Wolf Ridge is an accredited residential environmental learning center located on a ridge overlooking Lake Superior in northern Minnesota.
We are situated on 2000 acres which include a creek, a river, two pristine lakes, wetlands, mixed forests of spruce, balsam fir, maple, birch, and aspen, high rocky cliffs, and 18 miles of trails. We have extensive facilities which include 3 classroom buildings, 2 dormitories, a dining hall, an administration building, 2 indoor climbing walls, 2 high ropes courses, a raptor aviary, a library, and a store.
We offer internationally recognized programming to a variety of audiences. Each year, 15,000 K-12 students, teachers, and chaperones take part in 3-5 day programs here. They choose from over 65 classes, activities, and naturalist presentations which cover topics of ecology, natural history, cultural history, outdoor recreation, earth/physical science, and team building. All of our programming emphasizes outdoor, hands-on learning. All of our classes and activities have established lesson plans which actively address current Minnesota Graduation Standards.
Throughout the school year, Wolf Ridge also offers a unique learning/professional opportunity to college graduates. Our Graduate Student Naturalist Training program offers participants the chance to experientially develop and hone effective environmental educator skill while receiving masters credits through our partnership with the University of Minnesota Duluth. Student Naturalists take courses from professors and also teach visiting school groups. It is a nine month position that has a reputation of excellence in environmental education and has produced leaders in the field.
In addition, over 3000 families, youth, seniors, and organizations visit Wolf Ridge to take advantage of diverse educational programs and our stunning setting. We offer a summer youth program for those ages 6-18 years old. This program includes weeklong overnight camps and specialty camps for junior naturalists, young outdoor leaders, and artists. 13-18 year olds can sign up for our naturalist led multi-day backpacking, sea kayaking, or canoeing trips.
Families can take part in family canoe trips, summer family programs, and seasonal weekend offerings at Wolf Ridge.
We work with the Elderhostel organization to offer intergenerational educational programs for grandparents and their grandkids.
Our Superior Studies program offers college students a month long summer program that integrates environmental studies course workd with wilderness tripping, field work, and internship opportunities.
Educational and environmental organizations can bring their groups to Wolf Ridge to take advantage of our facilities for workshops and conferences.
No matter what the program is, Wolf Ridge strives to stimulate a love and understanding of nature by involving youth and adults in direct observation of and participation in the outdoors. Come visit us!