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Join us for an adult-of-all-ages event at the End of the Road…Ely, MN

August 25-September 1, 2012

Limited to 12 participants

Two of Earth’s major terrestrial biomes, the eastern temperate and the boreal, transition in northeastern Minnesota.  Here, glacially carved, crystalline lakes serve as backdrop to the majestic boreal forest where it begins its circumpolar domination.  This is the forest of the Ojibwe, the voyageur, author Sigurd Olson, and modern day polar explorers with all the legends they inspire.  Beyond that, it is home to the largest population of gray wolves in the Lower 48, moose, loon, and black bear.  It attracts and captures outdoor adventurers and naturalists with biodiversity, its sheer vastness, and its unparalleled solitude.  Here, we can hold wilderness in our eyes, hear it with ears not accustomed to stillness, and touch it with our souls.

In the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) we will be studying the effects of the Pagami Creek fire of 2011, one of the most aggressive forest fires in modern history in the context of the largest wilderness area in the eastern United States.  You will first learn the complexity of this biome, progress to understanding the nature of fire in this forest, and then revel in the ultimate majesty of the process…forests of towering white pine, extensive bogs filled with rare plants, unlimited habitat for the mega fauna of the far north. 

What will you learn
The event is designed for adults from all walks of life.  It will be in-depth for environmental educators and professional interpreters as well as basic enough for nature enthusiasts, homeschooling parents, and those who just wish to learn of Earth in the solitude and beauty of this unique region. 

Course instruction will be provided by nationally known experts and local naturalists.  No canoeing experience is required as Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters, our sponsor, will provide state of the art equipment and expertise to get even the novice safely traveling these wilderness lakes and trails.

Where will you stay
Accommodations will be on pristine, 4600-acre Snowbank Lake, two thirds of which actually lies within the protected wilderness.  At Smitty’s on Snowbank beautiful resort for the entire program. Visit http://www.smittys-on-snowbank.com for more details.

Thanks to our photgraphic partners for donating so many fine images. Check out more fine works at:

• http://www.rootriverphotography.com