REI Shutters Experience Division Known for Excursions, Tours, and More after 40 Years

It’s the end of an era for a popular outdoor tourism service.

REI Co-op, the beloved outdoor retailer, announced Wednesday that it would be closing its Experiences division. Known for providing classes, selling group travel excursions, and operating various tours for 40 years, Experiences was utilized by outdoor enthusiasts for expert-led treks and trips.

The retailer cited financial considerations as the reason for shuttering the division, which will close this week. 

“Our goal must always be the long-term financial health of the co-op, and while today’s decision is a difficult one, it is necessary,” REI President and CEO Eric Artz said in a statement to employees that was shared on the company’s website.

Customers who have trips booked with the Experiences division will receive a refund, and can reach out to REI customer service for further assistance, the statement read. The company said it would be also work to address any “non-refundable expenses” that customers paid. 

The Experiences division operated classes such as Intro to Backpacking or Moonlight Walking Tours. REI explained in marketing materials that a benefit of booking through Experiences was the expert guides who would plan the entire trip, and pack all necessary gear to provide “hassle-free adventuring” for customers. The retailer also sold hiking trips such as exploring North Carolina’s Looking Glass Rock, or exploring Spain’s Camino de Santiago. 

As part of the Experiences divisions closure, the company will be laying off 428 employees who worked on the management of the Experiences, or as part-time guides. 

“I know that this is difficult news,” Artz added in his employee memo. “The next few weeks will continue to be tough as we unwind an iconic part of our business and say goodbye to colleagues.”

REI was founded in 1935 and has plans to open two new stores in 2025, with locations in Durango, Colorado and St. George, Utah.