Apostle Islands Outer Islands Expedition

TYPE OF TRAVEL/DISTANCE: You will travel in tandem sea kayaks, which hold 2 or 3 people plus all necessary gear. An average day’s travel consists of 4-6 paddling hours, depending on weather conditions. For this trip, it is helpful if you are familiar with sea kayaking and strong enough for some longer crossings. As always on Lake Superior, we must be prepared for the possibility of a wind-bound day. To protect the environment, Wilderness Inquiry practices “Leave No Trace” camping techniques.

WEATHER: Temperatures in the summer months range from 45 F to 85 F. Rainfall can vary, but you should expect at least a day of rain. The weather is greatly affected by Lake Superior’s large expanse of cold water. Lake Superior is notorious for sudden weather changes.

YOUR GROUP: The group size ranges up to 12 participants, plus 2 or more Wilderness Inquiry staff. Our trips are cooperative in nature. Wilderness Inquiry staff will assist you in whatever areas you need, however, most people pitch in where they can. Part of the adventure involves learning about daily camp activities.

ACCOMMODATIONS: On the first night you will stay at our wonderful Little Sand Bay Base Camp–complete with showers and other amenities! After the first night, you will stay at National Park Service campsites out on the islands and sleep in comfortable tents. Typically, there are 2-3 people per tent (although other arrangements can be made). Bathroom facilities consist of an outhouse or a foldable commode chair set up in a privacy tent. We make every effort to ensure privacy and cleanliness.

MEALS: The food we bring is plentiful, nutritious, and primarily vegetarian (because this keeps better than meat). You can expect meals like burritos, pesto pasta, and vegetable stir-fry for dinner; bagels and sandwiches for lunch; pancakes, french toast, oatmeal, and granola for breakfast. If you have special dietary restrictions, be sure to list them on your registration.

EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING: Wilderness Inquiry will provide all group equipment. You will need to provide your personal gear as outlined in the packing list. If you are new to outdoor activities, you do not need to spend a lot of money. Wilderness Inquiry can usually arrange for you to borrow most items.

MEDICATIONS: Please list all of your medications on your registration form. Consider bringing two sets of your medications: one set that can be kept with you, and another set that will be kept by your trip leaders. If you need assistance taking your medications, please explain on your registration form. Wilderness Inquiry will bring a collection of over the counter medications (ibuprofen, Advil, anti-nausea, etc.). 

CELL PHONES AND OTHER DEVICES: You are welcome to bring cell phones and other devices like cameras, but they are your responsibility to take care of. You may have inconsistent cell service, so we encourage you to take the opportunity to unplug! Wilderness Inquiry is not responsible for any lost or broken electronic devices. 

SAFETY & EMERGENCIES WHILE ON TRAIL: All Wilderness Inquiry guides possess experience in administering First Aid, CPR, and Water Safety, carry fully-stocked first aid kits, GPS communication devices, and are trained on how to respond to emergency situations while on trail. If a loved one is participating in a Wilderness Inquiry experience and you need to get in contact with them due to an emergency, please contact the Wilderness Inquiry main phone line at (612) 676-9400. We will work to get in contact with trip leaders as soon as possible.

COVID POLICY: Wilderness Inquiry strongly encourages everyone to be fully up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccination and take other necessary steps for the health and wellness of all. We ask you to self-screen for any signs of illness prior to your trip’s departure. Please contact Wilderness Inquiry if you are exhibiting signs of illness. 

GROUP EXPECTATIONS: To facilitate a safe and inclusive environment where we can all come together as our true selves, feel supported, and enjoy the outdoors in community, we have developed community agreements that align with Wilderness Inquiry’s core values and brand promise. We ask that you review these before your adventure so you can help Wilderness Inquiry create an inclusive environment for all.

COMMUNITY AGREEMENTS AS WE ADVENTURE TOGETHER

☐ We are safety conscious so everyone can have fun!

☐ We seek to understand each other and celebrate our differences.

☐ We are curious, open-minded, and communicate respectfully.

☐ We are open to trying new things and pushing outside of our comfort zone.

☐ We support each other and collectively contribute to group tasks.