Founded in 2011, the Wilderness Skills Institute (WSI) brings together wilderness stewards from federal agencies, partners, and volunteers across the southeast to learn shoulder-to-shoulder the skills and knowledge necessary to care for America’s enduring resource, wilderness. The Southern Appalachian Wilderness Skills Institute is a partnership between the U.S. Forest Service, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), and Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards (SAWS). WSI currently features one week of training hosted the first week of May in Transylvania County, NC on the Pisgah National Forest at the Cradle of Forestry.
Southern Appalachian Wilderness Skills Institute WSI 2027
The 2026 Southern Appalachian Wilderness Skills Institute will be April 26-30, 2027.
2027 Courses: Stay tuned!
Cost: There is no cost to attend WSI.
Food: On your own. Participants will handle all their own meals. Prepare to bring meals to the field.
Lodging: WSI offers free on-site camping for all participants and instructors. There are hotels in nearby towns for both courses. Emails will be sent after acceptance to the course with more information.
Contact: Email volunteer@wildernessstewards.org for specific questions or concerns.
Champions of Wilderness: Our Esteemed Sponsors
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our generous sponsors whose support has fueled the success of the Southern Appalachian’s Wilderness Skills Institute. Your commitment to empowering outdoor enthusiasts and fostering a deeper connection to wilderness and wild public lands is truly commendable. Thank you for being instrumental in making this transformative experience possible for all attendees.
