Course Locations - Swan Valley, MT

Northwest Connections - Condon, Montana

Highlights

Northwest Connections symbolizes the grass-roots, community-based organizations that we support. We cannot say enough about the incredible natural history knowledge of the NWC staff.  They are dedicated to protecting human and wild communities in their valley, which entails forging and sustaining a very difficult balance between economic and ecological needs.  Northwest Connections co-founder Melanie Parker was recently awarded the Cecil D. Andrus award for her work in preserving over 60,000 acres of land in the Swan Valley. Students staying at NWC’s homestead are treated to a stunning location nestled between the Mission Mountain and Bob Marshall Wildernesses. This is the perfect location to learn and perfect the wilderness medicine skills taught in Aerie courses. The 80-acre facility borders the Swan River where we hold class, run scenarios and relax during breaks.  

Lodging

Shared rooms in a beautifully renovated homestead barn.  Look for particular course details, but typically $15-$30 per night.  There are several Forest Service campgrounds nearby.  Contact Aerie or NWC for details. 

Meals

For WEMT and WFR students, 3 meals per day are optional.   Students may be able to bring their own food and use the camp’s cooking facilities.  Contact the Aerie office for details. 

Communication

Currently, no cell phone coverage exists in the Swan Valley. There is one phone line available for shared use among students (406-754-3330). Wireless internet is available; students must provide their own laptop.

What to Bring

Visit the Northwest Connections  website for details. Students should be prepared for a wide range of weather in all seasons and should bring appropriate clothing for being outdoors throughout the day. In addition, students should bring one set of clothing that they do not mind getting dirty and stained during scenarios. 

Getting There

Northwest Connections' facility, locally referred to as the old Beck Homestead, is at the end of Ed Road in Condon. Driving north on Hwy 83, you will pass the built-up area of Condon - including the Swan Centre (at mm 38) and then Mission Mountain Merc at mm 40. Just past the Merc you will see the Swan River Lodge on the left at mile marker 46.5; slow down because you will be turning left immediately after the Lodge, onto Cold Creek Road. This dirt road heads west and crosses the Swan River within a couple hundred yards. Three quarters of a mile from the highway you will find the first turnoff: Ed Road. Turn right and drive 1/2 mile til you hit a gate. Drive through the gate (shut it behind you if you find it closed) and proceed to the right - you will quickly dead end at the Connections cookhouse.

Details

• Dogs are not allowed at the NwC facility; please make other arrangements for your pets while you are on course. 
• We strongly encourage you to contact the office for other students’ contact information so that you can share travel itineraries and expenses. You can do this through the Aerie office or on your own by signing in to the Aerie Backcountry Medicine Facebook page and contacting other students from your class.