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 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.  Fall and Spring are cool and crisp and the forest is filled with peace and quiet. The weather can be unpredictable, ranging from bright sunshine, warm rain or sometimes snow. Average temperatures are cool, but can range from 30-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Evenings can be chilly but it’s typically sunny and very comfortable during the day. While you may experience the occasional thunderstorm or rain shower, most days are clear and comfortable.

Preparing and eating tasty meals in the backcountry is part of the Outward Bound experience.  
Under your instructors’ supervision, you and your crew will prepare group meals in a camp setting over an open fire on a US Forest Service firegrate. Meals are eaten as a group and may start off with group announcements, appreciations, or an inspirational quote. We use this time together to reflect on the successes and challenges of the day and to plan what is to come for the following day.

Your group will travel with all the food you need for your expedition. For some longer courses, our support staff meet up with your group in the wilderness to restock your food. This meet up is called a “re-supply.”

Our courses are physically rigorous, and our meals emphasize protein and carbohydrates to re-fuel your body. All course food is packable and non-perishable. We use a mix of dehydrated foods, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Our goal is to provide meals that are familiar. However, we ask that you be open to trying foods that may be new to you.

Participants should not bring their own food or snacks unless authorized to do so by your Course Advisor. 

Our Food Pack Out Process  
All meals at Outward Bound are cooked outdoors in remote camp settings. We work diligently to provide familiar and tasty foods, and we acknowledge that our food options are limited while we are on expedition, away from our supply facilities.
We depend on clear and accurate food allergy and dietary restrictions disclosed during the admission process to adequately plan and pack your group’s meals and snacks before your course start. Our processes are not designed to accommodate last minute dietary requests or to loosen dietary restrictions originally disclosed.

Dietary Restriction Options

• We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, and various other dietary restrictions
• Soy Milk (Oat milk for those with soy allergies)
• Sunflower butter and nut-free trail mix for those with nut allergies
• Beans and hummus for vegetarians and dairy-free/vegan options
• Gluten-free noodles and oats (all our granola is gluten-free)

MEALS AT OUTWARD BOUND
The following list represents common meals at Voyageur Outward Bound (this is not a menu)

Breakfasts

• Granola (locally made in Ely, MN) with milk (powder)
• Oatmeal with fixins’ (raisins, pumpkin seeds, cinnamon, sugar)
• Cheesy Grits
• Grape Nuts cereal with Milk (optional: add honey or vanilla pudding powder)

Lunch

• Bagels and cream cheese
• Pepperoni or Summer Sausage with cheese on tortillas
• PB&J Tortillas
• Hummus & Tuna & Crackers
• Bean and Cheese Burrito
• Extras: Trail mix (GORP)/ Dried Fruit

Dinner

• Refried Beans and Rice with peppers and fresh salsa
• Spaghetti: Noodles with tomato sauce and veggies
• Pesto Pasta
• Peanut Noodle Stir Fry
• Voyageur Stew: lentils, rice, potatoes, carrots, and cabbage with a side of biscuits
• Chili and Cornbread
• Macaroni and Cheese
• Chili Mac
• Curry with potatoes, lentils, and carrots

Snacks & Extras

• Apples
• Dried Fruits
• Trail Mixes
• Flappers (homemade “granola bars”)
• Chocolate Cake
• Brownies
• Cornbread
• Biscuits
• Bread

Drinks

• Tea (both bags and house-made chai mix)
• Cocoa
• Coffee
• Drink Mixes (Lemon-Lime and Orange)

Homeplace lodging is rustic shared bunkhouse-style accommodations. Cabins & bunkhouses have wood stoves and electricity, but lack indoor plumbing. Footpaths will lead you to the shared indoor washhouse, where you’ll find restrooms & shower facilities.  Bring your hygiene items and any preferred bedding. A sleeping bag is provided.

Meals are eaten in the Pieh Building, unless the group is on a day trip, in which case, the group will carry a trail lunch and snacks. Breakfasts are continental-style with a variety of options.  Lunch and dinner are family-style meals. Maintenance of the VOBS community space, chores, and meal clean-up is completed by everyone using the facilities. Please expect to take part in these activities alongside other community members. Please discuss any special requests or needs with your course advisor.

Day 1:  The week begins at the Duluth Airport before transporting to the Voyageur Outward Bound School basecamp in northern MN.  Meet your Outward Bound liaison, settle into your accommodations, eat dinner and enjoy getting to know the group.

Day 2:  Review the list of basecamp service projects with your Outward Bound liaison.  Meet current Outward Bound staff, sign-up for tasks and get to work.

Days 3-6:  Participate in a variety of optional activities like Voyageur canoe paddling, rock climbing and hiking while also getting work projects done around the basecamp.

Day 7:  Finish up work projects and enjoy a final banquet celebration.

Day 8:  Eat an early breakfast and depart for the airport to travel home.

The Alumni Service Week is not designed as a standard Outward Bound course, but as an opportunity for alumni and VOBS to benefit from each other’s energy and enthusiasm.  Participants will work with Outward Bound staff to prepare for the upcoming season.  Work projects might consist of painting, staining, wood chopping, setting up cabins, landscaping, repairing waterfront docks, or repairing and reorganizing the equipment used during the previous season.  We may also offer projects tailored to a participant’s specific skills, such as computer or kitchen work.

Opportunities for fun are incorporated into the week.  Activities might include rock climbing and rappelling, canoeing, an overnight expedition, saunas, or visits to local points of interest such as the International Wolf Center and North American Bear Center.  Additionally, opportunities for reflection, renewal, and initiatives may be offered.  Participants will have time to interact with the base staff through the various projects and community meals. As alumni, you become part of the community.

Our Essential Eligibility Criteria outlines the basic things that all students must be able to do the participate in our courses. Please follow this link to read our Essential Eligibility Criteria.

If you have any questions or concerns about meeting the Essential Eligibility Criteria, please reach out to your Course Advisor right away

Please familiarize yourself with the Voyageur Outward Bound School’s Applications and Cancellations Policies page. By enrolling in Outward Bound, you are accountable for and subject to the information contained on these pages.

Click here for more information about preventing illness leading up to and during your expedition

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.

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.

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.

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. You can also treat any clothing and footwear (long-sleeve shirts, jackets, hats, gaiters, and boots) with Permethrin to repel and disable ticks.  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 (bug spray). 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 bug spray 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 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.

Your full tuition payment is due by the deadline in your applicant portal. Please make your payment by that deadline.

We hope you look forward to your Outward Bound course! Now let us help you protect your investment. We partner with InsureMyTrip to offer our students a travel insurance option that will help protect your course from several different disruptions. Together Outward Bound and InsureMyTrip will be here for you before, during, and after your trip. We strongly recommend that you purchase trip insurance to protect your investment in your course. Voyageur Outward Bound School tuition is non-refundable.

You may choose to purchase trip related insurance through InsureMyTrip or a different insurance provider.  In either case, the amount and type of coverage you choose is your responsibility and must be discussed directly with the provider.

CLICK HERE TO RECEIVE A FREE QUOTE FROM INSURE MY TRIP

You can find additional information about InsureMyTrip in the cancellation policies.

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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

This packing list has been adapted from the 8-day canoe course. As you will be based at Homeplace, our wilderness base camp located in northern Minnesota on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and will also spend time outdoors adventuring, please use your discretion. Please plan for the varied temperatures and weather conditions possible in northern Minnesota, while also bringing what you’ll feel most comfortable in while working and living at Homeplace for the week. Your clothes will get dirty.

Here’s where to start with Clothing & Gear for your Course

Outward Bound will have the following items available for your use:

• Sleeping bag
• Headlamp
• Rain gear

The Packing List includes everything you need, mainly your personal clothing, toiletries, footwear, and a few additional items.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Head

• 1 Warm Hat. Used on colder days and evenings.  No cotton.
• 1 Sun Hat. At a minimum, it should provide sun protection for your face like a baseball cap (great combined with a sun hoodie or bandana). 
• 1 Buff. Versatile lightweight neck gaiter. Buff Example. 

 Upper Body

• 1 Light or Medium Weight Long Underwear Top. This can be fitted (not restrictive) because it will be the base layer next to your skin.
• 1-2 Long Sleeve Shirts. Loose & lightweight. Options include sun hoodies, flannel shirts, or long-sleeve t-shirts. Many instructors use “sun hoodies” for neck & ear protection. Example. 
• 2-3 Short-Sleeve Shirts. Cotton or quick-drying fabrics are both fine.  These shirts will experience a lot of wear and tear.
• 1 Heavy Fleece or Synthetic Puffy Jacket. Must have good breathability and dry quickly when wet.  The fleece can usually be found at a thrift store.  Must fit over all other layers.
• *For May and September courses, please also bring a Medium-Weight Warm Top. This can be a polyester, 100-weight wool, or fleece shirt. *
• 1 Wind Jacket. Nothing fancy, basically an old-fashioned windbreaker to hold in the heat & protect from sun and bugs without holding in moisture and causing you to sweat. Must fit over all other layers. **If you purchase the highly recommended Bug Shirt found on the optional list, you won’t also need this. *
• 3 Sports Bras if needed. Should be comfortable for athletic activity. 

 Lower Body

• 1 Light or Medium Weight Long Underwear Bottoms. This can be fitted (not restrictive). Can be used to sleep in or under pants on a cooler day. 
• 2 Quick Dry Pants or Work Pants. Quick-dry fabric wicks moisture, dries quickly, and is easy to pack. Heavier work pants are a great option for outdoor projects. MUST be loose-fitting to aid in movement and protect against bug bites through the pants.  If durable, one pair is fine. Zip-off pants can be nice for warmer days when skin protection isn’t necessary. No cotton.
• 4-5 Pairs Underwear – Synthetic, quick-dry can be nice as they breathe well, wick moisture, and dry quickly. 
  • For men: wool or synthetic is recommended, but cotton is okay as well. 
  • For women: it is recommended to bring 2-3 pairs of synthetic/wool and 2-3 pairs cotton.

• 1 Swimsuit. Either a swimsuit or shorts and a sports bra (if needed) for swimwear.  No bikinis or speedos.

Feet

• 3-4 Pair Medium-weight Hiking Socks. These socks must be wool. Ultra-thick socks won’t dry well & may be uncomfortable. Mid-weight Sock examples: Unisex, Unisex 2, For Women, For Men.  A pair of heavyweight socks could be used for sleeping. Example: Unisex Heavyweight Socks**
• 1 Pair Hiking Boots. Sturdy, lightweight hiking boots with ankle support.  Avoid Gore-Tex or full leather boots. Mesh material will dry more easily. See “Footwear”  for more information.
• 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 and suggestions.

 Personal Gear

• 2 Bandanas. These will be helpful in multiple ways, including for hygiene. 
• 1 Pair Sunglasses w/ Keeper Strap and Hard Case. Essential for protecting your eyes on bright days.  Keeper straps help prevent loss.
• 1 Waterproof Watch. Does not need to be expensive, but should be waterproof and durable. Digital recommended. *Smart Watches with connectivity are NOT recommended.
• 1 Water Bottle. We recommend a 32 oz. wide-mouth Nalgene-style bottle with a plain lid. 
• 1 Small Headlamp with Extra Batteries.  Hands-free flashlight/ LED headlamp that uses a minimum of three volts (two or more AA- or AAA-batteries). Bring an extra set of alkaline batteries. As we live in a designated Dark Sky Sanctuary, it can get very dark on Homeplace trails between buildings at night.
• A pair of sturdy workgloves.
• A fanny pack or backpack can be useful for keeping personal gear handy during work projects or downtime.

Toiletries & Other Personal Items

• 1 Sunscreen. Waterproof, SPF 30 or greater. 8-oz. bottle. No aerosol.
• 1 Lip Balm. 30+ SPF or greater.
• 1 Hand Sanitizer. Small travel-size bottles. 
• 1 Insect Repellent. 30% DEET or other effective repellent. No aerosol.
• 1 Toiletries Kit. Bring whatever personal hygiene/ shower supplies you normally use, ideally in travel sizes. Toothbrush/ small toothpaste/shampoo/conditioner/ soap/ comb or brush. You will have access to our washhouse. Students who have periods: Bring plenty of supplies. Changes 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.  We advise you to carry medications in your carry-on for travel. Outward Bound should be aware of any medications you bring, if not, please contact your course advisor immediately.
• Inhalers.  If you use an inhaler, you must bring two of each type. If you use an albuterol Rescue inhaler, please bring a spacer. 
• 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.  Daily disposable contacts are a good option that 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. You’ll have opportunities to sauna and shower.  
• 2 Sets Clean Clothes. You’ll wear these if you head into town, and for traveling home.  Don’t forget to include socks and underwear.  Please bring clothes that cover your stomach and upper legs; take into consideration cultural differences and social expectations.

 Travel

• Money.  Consider bringing $15-$20 for meals on your arrival and departure days.  Also, bring a little money if you’d like to purchase a sweatshirt, t-shirt, map, or cap from the Voyageur Outward Bound School store after your course.  Cash or Check is preferred at the School Store. Cards are accepted, but require manually entering info online via a QR code.
• 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 and charger in case of travel delays. Your accommodations will have electricity. We ask that you limit use of your phone during your 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.

• 1 Bug Shirt. While this item is optional, we HIGHLY recommend it for any courses between June and August.  Visit www.bugshirt.com to see exactly what we recommend. Do not bring the all mesh variety because they get ripped.
• Permethrin – Must treat at least 2-3 days before course-start. Again, this is optional, but the Voyageur Outward Bound School HIGHLY recommends that you treat your clothing* with Permethrin, which repels ticks and mosquitoes. Lyme Disease continues to spread and cases have recently been reported in northern Minnesota.  Your Instructors will teach you how to minimize your risk of tick-bites.  Treating your clothing with Permethrin will further lessen your risk.
  • *DO NOT treat base layers (long underwear tops and bottoms for example), or any item that will cover your face (buffs, masks, etc).
• Lightweight/Quick Dry Shorts for sleeping. These are in addition to a swimsuit/pair of shorts to swim in. It’s also fine to sleep in clean/dry long underwear or underwear, but some people prefer to have separate, dedicated shorts for sleeping. These will not typically be used any other time during the summer, as long pants protect more effectively against bugs.
• 1 Belt.  Non-leather recommended. For use with quick-dry trail pants with belt loops/ zipper/ snaps; they will loosen from not being regularly washed. A belt will help keep them up.
• Ear Plugs. If you are a light sleeper, earplugs can be very helpful.
• 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.  A small regular camera would also work well, but you’ll need to take extra precautions to protect it.  Ziploc bags work, or consider getting a waterproof case. 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 Pair Crocs/Sandals with heel strap. Airy footwear to dry feet out in camp. Made of quick drying foam or rubber and have a heel strap (no leather). Please do not bring flip flops or slides. See “Footwear” for more details.
• One-gallon Freezer Ziploc bags: used to waterproof smaller personal items such as camera, journal, and headlamp.

Phone, headphones, Kindles, computers, i-pads, smart watches, 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 crew mates.

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.

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.

Participants will not be permitted to begin their course without their required medications OR with new medications not approved by your Course Advisor.  

All medications (prescription, non-prescription and over-the-counter) must:

• Be listed in the applicant’s medical information
• Be approved by your Course Advisor prior to course
• Accompany the participant on course
• Be in the original medication container with the prescription label intact
• If possible, bring a back-up supply of prescription meds

Do not bring non-prescription medications such as aspirin, Advil, etc., unless they are listed in your medical information. We have a medical kit that contains these medications.

Participants prescribed epinephrine, albuterol inhalers, or steroid inhalers, MUST bring 2 of each for the course. 

Medication updates that occur after applicants are Approved could affect their status on course. Please update your Course Advisor with any medication changes such as:

• Starting a new medication
• Stopping an existing medication
• Dosage change of an existing medication

For participants on youth courses, our instructors carry all prescription medications, with the exception of birth control and emergency medications such as EpiPens or rescue asthma inhalers.

For participants on adult (age 18+) courses, we encourage participants to store their medication(s) container(s) in a zip-lock bag for protection. Pill sorters are not recommended.

You must notify Outward Bound should any medical, psychological, behavioral, or legal situations occur after the application and medical review process have been completed. Certain situations may affect the applicant’s course status. 

Increased physical activity during Outward Bound may cause a change in your menstrual cycle. Prepare your menstruation kit using a zip lock bag even if you don’t expect your cycle during course.

Items to include:

• Menstruation products such as tampons, pads, panty liners, and menstrual cups. Bring more than you would typically use. Absorption underwear is not recommended. For a water-based course, we strongly recommend avoiding pads for day-use if possible, but they still work for overnight use.
• 1 small travel pack of septic-friendly disposable wipes or bandana. Our instructors will teach appropriate backcountry techniques for basic cleanliness.
• 1 small travel-size bottle of hand sanitizer
• 1 to 2 extra pairs of underwear

We practice Leave No Trace camping techniques. Therefore, we pack out what we pack in. Instructors will distribute small opaque zip lock bags and small stuff sack for your individual storage of used items. You will dispose of any used items either during re-supplies (approximately every three to seven days) or at course end.

Your instructors are experienced in addressing menstruation care questions or concerns while on course. Don’t hesitate to ask them questions.

PERSONAL HYGIENE:
Maintaining personal hygiene in the wilderness is important and is taught on every course. You will be outside while on course and won’t have access to a shower or bath. You will be able to do basic cleanup every day: brush your teeth, wash your face, and comb your hair. At the end of your course, you will be able to do a more thorough cleanup.

PRESCRIPTION EYEWEAR: GLASSES & CONTACTS
Please bring your prescription eyewear and any applicable backup options. For glasses, a glasses leash is helpful to prevent loss during an activity.

For participants who wear contact lenses, you must bring your prescription glasses as backup. Be sure to bring enough contact lens solution so you can be diligent in your contact lens routine while out on expedition.

Please be aware that the use of contact lenses in the backcountry does carry more risk than when at home. A great level of diligence and hygiene is required to ensure you do not damage your eyes.

SKIN CARE 
You will be outside during your course. To maintain your health and comfort, the best protection from biting insects, skin irritation, and sunburn is a physical barrier of clothing. Bring the required clothing and gear listed – it’s essential to your comfort and safety.

Living outside and exposing your skin to the elements can lead to dry skin. If you have a cream you use to care for dry skin or other related skin-health, consider bringing any creams or prescription creams you’ve found useful. Be sure to ask your course advisor any questions you might have.

It is your responsibility to follow your instructor’s directions and monitor how your skin reacts to the changing environment. Let them know if you encounter skin concerns before they present a barrier to your participation.

As you pack your toiletries, if you’re traveling by air to your course, please review the TSA Carry-on Requirements for liquids.

HAIR CARE
Here are a few tips caring for long, kinky, or curly hair while on course:

• Bring a comb, brush, or pick
• Protect your hair by covering it with a hair bonnet, silk scarf, headwrap, durag, loc tube, bandana, etc.
• Use a bandana, head wrap, hair scrunchies, etc., to keep hair out of your face
• Bring 3oz hair oil

Before course, consider putting your hair in a protective style, allowing enough time for your head to adjust prior to the start of your Outward Bound course. Be sure that your protective style will fit underneath a helmet. Suggested protective styles include:

• Box Braids
• French Braids
• Feed-in Braids
• Cornrows
• Faux Locs
• Two Strand Twists
• Plaits
• Flat Twists

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. If you are taking a shuttle, it must be booked in advance. Groome will pick you up at the MSP airport. Select your drop-off destination as the Duluth International Airport or the Groome Main Office in Duluth, MN

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 Duluth, Minnesota at the end of their course.

• For pick-ups, plan to meet your student at the Duluth International Airport at 11:00 AM.
• For departures via flight, please do not book a flight departing before 11:00 AM from the Duluth International Airport. If you’re having difficulty finding a departing flight after 11 AM, please speak with your course advisor and we’ll work to accommodate your request.
• For departures via Groome, VOBS will transport you to the Groome Transportation Office drop-off location (214 N 34th Ave West, Duluth, MN 55807) after stopping at the Duluth Airport.
• For other departure options, please schedule transport from the Duluth Airport to your destination.

IMPORTANT NOTE:  if a student tests positive for COVID-19 on their course, an alternate travel plan will need to be made.
If you have any questions, please speak with your Course Advisor.

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.

Please utilize the resource below to physically and mentally prepare for your course. The more preparation you do, the better your experience will be!

VOBS Course Preparation Guide 

For those who want to learn more about Minnesota before their trip!

Here are some books that we encourage you to read as you plan for your course:

• The Outward Bound Wilderness First-Aid Handbook by Jeff Isaac
• Leave No Trace: A Practical Guide to the New Wilderness Ethic by Annette McGivney
• Knots & Ropes for Climbers by Duane Raleigh and Mike Clelland
• The Outward Bound Backpacker’s Handbook by Glenn Randall
• The Outward Bound Map & Compass Handbook by Glenn Randall

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness:

• A Boundary Waters History: Canoeing Across Time by Stephen Wilbers
• Magic on the Rocks: Canoe Country Pictographs by Michael Furtman
• Canoe Country Flora: Plants and Trees of the North Woods and Boundary Waters by Mark Stensaas
• Reflections from the North Country by Sigurd Olson
• Talking Sky: Ojibwe Constellations as a Reflection of Life on the Land by Carl Gawboy
• Talking Rocks: Geology and 10.000 Years of Native American Tradition in the Lake Superior Region by Carl Gawboy
• Root Beer Lady: The Story of Dorothy Molter by Bob Cary

Winter Dogsledding courses:

• Cold Nights, Fast Trails: Reflections of a Modern Dog Musher by Dave Olesen
• Winterdance: The Fine Madness of Running the Iditarod by Gary Paulsen

Website Resources:

Piragis Northwoods Company: BWCAW Resources and books