You'll be ready.
Not sure what to bring, where to go, or how any of this works? You’re in the right place. Learn how to plan, pack, and get hiking and camping in the Pacific Northwest (PNW).
PNW Outdoor 101 is Sequoia Social Club’s intro class for beginners who want a clear, low-pressure way to start hiking and camping in our great state. This class is built around real questions, practical tips, and open Q&A. Every class is shaped by the group, no two are the same. No experience or gear required. Come with questions, leave with a plan.
Schedule
What We Can Cover
We don't cover everything every time. Our discussion is shaped by what you need, and where the wind takes us.
What to Expect
- An instructor who is a seasoned hiker and camper who loves helping beginners feel more at ease outside
- A beginner-friendly environment where questions are encouraged
- Practical information, real-world examples, and honest discussion
- A small group atmosphere with space to talk, learn, and connect
- Cozy coffee shop vibes with snacks and drinks available for purchase
While our events are geared toward beginners, all experience levels are welcome so long as they’re aligned with the spirit of the group.
This class is for:
People new to hiking, camping, or the Pacific Northwest outdoors
Outdoor-curious folks who feel intimidated by outdoor culture or don't know where to start
WTFNB (Women, Trans, Femme, Nonbinary) and welcoming to people of all races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, abilities, religions, and experience levels
Folks wanting to build outdoor skills without pressure or expensive gear
People wanting a gentler point into outdoor spaces
Who this group is not for:
People looking for a dating meetup or pickup scene
Folks expecting survival training, backpacking culture, or advanced, performance-focused hiking or mountaineering
People looking down on beginners or unwilling to support a learning-focused environment
People unwilling to respect differing comfort levels, identities, or experience levels
Folks more interested in proving themselves than helping create a welcoming experience for beginners
Thinking about an overnight trip with us?
This class is required before signing up for either of our 2026 overnight trips. It helps us understand your outdoor skill level to make sure the trip is the right fit, and you'll leave with tips, tools, and packing checklists.
Celeste Olds
Celeste Olds is a PNW outdoor instructor dedicated to building wilderness skills, confidence, and meaningful connections in nature. Her work is shaped by thousands of miles trekked through alpine terrain locally & abroad, a lifetime of camping in the Pacific Northwest and decades of project management.
Years of problem-solving gear failures, unpredictable weather, and backcountry panic attacks have spawned the systems that make being outside safer, more comfortable, and more accessible. Celeste’s approach recognizes that while safety and stewardship are an essential baseline, confidence and comfort outdoors look different for everyone.
She creates supportive environments where people build skills at their own pace and leave with the tools and a grounded sense of capability to get outside.
FAQ
Yes. Most people do.
No. This is an indoor class at a coffee shop.
That’s expected. This class is designed for people who are new, unsure, or intimidated. You’re not behind, you’re exactly who this is for.
Yes. This class is required before signing up for an overnight trip. If you would like to join a trip, you can reserve your spot on the camp page.
Mt St Helens / Seaquest State Park - July 24-26
Hoh Rainforest / Bogachiel State Park - Sept 4-7
Let your camp class instructor know you’re thinking about attending an overnight trip. They’ll have a few questions & helpful guidance for ya.
Sequoia Social Club organizes casual, educational gatherings for adults who want to enjoy the outdoors and feel unprepared or hesitant to go alone. Like Girl Scouts, but for grown-ups.
Through guided hikes, camping trips, and in-city classes, we teach outdoor skills in a supportive, social setting. You won’t just attend, you’ll help plan and carry out trips with a focus on safety, comfort, and outdoor stewardship. In the process, you’ll build the competence to experience nature with us or on your own.
Celeste Olds is a PNW outdoor instructor dedicated to building wilderness skills, confidence, and meaningful connections in nature. Her work is shaped by decades of project management, thousands of miles trekked through alpine terrain locally and abroad, and a lifetime of camping in the Pacific Northwest.
