Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center

Summer Full Week Teacher Training Workshop
2026-06-22 11:30 - 2026-06-26 13:00 (America/Chicago) | 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
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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.

Leap into Camp: Grades 2-3
2026-06-23 - 2026-06-26
Register for Leap Into Camp
Summer Camp Website
Entering Grades 2-3
Leap into Adventure and Curiosity at Our North Woods Overnight Camps for Grades 2 – 3!
Leap Into Camp at Wolf Ridge offers campers a supportive overnight camp experience designed to build confidence and comfort in a camp setting. Ideal for both first-time campers and those seeking a shorter stay, this program encourages independence, teamwork, and curiosity through outdoor adventures, games, campfires, and opportunities to form new friendships.
Register for this Camp
Multiple weeks of this camp are available.

Leap into Camp: Grades 4-5
2026-06-23 - 2026-06-26
Register for Leap Into Camp
Summer Camp Website
Entering Grades 4-5
Leap into Adventure and Curiosity at Our North Woods Overnight Camps for Grades 4-5!
Leap Into Camp at Wolf Ridge offers campers a supportive overnight camp experience designed to build confidence and comfort in a camp setting. Ideal for both first-time campers and those seeking a shorter stay, this program encourages independence, teamwork, and curiosity through outdoor adventures, games, campfires, and opportunities to form new friendships.
Register for this Camp
Multiple weeks of this camp are available.

Leap into Camp: Grades 6-7
2026-06-23 - 2026-06-26
Register for Leap Into Camp
Summer Camp Website
Entering Grades 6-7
Leap into Adventure and Curiosity at Our North Woods Overnight Camp for 6th & 7th Graders!
Leap Into Camp at Wolf Ridge offers campers a supportive overnight camp experience designed to build confidence and comfort in a camp setting. Ideal for both first-time campers and those seeking a shorter stay, this program encourages independence, teamwork, and curiosity through outdoor adventures, games, campfires, and opportunities to form new friendships.
Register for this Camp
Multiple weeks of this camp are available.

Bio-Blitz
2026-06-23 - 2026-06-28
Register for Bio-Blitz Camp
Summer Camp Website
For students entering grades 8 – 9
Have you ever wondered how many species of animals live around you? That is exactly the question bio-blitz camp tries to answer at Wolf Ridge! A bio-blitz is an event that tries to catalogue as many species as possible in a certain location. We will use the Wolf Ridge campus and will focus on a different category of animals during each day of the event, using scientific tools appropriate for that group. This could include looking for mammal tracks, using dip nets to collect water bugs, binoculars to look for birds, setting a light trap for moths, identifying the plants around them, and so much more. Campers will see an ever-growing list of species through their whole time at camp!
Want some healthy competition? The two bio-blitz sessions run during the first and last weeks of camp. Who can find more species? Or, join in on both and see what new things emerge later in the year!
Session 1: June 23-26
Session 2: August 9-12

Bird Banding Drop-In
2026-06-24 07:00 - 11:00, 2026-07-08 07:00 - 11:00
Registration not required for this event.

Since 1993, Wolf Ridge has been a site for a long-term international study to learn about the lives and health of migratory songbird populations. Visitors can observe these beautiful birds up-close and learn about the banding process and bird research.
Meet at the Forest Ecology Building on any one of seven summer mornings.
Free and open to all ages. Banding will be canceled on rainy days.

Beginning Bird Banding Workshop
2026-06-25 - 2026-07-02
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
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
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. – 4:00 p.m.
Rock Climbing
Adventure Ropes
Canoe on Wolf Lake
Hike the trails
Picnic areas available
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Stop by and shop our Gift Shop
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (tentative)
Visit the Organic Farm

Family Camp: 4-Night Sampler
2026-06-28 - 2026-07-02
Register for this session
FAQs
Four Nights of Adventure Together
Adventure for Every Age — Together at Wolf Ridge!Registration for Family Camp is now open!
Embark on an unforgettable Northwoods adventure with the people who matter most. At Wolf Ridge, our sampler and full-week Family Camps are crafted to spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and create lasting memories for every member of your household.
What Awaits You at Wolf Ridge:
Cozy, Family-Friendly LodgingSettle into the beautiful Margaret A. Cargill Lodge, where comfortable rooms and inviting spaces offer the perfect place to relax after a day outdoors.
Delicious, Farm-Fresh MealsSavor hearty, nutritious dishes made with ingredients grown on our very own organic farm—fuel for every family adventure.
Choose-Your-Own-Adventure ActivitiesFrom guided hikes and canoeing to birdwatching and hands-on nature lessons, our flexible programming lets you build the experience that fits your family’s pace and interests. Prefer to explore on your own? There’s plenty of space to wander, discover, and unwind.
Engaging Kids’ ProgrammingLooking for a moment to recharge? While adults enjoy some well-earned downtime, our experienced instructors lead fun, educational activities that keep kids inspired and active.
At Wolf Ridge, we believe that time in nature strengthens family bonds and creates stories you’ll share for years to come. Whether you’re eager to dive into structured adventures or simply savor quiet moments together under the pines, Family Camp is your invitation to reconnect, recharge, and rediscover the joy of the outdoors.
Join us this summer —filled with laughter, learning, and wilderness wonder. Register today!

Adventurers
2026-06-28 - 2026-07-02, 2026-07-05 - 2026-07-10, 2026-07-12 - 2026-07-17
Sign up for Adventurers
Summer Camp Website
For students entering grades 8-9
Embark on a True Wilderness Adventure: Build Outdoor Skills and Confidence at Wolf Ridge!
Putting outdoor skills to the test in real-world adventures. Adventurers build their skills and knowledge, taking outdoor exploration and personal growth to new heights. This camp is designed to deepen campers’ connection to nature, focusing on applying what they’ve learned about the environment and history to real-world outdoor experiences. Campers will embark on a day-long canoe trip, learning canoeing techniques, practicing ‘Leave No Trace,’ and immersing themselves in the natural beauty surrounding Lake Superior. Through teamwork, outdoor challenges, and learning to respect and coexist with nature, campers will gain confidence, make lasting friendships, and leave with a stronger appreciation for the world around them.
Multiple weeks of this camp are available.

Voyageurs
2026-06-28 - 2026-07-02, 2026-07-05 - 2026-07-10
Sign up for Voyageurs
Summer Camp Website
Entering grades 6-7
Adventure Awaits: Build Confidence and Outdoor Skills at Wolf Ridge Camp!
Expanding skills with navigation and wilderness exploration. Campers will advance their outdoor skills, enjoy swimming and bonding with new friends, and engage in exciting challenges like the Adventure Ropes course. This camp will include an all day hiking experience on the Superior Hiking Trail. It’s a perfect mix of adventure, learning, and personal growth in a safe and supportive environment.
Multiple weeks of this camp are available.

Discoverers
2026-06-28 - 2026-07-02, 2026-07-05 - 2026-07-10
Sign up for Discoverers
Summer Camp Website
For students entering grades 4-5
Experience Nature’s Wonders at Discovery Camp – Perfect for First-Time Adventurers!
A foundation for building confidence and outdoor skills. Discoverers is the perfect introduction to the classic Wolf Ridge Camp experience, blending outdoor exploration with environmental stewardship. Designed for first-time campers, this program fosters independence and builds confidence while encouraging a deeper connection to nature. Campers will learn how to be comfortable and self-reliant outdoors while developing naturalist skills that help them observe and engage with the environment. Activities include swimming, hiking, group games, participating in our ropes course, exploring our farm, and lots of chances to learn about the plants and animals around us.
Register for this Camp
Multiple weeks of this camp are available.

Immersive Naturalist Training
2026-06-28 - 2026-07-02
Sign up for S.T.I.N.T Camp
Entering grades 9-12
Join Us for the S.T.I.N.T. Camp at Wolf Ridge!
Join us for a Short Term Immersive Naturalist Training (S.T.I.N.T.) camp at Wolf Ridge. Campers will spend their time exploring the unique ecosystems within and around the Wolf Ridge campus through a naturalist’s lens. They will learn and practice slowing down, making observations and asking questions while diving deeper into the ecology around them. The group will explore the unique interests that campers come to camp with or what they discover while they are here. They will have the opportunity to meet and learn with professionals in the field of natural resources. This is a great camp for youth interested in exploring and developing their field science skills.

Day Camp
2026-06-29 - 2026-07-02
Daily, 9am – 4PM
Register for Day Camp
Summer Camp Website
Adventure Awaits at Our Day Camp – Outdoor Fun and Learning for Grades K-5!
Outdoor fun and learning for campers who are looking to explore the natural world without an overnight stay. This hands-on summer adventure immerses younger campers in nature, fostering curiosity, confidence, and a love for the outdoors. Campers will build connections and create lasting memories as they explore, play games, and engage in developmentally age-appropriate activities. Younger campers will discover animal habitats and investigate the wonders of water, while older campers will dive deeper into outdoor skills and nature exploration. As a special highlight we invite families to join their campers for a celebratory campfire at the end of the week. Both lunch and snacks are included.

Day Camp: Hummingbirds
Entering K – 3

Day Camp: Porcupines
Entering 4 – 5

Adult Intro to Boundary Waters Wilderness Trip
2026-07-05 - 2026-07-10
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

Girls Rock a Backpack Adventure
2026-07-05 - 2026-07-10
Register for Girls Rock a Backpack Camp
Summer Camp Website
For students entering grades 8-9
This camp includes an overnight camping adventure away from campus
Hike. Learn. Grow. A Transformative Backcountry Experience for Girls on the Superior Trail
Spend a week with Wolf Ridge and hike the Superior hiking trail learning practical skills along the way! This girls-only backpacking trip focuses on building a foundation in backcountry skills and a connection to wild places while fostering a sense of confidence in young women. Hike stunning overlooks and explore parts of the Superior National Forest camping in this truly special place! This is a great opportunity for those campers who have aged out of our Girls Rock the Ridge camp, but are still looking for a challenge and building lifelong memories and skills!
Are you looking for a transformative experience for your daughter? Join us for a week and hike the rugged Superior Hiking trail, where young women can develop strength and confidence while learning essential outdoor skills. This world-renowned area, celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and endless exploration opportunities, provides the perfect backdrop for wilderness tripping and canoe camping.

Beginning Survival Camp
2026-07-05 - 2026-07-10
Register for Beginning Survival Camp
Summer Camp Website
For students entering grades 4-5
Campers will gain wilderness survival skills in this fun camp all about the outdoors!
Equip your camper with essential wilderness survival skills in this exciting outdoor camp at Wolf Ridge! Throughout the week, campers will challenge themselves on the adventure ropes course, learn to identify wild edible plants, practice fire-building techniques, and improve their skill in wayfinding. They’ll also enjoy a full day of water activities, including canoeing, fishing, swimming, and even raft-building. It’s a perfect balance of skill-building, outdoor adventure, and fun, offering your child a memorable experience while fostering teamwork, confidence, and a love for the outdoors.

Girls Rock the Ridge
2026-07-05 - 2026-07-10
Register for Girls Rock the Ridge Camp
Summer Camp Website
For students entering grades 6-7
Empowering Young Women Through Adventure, Leadership, and Growth
Join us for a week of adventure, growth, and fun during this camp designed to foster confidence and leadership in young women. When campers arrive, they will begin bonding with each other with activities like the adventure ropes course and team games. Build confidence, interpersonal skills and practical skills. Including a day-long adventure on the Superior Hiking Trail. Campers will emerge with new leadership skills to use in their daily lives.

High School Outdoor Recreation Camp
2026-07-05 - 2026-07-10
Register for Outdoor Recreation Camp
Summer Camp Website
For students entering grades 10 – 12
High School Outdoor Recreation Camp: Adventure Awaits
Spend a week at Wolf Ridge immersed in the beauty of Minnesota’s North Shore while exploring a variety of outdoor recreation skills. This adventure-focused camp engages teens in physical activity and fosters lifelong passions for the outdoors. Participants will develop practical skills in paddling, rock climbing, hiking, and more, all under the guidance of experienced instructors. Designed for youth eager to fully embrace recreation, this camp offers an unforgettable experience of learning, adventure, and connection with nature.

Grandparent & Grandchild Camp
2026-07-05 - 2026-07-10
Register for Grandparent & Grandchild Camp
FAQs
What’s more rewarding than passing on your love of lifelong learning and being outdoors?
Teaching a younger adventurer to love it too! Wolf Ridge’s Grand Summer Adventure is an intergenerational program designed for grandparents and their grandchildren to explore, learn, and connect with the natural world together.
Throughout the week, grandparents and grandchildren will hone outdoor skills, discover the unique history and ecology of Minnesota’s North Woods, and participate in hands-on adventures that foster curiosity, teamwork, and appreciation for nature. This special program offers a chance to share your passion for lifelong learning while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Discounted rates are available for families with six or more participants, and children 2 and under attend free. Whether hiking, canoeing, or exploring the forests, Grandparent Camp provides the perfect opportunity to bond, laugh, and discover the wonders of the outdoors together.

S.T.I.N.T Wilderness Trip
2026-07-05 - 2026-07-17
Register for S.T.I.N.T Wilderness Trip
Explore Wilderness Trips
Download Scholarship Application
Entering grades 9-12
This camp includes an overnight camping adventure away from campus
Join Us for the Short Term Immersive Naturalist Training (S.T.I.N.T.) Camp in the Boundary Waters!
Are you looking for an enriching experience that deepens your teen’s connection to nature? Our S.T.I.N.T. camp invites young naturalists to immerse themselves in the breathtaking wilderness of the Boundary Waters. Led by experienced Wolf Ridge staff, campers will explore core naturalist concepts while engaging with the unique ecosystems that make this region so special.
Throughout the camp, participants will practice essential skills such as slowing down, making keen observations, and asking insightful questions. In addition to on-campus learning, campers will venture into diverse habitats—from lush wetlands to serene pine forests—discovering the incredible life that thrives in these environments. They’ll delve into the fascinating worlds of lichens, plants, moths, and dragonflies, enhancing their understanding of nature and developing their skills as aspiring naturalists.
This immersive experience not only fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural world but also encourages personal growth, curiosity, and teamwork. Your child will return home with a wealth of knowledge, unforgettable memories, and a newfound passion for the great outdoors.

Advanced Bird Banding Workshop
2026-07-06 - 2026-07-10
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
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

Survival Camp
2026-07-12 - 2026-07-17
Register for Survival Camp
Summer Camp Website
For students entering grades 6-7
Building Confidence and Wilderness Skills
Give your camper the ultimate outdoor experience at Wolf Ridge’s Survival Camp! This exciting week is designed to help campers develop practical wilderness survival skills while building confidence and resilience in a fun, supportive environment.
Throughout the week, campers will tackle our rock climbing wall, learn to identify wild edible plants, practice essential fire-building techniques, and master orienteering. They’ll also enjoy a day on the water filled with canoeing, fishing, swimming, and even raft building, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving.
The highlight of the camp is an on-site overnight adventure where campers will put their skills to the test by building and sleeping in their own shelter! It’s an unforgettable experience that fosters independence, leadership, and a deep connection to the natural world.
