Past Events › Spend Less Play More Basics

Now that the holiday season is here, many of you are trying to find the perfect gift for the special outdoor enthusiasts in your life. These are the folks who would never be satisfied with an Amazon gift card or a package of cotton briefs. It takes some simple planning to hand the perfect local gift to your favorite outdoorsy people. From classic options to the latest trends, we'll take a look at the best options for campers, hikers, and…

Play with camping, hiking, and backpacking gadgets! There's never been a better time to be an outdoor technophile. From solar-powered electronics to compact water filters, leaders in the industry have made huge strides in bringing a little creature comfort on the trail. Our team of experts will run through some of the latest trends in outdoor gadgets and give you plenty of time to explore and ask questions. RSVP on Facebook Kids and well-behaved pets with owner on leash are…

Is your New Year's resolution to enjoy the outdoors more? Start 2018 off on the right foot! From pack fit to shoes and hiking clothes made specifically for women, it's never been a better time to hit the trail with a group of girlfriends. Learn what to bring and (more importantly) what not to bring when setting out on a day, weekend, or thru hike. This clinic will include ideas on how to lighten your pack, maintaining gear on the trail,…

Let’s face it — cold weather and snow make us want to stay indoors, perhaps under a cozy quilt with a warm beverage. We see plenty of mild days during a WNC winter, offering plenty of possibilities for enjoying the outdoors during January, February, and March. Nate O. will share tips and tricks for making the most of a winter hike, camping, or just heading out for an adventure close to home. The season brings lots of pluses from no…

Learn what to bring and (more importantly) what not to bring when setting out on a day, weekend, or thru hike. This clinic will include ideas on how to lighten your pack, maintaining gear on the trail, and making your own ultra-light gear to use in the backcountry. Feel free to bring your pack for a "shakedown" by our backpacking experts. RSVP on Facebook >> Kids and well-behaved pets with owner on leash are welcome at this free event.

Knot tying is an essential skill for the outdoors. Join us for a hand-on clinic in which you'll learn basic useful knots for camping, outdoor sports, and everyday use. RSVP on Facebook > Kids and pets on leash are welcome at this free workshop.

Western North Carolina is home to some of the best hiking and backpacking you're likely to find. Living here has the built in advantage of a short ride to get where you want to go. We'll explore some of the best backpacking trips you should take this summer whether you're heading our overnight, for a weekend, or taking a longer break from the hustle and bustle -- as well as how to prepare for your adventure. RSVP on Facebook >…

A map and compass isn't always top of mind when we're used to navigating with an app, but it's a skill every outdoor enthusiast should know. Frugal Backpacker's team of experts will teach the fundamentals in this class that's great for all skill levels. We're getting outside our stores with summer by hosting some outdoor skills classes on Highland Brewing Company's rooftop bar. What better place to be than surrounded by a 360-degree view of Western North Carolina? In case of bad…