Where Passion for Nature Meets Lifelong Learning
Lifelong Learning at Wolf Ridge
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, educator, resource professional, or wilderness trip leader, Wolf Ridge offers immersive experiences to deepen your connection with the natural world.
Our courses are designed for adult learners eager to expand their knowledge, sharpen practical skills, and connect with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts.
Courses vary from year to year, so be sure to check our events calendar for the latest schedule, dates, and registration details. Join us and discover how the natural world can inspire, educate, and transform your perspective!
Summer Adult Programming
Drop-In Bird Banding
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. Participants can observe and sometimes participate in the banding process. 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.
IBP Summer Beginning Bird Banding
Wolf Ridge hosts the Institute for Bird Population’s Beginning and Advanced courses for seasoned and new banders. The seven-day introductory class provides both amateur birders and professional biologists with the skills necessary to participate in monitoring and research programs.
IBP Summer Advanced Bird Banding
Wolf Ridge hosts the Institute for Bird Population’s Beginning and Advanced courses for seasoned and new banders. The five-day advanced class is designed for experienced banders who wish to improve their sexing and ageing skills using the American Birds by Peter Pyle.
Leave No Trace Level 2 Instructor Course
Immerse yourself in Leave No Trace principles and wildland ethics during this comprehensive Level 2 Instructor Course. Based in a scenic camp, you'll explore the history of Leave No Trace, practice its principles, and engage in hands-on learning through daily activities and hikes. Learn to travel responsibly while teaching others to protect our natural spaces.
North Woods, Great Lakes Master Naturalist Biome Course at Wolf Ridge
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.
Teacher Training Workshops
Wolf Ridge offers a variety of teacher outreach programs that empower educators to seamlessly integrate outdoor learning into their curriculum. Through hands-on experiences, teachers will gain valuable environmental knowledge, effective teaching strategies, and practical tools to engage students with the natural world.
Adult Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Trip
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.
Adult Sea Kayak Adventures Trip
Looking to explore the north shore in a sea kayak but need to build the skills and confidence? Join us on an experience building and overnight sea kayaking experience. Build practical sea kayaking skills as well as learning about various gear needed to be safe out on the water. Then head out onto lake Superior to paddle and camp practicing and learning along the way.
Fall & Winter Adult Programming
IBP Fall Advanced Bird Banding
Wolf Ridge hosts the Institute for Bird Population’s Beginning and Advanced courses for seasoned and new banders. The five-day advanced class is designed for experienced banders who wish to improve their sexing and ageing skills using the American Birds by Peter Pyle.
Fall Colors Weekend at Wolf Ridge
Enjoy the spectacular fall colors at Wolf Ridge and join us for a weekend of learning in this beautiful change of seasons.
Teacher Training Workshops
Wolf Ridge offers a variety of teacher outreach programs that empower educators to seamlessly integrate outdoor learning into their curriculum. Through hands-on experiences, teachers will gain valuable environmental knowledge, effective teaching strategies, and practical tools to engage students with the natural world.