Apostle Islands Family Paddle and Hike

TERRAIN/ROUTE: Most of the time is spent with your family along inland lakes, hikes, and the beaches and shorelines in and around the Apostle Islands National Lake Shore. We have several activities to choose from, each revealing a different dimension of this beautiful area. Lake Superior is an inland sea where weather on the South Shore can change dramatically from day-to-day. Your Outdoor Leaders will make educated safety decisions around what activities your group will do each day based upon overall group strength and abilities.

ACTIVITIES ON YOUR TRIP: You will stay at Wilderness Inquiry’s Little Sand Bay Base Camp and take day trips from there. An average day’s activities consist of paddling a North canoe or sea kayak, hiking, and exploring the area. The North canoes hold 6-10 paddlers and or our large stable kayaks hold 2-3 people. This trip is open to families with kids of all ages; however it is recommended for kids age 6 and older. Groups with children younger than 6 years old will more than likely paddle in North Canoes and/or on inland lakes depending on weather and group paddle strength. Outings typically consist of 2-5 hours, depending on weather conditions.

YOUR GROUP: The group size ranges from 6 to 18 participants, plus 2 or more Wilderness Inquiry guides. Each group consists of families of various ages, backgrounds and abilities, including people with disabilities. Our trips are cooperative adventures and people pitch in with camp chores as they are able.

MEALS: Your family will enjoy preparing meals together using fresh, healthy ingredients for bountiful dishes. Rise to the smell of freshly brewed coffee to enjoy with your breakfast and pack trail lunches with hearty snacks before heading off to explore. In the evening, we’ll prepare our dinner together over stoves and campfires and then finish with s’mores. 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.