502-475-7445
Boundary Waters Canoe Area

Upcoming Events

Family Adventures

One of the most meaningful experiences a family can share is to take an outdoor trip together.  Most trips are easily tailored to be as challenging or relaxing as you desire and daily mileage can be structured to accommodate nearly all ages and ability levels.  Green Earth Outdoors can take your family or group nearly anywhere you choose to go.  Some people already know where they want to visit while others just want to get outside and prefer a recommendation.  So if you’re not sure, we’ve provided a partial list highlighting some of our favorite adventure destinations.   We think you’ll love them too.  So take a look and imagine yourself out there in the wild!  Once you decide, fill out our easy Trip Request Form or give us a call at 502-475-7445 to start your dream adventure.

Explore/Discover/Share Weekends

The Explore/Discover/Share program is a weekend campout with the purpose of introducing young people and their parent(s) to the natural world and providing them the basic skills necessary for safely enjoying the outdoors.  We provide instruction covering several basic outdoors skills such as safe hiking, campsite selection, outdoor cooking, useful knots, map and compass, plant and tree identification, simple first aid, the nighttime sky and Leave No Trace.  The curriculum for this adventure-filled weekend is presented in an exciting hands-on format which includes fun group activities for all ages.  The weekend also allows for families to spend time on their own.  This program gives parents and children the basic skills and confidence to get outdoors.  All food and group equipment such as tents, stoves and cookware is included.   A personal gear list is provided upon registration.  Some personal items are available for rent.  This program is suited for anyone new to the outdoors and those looking to sharpen their outdoors skills.  Begins at 7 pm Friday local time and concludes at 11 am on Sunday.  The minimum age for this program is 6. Class size is limited to ensure a quality experience so early registration is encouraged.

Fee per person: $150

Price includes food, group equipment, camp fees, instruction, program materials and a t-shirt.

**Bring along another family for the same weekend and get 10% off your total fee**

Explore-Discover-Share Weekend Dates and Locations

  • May 8-10, 2009-Clermont, Kentucky (30 minutes south of Louisville)
  • October 9-11, 2009-Clermont, Kentucky (30 minutes south of Louisville)

Register

Upon registration, you will receive more details concerning packing list, directions, etc.

To request an Explore/Discover/Share weekend in your area or arrange a private session for your group or organization, call our office at 502-475-7445 for details. 

Day Trips

If you’re visiting the Louisville, Kentucky area or perhaps you live here, it is relatively easy to find delicious foods, beautiful horses and sample traditional Kentucky bourbon. But sometimes harder to find are those amazing outdoor adventure opportunities within our rich forests, rolling hills and scenic waterways. At Green Earth Outdoors, we are committed to making your stay or visit to the Louisville area extraordinary and to share with you our favorite places. We offer a number of all-inclusive day trips to get you off the beaten path and into the beautiful natural areas of North-Central Kentucky and Southern Indiana.

From day hikes, picnics, nature tours, challenge activities, canoe and cave trips we take care of every detail so that yours is a one-of-a-kind, hassle-free adventure! Each trip begins and ends in Louisville where we will pick you up at your hotel in the morning and return you in the late afternoon or evening. The cost per person includes roundtrip transportation, lunch, guide(s), natural and historical interpretation of the places we visit, and gear. Day trips require 24-hour advance reservations. Call our office at 502-475-7445 for adventure ideas to suit your taste and pricing or to make reservations.

Canoeing Trips

Few adventures are as family friendly and accommodating than a wilderness canoe trip.  All of our canoe adventures include basic canoe instruction and are a great choice for beginners, families with younger children and groups.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA), Minnesota

Situated within the Superior National Forest in Minnesota and bordering Canada, the BWCA is one of our choice places to return and a family favorite.  Whether you’re seeking some peaceful relaxation, a wilderness challenge or something in between, the BWCA has it all.  We offer trips to both the Western BWCA and the less traveled and quieter Eastern BWCA.  Trips are available for every age range and skill level from 5 to 30 days.  This trip can be combined with State Highpoint trips in Minnesota and/or Wisconsin.   

Trip Rating: to  depending on your chosen itinerary. 
Group Size Limit: 7-8
Season: May – early September

Reserve this trip

 

Everglades, Florida

The Everglades of Florida is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. The area boasts rare and endangered species, such as the American crocodile, Florida panther, and West Indian manatee.  One of the best ways to experience the Everglades is to get out into it for an extended visit. With over 100 miles of canoe trails and 47 designated wilderness campsites, opportunities for adventure and solitude are abundant.  A great adventure to escape the winter blues.     

Trip Rating: to  depending on your chosen itinerary. 
Group Size Limit: 6-8
Season: November – April

Reserve this trip

 

Upper Missouri River Breaks, Montana

The Upper Missouri River Breaks in Montana is a landscape remarkably unchanged since the Lewis and Clark expedition passed through it over 200 years ago.  Rich in scenery, history and wildlife, the 377,000-plus acres encompass river bottoms and upland breaks and provide intact habitat for 230 bird species and 60 mammal species including deer, elk, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep.  A stunning trip for academic groups, youth organizations and families. 

Trip Rating: to depending on the length of the trip. 
Group Size Limit: 10-13
Season: June – early September

Reserve this trip

 

Rio Grande National Scenic River (Lower Canyons), Texas

The Lower Canyons of the Rio Grande, along the border between Texas and Mexico, is one of the last true wilderness river trips to be found in the United States.  The terrain along the Lower Canyons is open desert, rugged hills, and deep gorgeous canyons, some with walls towering nearly 2,000 feet overhead.  Offering calm paddling and Class I-III whitewater, this trip provides it all with side hikes, hot springs and solitude.  A great trip for anyone but particularly suited for families with older children, college organizations and private groups from 7 to 11 days. 

Trip Rating:
Group Size Limit: 8-9 
Season: November - April

Reserve this trip

Backpacking Trips

To experience the beauty of the land carrying everything you need is both a thrill and an adventure in itself.   Experience the wild, one step at a time.   

Wind River Range, Wyoming

The Wind River Range is a remote hundred-mile range, stretching through Wyoming along the crest of the Continental Divide. This narrow mountain chain includes eight peaks over 13,500 feet, rising from the wide open valleys of the west. Below these rugged peaks are small lakes and streams nestling in beautiful alpine meadows.   A true wilderness experience for those seeking a more challenging adventure.  This trip can be combined with a climb of Gannett Peak (13,804 ft.) which is Wyoming’s high point and northernmost peak of the range.

Trip Rating:
Group Size Limit: 13
Season: May – September

With Gannet Peak (see Gannet Peak under State High Points)
Trip Rating: or  depending on route conditions.
Group Size Limit: 8
Season: July – early September

Reserve this trip

 

Gila Wilderness, New Mexico

Located in southwest New Mexico near the historic town of Silver City, the Gila Wilderness offers the ultimate outdoor experience.  Established in 1924 as the first designated wilderness in the country, the Gila offers a diversity of rugged mountains, deep canyons, beautiful meadows, and semi-desert country, covering four of the six life zones. Flora and fauna are bountiful.   Part of the Gila National Forest, the area boasts a rich history of the Mogollon and Apache Indians and trips include a visit to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, a series of homes set in high caves above the middle fork of the Gila River.  An ideal adventure for families, student and youth organizations or private groups.  Trips available from 5 to 14 days. 

Trip Rating:
Group Size Limit: 10
Season: Year around.

Reserve this trip

 

Collegiate Peaks, Colorado

The Collegiate Peaks Wilderness is home to more high peaks than any other wilderness area in the lower 48 states.  Eight peaks exceeding 14,000 feet are found here, including the state's third and fifth highest summits, Mount Harvard and La Plata Peak. In addition, another half-dozen other peaks soar over 13,800 feet. On this trip we follow more than 40 miles of the Continental Divide along the crest of the Sawatch Range in what is arguably the pinnacle of the North American continent.  For those seeking a higher challenge.   Trip from 6-10 days.  This adventure can be combined with a climb of Colorado's two highest peaks, Mount Elbert and Mount Massive-see State High Points below.

Trip Rating:
Group Size Limit: 8
Season: June to early October.
(Earlier season trips may be available depending on previous winter’s snowfall).

Reserve this trip

 

Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, Kentucky

Mixing history with natural beauty makes the best adventure.  Cumberland Gap tucked in where Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee meet offers both.  Follow the Wilderness Road as Daniel Boone did in 1775 and hike along forested ridges with spectacular panoramic views.  A great trip for all but especially suited for families and youth groups; 3 to 4 days.

Trip Rating:
Group Size Limit: 10
Season: Year around.

Reserve this trip

 

High Sierras, California

John Muir said it best, "The mountains are calling and I must go."  The high Sierra Nevada Mountains of California are a vast sight to behold.  Follow the same footpaths that in inspired many of Muir’s writings and passion for wilderness places.   Several trails are above 8000 feet which offers stunning views and challenging alpine hiking while lower elevations are graced with the breathtaking giant sequoia trees.  For those seeking challenge, beauty and solitude.  Trips available from 7 to 30 days.  Can be combined with a climb of Mt. Whitney, California’s high point and the highest place in the lower 48 states. 

Trip Rating: to  depending on route chosen and length of trip.
Group Size Limit: 10
Season: June – early October.

Reserve this trip

 

Appalachian Trail, Georgia to Maine

The Appalachian Trail, or commonly known as the A.T., offers unparalleled opportunities to explore, experience and connect with nature.  Stretching from Georgia to Maine in 14 states, it is the ultimate dream of many hikers.  Green Earth Outdoors can get you acquainted with the trail on some of our favorite sections from the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, the Shenandoah highlands of Virginia, through the White Mountains in New Hampshire, the 100-mile Wilderness in Maine or anywhere else along the 2175 mile footpath.  Hiking the A.T. is always a special treat especially for young people.  A perfect adventure for families, youth groups and private parties.   Available for 5 to 15 days. 

Trip Rating: to  depending on route chosen and length of trip.
Group Size Limit: 10
Season: June – early October in Northern states; March –June in Southern states.

Reserve this trip

 

Chilkoot Trail, Alaska

Walk in the footsteps of the stampeders who climbed the Golden Staircase along the Chilkoot Trail during the Klondike Gold Rush.  This 33 mile long trail which starts in Skagway is considered to be the world's longest outdoor museum and offer challenging climbs, stunning views and changing weather.  Crossing the international boundary between the United States and Canada the trip finishes with a thrilling train ride back to Skagway.  Reservations required at least 6 months in advance.  From 6-8 days with travel to Alaska.  For experienced groups or families only. 

Trip Rating: to  depending on conditions.
Group Size Limit: 8
Season: June – September

Reserve this trip

 

Other favorite backpacking destinations:

Foothills Trail, South Carolina; Grand Canyon, Arizona; Mt. Rainier’s Wonderland Trail, Washington; Grand Tetons, Wyoming; Shining Rock Wilderness, North Carolina; Mark Twain National Forest, Missouri; and Teddy Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota, to name a few.  

Local Midwest Favorites:

Indiana: Knobstone Trail/Tecumseh Trail, Charles Deam Wilderness, Adventure Hiking Trail, Two-Lakes Loop Trail. 

Kentucky: Clifty Wilderness, Mammoth Cave, Sheltowee Trace Trail.

Ohio: Zaleski State Forest Trail, Shawnee State Forest Trail, Buckeye Trail.

Illinois: River to River Trail. 

State High Points

Discover America's beauty by hiking or climbing to the highest point in each state.  Highpointing is a fun, challenging and educational endeavor for any family or group. 

Wheeler Peak, New Mexico

Just outside the beautiful town from Taos, New Mexico stands Wheeler Peak at 13,161 feet.  The eighth highest of all 50 state highpoints, the hike to the summit and an overnight campsite offers awesome views of the Sangre de Cristo range of the Rocky Mountains.  Available year around, winter trips on the mountain offers some great snowshoeing fun.  This trip can be combined with backpacking in the Carson National Forest and/or whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande (seasonal) along with touring in Taos.  Great for families, private groups, and corporate teams. 

Trip Rating: in summer and early autumn. 
in winter and spring. 
Group Size Limit: 8
Season: Year around.

Reserve this trip

 

Mount Elbert, Colorado

At 14,433 feet, Mt. Elbert is Colorado’s highest point and the second highest in the lower 48 states.  Reaching the rocky summit makes a challenging summer backpacking trip or a spectacular non-technical alpine climb in winter.  Every trip includes camping high on the mountain which is always a special treat.  This trip includes visiting historic Leadville which has the distinction of being the highest city in North America.   Winter trips provide instruction and use of basic mountaineering skills, cold-weather camping, and snowshoeing.  This trip can be combined with a climb of Colorado’s second highest peak, Mount Massive which stands at 14,421 feet.  An ideal adventure for corporate teams, college or older youth organizations and private groups.   

Trip Rating: in summer and early autumn. 
in winter and spring. 
Group Size Limit: 8
Season: Year around.

Reserve this trip

 

Mount Washington, New Hampshire

Nestled in the White Mountains range of upstate New Hampshire stands New England’s most prominent peak, Mount Washington at 6,288 feet.  Famous for its dangerously erratic weather it was known as Agiocochook, or "home of the Great Spirit", before European settlers arrived.  A beautiful summer backpacking trip or a challenging winter expedition.  Winter climbs, with high winds and deep snow make this a great practice climb for larger glaciated peaks in the Northwest or Alaska.  Can be combined with additional backpacking along the A.T. or elsewhere in the White Mountains.  Typically 4-8 days depending on season and chosen itinerary. 

Trip Rating: in summer and early autumn. 
or in winter and spring. 
Group Size Limit: 8
Season: Year around.

Reserve this trip

 

Gannet Peak, Wyoming

Gannet Peak is remote and considered an exciting alpine mountaineering challenge due to its inaccessibility and moderate difficulty.  At 13,804 feet, it is the highest mountain in Wyoming and contains 5 glaciers on its flank, the largest glaciers in the Rocky Mountains.  This is a strenuous trip and requires several weeks of prior conditioning.  However, the views are magnificent and there are many opportunities to see wildlife which makes it all worthwhile.   Gannett is the longest round trip of any highpoint (including Denali). The hike is over 40 miles roundtrip and about 9,000 feet of vertical climbing.  Because of its remoteness, it is considered by some to be as challenging as Mt. Rainier in Washington.  Basic instruction in ice axe use, self arrest, use of crampons, and glacier travel on a rope team included.  Allow 8 to 10 days depending on route chosen and for bad weather days.  The ultimate corporate team challenge or private group experience.

Trip Rating: 
Group Size Limit: 8
Season: July-September

Reserve this trip

 

Other favorite high point destinations:

Borah Peak, Idaho; Mt. Whitney, California; Humphrey’s Peak, Arizona; Mt. Hood, Oregon; Mt. Marcy, New York; Guadalupe Peak, Texas; Granite Peak, Montana; and Harney Peak, South Dakota. 

 

Create Your Own Adventure

Do you have another activity or destination in mind?  Not sure what best fits with your group?

The activities/destinations mentioned above are just some of our favorite activities and destinations that we thought you might like.  But because every Green Earth Outdoors trip already uses a personalized trip planning format, we can gladly put together your ideal adventure package.  In nearly every case, our personalized trips are a far better value than the canned trips offered from traditional adventure travel companies, and better for the environment.  From whitewater rafting to dog sledding, from Baja California to Nova Scotia and the Florida Keys to the Yukon, let us turn your dreams into reality.  Get your adventure started by calling us today or submitting our easy Trip Request Form.

Disclaimer: All trips are subject to permit availability and prior scheduling of guides/operators.  Green Earth Outdoors operates either under their own commercial or special use permit where required or operations may be provided through a third-party who is an existing permit holder.  In either case, Green Earth Outdoors will provide you or your group with a personal guide for the duration of the trip.  Trip dates and permit availability will be confirmed with your personalized proposal which Green Earth Outdoors provides after contacting us or submitting a Trip Request Form. See How to Book a Trip under the Reservations menu for additional details.