Those wishing a longer trek can contact the Northern Tier to set up a dog sled expedition. Here you can camp in a primitive bush camp, learn about dog sledding, feed the dogs, and mush your own team on day trips into the Boundary Waters Wilderness. Skills taught include the use and construction of thermal shelter, the snow piled quinzhee, and the cut-block igloo. Techniques and behavior are taught that will not only increase your enjoyment and safety, but will add to your overall camping skills. The snow provides a record of wildlife for those keen enough to notice.
Evidence abounds of the movement of deer, moose, wolf, and many other birds and mammals.
Equally important is the sharing of resources among participants, with emphasis on leadership and working with young people in a cold weather environment. Winter logistics and the safety of all participants are points of emphasis. The time between Christmas and New Year is a great time for Scouts and Explorers from further away to expand their outdoor program into the northwoods winter. With the extensive outfitting capabilities of the program along with instruction, even novice groups will have the opportunity to enjoy the skiing, snowshoeing, and the beauty of a real winter. From Friday evening through Sunday, your group will receive instruction in the basic skills of winter camping and have the opportunity to practice them on an overnight campout.