January Events

Each event includes a description, a date, a time and a location. If you have any questions, feel free to send an e-mail with your inquiry.

REI Bloomington 
494 & Lyndale       952/884-4315


REI Roseville
Cty B2 & Prior      651/635-0211

GENERAL PRESENTATIONS, CLINICS & EVENTS

TRAVELING IN TURKEY
Wednesday, January 3rd at 7PM
REI Bloomington

Learn about the country that has better Greek ruins than Greece and more Roman ruins than Italy. REI staff member David Pierce will give a slide presentation and talk on his 17 day excursion to Turkey. Dave will provide tips on traveling cheap and what to see from the bustle of modern Istanbul to the otherworldly central highlands of ancient Cappadoccia. Learn where to go, what to see, how to stay safe, and hear anecdotes of Dave's run-in with the Turkish Police.

ON TOP OF THE WORLD- THE PEOPLE AND MOUNTAINS OF NEPAL
Saturday, January 6th at 2 PM
REI Bloomington

Not just another chance to look at the stunning mountains of Nepal (although there is that, too), this presentaion focuses on Sherpa and Khumbu culture with a special emphasis on the conditions of Nepali women's lives, recent organizing efforts, women's groups, and how modernization is affecting their lives. Rachel will also discuss the mountains of the Khumbu region, climbing and high trekking routes, and how pressures on the region from trekking over the past fifty years have affected it. Rachel DaSilva has led several trekking and climbing trips in Nepal as well as spending personal time there. As a consequence she has developed personal relationships that have given her a unique understanding of Nepali and Sherpa culture. Rachel is also the editor of "Leading Out: Women Climbers Reaching for the Top"."

INTRO TO GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEMS (GPS)
Wednesday, January 10th at 7 PM
Saturday, January 13th at 2 PM
REI Bloomington

Our introductory clinic on Global Positioning Systems is back by popular demand. An experienced REI employee will give this informative clinic on the basics of using the GPS technology to aid you in your outdoors adventures. The clinic will also cover the differences between several of the models on the market today.

INTRO TO WILDERNESS FIRST AID
Tuesday, January 9th at 7PM
REI Bloomington

This two-hour introductory wilderness first aid clinic will cover the basics of being prepared for emergencies in the backcountry. It will also discuss what is offered in the Standard Wilderness First Aid Course (see description for the class below) available through REI and the Minnesota Safety Council.

WINTER CAMPING 101
Tuesday, January 23rd at 7PM
REI Bloomington
Thursday, January 25th at 7 PM
REI Roseville

A clinic to help add another season to your camping adventures. An REI employee will share trip-tested information on dressing to stay warm and selecting equipment appropriate for winter use. Experience how serene the backcountry can be without the crowds and mosquitoes.

WINTER CAMPING 102 & 103
Monday, January 29th at 7PM
REI Bloomington
Saturday & Sunday, February 3rd & 4th
Spring Lake Park Reserve, Rosemount

Fee: $35. Registration Required. Call Dakota County Parks at 651/438-4660 to register
Winter Camping 101 & 102 are requirements to participate in Winter Camping 103
Winter Camping 102 is for those will be participating in the winter camping overnight on February 3rd & 4th at Spring Lake Park. This indoor session will address how to stay warm, identify specific gear to bring, and prepare you for spending a winter night outdoors.
Winter Camping 103 will be an overnight adventure at a peaceful, wooded campsite at Spring Lake Park Reserve. Participants will explore this beautiful park by snowshoe and learn from experienced guides how to survive and enjoy the splendor of camping in the wintertime.

INLAND SEA KAYAKERS- 2001: A Space Oddessey- How to Pack a Kayak
Monday, January 15th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington

Too often paddlers sit on the beach with a pile of gear and wonder how it's possible to fit everything in the kayak for the three-day trip. Join us as we learn how to better pack our boats and how to reduce volume without compromising on comfort. Learn some of the tricks and tips from one of our master packers!

SNOWSHOEING CLINICS & EVENTS

INTRO TO SNOWSHOEING
Thursday, January 11th at 7PM
REI Bloomington

Why is snowshoeing one of the fasting growing sports in country? Is it the relatively low cost to get started? The ease of which one can pick up the technique? The abundance of places to go? Yes, yes and yes. This clinic by a representative of the Tubbs Snowshoeing will help you join the ranks of people who are discovering a fun and easy way of getting outside to enjoy Minnesota winters.

HENNEPIN PARKS SNOWSHOE FESTIVAL
Saturday, January 6th from 11 AM - 3 PM
Baker Near Wilderness Settlement - Baker Park Reserve, Medina

FREE- Parking fees apply
Over 200 pairs of snowshoes from Atlas, Tubbs, MSR, and other manufacturers to try out. Indoor and outdoor activities for all ages, a 5k snowshoe race, and ongoing informational clinics.

DISCOVERY SNOWSHOE FESTIVAL
Saturday, January 20th from 10 AM - 3 PM
Highland Park Golf Course, St. Paul

Pre-Registration - Adults $20 Pre-registration - Seniors (65 and older) $15 Day of Registration - Adults $25 Day of Registration - Seniors (65 and older) $20
REI is an official sponsor of this recreational snowshoeing event that brings together family and friends to celebrate the indomitable spirit of life. Events include 5k self guided snowshoe walk/hikes, 5k snowshoe fun run, Tubbs Winter Fit Clinics, product demonstrations and more.
100% of all pledge and registration proceeds benefit the local affiliate of the Komen Foundation. Stop by our Customer Service Desk at our Bloomington or Roseville to register http://discoverysnowshoe.com

Dakota County Parks FULL MOON SNOWSHOE
Wednesday, January 24th from 7 PM to 9 PM
Spring Lake Youth Camp- Spring Lake Park Reserve, Rosemount

Fee: $7/person or $15/family Registration Required. Call Dakota County Parks at 651/438-4660 to register Bring the entire family for a relaxing evening of snowshoeing by the light of the full moon. Snowshoe over the glistening snow as it reflects the moonlight through the peaceful woods and prairies. No experience needed. Geared for all ages. Snowshoes provided by Dakota County Parks and REI.

CABIN FEVER FESTIVAL - SNOWSHOE DEMO
Saturday, January 27th from 10 AM to 2 PM
Lake Byllesby Regional Park, Cannon Falls
FREE, no registration required

The Festival is a fun filled day of winter activities for all ages. From a sled dog and skijoring races, to a snowshoe demo hosted by REI, this Dakota County Parks celebration will help you enjoy the splendor of winter. For more information check out Dakota County Parks website at http://www.co.dakota.mn.us/parks/OutdrEd.htm#jan01

SKIING CLINICS & EVENTS

NORDIC SKI WAXING
Tuesday, January 2nd at 7PM (Swix Rep)
Tuesday, January 16th at 7PM (Swix Rep)
Tuesday, January 30th at 7PM (Toko Rep)
REI Bloomington

Tuesday, January 9th at 7 PM (Swix Rep)
Tuesday, January 23rd at 7 PM (Swix Rep)
REI Roseville

An REI ski tech or industry representative will provide helpful pointers to refine your waxing technique. These informative waxing clinics are geared for novice and seasoned veteran skiers alike.

SKI & SNOWBOARD TUNING
Tuesday, January 16th at 7 PM
REI Roseville
Wednesday, January 17th at 7 PM
REI Bloomington

One way to upgrade performance on the slopes is to get more out of your skis or snowboard. Properly tuned and waxed equipment will improve your feel and output on the snow. REI shop techs will demonstrate techniques and equipment that will help maintain your bases and edges.

INTRO TO X-C SKIING
Thursday, January 18th at 7 PM
REI Roseville

Nordic skiing is a great way to make the most out of winter. An REI staff member will present this talk on equipment, appropriate clothing, and great locations around the state to kick and glide all winter.

Hennepin Parks NORTH STAR SKI FESTIVAL
Sunday, January 21st from Noon to 4 PM
Hyland Park Reserve, Bloomington

Pre-Registration - REI, North Star Ski Club or Henenpin Park members/patrons $15 Pre-registration - Non-members $18 Day of Registration - REI, North Star Ski Club or Henenpin Park members/patrons $18 Day of Registration - Non-members $20 Children 14 and under half price Discover the fun of cross country skiing with a day of lessons and ski tours. Great for beginners and those looking to improve their skiing skills. Bonfires along the trails. Registration fee includes, lessons, long sleeve Festival T-shirt, water bottle, food and hot drinks. To register or find more info visit the North Star Ski Club website at http://www.north-stars.org

MURPHY CHALLENGE 10k Ski Race
Saturday, January 27th
Registration opens at 8 AM, Race begins at 9 AM
Murphy-Hanrehan Regional Park, Savage

Test the limits of physical endurance during a 10K time trial on the Twin Cities' most challenging trail. The downhills are fast, curvy and not for the faint of heart. Race day registration only. Hennepin Park Patrons $15; regular rate $20. Parking fees apply. Sponsored by REI, Hennepin Parks and Great Harvest Bread Company. The race is part of the MiniSkinny Loppet Series. Visit http://www.skinnyski.com for information on the series and the other races involved.

Hyland Hills TELEMARK RACE SERIES
Sunday, January 14th at 1:30 PM
Sunday, February 4th at 1:30 PM

Join other pinheads at the Twin Cities area's oldest Telemark Race Series. All ages and abilities encouraged to participate. Course opens at 11:30, race begins at 1:30 PM. Series sponsored by REI and Hyland Ski & Snowboard Association. Call HSSA at 952/835-4250 for info.

CLASSES

WILDERNESS FIRST AID COURSE
Saturday, January 27th & Sunday, January 28th
REI Bloomington

The Minnesota Safety Council and REI are offering a 16 hour standard Wilderness First Aid Course. Wilderness First Aid is designed for backcountry enthusiasts who may experience medical emergencies when emergency services are not an option. To register or for more information call the Minnesota Safety Council at (651) 228-7320. Pre-registration Required REI Members- $175 Non-Members- $200

WEDNESDAY NIGHT CLIMBING CLASSES

The class is an introductory course taught by a certified Vertical Endeavors instructor. The lesson will cover equipment selection, knot tying, belay technique, rope work, climbing commands, and safety issues. The course fee is $20 for REI members, $25 for non-members, and includes the use of climbing shoes and a harness. Classes are offered from 6PM - 9PM, every Wednesday night on the REI Pinnacle at the Bloomington store. All students must be at least 14 years of age. Advanced registration and payment is required. Call (952) 884-4315 x219 to register REI Bloomington

REI SALE EVENTS