Date and time is TBD
|Location is TBD
Wilderness First Responder (WFR) Course | Lech Lecha
Lech-Lecha organizes several Wilderness First Responder (WFR) courses each year to train outdoor leaders and participants in wilderness medicine. All our courses are Kosher and Shomer Shabbat friendly. The next course will take place May 10–12, 2026. To register, click: See Other Events.
Time & Location
Date and time is TBD
Location is TBD
About the Journey
Our upcoming course will will take place May 10–12, 2026. To register, visit the upcoming course page.
Participants receive Wilderness First Responder certification through SOLO upon successful completion.
Those under 18 years of age can attend on a case-by-case basis and with a parent or guardian present.
Trek Leader
Lech-Lecha partners with Nathan Duclos, a certified SOLO WFR instructor. Nathan has led expeditions in Argentina, Nepal, Iceland, Peru, the Alps, Mongolia, Alaska and beyond. He is a Wilderness Paramedic and licensed EMS instructor; he teaches wilderness medicine classes domestically and around the world.
Location
Our WFR courses are typically held within a few hours of the New York / New Jersey area, making them accessible for participants searching for a WFR course near NYC.
Schedule
Our immersive in-person training takes place Sunday through Tuesday, and is combined with one additional day of online coursework required for certification.
To learn more about these courses, please email noam@lechlechajourneys.org.
Cost Breakdown
Lech-Lecha is a nonprofit organization, and we run our Wilderness First Responder courses at cost in order to make wilderness medical training accessible to outdoor leaders.
Participants pay the instructor directly for the certification portion of the course, while the Lech-Lecha fee only covers food, lodging, and logistical costs.
This structure allows us to offer a high-quality WFR course at a lower cost than most commercial programs.
What is included?
All food and course materials are included. Tents are also provided. Participants must bring their own sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and personal gear (sleeping bags and pads can be rented for an additional fee).
Is the food kosher?
Yes. All food is kosher, and the course schedule is structured to be Shomer Shabbat friendly. We are one of the few organizations in North America offering a kosher, Shabbat-observant WFR course.
How long is the Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification valid?
WFR certification is typically valid for two years. Recertification courses are available to maintain certification (generally about $200).
Who should take a WFR course?
WFR training is designed for outdoor leaders, backpacking guides, camp staff, trip leaders, and anyone responsible for safety in remote environments.
Do I need prior medical experience to take a WFR course?
No prior medical training is required. The course is designed to teach wilderness medicine from the ground up.
What certification will I receive?
Participants who successfully complete the course receive Wilderness First Responder certification through SOLO.
Is this course suitable for people who keep Shabbat?
Yes. Our course schedule and logistics are designed to be Shomer Shabbat friendly (i.e. not being scheduled over a Saturday), and all food provided is kosher.
Let's Connect
Got questions? Reach out and we'll get back to you real soon!
