Wilderness Inquiry programs and adventures connect people to each other and the natural world
Centered around our belief that everyone belongs in the outdoors, Wilderness Inquiry programs break down barriers to outdoor education, recreation, and careers while building community through engagement in the natural world.
We meet participants and partners where they are and offer nature-based experiences that build confidence, connection, and tangible skills.
Our programs, which range from single-day introductory activities to multi-day wilderness adventures, offer deepening levels of engagement and experience.
We call this progression of repeat and reinforcing outdoor experiences our Pyramid of Outdoor Engagement, and we welcome participants of any age and at any level of outdoor experience – supporting individuals on their own journey into the outdoors.
From backyard to backcountry, our programs and adventures help participants get more out of their outdoor experience.
The Pyramid of Outdoor Engagement provides a progression of outdoor experiences for youth, adults, and families designed to engage participants in a lifelong relationship with the outdoors. This extends from introductory activities through Canoemobile, to more immersive adventures through our Near-Nature and Extended overnight adventures, to career and leadership pathway programs. This model is designed to provide participants with a continuum of experiences that:
- Introduce people to the outdoors
- Foster environmental stewardship
- Build community
- Invite and empower continued engagement with the natural world
The Pyramid of Outdoor Engagement highlights our approach to facilitating equitable opportunities in the outdoors that also support deepening levels of engagement and experience. Ultimately, we seek to engage and equip our community with the tools, resources, opportunities, and confidence to safely and joyfully experience the benefits of time spent outdoors.
Our 2023-2027 Strategic Plan
Learn how our work and mission are supported by our Strategic Plan.