An Outdoor Learning Center of Excellence

Where Learning Comes to Life in Nature

and Exploration Sparks Transformation

50+ Classes & Experiences

Discover Your Next Outdoor School Adventure

Wolf Ridge provides students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to explore and respect the natural world.

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Learn more about how Wolf Ridge Supports Outdoor School for All

Overnight School Visits

Part field trip, part overnight camp, Wolf Ridge offers hands-on outdoor education for K-12 students.

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Two Student Outside During Summer Evening at Wolf Ridge

Summer Camps

Choose a classic sleepaway camp experience or head into the backcountry on a multi-week wilderness expedition led by our naturalist guides—summer adventures for all ages.

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Teacher Training

Gain the skills to be an effective environmental educator with our graduate training program and teacher institutes.

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Wolf Ridge–a place where minds open to the joy and wonder of discovering our natural world.

Learning…Just as Nature Intended

Events

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Master Naturalist Training: Birding - Waterfowl to Warblers

April 17

Explore spring bird migration along Minnesota’s North Shore in this Master Naturalist advanced training. From waterfowl to warblers, birders of all skill levels will visit diverse habitats, build identification skills, and connect with fellow learners as summer species arrive.

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Nature Journaling in the Wild

April 24 – April 26

Slow down and reconnect with nature during this adult weekend of creativity on the North Shore. Wander rocky shorelines and forest paths as you practice nature journaling, join workshops with guest artists and naturalists, and enjoy unhurried “notice-everything” hikes. Designed for curious adults—artists, educators, journal lovers, and quiet observers alike—this gathering invites you to observe deeply, create freely, and let curiosity lead the way. No experience needed.

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Stories from the Ridge

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One Week in the BWCA: Intro to Canoeing for Teens

Experience a BWCA canoe trip for teens through the eyes of a Wolf Ridge Trip Leader. See how students gain outdoor skills, confidence, and lasting friendships in just one week in the Boundary Waters.

Honoring 40 Years of Leadership and Welcoming a New Executive Director

After 40 years of leadership, Pete Smerud retires from Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center. Join us in celebrating his legacy and welcoming Vanessa Riegler as our next Executive Director.

Wolf Ridge Breaks Barriers: Historic Funding Makes Outdoor School Accessible to All Minnesota Students

Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center has achieved a historic milestone, securing record funding to make Outdoor School accessible for all Minnesota students. This support ensures hands-on, overnight learning experiences that foster academic growth, environmental stewardship, and social-emotional development.