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The outfitter NORTHERN TIER'S TRADING POST'S OFFICIAL CATALOG
A COLD-WEATHER ADVENTURE
Learn the Skills to enjoy a Northwoods Winter Adventure
- CROSS COUNTRY SKIING - Credited to Lapp peoples of northern Scandinavia, this exciting sport is a large part of the OKPIK training.
- SNOWSHOEING - The Native American has used this mode of transportation for thousands of years. This is a great way to get off the trail and explore the bush country.
- DOG SLEDDING - An exciting feature of the Northern Tier OKPIK program. All OKPIK participants will experience dog sledding during their visit and will have the opportunity to take rides. Those wishing a longer trek can contact the Northern Tier to set up a dog sled expedition.
- MUSHER CAMP - At Musher Camp, you camp in a primitive bush camp, learn about dog sledding, feed and care for the dogs, and mush your own team on day trips into the Boundary Waters Wilderness.
- WINTER SHELTER BUILDING- Warm shelter is a key to enjoying frigid nights in the the North. Skills taught include the use and construction of thermal shelter, the snow piled quinzhee, and the cut-block igloo.
- COLD WEATHER CAMPING - Camping in the snow is more than just summer camping with more clothes. Techniques and behavior are taught that will not only increase your enjoyment and safety, but will add to your overall camping skills.
- TRACKING - 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.
- ICE FISHING - Trout, walleye, and northern pike await the angler with the patience to go out after these fish.
Cold Weather Training
On January 7-12, older Scouts and leaders interested in learning how to develop and run a winter program for their unit or council are invited to attend a five day "Cold Weather Training Course". Our experienced OKPIK staff will train you in the skills of safe cold weather camping. 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. Cost: $250 per person.
Holiday Stay
The time between Christmas and New Year is a great time for Scouts and Venturers from further away to expand their outdoor program into the north woods 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. Cost: $225 per person.
OKPIK WEEKENDS
The oldest OKPIK program, this has been the most popular. 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. Training in cold weather dress, first-aid, menu and equipment are included in indoor sessions. Opportunities are also available for activities in winter ecology, igloo building, extended travel, for the group with special interests. Cost: $110 per person. Extra days may be added for school planning days and Martin Luther King holiday, at a rate of $55 per person per day.
Musher Camp
Those attending Musher Camp learn all about dog sledding. Participants stay in heated Musher Camp "yurts" located next to the dog yard at OKPIK base camp. Staying in a Quinzee (snow dome) is an option. Each participant will learn how to train, care for, harness, and run sled dogs. You will have the opportunity to mush your own team on wilderness day trips or by visiting other OKPIK crews and sharing your expertise at dog sledding. This is an excellent program to prepare your crew for a full dog sledding expedition next year. Musher Camp programs are limited to at least a 3-day trek. The cost for Musher Camp is $100.00 per person per day.
Skiing, Snowshoeing, and Dog Sled Treks
Ski, snowshoe, or have a dog sled transport your gear while you ski along to a distant backcountry site. These programs are for older (14 years of age by day of arrival) Scouts who can spend at least two nights on the trail. Dog sled treks are $120.00 per person per day. Ski treks or Snowshoe treks are $55.00 per person per day. (minimum of 3 days)
Cabin Stay
This program is for younger scouts that are accompanying a group of older scouts, or visiting OKPIK on their own. Program includes skiing, snowshoeing, dog sled rides, and other winter activities. The group will stay in heated cabins and cook their meals outside. This program is open to any registered Scout youth member. The cost is $110.00 for the weekend, or $55.00 per day.
Reservations
OKPIK reservation availability chart
Reservations for OKPIK Programs should be made as early as possible. We are taking reservations now for the 2006-2007 season! Holiday weekends and Holiday Stay fill up fast! A phone call can hold a space for three weeks until receipt of the nonrefundable deposit and reservation form.
For more details, call: (218) 365-4811
( 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday).