Family Reunions

Birds. Wolf Ridge in the summer is home to over 50 species of breeding birds. Join a naturalist on a bird hike and let them introduce you to their songs and habitats. Outside, short hike.

Competitive Orienteering. This class consists of using a map and compass to explore a rugged area of Wolf Ridge in pairs or small groups. This skill will make you more safe and competent in your other outdoor adventures. One mile walk with various vertical climbing off trails.

Geology. Families will learn about rock composition and formation, then look for samples along the way to Marshall Mountain. One mile walk, 320' vertical climb.

Plant Study. Survey the world of plants while focusing on diversity, anatomy, ecology and uses. Identify wildflowers of Wolf Ridge on a short hike and play "back woods bingo". Short hike.

Adventure Ropes. Face the challenge and excitement of crossing cables and logs 25 feet off the ground, while tied in by safety lines. Adults are welcome to participate on the course or observe from the ground. Short walk.

Beginning Orienteering. Explore the woods off -trail as you search for hidden markers on trees. Learn skills needed for orienteering by using a compass, pacing, and competing on a practice course. Short walk to course, variable walks on course.

Fisheries Management. You will investigate the habitat needs of stream fish through games, creating a working stream model and fishing for trout in Sawmill Creek. Come fishing with us! Two mile walk, 350' vertical climb.

Ojibwe Heritage. At a recreated 1750 Ojibwe site, you’ll learn the history of the people native to northern Minnesota and practice skills such as flint and steel firemaking, bowdrill fires, processing and cooking wild rice, and making twine from cedar bark. Quarter mile walk, 50' vertical climb.

Rock Climbing. An indoor rock climbing wall is the perfect place to experience this adventure while learning about equipment, etiquette and safety. All participants will also learn to belay (control the safety ropes). Adults are welcome to climb or to observe from the ground. Indoors.

Stream Study. While wearing boots provided by Wolf Ridge and working in small groups, you’ll test water temperature and pH levels. You will also look at aquatic plants and animals, and study their adaptations and roles in nature. We suggest kids bring extra socks for this activity. This class is combined with Critters of Wolf Ridge in an all day session. You’ll walk down to the valley in the morning, have bag lunches, and return up the stairway in the afternoon. Two mile walk, 350' vertical climb. You may choose to drive to the site, but you’ll miss a great walk.

Superior View Hike. This enjoyable hike leads to a spectacular overlook above the great lake, with a discussion of natural and cultural history along the way. Three mile walk, 250' vertical climb.

Voyageur Life. Learn the history of the fur trade by becoming voyageurs in a North West Company Brigade (circa 1793). Paddle a voyageur canoe, make fire with flint and steel, fry bannock biscuits over an open fire, and experience the colorful lifestyle of those who explored and settled our north country. Half mile walk, 250' vertical climb, short paddle.