor clothing suited for both desert heat and cold nights, sturdy footwear, and complete camping gear if you plan to stay at the campground site.

What day pack and rescue equipment do I need to bring?
Bring your standard day pack loaded with the typical adventure gear you carry on trail. Training with your own everyday kit ensures your practical wilderness rescue skills translate directly to your personal trips and work environments.

Ready to refresh your wilderness rescue skills?

Spaces are strictly capped at 15 students per course to deliver focused, scenario-driven wilderness medicine education. Contact us today to reserve your spot for our next Moab session.