Winter Teacher Training Workshop Weekend
2026-01-31 11:30 - 2026-02-02 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
Winter Weekend Workshop
Join us for our Teacher Training Institute’s Winter Workshop—a hands-on weekend of learning, exploration, and fun in the snow!
Learn alongside Wolf Ridge Naturalists as you discover how to co-teach with winter, sharpen your naturalist skills, and gain practical strategies for engaging students outdoors in cold weather. No prior outdoor teaching experience is required—this workshop is perfect for both beginners and educators already weaving outdoor learning into their classrooms.
Bring the whole family!
Wolf Ridge offers daytime outdoor activities for youth (accompanied by an adult) and can also recommend nearby destinations for your own winter adventures. On Saturday evening, participants are invited to take on Wolf Ridge’s outdoor adventure ropes course—because when it comes to winter fun, the more snow, the better! Please call 218-353-7414 after you register if you plan to bring additional family members. Additional fees will apply.
Learn More
Sample Schedule
Register Now
Sample Workshop Topics and Themes
Basics of outdoor learning: how to get started
Naturalist Practices: practices to help our students explore the natural world
Nature Journaling: from starting out to new ideas
Outdoor Pedagogy: engage as a student in an outdoor class and reflect on pedagogy techniques
Phenology: what it is and how to incorporate it all year long
Outdoor investigations: basics of conducting an investigation and collecting and interpreting data
Improv and Community Building: learn improv skills and team games
Citizen Science: learn about ways your students can engage with citizen science projects
Don’t see what you are looking for? Contact scheduling@wolf-ridge.org to co-create the program that best meets your needs.

Master Naturalist Training: Birding - Waterfowl to Warblers
2026-04-10 08:00 - 12:00 | Tettegouche State Park
Where the Birds Return: A Northwoods Migration Journey
April 10, 2026

Details:📅 Dates: Multiple Dates – April 10, 17, 24 & May 1, 8⏰ Time: 8:00 AM–12:00 PM💲 Cost: $35 per person📍 Meeting Location: Tettegouche State Park large vehicle parking lot (in front of the solar panels)
01234567891011121314151617181920212223242526272829303132333435363738394041424344454647484950April 10, 202635.00 USDPer PersonYour eTicket will be emailed after payment to your PayPal email address.
Let’s explore the Tettagouche area as spring migration unfolds. Birds are returning to the Northwoods from their wintering grounds—but where are they headed? Who’s here now, and what can we learn from them?
Each spring, millions of birds pass through this region, many returning to the very same patches of trees where they nested last year. As they arrive, most are in vibrant adult breeding plumage, making this an ideal time to sharpen your identification skills—or begin your journey as a birder.
Throughout the spring, we’ll welcome the birds back week by week, tracking which species have arrived in our neck of the woods and celebrating their incredible migration journeys. Join us for one session or all of them! While we may visit some familiar locations each week, we’ll also explore new spots as migration progresses and new species appear. Early sessions often feature waterfowl, with warblers and other songbirds becoming more common later in the season.
We’ll begin each outing at Tettegouche State Park, then travel to several nearby locations throughout the morning, hiking short distances at each stop.
Additional Info:

Open to all skill levels
Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult

Come sharpen your birding skills, build relationships, and experience the excitement of spring migration along the North Shore.
Questions?Contact: charlie.pavlisich@wolf-ridge.org

What You Need

Binoculars
Your favorite bird guide
Layers and weather-appropriate clothing
Sturdy footwear
Snacks and water

We’ll have a spotting scope available and can provide a limited number of binoculars if needed.

Master Naturalist Training: Birding - Waterfowl to Warblers
2026-04-17 08:00 - 12:00 | Tettegouche State Park
Where the Birds Return: A Northwoods Migration Journey
April 17. 2026
Details:📅 Dates: Multiple Dates – April 10, 17, 24 & May 1, 8⏰ Time: 8:00 AM–12:00 PM💲 Cost: $35 per person📍 Meeting Location: Tettegouche State Park large vehicle parking lot (in front of the solar panels)
0123456789101112131415161718192021222324252627282930313233343536373839404142434445464748495051525354555657585960616263646566676869707172737475767778798081828384858687888990919293949596979899100Master Naturalist Birding35.00 USDApril 17, 2026Your eTicket will be emailed after payment
Let’s explore the Tettagouche area as spring migration unfolds. Birds are returning to the Northwoods from their wintering grounds—but where are they headed? Who’s here now, and what can we learn from them?
Each spring, millions of birds pass through this region, many returning to the very same patches of trees where they nested last year. As they arrive, most are in vibrant adult breeding plumage, making this an ideal time to sharpen your identification skills—or begin your journey as a birder.
Throughout the spring, we’ll welcome the birds back week by week, tracking which species have arrived in our neck of the woods and celebrating their incredible migration journeys. Join us for one session or all of them! While we may visit some familiar locations each week, we’ll also explore new spots as migration progresses and new species appear. Early sessions often feature waterfowl, with warblers and other songbirds becoming more common later in the season.
We’ll begin each outing at Tettegouche State Park, then travel to several nearby locations throughout the morning, hiking short distances at each stop.
Additional Info:

Open to all skill levels
Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult

Come sharpen your birding skills, build relationships, and experience the excitement of spring migration along the North Shore.
Questions?Contact: charlie.pavlisich@wolf-ridge.org

What You Need

Binoculars
Your favorite bird guide
Layers and weather-appropriate clothing
Sturdy footwear
Snacks and water

We’ll have a spotting scope available and can provide a limited number of binoculars if needed.

Nature Journaling in the Wild
2026-04-24 - 2026-04-26 | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
An Adult Weekend of Nature, Art & Wonder
Register Now

Come wander, observe, and create with us! This adult weekend gathering is an invitation to slow your steps, sharpen your noticing, and let the natural world guide your creativity. Along the rocky shoreline, forest paths, and open skies of the North Shore, we will spend our days observing, journaling, sketching, listening, and learning – together.

What We’ll Be Up To?

Nature Journaling – We will practice capturing moments as they happen: a leaf’s edge, a bird’s call, a question scribbled in the margin. Words, drawings, lists, poems, and half-formed thoughts are all welcome here.
Workshops with Guest Artists & Naturalists – Local creatives and educators will share their ways of seeing – through art, storytelling, science, and hands-on exploration – offering gentle guidance and fresh perspectives.
Meandering Nature Hikes – These are not ‘get there’ hikes, but ‘notice-everything’ hikes. We’ll move slowly, pause often, and let curiosity set the pace.

Who It’s For
Adults who feel drawn to nature and creativity, those who love journals – or want to start one, artists, educators, quiet observers, and curious wanderers. Anyone who wants to reconnect with the land and themselves. No experience needed. Perfection is not invited – Curiosity is.
What to Bring?
You, a journal, and any other supplies you might want to spark creativity.
Cost
$300 (programming, lodging, food)
Standard lodging: shared room with shared bath (bottom bunks only)
*Private lodging options available during registration
Scholarships available through generous support from the Jeffers Foundation. To inquire or apply, contact Bella.Goland@wolf-ridge.org
Register Now

Spring Yoga Awakening to Nature & Hiking Retreat
2026-04-24 - 2026-04-26 | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
Spring is in the air!

REGISTER NOW
Step into the fresh energy of spring with a rejuvenating weekend designed to awaken your senses and reconnect you to nature. This retreat blends intuitive yoga, breathwork, forest bathing, hiking, meditation, and elemental practices inspired by Earth, Water, and Wood—guiding you toward renewal, clarity, and growth.
Begin each day with slow, intentional yoga and breathwork to clear stagnant energy and set fresh intentions. Immerse yourself in forest bathing and mindful hiking, grounding your body and calming your nervous system. Experience water-infused meditation to release and renew, and on Saturday evening, sink into a deeply restorative sound bath with gentle movement and reiki for profound rest and energetic balance.
Return to your body, your breath, and the wisdom of the natural world. Rooted, flowing, and open—awaken with spring and step forward refreshed and inspired. 🌿
Instructor: Rewa Giroux-Dumas

Rewa Giroux-DumasRewa Zen Yoga and WellnessRYT 500
Growing up I can remember being outside, regardless of the weather. It was a place where I was most creative, felt safe and at home. To this day, when I find myself out of balance, I seek time to connect to nature.
I found Yoga while healing from a back injury. Active most of my life, and a bit competitive, took a toll on my body. Through the practice of Yoga I learned strength, steadiness, surrender and balance in my life in addition to compassion toward myself. I enjoy guiding a fun, breath centered practice that encourages exploration of the body, breath and heart. My teachings draw from over 25 years of study and practice in the areas of health, wellness, yoga and mindfulness. The practice is one that meets you just as you are, right now. It invites a quiet exploration into courage, strength and renewal. Get ready to experience one, or more, of those AH-HA moments.

Instruction, meals and lodging included. Private room options are available for an additional fee during registration.

REGISTER NOW
Lodging Information
Directions to Wolf Ridge.

Master Naturalist Training: Birding - Waterfowl to Warblers
2026-04-24 08:00 - 12:00 | Tettegouche State Park
Where the Birds Return: A Northwoods Migration Journey
April 24, 2026

Details:📅 Dates: Multiple Dates – April 10, 17, 24 & May 1, 8⏰ Time: 8:00 AM–12:00 PM💲 Cost: $35 per person📍 Meeting Location: Tettegouche State Park large vehicle parking lot (in front of the solar panels)
0123456789101112131415161718192021222324252627282930313233343536373839404142434445464748495051525354555657585960616263646566676869707172737475767778798081828384858687888990919293949596979899100Master Naturalist Birding35.00 USDApril 24, 2026Your eTicket will be emailed after payment
Let’s explore the Tettagouche area as spring migration unfolds. Birds are returning to the Northwoods from their wintering grounds—but where are they headed? Who’s here now, and what can we learn from them?
Each spring, millions of birds pass through this region, many returning to the very same patches of trees where they nested last year. As they arrive, most are in vibrant adult breeding plumage, making this an ideal time to sharpen your identification skills—or begin your journey as a birder.
Throughout the spring, we’ll welcome the birds back week by week, tracking which species have arrived in our neck of the woods and celebrating their incredible migration journeys. Join us for one session or all of them! While we may visit some familiar locations each week, we’ll also explore new spots as migration progresses and new species appear. Early sessions often feature waterfowl, with warblers and other songbirds becoming more common later in the season.
We’ll begin each outing at Tettegouche State Park, then travel to several nearby locations throughout the morning, hiking short distances at each stop.
Additional Info:

Open to all skill levels
Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult

Come sharpen your birding skills, build relationships, and experience the excitement of spring migration along the North Shore.
Questions?Contact: charlie.pavlisich@wolf-ridge.org

What You Need

Binoculars
Your favorite bird guide
Layers and weather-appropriate clothing
Sturdy footwear
Snacks and water

We’ll have a spotting scope available and can provide a limited number of binoculars if needed.

Master Naturalist Training: Birding - Waterfowl to Warblers
2026-05-01 08:00 - 12:00 | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
Where the Birds Return: A Northwoods Migration Journey
May 1, 2026
Details:📅 Dates: Multiple Dates – April 10, 17, 24 & May 1, 8⏰ Time: 8:00 AM–12:00 PM💲 Cost: $35 per person📍 Meeting Location: Tettegouche State Park large vehicle parking lot (in front of the solar panels)
0123456789101112131415161718192021222324252627282930313233343536373839404142434445464748495051525354555657585960616263646566676869707172737475767778798081828384858687888990919293949596979899100Master Naturalist Birding35.00 USDMay 1, 2026Your eTicket will be emailed after payment
Let’s explore the Tettagouche area as spring migration unfolds. Birds are returning to the Northwoods from their wintering grounds—but where are they headed? Who’s here now, and what can we learn from them?
Each spring, millions of birds pass through this region, many returning to the very same patches of trees where they nested last year. As they arrive, most are in vibrant adult breeding plumage, making this an ideal time to sharpen your identification skills—or begin your journey as a birder.
Throughout the spring, we’ll welcome the birds back week by week, tracking which species have arrived in our neck of the woods and celebrating their incredible migration journeys. Join us for one session or all of them! While we may visit some familiar locations each week, we’ll also explore new spots as migration progresses and new species appear. Early sessions often feature waterfowl, with warblers and other songbirds becoming more common later in the season.
We’ll begin each outing at Tettegouche State Park, then travel to several nearby locations throughout the morning, hiking short distances at each stop.
Additional Info:

Open to all skill levels
Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult

Come sharpen your birding skills, build relationships, and experience the excitement of spring migration along the North Shore.
Questions?Contact: charlie.pavlisich@wolf-ridge.org

What You Need

Binoculars
Your favorite bird guide
Layers and weather-appropriate clothing
Sturdy footwear
Snacks and water

We’ll have a spotting scope available and can provide a limited number of binoculars if needed.

Master Naturalist Training: Birding - Waterfowl to Warblers
2026-05-08 08:00 - 12:00 | Tettegouche State Park
Where the Birds Return: A Northwoods Migration Journey
May 8, 2026
Details:📅 Dates: Multiple Dates – April 10, 17, 24 & May 1, 8⏰ Time: 8:00 AM–12:00 PM💲 Cost: $35 per person📍 Meeting Location: Tettegouche State Park large vehicle parking lot (in front of the solar panels)
0123456789101112131415161718192021222324252627282930313233343536373839404142434445464748495051525354555657585960616263646566676869707172737475767778798081828384858687888990919293949596979899100Master Naturalist Birding35.00 USDMay 8, 2026Your eTicket will be emailed after payment
Let’s explore the Tettagouche area as spring migration unfolds. Birds are returning to the Northwoods from their wintering grounds—but where are they headed? Who’s here now, and what can we learn from them?
Each spring, millions of birds pass through this region, many returning to the very same patches of trees where they nested last year. As they arrive, most are in vibrant adult breeding plumage, making this an ideal time to sharpen your identification skills—or begin your journey as a birder.
Throughout the spring, we’ll welcome the birds back week by week, tracking which species have arrived in our neck of the woods and celebrating their incredible migration journeys. Join us for one session or all of them! While we may visit some familiar locations each week, we’ll also explore new spots as migration progresses and new species appear. Early sessions often feature waterfowl, with warblers and other songbirds becoming more common later in the season.
We’ll begin each outing at Tettegouche State Park, then travel to several nearby locations throughout the morning, hiking short distances at each stop.
Additional Info:

Open to all skill levels
Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult

Come sharpen your birding skills, build relationships, and experience the excitement of spring migration along the North Shore.
Questions?Contact: charlie.pavlisich@wolf-ridge.org

What You Need

Binoculars
Your favorite bird guide
Layers and weather-appropriate clothing
Sturdy footwear
Snacks and water

We’ll have a spotting scope available and can provide a limited number of binoculars if needed.

Timber Frame Workshop
2026-06-14 - 2026-06-19 | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
Register for Timber Framing Workshop
Timber Frame Workshop at The Wolf Ridge Farm
Timber framing is the craft of joining wooden posts and beams together without the use of nails or metal fasteners. Timber frames are simple, strong, and elegant, and have stood for centuries around the world. In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of timber framing, from the use of hand and power tools, to the layout and cutting of mortise and tenon joinery. On the final day of the course, students will work together to raise the completed frame, and will go home with the knowledge and skills to continue their timber framing practice and build structures of their own.
Students will be housed on site at Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center in dormitory-style accommodations with meals provided at the on-site dining hall.
The structure being built during this course will serve as a covered tool and equipment space for Wolf Ridge Farm. Wolf Ridge Farm grows 10,000 pounds of produce seasonally, which is utilized in the Wolf Ridge dining hall and distributed to the surrounding community through farmers market, food shelf and farm-to-school programming.
Course instructor Jenna Pollard has taught timber frame courses in Minnesota, Washington, Missouri, New Hampshire, Vermont and Arizona, and has been timber framing since 2010. She has built over a dozen timber frames, from her own small cabin to large pavilions for community gatherings. She is excited to be teaching this workshop to share timber framing with others, and to build a structure that will support Wolf Ridge Farm.
$750 Tuition & Lunches only

$1260 Tuition, Lodging & Meals
Register for Timber Framing Workshop

Summer Half Week Teacher Training Workshop
2026-06-22 11:30 - 2026-06-24 13:00, 2026-07-20 11:30 - 2026-07-22 13:00 | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
Can’t stay the whole week?
Join us for the first half (Monday–Wednesday) to experience a taste of what the Teacher Training Institute has to offer!
Spend a short week with the Wolf Ridge Teacher Training Institute and fully immerse yourself in the practices of a naturalist. Throughout this hands-on retreat, you might study watersheds, take part in bird banding, explore the shores of Lake Superior, and so much more!
You’ll dive into nature journaling while learning foundational outdoor pedagogy techniques that will transform how you think about and approach outdoor learning. No prior experience is needed—this workshop is perfect for both newcomers and educators already incorporating outdoor learning into their teaching.
Bring the whole family!
Wolf Ridge offers daytime outdoor activities for youth (accompanied by an adult) and can also recommend nearby destinations for your own adventures. Please call 218-353-7414 after you register if you plan to bring additional family members. Additional fees will apply.
Learn More
Sample Schedule
Register Now
Sample Workshop Topics and Themes
Basics of outdoor learning: how to get started
Naturalist Practices: practices to help our students explore the natural world
Nature Journaling: from starting out to new ideas
Outdoor Pedagogy: engage as a student in an outdoor class and reflect on pedagogy techniques
Phenology: what it is and how to incorporate it all year long
Outdoor investigations: basics of conducting an investigation and collecting and interpreting data
Improv and Community Building: learn improv skills and team games
Citizen Science: learn about ways your students can engage with citizen science projects
Don’t see what you are looking for? Contact scheduling@wolf-ridge.org to co-create the program that best meets your needs.

Summer Full Week Teacher Training Workshop
2026-06-22 11:30 - 2026-06-26 13:00, 2026-07-20 11:30 - 2026-07-24 13:00 | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
Spend a week with the Wolf Ridge Teacher Training Institute and fully immerse yourself in the practices of a naturalist. Throughout this hands-on retreat, you might study watersheds, take part in bird banding, explore the shores of Lake Superior, and so much more!
You’ll dive into nature journaling while learning foundational outdoor pedagogy techniques that will transform how you think about and approach outdoor learning. No prior experience is needed—this workshop is perfect for both newcomers and educators already incorporating outdoor learning into their teaching.
Bring the whole family!
Wolf Ridge offers daytime outdoor activities for youth (accompanied by an adult) and can also recommend nearby destinations for your own adventures. Please call 218-353-7414 after you register if you plan to bring additional family members. Additional fees will apply.
Learn More
Sample Schedule
Register Now
Sample Workshop Topics and Themes
Basics of outdoor learning: how to get started
Naturalist Practices: practices to help our students explore the natural world
Nature Journaling: from starting out to new ideas
Outdoor Pedagogy: engage as a student in an outdoor class and reflect on pedagogy techniques
Phenology: what it is and how to incorporate it all year long
Outdoor investigations: basics of conducting an investigation and collecting and interpreting data
Improv and Community Building: learn improv skills and team games
Citizen Science: learn about ways your students can engage with citizen science projects
Don’t see what you are looking for? Contact scheduling@wolf-ridge.org to co-create the program that best meets your needs.

Beginning Bird Banding Workshop
2026-06-25 - 2026-07-02 | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
Register Now
Discover the Art and Science of Bird Banding: A Seven-Day Course for Adults
Open to participants ages 18 and older, this immersive, seven-day introductory course at Wolf Ridge in Finland, MN, is designed to equip both amateur birders and professional biologists with the essential skills for contributing to bird conservation and research through banding programs. Whether you’re looking to enhance your career or deepen a passion for birding, this hands-on experience provides a rare opportunity to connect with nature and advance your knowledge.
Participants will stay at the scenic Wolf Ridge campus, where lodging and meals are provided—allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Hands-On Training Includes:

Safe operation of mist-nets and gentle bird extraction techniques
Proper bird-handling skills
In-hand aging and sexing of birds
Accurately recording data using the MAPS protocol and forms

Lectures and Discussions Will Explore:

Ethical considerations in bird banding
Avian life histories, energetics, molting patterns, and plumage variation
The permitting process for bird banding
How banding contributes to avian research and long-term monitoring

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a biologist seeking new skills, this course will deepen your understanding of avian species while contributing to important conservation efforts.
Register Now

Naturalist Retreat
2026-06-26 - 2026-06-28 | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
Register for Naturalist Retreat
SCHEDULE AND DETAILS
Discover the North Woods with Fellow Naturalists at Wolf Ridge
Join us at Wolf Ridge for an unforgettable gathering of naturalists, coming together to explore, learn, and celebrate the wild beauty of the North Woods.
Our sessions take place across three remarkable settings: the 2,000-acre Wolf Ridge main campus, our Field Station on the shores of Lake Superior, and the vast Superior National Forest—the largest national forest east of the Mississippi. Experience the magic of these wild spaces while connecting with fellow nature enthusiasts.
Guided Exploration & Learning: Join sessions led by Wolf Ridge Naturalists or team up with others to explore the area and share discoveries.
Diverse Habitats: Explore wetlands, cliff communities, upland forests, and the shores of Lake Superior. Uncover hidden corners of the North Shore that rarely appear in travel guides.
Community & Connection: Meet new friends and naturalists of all experience levels. Tap into the collective knowledge of a vibrant North Shore nature community.
Evening Adventures: Participate in engaging evening presentations, astronomy sessions, and moth light explorations.
Whether you prefer structured learning with Wolf Ridge Naturalists or creating your own adventure with friends across campus or the North Shore, this event offers countless ways to experience the richness of the North Woods.
SCHEDULE AND DETAILS

FREE Open House
2026-06-27 10:00 - 16:00 | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
Explore what Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center has to offer on this fun filled day! Come join Wolf Ridge Staff at our Free Open House. With opportunities to climb the rock walls, try out the adventure ropes courses and explore the trails, it’s a fun day for the whole family! No advance registration required. Please sign in at the main office when you arrive.
10:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m.
Campus Tours – Meet at the Administration Building
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Rock Climbing
Adventure Ropes
Canoe on Wolf Lake
Hike the trails
Picnic areas available
2 p.m.
Meet our education animals
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Stop by and shop our Gift Shop
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Visit the Organic Farm

Adult Intro to Boundary Waters Wilderness Trip
2026-07-05 - 2026-07-10 | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
Register Now
Begin Your Adventure: Introductory Boundary Waters Canoeing Course
Have you been dreaming of exploring the pristine waters and breathtaking landscapes of the Boundary Waters but feel unsure where to start? This introductory course is designed just for you! Join fellow adventurers as you learn the essential skills, techniques, and gear needed for various styles of Boundary Waters trips, followed by hands-on practice in the Wilderness itself.
What You’ll Learn:

Trip Planning Essentials: Discover what to pack for your adventure, including gear selection and meal planning to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Paddling Techniques: Master the fundamentals of canoeing, including paddling strokes, steering, and teamwork on the water.
Portaging Skills: Learn the ins and outs of portaging—how to safely transport your canoe and gear between lakes, which is a crucial skill for any Boundary Waters trip.
Wilderness Navigation: Gain confidence in navigating the waterways and understanding the natural environment around you.

Hands-On Experience:
This course culminates in a practical adventure in the Boundary Waters, where you’ll apply what you’ve learned in a supportive environment led by a knowledgeable Wolf Ridge Naturalist. You’ll not only build your skills but also create lasting memories in one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the country.
Join us for this transformative experience, and get ready to take your friends and family back into the heart of the Wilderness with confidence!
Register Now

Advanced Bird Banding Workshop
2026-07-06 - 2026-07-10 | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
Register Now
Refine your bird banding expertise and deepen your understanding of molt strategies, feather morphology, and plumage identification in this intensive advanced workshop. Designed for experienced banders, this class offers individualized instruction that builds on your existing skills, with a curriculum tailored to your current level and goals.
Course Requirements: This workshop requires previous bird banding experience. Before attending, participants should be comfortable with:

Handling and setting up mist-nets
Extracting birds safely from mist-nets
Aging birds, specifically distinguishing hatch-year from after-hatch-year birds

What You’ll Learn:

Enhanced Mist Net Techniques: Improve your speed and safety during bird extractions to optimize both accuracy and bird welfare.
Advanced Bird-Handling Skills: Master bird-handling techniques, including proper grips and methods to minimize stress on birds during the banding process.
Precision in Aging and Sexing: Hone your in-hand aging and sexing abilities, focusing on fine details such as skulling, scoring, and identifying molt limits.

Afternoon Lectures & Discussions:

Avian Life Histories & Energetics: Learn how birds’ life cycles and energy needs influence their behavior and physical characteristics.
Detailed Study of Molts & Plumages: Delve into the complexities of molt cycles and plumage changes, and how these factors can aid in identification.
Banding’s Role in Research & Monitoring: Explore how banding contributes to ornithological research, population monitoring, and conservation efforts.

Stay on the beautiful Wolf Ridge campus, where lodging and hearty meals are provided to ensure a comfortable and immersive learning experience. Participants are encouraged to bring questions and observations from their own banding work, allowing for personalized guidance from instructor Danielle Kaschube. For more information, visit the Institute for Bird Populations website or contact the instructor directly.
Take this opportunity to expand your bird banding skills in a supportive, focused environment, and join a community of fellow banders dedicated to the study and conservation of birds.
Register Now

Adult Sea Kayak Adventures Trip
2026-07-12 - 2026-07-17 | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
Register Now
Build skills, gain confidence, and experience the beauty and power of Lake Superior—one paddle stroke at a time.
For Adults 18+
Adult Sea Kayaking Trip – North Shore Adventure
Ready to explore Lake Superior’s rugged North Shore by sea kayak but want to build your skills and confidence first? This week-long adventure blends instruction, hands-on experience, and unforgettable paddling along one of the most stunning coastlines in the world.
We’ll begin with a full day on a calm inland lake, focusing on fundamental sea kayaking skills, safety practices, and essential gear. Once you’re feeling comfortable on the water, we’ll pack up and head out onto Lake Superior for a multi-day paddle and camping journey. Along the way, you’ll practice real-world decision making, navigation, and paddling techniques while developing the confidence to explore open water safely.
Each day offers opportunities to refine your skills—from reading waves and weather to improving boat control—all while camping at scenic water-access-only sites along the shoreline.

What You’ll Learn
Trip Planning EssentialsHow to plan a safe and successful paddling trip on Lake Superior, including routing, conditions, and safety considerations.
Paddling TechniquesLearn and practice efficient strokes and boat handling to feel comfortable, controlled, and confident on the water.
Decision MakingUnderstand the key factors of open-water travel—weather, waves, and wind—and how to evaluate conditions and make smart choices while paddling.
Navigation SkillsGain the ability to navigate on the water using maps, bearings, and environmental cues, even in wind, fog, or waves, and learn to assess distance and travel time.
Register Now

North Woods, Great Lakes Master Naturalist Biome Course at Wolf Ridge
2026-08-16 - 2026-08-22 | Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, 6282 Cranberry Road, Finland, MN, 55603
August 16 – August 22, 2026
Age: 18+

**Register through Wolf Ridge for optional Lodging/Meals ONLY
**Sign up for the biome course through Master Naturalist HERE
(Program cost through Master Naturalist is $395)
Join us for a North Woods, Great Lakes Master Naturalist Biome Course at Wolf Ridge! Wolf Ridge is happy to partner with the Minnesota Master Naturalist program through the University of Minnesota Extension to offer this week-long course. This course will benefit beginners and experts to the area as there will be something for everyone. Learn more about the Minnesota Master Naturalist program by watching this short video.

Why A Wolf Ridge Master Naturalist Course

The meals only package includes breakfast, lunch and dinner served in our dining hall starting with breakfast on Monday through breakfast on Saturday for a cost of $110.
Lodging includes the meal package and a private suite in the MAC Lodge. A Sunday arrival allows for an early start to programming on Monday and a Saturday departure allows for a graduation celebration Friday night. Lodging cost = $840.
Option for shared room and shared bathroom (4 people per room on bottom bunks) and meals for $675.

CancellationsWe’re excited to have you join us! To reserve your spot, a $150 non-refundable deposit per person is required.
If plans change, let us know at least two weeks before your session to receive a refund (minus the deposit).
For cancellations within two weeks, we understand that life happens. Refunds (minus the deposit) may be considered for illness, injury (with a doctor’s note), or a death in the immediate family.
We appreciate your understanding and look forward to seeing you!
