Originally Posted by DnvrFox
Well, then, take a look:
http://www.rei.com/
They also have retail outlet stores, including a giant one here in Denver. Rock climbing, high end gear for backpacking, etc.
Like Rich C, I live near the Conshohocken store, but when I was in Denver, that REI just blew me away. It's HUGE.
One of the biggest positives about REI is how they educate their employees. Too many times I've gone into huge chain sporting goods stores and they staff don't know what they're talking about. It's frustrating.
EMS is another good chain outdoor outfitter.