Gear Up & Go

Each month includes a two-part experience:

Day 1: A 2.5-hour interactive class covering hiking safety, gear basics, and outdoor readiness (snacks provided)
Day 2: An all-abilities, all-levels community hike where participants apply what they learned on trail

Open to all experience levels, this series combines hands-on learning with real outdoor experience to support both new and returning hikers.

Safety & Program Structure

All Gear Up & Go programs are led by trained WE HIKE volunteers and outdoor safety experts, with safety and preparedness as top priorities. Registration is required to ensure appropriate staffing, materials, and a safe, well-supported experience.

Each month includes a 2.5-hour safety and readiness class (snacks provided), followed by a guided community hike the following day.

Participants complete the class prior to joining the hike to ensure shared knowledge, group safety, and a consistent experience for all.

 Register & Join Us

Gear Up & Go is designed to teach urban mountain and desert safety. This allows  you to keep each experience safe, and successful.

Registration is required. No walk-ups for the class portion.

Open to all abilities and experience levels

Welcoming individuals, families, and first-time hikers

Hands-on learning + guided hike experience

Community-based outdoor education

Spots are limited each month, register early to participate.

→ Save your spot. REGISTER HERE

For questions, group participation, or partnerships, connect with WE HIKE  

FAQS

Gear Up & Go FAQs

Gear Up & Go FAQs

Is registration required?

Yes. Registration is required for each individual class.

Who can join?

All are welcome.

Is there free parking?

No. Parking is not free. Metered parking is available and accepts quarters, dollars, or cards. If parking on the street, please read posted signs to ensure you are parked legally.

What do I need to bring to class?

All materials and snacks are provided.

What do I need to bring on the hike?

A hat, water, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

What time should I arrive for class?

Please arrive downtown by 9:30 AM to ensure you are checked in and on time for class.

Where is the class held?

Ocotillo Room
Enter through the Visit El Paso Visitors Center across from the Art Museum. Class is held on the second floor.

Do I have to go on the hike if I attend the class?

No. Participation in the Sunrise Hike is optional.

Is this family friendly?

Yes. Families are welcome.

Is the class indoors only?

Yes. The class takes place in a classroom setting.

Are all hikes ADA accessible?

Yes. All hikes include pavement or sidewalk options to support accessibility.

Can I bring my family on the hikes?

Yes. Families are welcome to participate.

Is the class ADA accessible?

Yes. The Visitors Center is ADA accessible and includes a ramp for entry.

Why These Program Matters

Many people want to get outdoors but lack access to the knowledge, resources, or support to do so safely.

Gear Up & Go bridges that gap, providing essential safety education, accessible programming, and guided experiences that empower individuals and families to participate with confidence.

This program doesn’t just create hikers, and outdoor nature explores, it builds safer, more connected communities.

Safety First 

Gear Up & Go programs are guided by trained WE HIKE volunteers and outdoor safety experts, with safety and preparedness as top priorities. Registration is required to ensure proper staffing, materials, and a safe participant experience.