Will I be safe?

Your safety is our top priority! Our Trip Leaders are experienced wilderness guides, and are certified Wilderness First Responders. This helps us to minimize risks, and identify and respond quickly to health issues in the wilderness. We have procedures in place to deal with backcountry emergencies, and an extensive safety plan. We always carry a Garmin mini InReach satellite messenger. This device can be used in the event of an emergency in the wilderness, to notify local authorities that we need assistance or to activate search and rescue. We practice good backcountry hygiene and sanitation. Our trip leaders are also Certified ServSafe® Food Protection Managers, to ensure proper food safety and cleanliness.

Will I be able to stay in touch with loved ones?

Our time on the trail will likely be out of cell phone range. Trip leaders always carry a satellite messenger device, which can be pre-programmed to send “check-in” messages to loved ones by text or email so that they know where you are currently located and that everything is going well. In the unlikely event of an emergency, the beacon locator device can also be used to trigger help.

How do I register?

Click here to Register. Registration for a trip is not complete until we have had the opportunity to speak with you via telephone about the demands of the trip.

Do I need to complete any paperwork?

Once you have signed up for an On-Trail Trip, you will receive a receipt by email with a link to Waivers and Health Assessments, which need to be signed and returned to us prior to trip departure. To get the most out of your trip, we suggest that you have a medical physical 90 days prior to departure.

Do I need a COVID-19 Vaccine?

YES. For all 2022 Trips, guests and staff must provide proof of vaccination for COVID-19 prior to trip start. If you are not eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, you must provide a doctor’s note AND receive a negative COVID-19 test, within 72 hours of the trip start.

Why do I have to complete an interview?

To ensure your safety and the best possible guest experience, we interview every client before booking is confirmed. Our trips have varying levels of ability and fitness, so we do our best to make sure the trip you book is the right fit for you.

How old do I have to be to register?

Participants must be 16 or older (unless individual arrangements are made). All minors must be accompanied by an adult.

How many people will be on this trip?

This trip will depart with a minimum of 3 participants and a maximum of 6 participants.

Where does this trip start?

This trip begins and ends in Grand Marais, MN. The nearest major airports are Duluth International (DLH) or the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), which are both served by major airlines.

What do I need to bring?

To have a successful trip, you need to have appropriate footwear (backpacking boots or trail shoes that have been broken in) and adequate rain gear, in addition to your clothing and personal items, which will be clearly indicated on the detailed gear list that we will provide to you. Let us know if you have any questions about items on the gear list, as each piece is an important component to a successful trip. We want to ensure you arrive fully prepared for the trail! See our Packing List for details.

We will provide all of your major gear, including backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tents, food, cooking gear, eating utensils, and more.

Do I really need to pack rain gear, even if it's not forecast to rain?

Yep! You must pack absolutely everything on the packing list, including good quality rain gear. Weather in the backcountry can be unpredictable and staying both warm and dry is essential to your safety. You will not be able to proceed with the trip if you don't bring all the gear. If you forget something, there are local gear shops near most of our meeting spots, so you should be able to acquire a replacement.

Will I have clean clothes every day?

Nope. Welcome to backpacker life! Extra clothes weigh a lot so we try to be strategic about what we carry on the trail. We all get a little stinky out there, but it makes that shower at the end feel sooooo good!

Will I get to take a shower during my trip?

If your trip has a layover in a hotel, motel, hostel or vacation home - you bet! If you are on the trail, don't count on being shower-fresh. Isle Royale is the exception: You get to shower your final night out on the Island! You can always splash off in a creek, or bring some travel wipes to clean up with. Just remember that if you pack it in, you have to pack it out!

What will I eat on the trail?

All food is provided on your trips, unless otherwise indicated in your itinerary. Because we are carrying all our food on the trail, without refrigeration, we eat calorie-dense foods and dehydrated meals that are lightweight and nutritious. Take a look at our sample trail menu.

What happens if I need to depart a trip early?

While we do our best to help our clients prepare for a trip - we know that life happens! We do not offer refunds for partially completed trips. We recommend clients purchase their own travel insurance, in case of an emergency or illness.

Do I need trip insurance?

We strongly recommend our guests purchase their own trip insurance. Life happens, and a small injury or illness (hello, COVID-19) could prevent your participation in one of our trips at the last minute. Read our suggestions below to help you start finding trip insurance.

Do I need to tip my guide?

Tipping your guide is optional, but always appreciated. The industry standard is 10-20% of the trip cost.