Spend some time checking out the natural areas in our own backyard. The Twin Cities is home to a variety of incredible parks, ample green space, and overall a stellar, exciting natural environment to explore. This day hike is an excellent opportunity to enjoy urban outdoor recreation and get to know the Metro area. No previous experience is required. 

Gear and Equipment
The Outdoor Program provides all activity-specific and group gear needed for the trip.  Participants are responsible for bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and personal items.  A detailed packing list can be found here.

Travel Information
Transportation is provided from the U of M Outdoor Program Office for all participants in a University Vehicle. Outdoor Program Guides are responsible for all driving in a University Vehicle. Participants who wish to arrange their own transportation must notify Outdoor Program staff at least three days in advance of the trip. Trip cost is not discounted for individuals who arrange their own transportation. Participants who arrange their own transportation must arrive at the correct location, on time. Failure to do so may result in forfeiting participation in the program with no refund. 

• 4/15/2023: 1-5pm

• Students: $20
• Non-students: $30

Inclusions/Exclusions
Trip cost includes transportation, permits and fees, camping, lodging, activity-specific equipment, and outdoor equipment rentals.  Participants are responsible for the cost of food on the trip and any activity fees not included in the itinerary.  On day trips, participants should bring snacks, meals, and beverages with them.  On overnight and extended trips, the group will create a meal plan and stop en route to the destination to purchase food. Food costs will be shared between participants and average $10-$15/day.

Refund-Cancellation Policy
A full refund will be given if the Outdoor Program cancels a trip due to lack of registration, weather, or other extenuating circumstances.* Day trip and clinic participants will receive a 50% refund only if they cancel seven days prior to the event date. Day trip and clinic registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the event date. Multi-day trip participants will receive a 50% refund if they cancel seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date. Multi-day trip registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date.
_{*The Outdoor Program will provide a full refund for any participant who meets the University of Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response Plan’s requirement for isolation or quarantine.}

Ready to register? Click here to get started.

The Superior Hiking Trail is the premier long distance hiking trail in Minnesota and extends for over 310 miles from Duluth to the Canadian Border along the North Shore of Lake Superior.  The trail goes through diverse landscapes from low river valleys to the high bluffs of the Sawtooth Mountain Range overlooking Lake Superior and features a variety of forest types typical of Northern Minnesota.  This trip spends three days exploring a section of the trail while teaching the foundational principles of backpacking including equipment, camp setup, and Leave No Trace.  Every trip features a unique route curated by experienced trip guides.  No previous experience is required. 

Itinerary:

Day 1:  Friday
Meet your guides in the Center for Outdoor Adventure Office by 9 am.  After an overview of the itinerary and a thorough gear check to make sure you have everything you need, the group will pile into a University 10 passenger van for the 3.5 hour drive to the North Shore of Lake Superior.  Once at the trailhead, you will strap on your backpack and begin the hike.  The first day is a shorter day of hiking with distances ranging from 2 to 5 miles.  Once you arrive at the remote campsite, you will work with your new friend to set up tents, gather firewood, and prepare a well earned dinner.  

Day 2:  Saturday
Rise and shine after a refreshing night sleeping in the tent.  This will be a bigger day of hiking, but be sure to spend some time relaxing in camp with a cup of coffee or tea.  Even though you just set up tents and sleeping bags the night before, it’s time to break down camp and pack everything back in your backpack.  This day will cover 8 to 12 miles of beautiful terrain - take it at your own pace and be sure to enjoy the views.  Backpacking is not a race so enjoy the experience.  You’ll stop to fill your water bottles from bubbling streams and enjoy a snack while taking in the views from the top of a peak.  Once in camp, you’ll know what to do to get everything set up.  Enjoy the evening sharing a meal, sitting around the campfire, looking at the stars, and reflecting on the day.

Day 3:  Sunday
It will be hard to believe that you’re heading home already.  You may just want to stay on the trail for a few more weeks to hike to its end!  The group will hike out to the van this day covering 4 to 6 miles of trail before beginning the drive home.  If time allows, your Guides will include a stop at one of the North Shore’s prime sites like the view of Lake Superior from the top of Palisade Head, the waterfalls of Gooseberry Falls State Park, or looking for agates at the Beaver River Beach.

Travel Information
Transportation is provided from the U of M Outdoor Program Office for all participants in a University Vehicle.  Outdoor Program Guides are responsible for all driving in a University Vehicle.  Participants who wish to arrange their own transportation must notify Outdoor Program staff at least three days in advance of the trip.  Trip cost is not discounted for individuals who arrange their own transportation.  Participants who arrange their own transportation must arrive at the correct location, on time.  Failure to do so may result in forfeiting participation in the program with no refund. 

Gear & Equipment
The Outdoor Program provides all activity-specific and group gear needed for the trip. Participants are responsible for bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and personal items. A detailed packing list can be found here.

• 4/28/23 - 4/30/23

• Students: $75
• Non-students: $100

Inclusions/Exclusions
Trip cost includes transportation, permits and fees, camping, lodging, activity-specific equipment, and outdoor equipment rentals. Participants are responsible for the cost of food on the trip and any activity fees not included in the itinerary.  On day trips, participants should bring snacks, meals, and beverages with them.  On overnight and extended trips, the group will create a meal plan and stop en route to the destination to purchase food. Food costs will be shared between participants and average $10-$15/day.

Refund-Cancellation Policy
A full refund will be given if the Outdoor Program cancels a trip due to lack of registration, weather, or other extenuating circumstances.* Day trip and clinic participants will receive a 50% refund only if they cancel seven days prior to the event date. Day trip and clinic registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the event date. Multi-day trip participants will receive a 50% refund if they cancel seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date. Multi-day trip registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date.
_{*The Outdoor Program will provide a full refund for any participant who meets the University of Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response Plan’s requirement for isolation or quarantine.} 

Ready to sign-up? Click here to get started.

Join us on a weeklong backpacking excursion through the stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Pictured Rocks traverses the southern shore of Lake Superior and offers accessible and well-maintained trails for backpackers. Along this stretch between the towns of Munising and Grand Marais you can encounter an array of stunning cliffs, waterfalls, beaches, unique rock formations, and views of the vivid turquoise water below. This trip offers something for everyone, from beginners to well-seasoned backpackers. We hope you’ll join us! 

Itinerary

Day 1: ​​May 11
Meet up with your guides and fellow travelers at the Outdoor Program Office. From there, we will load into the program van for our road trip down to the Upper Peninsula. We can expect a 7.5 hour driving day, in which we’ll get stoked for the adventure ahead, plan meals, stop for groceries, and enjoy the scenery along the way. Further, your guides will teach you how to most effectively pack a backpack for backpacking, discuss maps and navigation, and highlight blister prevention and hiking safety. Upon arrival, we will camp for the night at a local campground and rest up before our backpacking excursion. 

Day 2: May 12: 7.1 miles, trailhead to Au Sable point 
After a restful night in camp, we will cook breakfast, finalize preparations, and hit the trail. It will feel great to move after the previous day’s road trip. This first day on trail, we’ll travel approximately 7 miles, taking in the lakeshore scenery. We’ll eat lunch on trail and take breaks as desired. Once we reach our group campsite destination at Au Sable Point, we will set up camp, cook, and enjoy an evening together. 

Day 3: May 13: 7.3 miles, Au Sable Point to Seven Mile Creek
Wake up and start the day with hot drinks and a nice breakfast, preparing for the day ahead. The second hiking day we will travel a similar distance, moving from Au Sable Point to Seven Mile Creek. Keep an eye out for waterfalls and cool rock formations! When we reach Seven Mile, it will feel great to put down the packs and cook tasty food as a group.  

Day 4: May 14: 8.8 miles Seven Mile to Coves Group
The day will start similar to the others—waking up along the Lake Superior lakeshore, the waves and forest around us. Don’t forget to find your own patterns within the group routine, carving out time to rest, reflect, read, or do whatever fills you up and brings you joy on trail. After the morning’s coffee and breakfast, we’ll travel about 9 miles to the next group site at Coves. 

Day 5: May 15: 7.2 miles to Mosquito river
The fourth day, we’ll move from Coves to the Mosquito River, a 7.2 mile day. The river culminates in an impressive waterfall feeding into the lake. 

Day 6: May 16: 12 miles to Munising falls
Our last trail day will also be the biggest, as we follow the route from Mosquito River to Munising Falls. This is our final push! As we embark on this longer trail day, it will be important to pace ourselves and build in rest. Also, make sure to savor the surroundings, too. 

Day 7: May 17
We did it! This final morning of our trip, we’ll have our coffee and breakfast, pack up, and take the shuttle back to the visitor center. From there, we’ll drive the approximately 7.5 hours back to the Outdoor Program Office. Chilling in the van, listening to road tunes, and reflecting on our time together will be a great way to cap off this experience. 

Gear and Equipment
The Outdoor Program provides all activity-specific and group gear needed for the trip.  Participants are responsible for bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and personal items.  A detailed packing list can be found here.

Travel Information
Transportation is provided from the U of M Outdoor Program Office for all participants in a University Vehicle.  Outdoor Program Guides are responsible for all driving in a University Vehicle.  Participants who wish to arrange their own transportation must notify Outdoor Program staff at least three days in advance of the trip.  Trip cost is not discounted for individuals who arrange their own transportation.  Participants who arrange their own transportation must arrive at the correct location, on time.  Failure to do so may result in forfeiting participation in the program with no refund. 

5/11/2023 - 5/17/2023

• Students: $260
• Non-students: $325

Inclusions/Exclusions
Trip cost includes transportation, permits and fees, camping, lodging, activity-specific equipment, and outdoor equipment rentals.  Participants are responsible for the cost of food on the trip and any activity fees not included in the itinerary.  On day trips, participants should bring snacks, meals, and beverages with them.  On overnight and extended trips, the group will create a meal plan and stop en route to the destination to purchase food.  Food costs will be shared between participants and average $10-$15/day.

Refund-Cancellation Policy
A full refund will be given if the Outdoor Program cancels a trip due to lack of registration, weather, or other extenuating circumstances.* Day trip and clinic participants will receive a 50% refund only if they cancel seven days prior to the event date. Day trip and clinic registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the event date. Multi-day trip participants will receive a 50% refund if they cancel seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date. Multi-day trip registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date.
_{*The Outdoor Program will provide a full refund for any participant who meets the University of Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response Plan’s requirement for isolation or quarantine.}

Ready to register? Click here to get started.

Experience the engaging sport of Ice Climbing at the Sandstone Ice Park.  Our experienced guides will teach you everything you need to know to be successful in this adventurous activity.  This trip will break down the sport to its fundamental techniques.  Participants will learn equipment fit and function, how to swing an ice tool, crampon and footwork for ice climbing, and basic movement techniques.  Once participants develop a baseline of solid technique, they can challenge themselves on a variety of ice climbing features.  No previous experience is required, but indoor rock climbing experience, including a knowledge of climbing gear, knots, and belaying will be beneficial.

Gear and Equipment
The Outdoor Program provides all activity-specific and group gear needed for the trip.  Participants are responsible for bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and personal items.  A detailed packing list can be found here.

Travel Information
Transportation is provided from the U of M Outdoor Program Office for all participants in a University Vehicle. Outdoor Program Guides are responsible for all driving in a University Vehicle. Participants who wish to arrange their own transportation must notify Outdoor Program staff at least three days in advance of the trip. Trip cost is not discounted for individuals who arrange their own transportation. Participants who arrange their own transportation must arrive at the correct location, on time. Failure to do so may result in forfeiting participation in the program with no refund. 

• 1/29: 9am-5pm
• 2/12: 9am-5pm
• 2/26: 9am-5pm

• Students: $45
• Non-students: $60

Inclusions/Exclusions
Trip cost includes transportation, permits and fees, camping, lodging, activity-specific equipment, and outdoor equipment rentals.  Participants are responsible for the cost of food on the trip and any activity fees not included in the itinerary.  On day trips, participants should bring snacks, meals, and beverages with them.  On overnight and extended trips, the group will create a meal plan and stop en route to the destination to purchase food.  Food costs will be shared between participants and average $10-$15/day.

Refund-Cancellation Policy
A full refund will be given if the Outdoor Program cancels a trip due to lack of registration, weather, or other extenuating circumstances.* Day trip and clinic participants will receive a 50% refund only if they cancel seven days prior to the event date. Day trip and clinic registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the event date. Multi-day trip participants will receive a 50% refund if they cancel seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date. Multi-day trip registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date.
_{*The Outdoor Program will provide a full refund for any participant who meets the University of Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response Plan’s requirement for isolation or quarantine.}

Ready to register? Click here to get started.

Enjoy high quality climbing at Interstate State Park on the scenic Saint Croix River. This trip provides an invaluable opportunity to learn the fundamentals of outdoor climbing at a highly revered crag. This place allows us to teach you climbing technique by demonstration and getting your very own hands and feet on real rock with a wide variety of routes to incorporate novice and veteran climbers alike. No previous experience necessary.

Travel Information
Transportation is provided from the U of M Outdoor Program Office for all participants in a University Vehicle.  Outdoor Program Guides are responsible for all driving in a University Vehicle.  Participants who wish to arrange their own transportation must notify Outdoor Program staff at least three days in advance of the trip.  Trip cost is not discounted for individuals who arrange their own transportation.  Participants who arrange their own transportation must arrive at the correct location, on time.  Failure to do so may result in forfeiting participation in the program with no refund.

Gear and Equipment
The Outdoor Program provides all activity-specific and group gear needed for the trip.  Participants are responsible for bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and personal items.  A detailed packing list can be found here.

• 4/16/23, 9:00am - 5:00pm

• Students: $45
• Non-students: $60

Inclusions/Exclusions
Trip cost includes transportation, permits and fees, camping, lodging, activity-specific equipment, and outdoor equipment rentals. Participants are responsible for the cost of food on the trip and any activity fees not included in the itinerary.  On day trips, participants should bring snacks, meals, and beverages with them.  On overnight and extended trips, the group will create a meal plan and stop en route to the destination to purchase food. Food costs will be shared between participants and average $10-$15/day.

Refund-Cancellation Policy
A full refund will be given if the Outdoor Program cancels a trip due to lack of registration, weather, or other extenuating circumstances.* Day trip and clinic participants will receive a 50% refund only if they cancel seven days prior to the event date. Day trip and clinic registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the event date. Multi-day trip participants will receive a 50% refund if they cancel seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date. Multi-day trip registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date.
_{*The Outdoor Program will provide a full refund for any participant who meets the University of Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response Plan’s requirement for isolation or quarantine.}

Ready to sign-up? Click here to get started.

Take the first step towards climbing outside on your own by learning to build climbing anchors.  We will spend one evening learning about the risks of climbing outdoors, essential knots, anchor theory, and basic anchor systems at the Climbing Gym.  After familiarizing ourselves with the basics, we will apply this knowledge in the real-world setting of Interstate State Park, one of the most popular climbing areas in the state.  We will learn the fundamentals of placing artificial protection and spend the day building climbing anchors.  There will be ample time for practice and feedback.  This clinic is designed for individuals with previous climbing experience who are looking to learn the skills and risk management practices to climb outdoors on their own.  NOTE:  This clinic offers in-depth technical instruction.  There will be little to no actual rock climbing as part of the clinic.

Gear and Equipment
The Outdoor Program provides all activity-specific and group gear needed for the trip.  Participants are responsible for bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and personal items.  A detailed packing list can be found here.

Travel Information
Transportation is provided from the U of M Outdoor Program Office for all participants in a University Vehicle. Outdoor Program Guides are responsible for all driving in a University Vehicle.  Participants who wish to arrange their own transportation must notify Outdoor Program staff at least three days in advance of the trip. Trip cost is not discounted for individuals who arrange their own transportation. Participants who arrange their own transportation must arrive at the correct location, on time. Failure to do so may result in forfeiting participation in the program with no refund.

April 22, 2023, 8am-6pm

• Students: $60
• Non-students: $80

Inclusions/Exclusions
Trip cost includes transportation, permits and fees, camping, lodging, activity-specific equipment, and outdoor equipment rentals.  Participants are responsible for the cost of food on the trip and any activity fees not included in the itinerary.  On day trips, participants should bring snacks, meals, and beverages with them.  On overnight and extended trips, the group will create a meal plan and stop en route to the destination to purchase food.  Food costs will be shared between participants and average $10-$15/day.

Refund-Cancellation Policy
A full refund will be given if the Outdoor Program cancels a trip due to lack of registration, weather, or other extenuating circumstances.* Day trip and clinic participants will receive a 50% refund only if they cancel seven days prior to the event date. Day trip and clinic registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the event date. Multi-day trip participants will receive a 50% refund if they cancel seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date. Multi-day trip registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date.
_{*The Outdoor Program will provide a full refund for any participant who meets the University of Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response Plan’s requirement for isolation or quarantine.}

Ready to register? Click here to get started. 

Take your rock climbing to the next level with the Sandstone Rock Climbing Trip.  You will experience the climbing at historic Robinson Park in Sandstone, MN which features many high quality routes that are sure to challenge and inspire beginner, intermediate, and advanced climbers alike.  Climbers will have the chance to top rope a variety of climbs and learn some of the fundamentals of outdoor sport climbing.  Your guides will work with you to identify routes that meet your interest and ability level.  Previous outdoor climbing experience is not required, but we encourage participants to have some indoor climbing experience before this trip

Travel Information
Transportation is provided from the U of M Outdoor Program Office for all participants in a University Vehicle. Outdoor Program Guides are responsible for all driving in a University Vehicle. Participants who wish to arrange their own transportation must notify Outdoor Program staff at least three days in advance of the trip. Trip cost is not discounted for individuals who arrange their own transportation.  Participants who arrange their own transportation must arrive at the correct location, on time. Failure to do so may result in forfeiting participation in the program with no refund. 

Gear and Equipment
The Outdoor Program provides all activity-specific and group gear needed for the trip. Participants are responsible for bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and personal items. A detailed packing list can be found here.

4/23/2023, 9am-5pm

• Students: $45
• Non-students: $60

Inclusions/Exclusions
Trip cost includes transportation, permits and fees, camping, lodging, activity-specific equipment, and outdoor equipment rentals. Participants are responsible for the cost of food on the trip and any activity fees not included in the itinerary.  On day trips, participants should bring snacks, meals, and beverages with them.  On overnight and extended trips, the group will create a meal plan and stop en route to the destination to purchase food. Food costs will be shared between participants and average $10-$15/day.

Refund-Cancellation Policy
A full refund will be given if the Outdoor Program cancels a trip due to lack of registration, weather, or other extenuating circumstances.* Day trip and clinic participants will receive a 50% refund only if they cancel seven days prior to the event date. Day trip and clinic registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the event date. Multi-day trip participants will receive a 50% refund if they cancel seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date. Multi-day trip registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date.
_{*The Outdoor Program will provide a full refund for any participant who meets the University of Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response Plan’s requirement for isolation or quarantine.}

Ready to sign-up? Click here to get started.

The North Shore of Lake Superior is one of the most scenic destinations in Minnesota.  From hilltop vistas, to waterfalls, to the ocean-like shore of the largest freshwater lake in the world, this destination has something for everyone.  The group will sleep in tents at a drive-in campsite.  The accommodations are just rustic enough to give a sense of adventure without leaving everyday comforts too far behind.  Days will be spent hiking to explore the best the North Shore has to offer.  Evenings will have time for cooking delicious meals as a group, enjoying a warm campfire, and hanging out.  It is the perfect opportunity to escape the city and have some peaceful time in nature.

Itinerary:

Day 1:  Friday
Meet your guides and trip companions at the Center for Outdoor Adventure Office by 3 pm.  After introductions and a gear check, you will load up into a University 10 passenger van for the 3.5 hour drive to Tettegouche State Park.  (Did somebody say, “Roadtrip!”?)  Upon arrival at Tettegouche State Park, you will work with the group to set up tents and get ready for a peaceful night sleep in the fresh air of northern Minnesota.  After camp chores are done, hang out around the campfire, look at the stars, and eat s’mores.

Day 2:  Saturday
The opportunities for activity are endless - yes, we will go chasing waterfalls.  For the early risers, you will have the opportunity to hike to the end of Shovel Point and watch the sunrise over Lake Superior.  Or, if you're more inclined, sleep in and wake up slowly for some morning coffee and tea.  Your guides can outline a few different activities for the day, but you will definitely have the chance to see some of the premier north shore waterfalls.  Sights include:  Temperance River Gorge, Summit of Carlton Peak, High Falls on the Baptism River, Summit of Section 13, Illgen Falls, and Black Beach.

Day 3:  Sunday
After breakfast, the group will pack up camp and explore a few more trails through Tettegouche State Park.  On the drive back to Campus, the group will have the opportunity to check out a couple of the “must see” destinations on the North Shore including the views over Lake Superior from the top of Palisade Head and Gooseberry Falls.  After getting back to the Outdoor Program Office, say goodbye to your new friends and leave feeling the satisfaction of a weekend spent in nature.

Gear and Equipment
The Outdoor Program provides all activity-specific and group gear needed for the trip.  Participants are responsible for bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and personal items.  A detailed packing list can be found here.

Travel Information
Transportation is provided from the U of M Outdoor Program Office for all participants in a University Vehicle. Outdoor Program Guides are responsible for all driving in a University Vehicle. Participants who wish to arrange their own transportation must notify Outdoor Program staff at least three days in advance of the trip. Trip cost is not discounted for individuals who arrange their own transportation. Participants who arrange their own transportation must arrive at the correct location, on time. Failure to do so may result in forfeiting participation in the program with no refund.

4/21/2023 - 4/23/2023

• Students: $75
• Non-students: $100

Inclusions/Exclusions
Trip cost includes transportation, permits and fees, camping, lodging, activity-specific equipment, and outdoor equipment rentals. Participants are responsible for the cost of food on the trip and any activity fees not included in the itinerary.  On day trips, participants should bring snacks, meals, and beverages with them.  On overnight and extended trips, the group will create a meal plan and stop en route to the destination to purchase food. Food costs will be shared between participants and average $10-$15/day.

Refund-Cancellation Policy
A full refund will be given if the Outdoor Program cancels a trip due to lack of registration, weather, or other extenuating circumstances.* Day trip and clinic participants will receive a 50% refund only if they cancel seven days prior to the event date. Day trip and clinic registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the event date. Multi-day trip participants will receive a 50% refund if they cancel seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date. Multi-day trip registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date.
_{*The Outdoor Program will provide a full refund for any participant who meets the University of Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response Plan’s requirement for isolation or quarantine.}

Ready to sign-up? Click here to get started.

Skate skiing, also known as Freestyle, is a fun, fast paced type of nordic skiing on groomed trails. Join experienced instructors at the U of M Nordic Ski Center at Les Bolstad Golf Course to learn the skills and techniques you need to tackle the trails with confidence. No previous experience is required. 

Gear and Equipment
The Outdoor Program provides all activity-specific and group gear needed for the trip. Participants are responsible for bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and personal items. A detailed packing list can be found here.

Travel Information
Transportation is provided from the U of M Outdoor Program Office for all participants in a University Vehicle. Outdoor Program Guides are responsible for all driving in a University Vehicle. Participants who wish to arrange their own transportation must notify Outdoor Program staff at least three days in advance of the trip. Trip cost is not discounted for individuals who arrange their own transportation. Participants who arrange their own transportation must arrive at the correct location, on time. Failure to do so may result in forfeiting participation in the program with no refund. 

2/11/2023, 12-4pm

• Students: $20
• Non-students: $30

Inclusions/Exclusions
Trip cost includes transportation, permits and fees, camping, lodging, activity-specific equipment, and outdoor equipment rentals. Participants are responsible for the cost of food on the trip and any activity fees not included in the itinerary.  On day trips, participants should bring snacks, meals, and beverages with them.  On overnight and extended trips, the group will create a meal plan and stop en route to the destination to purchase food. Food costs will be shared between participants and average $10-$15/day.

Refund-Cancellation Policy
A full refund will be given if the Outdoor Program cancels a trip due to lack of registration, weather, or other extenuating circumstances.* Day trip and clinic participants will receive a 50% refund only if they cancel seven days prior to the event date. Day trip and clinic registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the event date. Multi-day trip participants will receive a 50% refund if they cancel seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date. Multi-day trip registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date.
_{*The Outdoor Program will provide a full refund for any participant who meets the University of Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response Plan’s requirement for isolation or quarantine.}

Ready to register? Click here to get started. 

Enjoy the solitude and beauty of one of Minnesota’s most scenic landscapes, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in winter. The group will set up a centralized base camp, embarking on day hikes from there. The frozen lakes, forests, and quiet winter wilderness provides an opportunity to mix rest and adventure. Your guides will work with you and the group to suggest options and make plans for the best experience for everyone.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Friday
Meet your guides and fellow travelers at the Center for Outdoor Adventure Office at 7 am. After completing a gear check, you will hop into a University 10 passenger van and complete the approximately 4 hour drive to the western side of the BWCA (near Ely, MN). Pack some snacks for the car and come prepared with your favorite song to add to the road trip playlist! When we arrive, we will hike a couple of miles to our campsite, pulling our gear on Pulk sleds. After setting up our base camp, we will cook dinner and have a massive bonfire to warm up.

Day 2: Saturday
Wake up to the quiet beauty of the BWCA winter. It may be hard to get out of your cozy sleeping bag, but hot drinks and breakfast are powerful motivators. After cooking and eating together, we’ll gear up for the day ahead. From our base camp, embark on day hikes to explore the surrounding area. You might stop to soak in the scenery and down a trail lunch along the way. At the close of the day, we’ll regroup at camp for dinner, a bonfire, and reflecting on the day. Journaling and reading in the evening can be a great way to slow down and wrap up the day. 

Day 3: Sunday
Homeward bound! The peace of the BWCA might make leaving bittersweet, but alas, it’s time to head back to the cities. After breakfast, we’ll pack up camp and hike back to our vehicle. On the road home, we’ll listen to music and take in the scenery, reflecting on our time together. 

Gear and Equipment
The Outdoor Program provides all activity-specific and group gear needed for the trip. Participants are responsible for bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and personal items. A detailed packing list can be found here.

Travel Information
Transportation is provided from the U of M Outdoor Program Office for all participants in a University Vehicle. Outdoor Program Guides are responsible for all driving in a University Vehicle. Participants who wish to arrange their own transportation must notify Outdoor Program staff at least three days in advance of the trip. Trip cost is not discounted for individuals who arrange their own transportation. Participants who arrange their own transportation must arrive at the correct location, on time. Failure to do so may result in forfeiting participation in the program with no refund. 

2/17/2023 - 2/19/2023

• Students: $100
• Non-students: $130

Inclusions/Exclusions
Trip cost includes transportation, permits and fees, camping, lodging, activity-specific equipment, and outdoor equipment rentals.  Participants are responsible for the cost of food on the trip and any activity fees not included in the itinerary.  On day trips, participants should bring snacks, meals, and beverages with them.  On overnight and extended trips, the group will create a meal plan and stop en route to the destination to purchase food.  Food costs will be shared between participants and average $10-$15/day.

Refund-Cancellation Policy
A full refund will be given if the Outdoor Program cancels a trip due to lack of registration, weather, or other extenuating circumstances.* Day trip and clinic participants will receive a 50% refund only if they cancel seven days prior to the event date. Day trip and clinic registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the event date. Multi-day trip participants will receive a 50% refund if they cancel seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date. Multi-day trip registrations are non-refundable if a participant cancels fewer than seven days prior to the scheduled pre-trip meeting date.
_{*The Outdoor Program will provide a full refund for any participant who meets the University of Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response Plan’s requirement for isolation or quarantine.}

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