Hybrid Course Format

This course is delivered in a hybrid format consisting of:

• 30–40 hours of interactive online instruction (videos, readings, case studies, quizzes) completed at your own pace prior to the field section

• 5 days of immersive in-person field training totaling a minimum of 45 hours of hands-on instruction

The online content introduces core medical concepts, essential terminology, patient assessment strategies, and treatment protocols. This flipped classroom model ensures that students arrive at the field training with a solid foundation, allowing more time to focus on real-time decision-making, critical thinking, and applied rescue medicine.

The in-person training is where theory becomes action. Over five intensive days, students apply what they've learned using hyper-realistic simulation gear, moulage, mock rescue scenarios, and guided skill stations. Emphasis is placed on mastering patient assessments, forming accurate field impressions, choosing appropriate treatment protocols, and coordinating care and evacuation strategies under pressure. You’ll train in a dynamic team-based environment to build confidence, proficiency, and medical leadership.

Prerequisites

• Must be 18 years of age or older

• Completion of all online modules prior to the in-person field section is required

• Previous experience in wilderness settings or outdoor leadership is strongly recommended

• Comfort with physically demanding activities and exposure to outdoor elements

• Willingness to participate in simulated medical and rescue scenarios involving roleplay, moulage, and group problem-solving

Meets WMEC Standards

This course meets or exceeds all requirements set by the Wilderness Medicine Education Collaborative (WMEC) for Wilderness First Responder certification, including:

• A minimum of 70 total instructional hours, with at least 45 hours delivered in person

• Comprehensive instruction in patient assessment, trauma, environmental, and medical emergencies

• Additional elective topics in the operations category focused on search and rescue techniques, prolonged field care, helicopter orientation, small group tactics, and other wilderness rescue considerations

• More than 50% of our in-person course time is dedicated to hands-on, scenario-based, and skills-focused learning—ensuring that students leave with practical competence, not just theoretical knowledge.

• To receive certification, students must demonstrate mastery of core topics and field skills through a written exam, hands-on skill evaluations, and participation in realistic rescue simulations.

Additional Resources

Download key documents to help you prepare for your Wild Guide WFR Hybrid Course or share important information with your team or supervisor:

• WFR Hybrid Course Information Packet
  A comprehensive overview for training officers, supervisors, department heads, and students. Includes course format, requirements, certifications, and policies.

• Student Equipment List
  A practical packing checklist to help you arrive prepared for five days of immersive, all-weather scenario-based training.

• WFR Hybrid CEU Hour Breakdown
  An itemized chart of continuing education hours organized by topic and aligned with WMEC recommendations for documentation or agency approval.

WFR Courses include