​Day 9 | Paddles & Pines

Today was all about hands-on learning with some incredible guests! We spent the day with Clare from Sawbill Outfitters, Ranger Richard from the U.S. Forestry Service, and Alison and Sarah from Friends of the Boundary Waters—a powerhouse team of educators and storytellers.

Together, we dug into the Leave No Trace Principles, practicing what it really means to move lightly through wild places. Our crew set up tents and tarps, learned how to safely build a fire, filtered water straight from the lake, and even raised a bear canister to keep food secure in bear country. These skills are more than outdoor tricks—they’re lessons in responsibility, respect, and resilience.

What we love most? Watching students across the country learn through a screen from people who live this work every single day. The passion and care our guests brought made every moment feel alive and meaningful.

Up next: Wednesday at McDougal Lake, where we’ll explore prescribed burns and dive into the fascinating world of Fire Ecology.