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VOBS Boundary Waters Dog Sledding and Cross Country Skiing - Staff Invite
Course Number
HPWIN24SI
Date
January 25, 2025 - February 01, 2025
Dates: 1/25/2025- 2/1/2025
Cost is $700
Please utilize the resources below to physically and mentally prepare for your course. The more preparation you do, the better your experience will be!
Winter Course Life - A Student's Perspective
Physically Preparing for a Dog Sledding Course - A Staff Perspective
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)
Over 10,000 years ago, continental-sized glaciers scraped their way across much of Ontario and northern Minnesota leaving deep ruts, ravines, and holes in their tracks. Eventually, as the glaciers melted, these ravines filled with water, creating a seemingly endless interconnected web of lakes and rivers.
In 1978, the United States designated over 1-million acres of this Northern Minnesota landscape as a protected wilderness area called the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Because no roads, power lines, or motorized craft may enter its borders, the BWCAW has remained relatively unchanged since the glaciers receded. The BWCAW extends nearly 150 miles along the Canadian border and encompasses more than 1,000 lakes and rivers. Over 1,200 miles of navigable routes lead to over 2,200 campsites and provide an unparalleled opportunity to travel by canoe and dogsled.
In the winter, the BWCAW transforms into an even more severe and remote wilderness. While more difficult, winter enthusiasts’ travel over frozen lakes and rivers by dogsled, cross-country ski and snowshoe. Winter in the Boundary Waters is mesmerizing, peaceful, and exhilarating. It is a place of spectacular extremes, trackless snow, bracing cold air, glowing warm embers, and powerful silence.
Homeplace, Voyageur Outward Bound School Basecamp, Minnesota
Homeplace is located at the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northern Minnesota. Situated where the Kawishiwi River meets Birch Lake in the Superior National Forest, the Voyageur Outward Bound School basecamp provides an ideal location for launching/ending BWCAW paddling and dogsledding trips, and practicing white water paddling skills. The surrounding boreal forest also makes Homeplace a great location for spotting moose, wolves, beavers, deer, woodpeckers, eagles and black bear.
Minnesota’s weather can be unpredictable with a wide range of temperatures. Between December and March Minnesota temperatures can range from -40 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, but -20 to 20 degree nights and days are the most common. Days are typically very sunny with bright blue skies. Wind and snow are common.
Weather is always a factor when traveling in the wilderness and it adds an exciting element of challenge to each course. Learning to handle varying weather conditions is essential to a successful wilderness course.
Weather is always a factor when traveling in the wilderness and it adds an exciting element of challenge to each course. Learning to handle varying weather conditions is essential to a successful wilderness course.
Dogsledding and Skiing - The small town of Ely, Minnesota, where the Voyageur Outward Bound School is located, is known as the dogsledding capitol of the lower 48 states for good reason. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, one of the most historically significant and remote wilderness areas in North America, is located just outside Ely’s back door and as temperatures drop, winter transforms these historic canoe routes into beautiful, snow-covered environments ideal for winter travel. During a Voyageur Outward Bound School Dogsledding and Skiing expedition, students travel over frozen lakes and rivers while learning how to manage teams of huskies, cross-country ski, navigate with a map and compass, check ice-conditions, process firewood, and generally stay comfortable in potentially sub-zero temperatures. The group usually consists of 9 people, 7 students and 2 Instructors, and splits into two smaller groups each day. Half the group travels on cross-country skis and is responsible for breaking trail, navigating, scouting for hazards, and checking for safe ice conditions. The other half of the group follows on dogsleds, transporting most of the equipment, and food. Mushing is not a passenger sport and, depending on the snow conditions, often requires mushers to push the sled or run and walk along with the dogs. If the skiing group encounters particularly rough terrain or steep hills, they wait for the mushers to arrive and help maneuver the heavy dogsleds. Groups travel during the day and look for an appropriate camping spot each evening.
Winter Camping - Winter weather in Minnesota varies dramatically from harsh, cold wind to bright, less-cold sunshine, but in general it’s always cold. Temperatures range from -40 to 20 degrees in the heart of the winter (December through February) and -20 to 50 degrees as spring approaches in March. Living outside during a northern winter requires the right equipment, skills, and teamwork, but it can be done comfortably. Instructors teach students how to mitigate cold weather risks, dress appropriately, and manage body temperature with food and exercise.
In order to minimize environmental impact, groups cook and sleep directly on frozen lakes. For this reason, groups always look for a sheltered bay out of the wind each evening. Upon reaching camp, groups divide camp chores to set up camp efficiently. Students learn to take care of sled dogs, set up sleeping shelters, cook meals over a fire, and saw and split firewood. If the weather is particularly cold or wet groups might setup the wall-tent, a large canvas tent with a woodstove. The wall-tent gets very warm and is large enough to fit the entire group inside.
Solo – Weather and time permitting, an Outward Bound Solo experience provides an important break from the rigors of the expedition and gives students the opportunity to reflect on their Outward Bound experience. The duration of Solo depends on the course length and type as well as the competency and preparedness of the student group. Students on a 3-week course typically spend 2-nights on Solo while students on a 1-week course may spend one night or even just a few hours on Solo. Regardless of Solo length, all students receive sufficient food, water, and shelter to keep them safe and healthy during Solo. Instructors choose Solo sites to offer as much solitude as possible while retaining some proximity to the whole group. While students spend the majority of their Solo time alone, Instructors do check on each student as often as needed, usually 1-4 times per day, to ensure that each student feels safe and comfortable. Instructors work with each student individually to structure a successful, unique Solo experience that meets their specific needs. Solo is purposefully scheduled near the end of the expedition so students have plenty of time to acclimate to their new environments beforehand.
Students often have mixed feelings leading up to Solo. Inevitably, students feel some nervousness and hesitation but are also excited to rest, reflect and test their new skills after spending many days in the wilderness. Students often find that Solo provokes profound and powerful learning in a short period of time and Solo often becomes one of the most memorable parts of their Outward Bound experience.
Course End – All courses end with a sauna and polar plunge, shower, graduation ceremony, and celebration dinner. Shower facilities are available at the basecamp.
The following is an example of what your course itinerary may look like. Your actual itinerary will vary according to weather, student skills and abilities, and instructor preferences.
Day 1: The course begins at the Duluth Airport before transporting to the Voyageur Outward Bound School basecamp near Ely, MN. Meet your Outward Bound Instructors, organize your equipment, eat dinner, earn about cold injuries and how to prevent them, and sleep outside on the very first night of the course.
Day 2: Participate in cross-country skiing and dogsledding lessons. Pack the dogsleds, depart from basecamp and enter the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Travel until it’s time to set up camp for the night.
Days 3-4: Travel during the day and camp in the evenings. Half the group travels by ski and half by dogsled, switching from day to day. Learn to ski, dogsled, care for huskies, check ice conditions, navigate with a map and compass, process firewood and stay warm in sub-zero temperatures.
Day 5: Spend the morning preparing for Solo - head out on solo in the afternoon. Test new skills by building a fire, cooking a hot meal, and constructing a sleeping shelter. Spend the night alone in your own quiet section of shoreline.
Day 6: Execute the final phase of the expedition with less guidance from your Outward Bound Instructors.
Day 7: Return to the basecamp and clean equipment before taking a sauna and polar plunge in the frozen river (through a hole cut in the ice). Take a hot shower, eat a celebratory dinner and participate in an Outward Bound graduation ceremony before falling asleep in a wood-stove heated cabin.
Day 8: Eat an early indoor breakfast before departing for the airport and traveling home.
To participate in Outward Bound, each applicant must submit all requested medical information, the signed liability release form, and be interviewed by a student services representative.
You will receive these forms, as well as any additional forms that may be required of you, via email. Refer to your Registration Email for all your paperwork information, including DUE DATES.
Wilderness travel means you can and, for your comfort, should carry a lot less than you do in the regular world. Most experienced wilderness travelers will tell you that they bring about the same amount of gear on a three-day trip as they would on a three-week trip. This packing list has been refined over 50 years of Voyageur Outward Bound School expeditions. Please stick to it closely. It is designed to ensure that you have everything you need to be safe and comfortable during your expedition.
Because our courses are characterized by unpredictable weather, obtaining the proper clothing is crucial. Please bring all the items as described on the "Required Clothing and Gear" list below. You can find these items at camping, outdoor, Army/Navy surplus, and thrift stores. Clothing and gear can be expensive—shop around before you buy and keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Start at the thrift store.
- Buy last year’s model.
- Don’t worry about colors or style.
Your choices should be governed by whether or not the piece of clothing or gear will meet our requirements, not if it is the best looking or newest! Consider leaving the tags on any new items you have purchased and saving the receipts; in the event that an item is not needed for your expedition or you do not use it, you should be able to return it when you get back home.
NOTE: When you arrive for course start, you will not have an opportunity to purchase forgotten items.
If you are looking to shop online, many students use the following websites to find their clothing and gear:
On the first night of the course, your instructors will issue you the equipment provided by Outward Bound and assess all of the clothing/equipment you’ve brought in order to ensure that it meets the requirements of the expedition. You’ll repack exactly what you need into packs provided by Outward Bound. Everything you don’t need during the expedition, including your shower supplies, clean clothes for the trip home, valuables, and electronics will stay in your luggage and be stored in a secure location for the duration of the course. These items will be returned to you at the end of the trip.
Outward Bound will provide you with the following items:
- Inner and outer sleeping bags
- Sleeping mat
- Backpack
- Down Parka
- Anorak and outer-layer pants
- Winter boots
- Wool mitten inserts and outer leather choppers
- All group camping, cooking, and traveling equipment
You only need to bring the items listed in the "Required Clothing & Gear" section, mainly your personal clothing, toiletries, footwear, and a few additional items. We strongly discourage the use of personal camping equipment on Voyageur Outward Bound School courses because of the heavy wear and tear. We feel confident that the equipment we provide will best serve your needs on the expedition; it will keep you safe, warm and dry. If you have questions about using a piece of personal equipment normally provided by Outward Bound, please contact your course advisor to discuss.
If you do decide to bring a piece of personal equipment, your instructors reserve the right to inspect it and ensure that it will adequately serve your needs during the expedition. If they do not think it will work, you can leave it with your luggage at the basecamp during the expedition.
Our packing list is based on layering principles; dressing in several light layers rather than one heavy layer allows you more flexibility as the weather and your exertion levels change. When shopping or packing, it is a good idea to try on all of your layers at once to ensure that they fit over one another. Read the information below to get a better idea of what we’re talking about.
- Inner Layer: This is usually called the wicking layer (long underwear, liner socks, and sometimes gloves) – Moisture is the enemy of warmth. Sweat from physical activity like backpacking, paddling, or climbing is your body’s attempt to cool itself off. Synthetic long underwear pulls moisture away from your body, so your sweat won’t cool you down too much and make you cold. This layer is worn next to your skin. Cotton items retain moisture and exaggerate sweat’s cooling effect, which is why we’ll sometimes ask you to avoid using cotton clothing.
- Middle Layer: This is usually called the insulation layer (fleece tops, wool socks, and sometimes fleece pants) – This layer should be thick and fluffy like a fleece or wool sweater that will trap and store the heat your body is producing. This layer is worn over the top of the base layer. Your packing list might require more than one “insulating layer” like a medium weight fleece and a heavier wool sweater. You can put on several "insulating layer" pieces at a time, so be sure to try them on over the top of your inner layer and over the top of each other to ensure you still have mobility and things aren't too tight.
- Outer Layer: This is usually called the wind/shell layer (jackets, pants, and rain gear) – Adding an outer windproof layer prevents the wind from stealing your store of built-up heat. The third layer is worn on top of the base and insulation layers. This layer will take the most wear and tear and look the most weather-beaten by the end of the trip. For dogsledding courses, we provide all outer layers for you. For all other courses, rain gear is provided.
Head & Hands
- 2 Warm Beanies. No cotton. Must cover ears.
- 1 Sun Hat. Baseball cap or wide-brimmed sun hat.
- 1 Neck Gaiter. Important for keeping all the warmth between your head and torso.
- 3 Pairs Light Liner Gloves. Thin, lightweight, synthetic or wool gloves you will wear under bigger mittens. These will likely get destroyed by the end of the trip so when in doubt, opt for less expensive options. See example here: Light Liner Gloves
- 2 Pairs Heavy Liner Gloves. Thicker synthetic or wool gloves to wear under bigger mittens. See example here: Heavy Liner Gloves
- 1 Buff. Versatile lightweight neck gaiter. Buff Example
Upper Body
- 2 Light or Medium Weight Long Underwear Tops. This can be fitted (not restrictive) because it will be the base layer next to your skin.
- 1 Medium-Weight Warm Top. This can be a polyester or 100 weight wool or fleece shirt. Usually comes with a ½ to ¾ zipper.
- 1 Heavy Fleece or Wool Top. Must have good breathability and dry quickly when wet. This can usually be found at a thrift store. Must fit over all other layers--try these on together: the long underwear top (inner), medium-weight warm top (middle), and then the heavy fleece or wool (outer).
- 1 Synthetic Puffy Jacket or Fleece Vest. Having a vest or a thin synthetic “puffy” jacket will help to keep you warmer in a variety of conditions. If you buy a synthetic jacket, a hood is recommended. Vests are a less expensive option.
- 2 Sports Bras. Should be appropriate for athletic activity. Many people will use this as a swimsuit top with Quick Dry shorts. You do not need to bring a swimsuit if you plan on using this combination.
Lower Body
- 2 Medium Weight Long Underwear Bottoms. This can be fitted (not restrictive) because it will be the base layer next to your skin.
- 1 Fleece Pants. Should be made out of Polyester Fleece and loose enough to fit over a pair of long underwear or shorts.
- 4 Pairs of Underwear - Quick Drying or Cotton. Quick-drying underwear is usually a blend of Nylon and Spandex that breathes well, wicks moisture, and dries quickly. Quick Drying is recommended, but cotton is okay as well.
- 1 Swimsuit. You may choose to bring a swimsuit or use a pair of shorts and a sports bra for swimwear. You will use this to take a Sauna at the end of your course.
Feet
- 5 Pair Heavyweight Wool Socks. These socks are thicker than the medium weight and most likely will have expedition or mountaineering in the name. Must be wool. See example here: Wool Socks
- 3 Pair Liner Socks. Lightest-weight, synthetic socks to wear under your wool socks. See example here: Liner Socks
Personal Gear
- 2 Bandanas. These will be helpful in multiple different ways and will likely get ruined during your course. Bring old or cheap bandanas that you are not attached to.
- 1 Pair Sunglasses w/ Keeper Strap and Hard Case. Essential for protecting your eyes in a highly reflective environment. A keeper strap is important so they don’t fall into the water and sink.
- 2 Water Bottles. Must be a 32 oz. wide mouth Nalgene-style bottle with a plain lid.
- 1 Small Headlamp with Extra Batteries. This is a hands-free flashlight. It is either an LED or halogen headlamp that uses a minimum of three volts (two or more AA- or AAA-batteries). Halogen bulbs are bright but consume more battery power. LED lamps are bright and consume very little battery power. Bring one extra set of alkaline batteries per week of course.
Toiletries & Other Personal Items
- 1 Sunscreen. Waterproof, SPF 30 or greater. Stick-type sunscreen (Dermatone) works better in the cold.
- 1 Lip Balm. 30+ SPF or greater.
- 2 Hand Sanitizers. Pocket-sized squeeze bottles of hand sanitizer.
- 1 Toiletries Kit. Toothbrush, small toothpaste, comb or brush.
- Feminine Hygiene products. Pack plenty of supplies. Changes in activities can cause irregular periods.
- 2 Sets of Prescription Medications. If you use prescription medications, including inhalers, please bring enough for the entire course. If possible, bring a backup set. If you use an inhaler or have a prescription epi-pen, you must bring two. If you use an albuterol Rescue inhaler please bring a spacer. If you do not currently have one please get one prescribed by your doctor to bring along on the trip. Spacers allow the medicine to get into your lungs faster and play a key role in managing asthma in the backcountry. Clearly label everything with medication names, dosages and when you take them. Instructors administer medications for students 21 and younger and will ask for them upon your arrival so pack medications in an accessible place in your carry-on. Outward Bound should be aware of any medications you are bringing, if not, please contact your Course Advisor immediately.
- Contacts and back-up glasses, if needed. We strongly recommend contacts over glasses for use during the day because glasses will fog up. Bring plenty of supplies and at least one set of backup glasses with a hard case. Because sterile lens care is more difficult on the trail, long-term use contacts are not encouraged. Daily disposable contacts are a good option that will help you avoid dirt and dust build-up that might cause damage to your eyes.
- 1 Medical Insurance Card. Please bring your Insurance card, or a copy of the front and back of the card, if you are covered under any medical insurance. The actual card is preferred.
- 1 Towel and Shower Supplies. You’ll have a chance to sauna and shower after your expedition. Bring whatever shower supplies you normally use, ideally in travel sizes, and a towel (any cotton towel). Pack these items in their own kit so it’s easy to find when you return to basecamp. These items will not go on the expedition with you.
- 1 Pair Flip Flops. One pair of sandals to wear in the shower.
- 2 Sets Clean Clothes. After you return to basecamp and shower you’ll want clean clothes. You’ll wear these around basecamp and traveling home. Be sure to think about warmth and layers when packing and don’t forget to include socks and underwear.
Travel
- Money. Think about bringing $15-$20 for meals for your arrival and departure travel days. Also, bring a little money if you think you’d like to purchase a sweatshirt, t-shirt, map or cap from the Voyageur Outward Bound School store after your course. The school store accepts cash or check only, no credit or debit cards.
- Travel Information. Carry a copy of the Outward Bound Travel Information for your course (on the tab next to this one) with the Outward Bound phone number in case of travel delays. See this information for directions on what to wear to the start of your course.
- Cell Phone and Charger. It’s a good idea to travel with a cell phone in case of travel delays. However, please note that upon arrival you will be asked to turn off and store your phone in your luggage, which will be locked in a secure area while you are on course.
None of these items are required and you will be fine without them. Please only buy them if you plan to use them again after your course or you think they will be of great assistance to you during the course. You may be asked to leave these items behind depending on pack-size and weight restrictions.
- Fleece Shorts or Down Skirt. While this item is optional, we HIGHLY recommend it for any courses in January and February. This extra layer helps protect your butt, thighs, and other sensitive areas against wind and cold. It should be sized to fit over two layers of base-layer pants.
- 1 Pair Down/Dacron Booties. Also optional but those who bring them are always VERY happy to have them. Nice to wear in and around your sleeping bag at night. Booties with sturdy soles are best.
- 1 Camera. Waterproof disposables (bring a few) are great and you don’t have to worry about protecting them from the elements. A small regular camera is great, but you’ll need to take extra precautions to protect it. For digital cameras, we ask that the memory card(s) be blank; please back up your photos and erase your memory cards prior to arriving for course.
- 1 Small Journal. Small and sturdy. Please bring pens and put in a Ziplock bag.
- 1 Hand Lotion. Travel-size bottle. Dry weather can be hard on your skin.
- 1 Thermos. 1 liter or smaller stainless steel thermos. Must be well insulated, not a thin single wall.
- Ear Plugs. For sleeping.
- Digital Watch. Basic digital watch with an alarm. DO NOT bring any fitbits, apple watches, or other electronic watches equipped with GPS or messaging capabilities.
i-pods, MP3 players, computers, i-pads, and GPS devices?
Cell phones, tablets, GPS devices and all other electronic devices (exception-digital cameras) are not permitted on course. Electronic devices can be distracting and disruptive to the wilderness experience. Stepping away from these devices encourages participants to focus on their experience and their crewmates.
You are, however, more than welcome to travel to and from your course with whatever technology you choose. When you arrive, we’ll have you turn off all electronic devices and leave them in your luggage. Your luggage will then be locked in a secure area during your course. At the end of your course, you’ll get everything back. Additionally, please do not bring any emergency response technology. Your instructors will carry emergency communication devices.
cameras?
Cameras are welcomed at Voyageur Outward Bound School. We recommended waterproof disposable cameras. If you elect to bring a non-disposable camera, we advise that you store it in a small “dry bag” or plastic zip-lock bag. Our courses are rigorous and there is a risk of losing or damaging your camera.
For digital cameras, we ask that the memory card(s) be blank; please back up your photos and erase your memory cards prior to arriving for course. Cell phone cameras, tablets, and any other Wi-Fi enabled electronic devices with built-in cameras are not permitted on the course.
my cell phone and use it as a camera?
No, if you’d like to take pictures, please bring a camera that does not have cellular capabilities. No cell-phones will be allowed on the expedition.
a book?
Unless it’s a natural history identification book, we’d ask you to leave books at home. You’ll be very busy during your expedition and will want to spend your downtime with other group members, sleeping, and just relaxing in nature. Books also get damaged easily. You can bring a book for your travel days but don’t plan to bring it on the expedition.
a pocket knife?
Please do not bring any knives with you to your course-start. Your instructors will provide knives as they are needed throughout the expedition.
my own camping gear (sleeping bag, tent, etc.)?
We strongly discourage the use of personal camping equipment on Voyageur Outward Bound School courses because of the heavy wear and tear. We feel confident that the equipment we provide will best serve your needs on the expedition; it will keep you safe, warm and dry. If you have questions about using a piece of personal equipment normally provided by Outward Bound, please contact your course advisor to discuss. If you do decide to bring a piece of personal equipment, your instructors reserve the right to inspect it and ensure that it will adequately serve your needs during the expedition. If they do not think it will work, you can leave it with your luggage at the basecamp during the expedition.
over the counter medications?
Voyageur Outward Bound School Instructors carry an extensive First-Aid kit with ample supply of over-the-counter medications like pain relievers and antacids, among other supplies. Instructors also carry prescription epinephrine injections in case of an anaphylactic emergency. You shouldn’t need to bring your own OTC medication. However, if you frequently take something specific, please consult your course advisor to discuss whether you should bring it or not.
tobacco, drugs, or alcohol?
Tobacco, drugs, and alcohol are NOT permitted on course, this includes both time spent in the wilderness and at basecamp.
Please also DO NOT bring valuables, jewelry, makeup, candy, gum, or large amounts of money.
Arrival Time and Location
Location: Duluth International Airport.
VOBS staff will meet students in the baggage claim area. The Duluth airport is very small; our staff will be easy to find.
Arrival Time: No later than 1:00 PM. (Please try to arrive before this time as we hope to depart from the airport by this time.)
- For drop-offs: Please plan to arrive between 10:30-11:30 AM. This will help us check you in and avoid a rush right at 1:00 PM. If you plan to leave a car at the airport during drop-off or during your course, short and long-term parking are available in a secure pay lot.
- For flights: If you are unable to find a flight arriving in Duluth by 1:00 PM on your course start day, you will need to arrive the night before and stay in Duluth. Please see the Pre & Post Course Accommodations Tab for information about hotels in Duluth. If you arrive the night before, arrange to return to the airport between 10:30-11:30 AM on your course start day.
- For shuttle service: Shuttle services are available between the Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport (MSP) and Duluth, which may be a good option for some travel plans. Services available include Landline Shuttle Services and Groome Transportation. Groome will pick you up at the MSP airport. Select your drop-off destination as the Duluth International Airport..
Additional Important Arrival Day Information:
- Recently, we have found that there are fewer flight options overall, and far fewer connecting flights into Duluth, MN. Many families have had a more positive and stress-free travel experience if they arrive the day before the course, spend the night in Duluth, and meet the group at the airport the next day. While not required, this can be a nice option to consider as you make your travel plans.
- Please eat lunch before meeting at the Airport. Also, plan to make any final phone calls before arriving at the airport. Expect to be at the airport until your whole group has arrived, at which time we will transport you an additional 2-3 hours to your course-start location.
- CLOTHING/DRESS ON ARRIVAL DAY – Please arrive at the meeting place already dressed in your expedition clothes. Boots or tennis shoes, wool socks, quick-dry pants, underwear, t-shirt, and an accessible warmer, long-sleeved layer work best on the first day. Please see the Packing List tab for further information about appropriate luggage, clothing and layering principles.
Travel Delays or Late Arrivals
If you experience delays or cancellations on arrival day, please contact our Travel Coordinator at: (218) 491-6799.
With so many people traveling on the same day, we anticipate some hiccups. If your arrival is delayed, don’t worry too much. Contact our Travel Coordinator and we will do our best to coordinate an alternative plan with you.
Outward Bound will transport you back to the Duluth International Airport on the last day of the course, arriving around 10:00 AM. To ensure adequate time to check in and navigate security, please do not book any flights departing before 11:00 AM.
- If you are departing by plane or shuttle, we will ensure that you make your flight or bus
- If you weren’t able to pre-pay for your return-baggage, please bring a credit card or $25 (in exact change) to check your bag on your return flight.
- If you are departing by car, you can access your car in the airport pay-lot or ask your pick-up to meet you near the departure check-in gates any time after 10:00 AM.
- If you are staying in a nearby hotel after your course, and have arranged a drop-off with us, we will ensure you arrive at your hotel.
MEALS AND MONEY ON ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DAYS - Please bring a little cash for meals during your travel days. Outward Bound will provide dinner on the first day, breakfast on the last day, and some snacks on both of these days. There are minimal food options once you exit the security gate at the airport so plan to get something before you arrive or before you exit security. Remember to drink plenty of water throughout travel days!
MEDICATIONS – If you take a prescription medication, please ensure that you have enough to complete the entire course, and bring a back-up set if possible. If you use an inhaler or carry an Epi-pen, please bring 2 sets.
Remember to pack your medications and other important items (contacts, glasses, travel documents, money) in your carry-on luggage in case your checked bag is delayed or lost.
CLOTHING/DRESS ON ARRIVAL DAY – Please arrive at the meeting place dressed in warm layers suitable to below zero temperatures. Boots or tennis shoes, wool socks, long-underwear, and comfortable/warm outer layers work best on the first day. Please see the provided packing list for further information about appropriate luggage, clothing and layering principles.
If you are unable to arrive by 1:00 PM on the first day of the course, we advise that you arrive a day early. There are multiple hotel options in Duluth near the airport. Hotels may or may not offer a shuttle to the airport. If not, students can take an Uber between the airport and the hotel.
Days Inn and Suites. Can accommodate 18+ students, no minors. Students must have credit card in hand when they arrive to complete the payment.
909 Cottonwood Ave. Duluth, MN
218-727-3110 - Call this direct line to make reservations. If you are staying between November and May they will offer a special VOBS rate.
AmericInn by Wyndam Duluth. Can accommodate minors with parents' authorization.
901 Joshua Ave. Duluth, MN
218-723-8607 - Call to make reservations. A VOBS discount may be available depending on the time of year.
If you are over 21 years old there are many other hotels near the Duluth airport that are available to you.
Staff Invitation payments are non-refundable. If you need to cancel for an extenuating circumstance i.e. illness, injury, or family emergency please let us know and we may be able to make an exception on a case-by-case basis. You can view our cancellation policies here.
While you do not have to be a gifted athlete or in peak physical condition to attend an Outward Bound course, you do have to prepare for the challenges of Outward Bound.
There are two kinds of strength necessary to complete your course; physical and mental. Your body needs to be strong, but you must also come with an open mind, willing spirit and a cooperative attitude. Whether you paddle a canoe or kayak for six or eight hours, expedition with a 50+ pound pack for 10 miles or mush a dogsled, you will be pushed and rewarded on many levels.
If a student’s family experiences an emergency and needs to contact them while he/she is in the wilderness, the family should contact their designated course director or the emergency response number at 218-491-6799 and listen to the voicemail message for instructions. Each student has a designated course director and their contact information is emailed to the student shortly before the course begins. Students should share these important phone numbers with their family before their course begins.
Please follow this link to read VOBS' Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Safety is our number one priority. At all levels of our school, we demonstrate our dedication to participant safety by our words, actions and values. Outward Bound has been a national leader in wilderness safety for over 50 years and frequently advises and assists other organizations in outdoor adventure risk management. Living and traveling in a remote wilderness setting exposes you to risks different than those you may encounter in your daily life. We believe that accepting appropriate risks and training and preparing participants to manage those risks, provides invaluable life experience.
Regardless of precautionary measures, risk and uncertainty are central to the concept of challenge and adventure. The intent is not to avoid activities involving risk but to recognize, prepare for and successfully manage risk. In order to identify any potential hazards and update best practices, our programs are regularly reviewed by outdoor professionals from inside and outside the Outward Bound system.
Outward Bound instructors receive regular training in the activities and environments in which we deliver our courses. They are trained to anticipate and manage risks inherent in remote areas. They are also trained in first aid, search and rescue and emergency management. Our instructors are certified Wilderness First Responders; some are Wilderness Emergency Medical Technicians or equivalent. Outward Bound maintains a minimum staff-to-student ratio of approximately 1:6. Instructors work in teams of two or three with six to 12 students. Instructor teams are usually co-ed but balancing skills and teaching styles is our primary staffing focus. One instructor in every team is a lead instructor with multiple seasons of training and experience. The lead instructor has single point accountability for the safety and effectiveness of the course in the field as well as mentoring their staffing team.
For more information on our instructors, please check out our staff profiles page or our careers page for instructor requirements. As a participant, you must take responsibility for yourself by following instructions and practicing the skills taught by your instructors.
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1650 Carroll Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55104
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