2026 Wilderness First Responder (WFR) Course

Knoxville, TN

May 21—May 25, 2026

This comprehensive hybrid course combines 30-40 hours of online learning with 5 days of hands-on training at Tayseer Seminary in Knoxville, Tennessee.

You’ll learn the Patient Assessment System, how to treat common outdoor injuries and illnesses, how to manage environmental emergencies, and how to make evacuation decisions. You’ll spend significant time practicing skills and participating in realistic scenarios. The course is designed for outdoor educators, trip leaders, and anyone who wants to be prepared for emergencies in remote settings.

Successful completion earns Wilderness First Responder, CPR, and Epinephrine Auto-Injector certifications from NOLS Wilderness Medicine, valid for two years.

Course Highlights

Patient Assessment System: Learn to quickly and effectively evaluate injuries and illnesses in the backcountry
Wilderness First Responder Protocols: Master techniques for treating common outdoor injuries and illnesses
Environmental Emergency Management: Gain skills to handle heat exhaustion, hypothermia, and altitude sickness
Evacuation Decision-Making: Develop critical thinking skills for determining when to call for help
Hands-On Practice: Engage in realistic scenarios, hands-on skill practice, and interactive discussions
Certifications: Wilderness First Responder, CPR, Epinephrine Auto-Injector

What’s different about the hybrid format? This WFR course combines online learning with in-person training. You’ll complete 30-40 hours of coursework online at your own pace before attending the 5-day in-person session where you’ll practice hands-on skills and participate in realistic scenarios.

When do I need to complete the online portion? The online coursework must be completed before the first day of in-person training. You will receive access to the online platform after registration with detailed instructions and deadlines.

What if I can’t complete the online portion in time? The online portion must be completed before attending the in-person session. If you cannot complete it by the deadline, you may need to defer to a future course date. Contact us as early as possible if you’re having difficulty meeting the deadline.

What’s covered in the online vs. in-person portions? The online portion covers theoretical knowledge including anatomy, physiology, wilderness medicine principles, and treatment protocols. The in-person portion focuses on hands-on skills practice, patient assessment, scenario-based learning, and emergency response in outdoor settings.

What are the certification requirements? To earn your WFR certification, you must:

Complete all online coursework
Attend 100% of in-person training (no more than 10% absence permitted, and no portion of the first day may be missed)
Actively participate in all scenarios and skill sessions
Successfully pass written and practical examinations

What if I don’t pass the course? If you do not meet the certification requirements, your instructor will discuss your options, which may include remediation, additional practice, or retaking portions of the course. NOLS instructors are committed to helping every student succeed.

Is re-certification available? Yes! WFR certifications are valid for two years. NOLS offers WFR recertification courses that are shorter in duration (typically 2-3 days) for those with current or recently expired certifications. Contact Tayseer Wilderness for information about upcoming recertification courses.

Do I need any prior medical training? No prior medical training or certifications are required. The course is designed for beginners while also being valuable for those with previous medical experience.