Outdoor-focused courses continue at REI

REI Bozeman continues to host FREE outdoors-based presentations this wintry spring. Here’s a look at some of the upcoming courses and other events.
Bozeman Backcountry Woman Series: Gourmet Cooking for Backpackers is first up on Thursday, May 3rd from 6–7:30pm. REI backpacking experts will debunk the myth that backpacking meals consist of only prepackaged freeze dried meals or bars. Learn insider tips on delicious meal preparation using items already in your pantry and how to dehydrate your own food at home. There will also be a brief discussion on stoves, fuel, and cook sets.
Women’s Mountain Biking Basics follows on Thursday, May 10th from 6–7:30pm. Thinking about hitting the trail on your bike or maybe find out about what to look for when purchasing a new mountain bike or modifying your existing one? Join a REI mountain bike expert to learn about the bikes, essential gear and safety, responsibility on the trail, basic bike maintenance and more.
Bike Maintenance for Trail Riding rolls in on Tuesday, May 22nd from 6:30–8pm. Mountain bikes are made for the trails, but sometimes they still need a little care and attention to keep performing at their best. This class will cover critical maintenance tips that will help you get the most out of every ride, no matter the season. Topics covered include quieting a noisy drivetrain, checking and replacing brake pads, cleaning a dirty bike, experimenting with tire pressure, and the basics of setting up your suspension.
Finally, Prepare for Bear Country on Wednesday, May 23rd from 6:30–8pm. The Bozeman REI store offers monthly bear education classes throughout the summer. Taught by one of REI’s nonprofit partners specializing in bear behavior, the goal is to reduce bear-human conflicts and injuries to both. Participants will have the opportunity to practice the proper use of bear spray with inert canisters.
Many REI classes and presentations are free and open to the public, but registration is required. Space is limited. Reserve a spot now at www.rei.com/learn, where you can find more information about these and other upcoming courses and events.