Course Information
CONTACT US
We look forward to having you on course with us soon! If you have questions about the application process, submitting forms, or anything else, you may contact your student services representative directly, call the Student Services General Line, (828)-239-2376 or email us at, student.services@vobs.org.
WELCOME TO YOUR JOURNEY
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Course Number
VMGL-2481
Date
January 20, 2024 - March 24, 2024
In addition to the expedition itself and all of the skills and learning associated with it, Outward Bound’s time-tested curriculum includes education on the many aspects of personal growth and learning that can be found in each activity you undertake. You will learn four important Outward Bound Core Values:
- Compassion
- Integrity
- Excellence
- Inclusion and Diversity
You may find that the most important lessons you take home are learning about yourself and your community while acquiring backcountry skills and having an adventure.You’ll learn to protect and appreciate the unique, unspoiled environments through which you travel.
Successful completion of your course demands mastery of skills, trust, fitness, confidence, tenacity, leadership, initiative and compassion. The promotion of these qualities and the discovery of what’s in you is the purpose of Outward Bound.
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.
Big Bend region, Texas
The Texas course area, one of the most remote and geologically interesting in the Outward Bound system, lies along the US-Mexico border in southwestern Texas. The Rio Grande River carves a huge sweeping bend through the area earning its namesake, Big Bend National Park. This 750,000-square acre wilderness is an ideal setting for desert backpacking, canyoneering and rock climbing. Delicate desert flowers exist alongside fossilized trees millions of years old, mountain passes give way to steep-walled canyons and cliffs.
The Chihuahuan Desert of Texas is usually dry, warm during the day and cool at night. Students may encounter hot sun or a snow shower. Desert temperatures vary widely. Night temperatures are often cooler, averaging 20 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
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.
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.
Rio Grande Canoeing - After learning basic whitewater strokes in calm currents, students begin the expedition. The group will spend five to six days traveling downriver through sections of calm currents and whitewater. The whitewater of the Rio Grande offers beginning paddlers a progressive challenge, and a perfect place to learn and hone skills.
When the group reaches a set of rapids, the group will stop to read the current, deciding whether to run the rapids or portage around, examining the river for obstacles and current patterns. As a group, you'll decide the best route, and then plan and assign roles for a river safety system. While two paddlers maneuver a canoe through the rapids, other group members observe, ready to activate the safety system and paddle after floating gear, should a canoe dump or tip over.
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.
Desert Backpacking - Students backpack through rugged desert up to the mountainous terrain – elevations range from 2,500 to 7,500 feet. During the expedition, instructors will help you learn safe desert travel, teaching how to plan the expedition around water management strategies. The group will navigate “from tinaja to tinaja” – desert water sources vital to desert life. Following trails or traveling cross-country, the group will explore wide open expanses and encounter water-sculptured canyons. Here it will be necessary to scramble around boulders, climb low walls, or give packs or companions a boost.
Students will grow accustomed to backpacking over rough terrain and become familiar with balancing and shifting weight while carrying a pack. Each student carries his or her own personal gear, some group gear, and four to six liters of water in an internal frame pack. Packs weigh at least 50 lbs., sometimes considerably more. Students often choose to redistribute weight according to physical strength. Courses are designed to be challenging. Outward Bound requires that groups travel together for safety and peer motivation and form a blend of everyone’s backpacking styles and needs.
Service – Service is an integral part of the Outward Bound curriculum. In addition to practicing Leave No Trace® ethics on all Outward Bound expeditions, Outward Bound also coordinates service projects with land management agencies like the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, local land trusts, and social service agencies like nursing homes and hospitals. Most Outward Bound students have an opportunity to participate in at least one service project during their course. Intercept courses always include 2-4 days of community service.
Personal Challenge Event – Time and weather permitting, Voyageur Outward Bound School courses end with a Personal Challenge Event (PCE), a final individual physical push. The PCE usually involves an 8-mile run starting as the sun rises over the mountains in Big Bend Ranch State Park.
The PCE is non-competitive. Each student sets his/her own time goal for completion and works toward it to see how their mental and physical stamina has grown as a result of their wilderness expedition. Students celebrate the completion of their wilderness expedition and PCE with a final banquet and graduation ceremony at the basecamp.
Final Expedition – Outward Bound believes that an appropriate amount of independence is a powerful educational tool. In order to deliver that benefit, Outward Bound purposefully and gradually transfers certain leadership responsibilities to the students culminating with our “Final Expedition.” Near the end of course, if you and your group have demonstrated the necessary leadership, team problem-solving and wilderness living skills, you may be given the opportunity to travel without your instructors immediately present. Students on courses designed for ages 16 and older may travel without instructors immediately present (although they will be near the group for safety reasons) for one to five days depending on course length, student age, staff assessment of students’ abilities, and terrain. Many of our students feel this phase of the course is the most rewarding as the group learns to work together, problem solve, and accomplish a goal independently while utilizing all the skills they have acquired.
Course End – All courses end with a shower, graduation ceremony and celebration dinner. Shower facilities are available at the basecamp.
Wilderness First Aid – A two-day introduction to general medical concepts and basic life support skills. It is targeted to the outdoor enthusiast on day trips or short adventures. The course is taught by professional instructors with significant patient care and backcountry experience. Course topics are: Patient Assessment System, CPR, Circulatory System, Nervous System, Respiratory System, Fractures, Stable Injuries, Splints 1-Extremities, Hypothermia, Hyperthermia and Heat Illness, Near Drowning, Lightning Injuries, Wounds and Burns, Anaphylaxis, Lifting, Moving Extrication, Patient Carries, and Backcountry Medicine.
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 and sleep outside on the very first night of the course.
Days 2-5: Participate in a cross country skiing lesson before departing the basecamp and entering the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. During this first training expedition everyone skis and pulls a pulk sled full of equipment. Learn how to prevent cold injuries, navigate with a map and compass, read ice conditions and construct sleeping shelters. You will travel during the day and camp in the evenings.
Days 6-8: Return to the basecamp to prepare for the next phase of the expedition. Pack food and equipment, plan a route, meet your dog teams, practice dogsledding on day-trips around the basecamp and sleep in a wood-stove heated cabin. You’ll also spend some of this time learning to build a dog sled, which your group will then use throughout the rest of your expedition.
Days 9-20: Depart the basecamp and enter the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness for the main phase of the expedition. Half the group travels by ski and half by dogsled, switching from day to day. Learn to care for a team of huskies, process firewood, cook over a fire, and stay warm in sub-zero temperatures as you travel and camp along your route.
Days 21-23: Spend one full day and two nights alone in your own quiet, bay for the Solo phase of the expedition. Test new skills by building fires, cooking hot meals and constructing a sleeping shelter.
Days 24-27: Execute the final phase of the expedition as a group with less guidance from your Outward Bound Instructors. Continue to travel and camp as you make your way back to the basecamp.
Day 28: 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 indoor meals and sleep in a wood-stove heated cabin.
Days 29-30: Participate in service projects around the Outward Bound basecamp and within the local community.
Days 31-33: Participate in a 16-hour Wilderness First Aid course and receive your WFA certification.
Day 34: Eat an early indoor breakfast before departing for the airport and traveling to El Paso.
Day 35: Travel by plane to El Paso, meet an Outward Bound staff representative, then travel in the Outward Bound van to Redford, TX, tucked between the mountains of Texas and Mexico. The journey takes about 5 hours and meanders through low and high desert grasslands and small towns like Marfa and Presidio. Local families have lived in Redford for centuries and Spanish is more commonly spoken than English. Upon arrival in Redford you’ll meet your Outward Bound Instructors, organize your equipment, eat dinner and sleep in tents on the banks of the Rio Grande.
Days 36-49: Begin the paddling portion of your expedition with an introduction to whitewater paddling session. Gain experience as you paddle down the Rio Grande, taking time to understand each rapid before and after you paddle through it. Pass through the amazing canyons where the river has carved its way through mountains.
Day 50: Spend the day climbing at a gorgeous wilderness rock climbing site.
Days 51-57: Enter the vast expanse of Big Bend National Park and begin backpacking. Learn to set-up camp, cook over camp-stoves, and navigate with a map and compass. During this phase participate in a solo experience, where you will have a small campsite to yourself overnight and the instructors will check on you periodically.
Days 58-60: Begin the final phase of the expedition. Work with your group to navigate to the course-end location with less oversight from your Instructors.
Days 61-62: Participate in a community service project.
Day 63: Start the morning with the Personal Challenge Event. Clean-up your expedition equipment, shower, and attend a graduation ceremony before enjoying a final banquet celebration.
Day 64: Eat an early breakfast and depart for the airport to travel home.
In Texas the temperatures vary between 35-95+ degrees during the spring. Typically there will be little to no rainfall during the desert portion of your course, though an occasional storm will happen.
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.
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
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. We have shared links for some items to show you examples. You also find required clothing & gear items at camping, outdoor/ farm stores, 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 these 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
- PFD (Life Jacket)
- All group camping, cooking, and traveling equipment
You only need to bring what’s on the Required Clothing and Gear list, 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. At a minimum, it should shade your face like a baseball cap. Having a brim all the way around is much better for the desert. Made out of something that can get folded up and packed.
- Fleece Balaclava or Neck Gaiter. This is nice for chilly days and especially cold nights to keep the wind out of your sleeping bag.
- 3 Pairs Thin 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
- 3 Pairs Heavy Liner Gloves. Slightly thicker liner glove. See example here: Heavy Liner Gloves
- 1 Pair Insulated Work Gloves. Lined Kinco’s work great.
- 1 Buff. Versatile lightweight neck gaiter. Buff Example.
Upper Body
- 2 Medium Weight Long Underwear Top. This can be fitted (not restrictive) because it will be the base layer next to your skin.
- 2 Medium-Weight Warm Tops. 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 or Down Puffy Jacket. Having a light “puffy” jacket will help to keep you warmer in a variety of conditions. If you buy a synthetic jacket, a hood is recommended. Must fit over all other layers.
- 2 Long Sleeve Sun Shirts. Loose, lightweight, and light-colored for sun and bug protection. Instructors prefer "sun hoodies" that offer protection for the neck and ears. Example. It’s likely that you won’t want to wear this shirt again after your course because of the wear and tear it will undergo, so don’t spend too much on it.
- 3-4 Short Sleeve T-Shirts. Cotton or quick-drying fabrics are both absolutely fine. Again, these shirts will experience a lot of wear and tear.
- 1 Lightweight Rain Jacket. This will get pretty worn out in the desert environment so don't get anything fancy. This layer can also be used as a windbreaker. Some good options are: The REI Groundbreaker ($50), Columbia Glennaker Lake ($60), Marmot PreCip ($80) or The North Face Venture 2 ($100) Must fit over all other layers.
- 3 Sports Bras if needed. Should be appropriate for athletic activity.
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.
- 2 Pairs Fleece Pants. Should be made out of Polyester Fleece and loose enough to fit over a pair of long underwear or shorts.
- 5-6 Pairs 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. Women should bring at least a couple cotton pairs.
- 1 Pair Quick Dry Pants. Lightweight, nylon fabric wicks moisture, dries quickly, and is easy to pack. Should be loose fitting to aid in movement and protect against bug bites through the pants (no yoga-style or tight pants). No cotton.
- 1 Pair Quick Dry Shorts. Lightweight, nylon fabric wicks moisture, dries quickly, and is easy to pack. Shouldn’t be a swimsuit, though could easily double as a swimsuit or swimsuit bottom.
- 1 Swimsuit. You may choose to bring a swimsuit or use a pair of shorts and a sports bra (if needed) for swimwear. No bikinis or speedos.
Feet
- 3 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: Heavyweight Sock for Dogsledding
- 3 Pair Lightweight Wool Socks. These socks will be thinner to prevent hiking boots from rubbing. See example here: Lightweight Sock
- 4 Pair Liner Socks. Lightest-weight, synthetic socks to wear under your wool socks. See example here: Liner Socks
- 1 Pair Down/Dacron Booties. Nice to wear around the campfire and in your sleeping bag at night. Booties with a sturdy sole are best.
- 1 Pair Hiking Boots. Sturdy boots with ankle support. See “Footwear” for more details.
- 1 Pair River Shoes. An old pair of running shoes or sneakers. Must lace tightly to foot. See "Footwear" for more details.
- 1 Pair Camp Shoes. Lightweight, sturdy running shoes. Not fashion or skateboarding type sneakers. An old pair of running shoes is just fine. See “Footwear” for more details.
Personal Gear
- 3-5 Bandanas. These will be helpful in multiple different ways. They will likely get ruined during your course, so 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. 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 an LED headlamp that uses a minimum of three volts (two or more AA- or AAA-batteries). Bring one extra set of alkaline batteries per week of course. Bring one extra set of alkaline batteries per week of course.
Toiletries & Other Personal Items
- 2 Sunscreen. Waterproof, SPF 30 or greater. Bring both a cream and a stick-type sunscreen (Dermatone) would be ideal. Stick-type sunscreen works better in the cold. No aerosol.
- 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. Students who have periods Bring plenty of supplies. Change in activities can cause irregular periods.
- 2 Sets Prescription Medications. If you use prescription medications, 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. 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.
- Inhalers. If you use an inhaler 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 back country.
- 2 Pair Glasses or Contacts, if needed. Both glasses and contacts are acceptable. Stick with whatever you normally use. Bring plenty of supplies and at least one set of backup glasses either way. 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. For use while showering.
- 3 Sets Clean Clothes. After you return to basecamp and shower you’ll want clean clothes. You’ll wear these around basecamp and traveling home. Don’t forget to include socks and underwear.
Travel
- Money. Think about bringing $30+ for meals during your three 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. Your phone will be stored in a safe place during your expedition and returned to you after the trip.
Canoeing River Shoe
Camp Shoes
Your Camp Shoes are worn each evening and morning at your campsite. They get packed away in a safe spot while you travel so they remain dry. Camp shoes should be lightweight, sturdy running shoes, not sandals. Full coverage shoes are required while you’re cooking and working around the campfire to protect your feet from hot embers and boiling cooking-water.
Some Voyageur Outward Bound School courses finish with a Challenge Event that often involves a running component, and some groups do morning runs or day hikes. You can use your camp shoes for these events. For this reason, you’ll need sturdy running shoes NOT fashion or skateboarding type sneakers.
Hiking Boots
Due to the heavy loads and rugged terrain that are part of backpacking in Big Bend it is crucial that you have a sturdy pair of heavy-duty hiking boots for this trip. The most important consideration when buying boots is to find a pair that fit comfortably and do not rub on any part of your foot. This will look different for every student, so make sure you are trying on boots and breaking them in before your course.
BOOT SPECIFICATIONS
Boots must have strong ankle support, a thick sturdy sole (almost rigid), and a durable outer layer to protect your feet from the many sharp hazards of the desert ground. Full leather boots are ideal for this part of your course, but if you are buying boots last minute DO NOT get full leather boots- you will not have time to break them in. Trails are rough and rocky, and are often lined by sharp-spined plants. Because the desert floor is so rough and unforgiving, it is especially important that your boots provide strong ankle and foot protection.
You should expect that these boots will serve you well for a long period after your course.
Here is a list of boots that work well on Voyageur Outward Bound School backpacking courses. If you have questions about a boot that’s not listed here, consider the essential requirements – your boots must be sturdy with a strong, protective sole, have full ankle protection (high-top), and provide protection from cactus spikes. If you still have questions about a boot not listed here, send an email to your Course Advisor for their input; include a link so they can view the boot online.
Leather boot option: Vasque Talus Pro Boots
- Pro- Full leather protection from spikes and rocks
- Con- Will create lots of blisters if not broken in before the course
Leather and Mesh Option: Merrell Moab Boots
- Pro- very ventilated and comfortable, doesn't need to be broken in too much
- Pro- A little more breathability than the full leather boots
- Con- May not be comfortable on all feet.
- Con- Less protection from spikes and rocks
BOOT FITTING
Start by trying on at least two or three different boot options. Put the first choice on one foot and the second choice on the other. Make sure that you’re wearing the same type of wool socks that you plan to wear during the expedition (refer to the packing list for more detail) and fully lace-up the boots. Start by standing on a downward slanting slope and try to jam your toes towards the front of the boot. Next, take a walk around the store.
- Your toes should never hit the front of your boot.
- Your boots should be comfortable with plenty of room to wiggle your toes
- Your heel might slip as much as 1/8” to 1/4” in the back. Any more than 1/4” is too much
- You shouldn’t feel any obvious pressure points.
- If you don’t feel absolutely confident that your boots fit correctly, purchase them and wear them around your house for a few hours (not outside). Bring them back and look for different boots if you still have concerns.
BOOT CARE
Break in your boots before the course begins! Wear them around town, school and at home as much as possible (several weeks). This simple activity cannot be over-emphasized and is one of the easiest and most important steps in preparing for a successful and comfortable wilderness adventure.
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 Trekking Poles. While these are an optional item we HIGHLY recommend this piece of equipment. Trekking Poles will dramatically reduce the impact and weight on your knee joints and leg muscles while providing additional stability in uneven terrain. Adjustable length poles provide the best versatility and comfort.
- 1 Teva/Chaco-Style Sandals. Must have an ankle strap. No leather.
- 1 Waterproof Watch. Does not need to be expensive, but should be waterproof and durable. Digital with an alarm recommended.
- 1 Hydration System. I.E. CamelBak, Platypus, etc. At least 70 oz. capacity.
- 1 Thermos. 1 liter or smaller stainless steel thermos. Must be well insulated, not a thin single wall.
- 1 Small Fanny Pack. Can be very handy for carrying and organizing small items.
- Camera. Waterproof disposables (bring a few) are great and you don’t have to worry about protecting them from the elements, especially during the backpacking and canoeing portion of the expedition. A small regular camera is also works well, but you’ll need to take extra precautions to protect it. During the canoeing portion of your trip, Ziploc bags or a waterproof case are recommended. 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 Stationary, Stamps, Paper/Journal, and Pens. Bring pre-stamped, addressed envelopes if you would like to send mail. Put in zip-lock bag with paper/journal and pen. A small and sturdy jour.
- 1 Hand Lotion. Travel-size bottle. Dry weather can be hard on your skin.
- Ear Plugs. For sleeping.
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.
Students will be transported back to the El Paso International Airport at the end of their course. If you are picking up your student you may meet them there between 12:00 and 1:00 PM.
If you are choosing to book a flight home at the end of the course, please do not book any flights departing before 1:00 PM from the El Paso International Airport.
- If a student tests positive for COVID-19 on their course an alternate travel plan will need to be made.
COMMUNICATION WITH YOUR STUDENT ON ARRIVAL DAY – It’s a good idea to send a phone with your student for use during travel days (don’t forget to include a charge cord). All electronics are stored in a secure location during the expedition and will be returned to your student on departure day.
Please remind your student to call/text you when they’ve arrived and met the Outward Bound representative. There will be time for this communication. If there are any problems or your student doesn’t arrive as scheduled, we will contact you right away. Otherwise, no news is good news! Your student’s course director will accompany their group to the start of their wilderness expedition and will contact you within 2-3 days to introduce themselves and share an update.
Radisson Hotel El Paso Airport:
Wyndham El Paso Airport Hotel:
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.
Please familiarize yourself with the policies outlined in the Policies Page. By enrolling in Outward Bound you are accountable for and subject to the information contained on these pages.
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 432-652-6003 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.
If a student’s family experiences an emergency and needs to contact them while they're on course, the family should use the emergency response number at 218-491-6799 and listen to the voicemail message for instructions. Each student has a designated course director. The course director's contact information is emailed to families of youth courses on Day 1 of the course. The course director becomes the primary contact during the course; however, they may be out in wilderness and not immediately available.
Please follow this link to read VOBS' Essential Eligibility Criteria.
VOBS regularly evaluates its programming. Students may be asked to complete 1-2 surveys at the end of their course to assist us in this evaluation. These surveys may include:
1. We ask all participants to complete an anonymous survey at the end of programming. Participants are asked to answer the survey items and to indicate their race/ethnicity, gender, and birth year. Completing the survey is optional. No identifying information is included as part of the survey or in any reporting. We also ask participants to provide a reflection of their course and other feedback. This information is used by the organization for reporting on program outcomes and for program improvement purposes.
2. Outward Bound is partnering with The PEAR Institute (Partnerships in Education and Resilience) on a research project to promote our students’ positive social-emotional development. As part of this effort, Outward Bound staff may invite you/your child to complete a brief survey at the end of your/their Outward Bound course. The survey includes PEAR’s Holistic Student Assessment (HSA) plus several additional questions about the student’s social-emotional development and experience while on the course. You/your child’s responses will be kept confidential, results will be reported as a group, and names will never be used in any reports related to this research. Data from this survey will be used for research and educational work and only designated Outward Bound staff and Outward Bound’s research partners will have access to the results.
For more information, including the opportunity to opt-out of the survey, click on the following link/s to download the English Language, English-Spanish Language, or English-CapeVerdeCreole Language versions of the consent form opt-out and return a signed copy to your Course Advisor.
You will be able to receive mail once during the course at a transition point and again at the end of the course.
While you are in Minnesota, letters can be sent to:
Student Name/Course Number
Voyageur Outward Bound School
PO Box 450
Ely, MN 55731
While you are in Texas, mail can be addressed to:
Student Name/Course Number
Voyageur Outward Bound School
PO Box 163
Redford, TX 79846
Tick-borne disease is a risk in the areas where VOBS runs the majority of their courses. Fortunately, there are prevention steps that are very effective, and in the case of infection, treatment is relatively simple and recovery complete, so long as the diagnosis is made early. Students and their families should educate themselves on the risks, prevention measures, and signs and symptoms of tick-borne diseases by reading the information provided below.
Risks
Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne disease, but is not the only risk. Some of the other common tick-borne diseases reported include Babesiosis, Ehrlichiosis, Powassan (POW) virus, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Tularemia, and Anaplasmosis. There are treatments available for these diseases, but prevention is by far the best and first step!
*Lyme Disease Incidence Rates by State 2010- 2019 http://www.cdc.gov/lyme/stats/chartstables/incidencebystate.html
Prevention
- Staff will teach students to recognize ticks and remove them as soon as they are found. This is the BEST form of disease prevention. Removing ticks within 24 hours considerably reduces the risk of being infected with a disease-causing bacterium.
- When traveling or camping in areas with woods, bushes, high grass, or leaf litter, staff and students will check themselves for ticks at least once every day.
- Wear and use protective clothing/equipment (long pants tucked into socks, for instance). Light colors make it easier to see ticks.
- Use a chemical barrier. Some Outdoor clothing comes pre-treated with Permethrin, such as BugBeWear, Insect Shield, L.L. Bean’s No Fly Zone, and ExOfficio’s BugsAway. You can also treat any clothing and footwear (long-sleeve shirts, jackets, hats, gaiters, and boots) with Permethrin to repel and disable ticks. Two methods for treating your own clothing are to send clothing away to Insect Shield or to treat it yourself at home with a spray-on Permethrin solution available from Sawyer or Repel. This treatment will last up to a month. Follow instructions on the bottle for how to apply permethrin to clothing items. Clothing must be treated prior to traveling to course start. DO NOT treat base layers (long underwear tops and bottoms for example), or any item that will cover your face (buffs, masks, etc).
- Use a chemical repellent. Apply insect repellent containing about 30% DEET to exposed skin, according to the directions on the container. This lasts for a few hours before you have to reapply it.
You should include this with your child if it is on the course packing list. Insect repellent containing DEET will also be supplied on all courses where there is a significant chance of vector-borne illness transmission.
Signs and Symptoms
There are many symptoms associated with tick-borne diseases. Infected people may not have all of these symptoms and many of these symptoms can occur with other diseases as well. Some common symptoms of infection with tick-borne diseases include body/muscle aches, fever, headaches, fatigue, joint pain, rash, stiff neck, and facial paralysis. Seek medical attention if signs and symptoms of a tick-borne illness appear. Tick-borne diseases are diagnosed based on symptoms and the possibility that the person has been exposed to infected ticks. Most cases can be successfully treated with specific types of antibiotics.
Additional information
There are other vectors in addition to ticks that inhabit the areas VOBS travels in, mainly mosquitos. Some vectors may be capable of transmitting West Nile Virus, LaCrosse Encephalitis, Jamestown Canyon Virus, Lyme’s disease, Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichiosis, Powassan Virus, Tularemia, and Swimmer’s Itch.
Additional information on vectors, vector-borne diseases, and their prevention can be found on the CDC, WHO, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Texas state department of health websites.
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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