Boundary Waters Winter Adventure

ACTIVITIES ON YOUR TRIP: You will use cross-country skis, snowshoes, dogsleds, and pulk sleds. Pulks are one-person sleds, powered by another individual, used for transportation. An average day consists of 2-6 hours of activity, depending on weather conditions. Dogsledding is extremely dependent on weather, snow conditions, and the dogs. You can expect at least a 15-minute ride, but if conditions are right plan on a much longer experience. Travel distances vary from 3-8 miles per day. No previous experience is needed to participate on this trip.

WEATHER: Temperatures in the winter months range from -40 F to +40 F. With proper gear and clothing you can stay very comfortable.

YOUR GROUP: The group size ranges from 15 to 20 participants, plus 2 or more Wilderness Inquiry staff in addition to the Camp Menogyn dog mushers. Each group consists of people of various ages, backgrounds, and abilities.

WHERE YOU WILL SLEEP: Participants share rooms and sleep in bunk beds. Camp Menogyn is a modern facility; however, most people will be asked to use an outhouse. An indoor bathroom is available for those who are unable to venture outside easily. Bathing is done the Finnish way in the sauna on our last night.

MEALS: All meals will be prepared for you by Camp Menogyn. You can expect fresh fruit and veggies, nutritious meals, and snacks throughout the day. If you have special dietary restrictions, be sure to let Wilderness Inquiry know ahead of time.

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.

FISHING: If interested in fishing you are expected to bring your own fishing gear. We encourage you to bring a collapsible rod and reel. Don’t forget a Minnesota fishing license.

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 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 emergencies while on trail. If a loved one is participating in a Wilderness Inquiry experience and you need to contact them due to an emergency, please call 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: We continue to monitor and update our COVID-19 policies. 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 before your trip’s departure. Please contact Wilderness Inquiry if you are exhibiting signs of illness. We will also continue to follow all guidance and requirements of locations that we travel, keeping in mind some international destinations do require vaccinations and/or negative COVID tests. We will update this policy as new information and guidance become available.

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.