NOW Outdoors: Madison

Escape the busy campgrounds and join us for a more remote experience backpacking on the Ice Age Trail! Our fully guided trips are designed to help you gain more skills, knowledge, and confidence outdoors. Join us for this beautiful 15-mile hike featuring several small lakes and streams along a dense forest trail. We will hike each day and set up a primitive camp off-trail each night. This trip not only gives you that backcountry feel but also offers countless opportunities for real wilderness and backpacking skill development such as hanging bear bags, purifying water, rigging a group tarp if it rains, and fire building! With the help of expert guides, the types of skills gained on our trips not only help develop a deeper connection with nature but they strengthen confidence and general awareness in the outdoors.

NOTE: This trip is great for beginners who are physically fit to walk several miles a day and able to carry a fully loaded backpack weighing 30 pounds or less. Based on miles/terrain, ease of water access, and expected weather conditions we plan to travel less than 8 miles per day at a steady pace. We kick off each day with a delicious breakfast and coffee/tea. Lunch on the trail will be roughly 45 minutes. If you have any reservations about your ability to participate in this trip, please reach out and let us know. We are happy to answer any questions or talk through your concerns. It's common for a beginner to NOT have all of the gear necessary for a trip like this so we're going to make it a little easier for you. Don't worry about food, stoves, pots, pans, or water filters. We have you covered! If you wish to take care of your own meals, that's great too. Just let us know so we can adjust our group meal prep.

Meals are included and here's why: It's not just about planning your meals right for high activity in the woods but also how you plan to cook your meals. You can cook over a fire, on a stove, or in a bag with boiled water. By including meals on this trip, you don't have to make these decisions or purchase a camp stove and fuel or a proper mess kit. That's $100+ in savings right there! A simple plastic Tupperware with a fork, spoon, and cup is all you'll need for this trip. We will have hearty group meals cooked over a fire or prepped on the trail every day. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know well in advance so we can make accommodations.

Purified water will be available in camp and on the trail at all times. If you need gear items such as, hammocks, backpacks and more, we have some items available for rent. Quantities of these items are limited so make your rental requests early.

You will have access to the gear list and directions on the "Group page" upon registration.

Price: $450.00 Deadline is May 31st

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime, exclusive 9-day canoe expedition with NOW Outdoors through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. This intimate adventure offers a rare opportunity to paddle through pristine waters and remote wilderness. Limited spots are available for this curated experience.

This exclusive weeklong paddle adventure through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) in Northern Minnesota is a true wilderness experience far from any roads. This trip starts in Ely, MN. We will arrive on the evening of June 14th at a designated lodge to go over gear and trip details. Sunday morning, we head out for an early start to our adventure. If you're flying into Duluth, we can arrange a shuttle for you. Lodging is included before and after the trip along with all necessary group gear, amazing food, permit reservation and user fees.

Enjoy 7 full days of paddling expedition style through 45+ miles of pristine lakes and wilderness. We plan for a couple layover days during the trip to relax at camp, practice outdoor skills, fish, etc. The itinerary may change due to weather conditions or group interest. Everyone will paddle tandem canoes, help with portages, set up/take down camp, process firewood, share cooking and cleaning up of meals and any other activity of the day.

Menu items: We believe cliff bars and ramen soup have their place but not on our trips. We love a varied menu that includes delicious meals. A few camp favorites include our famous BBQ pork spaghetti, Rumchata French toast, fruit and yogurt parfait, steak fajitas, and more. We can accommodate some special diets as well. Just let us know how we can help.

Difficulty: Challenging
This trip is not for first-time campers or paddlers. You should be comfortable in a canoe and in the water. You should be able to provide sufficient clothing and personal gear items as per the gear list. Everyone will be expected to help around camp and on the water including portaging gear and canoes between waterways. Expect to carry 50 - 60 pounds of gear or a canoe for short distances on portage trails. The pace will be relaxed at times and challenging at others. Expect to paddle several hours on paddle days and portage over land when necessary. We plan to have 2 zero-travel days for more time to fish, swim, relax, etc.

Price: $2,300 This premium adventure is limited to just 6 spots. Register now.
You may pay a $500.00 non-refundable deposit to secure your spot. This deposit will be put towards your final balance due June 1st.

Upon registration, you will have access to the event group forum where the gear list, directions, and other important information can be found.

You're the VIP on this exclusive and curated adventure to Mt. Kilimanjaro's Uhuru Peak! Join NOW Outdoors for this once in a lifetime private guided trek to the highest point in Africa and one of the Seven Summits!

This is the trip you've been waiting for...
This is a premium adventure custom curated by NOW Outdoors with help from our incredible team in Tanzania. This trip has been years in the making and spots are extremely limited. Climbing Kilimanjaro (19,340') is an odyssey that weaves together physical endurance, mental resilience, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Here’s a glimpse into the adventure that awaits:

The Call
Imagine standing at the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro, its snow-capped summit piercing the sky. You lace up your boots, adjust your backpack, and take that first step. The journey begins.

Diverse Ecosystems
Kilimanjaro isn’t just a mountain, it’s a microcosm of ecosystems. As you ascend, you’ll traverse rainforests, alpine deserts, and glaciers. Each zone reveals unique flora and fauna—the ancient trees of the rainforest, the hardy mosses clinging to volcanic rocks, and the elusive Kilimanjaro tree hyrax.

Altitude and Acclimatization
The air thins as you climb. Altitude sickness lurks, but you’ve prepared. “Pole, pole,” the porters say - slowly, slowly. You heed their advice, savoring each breath. Hydration is your ally; water keeps you replenished.

The Summit Push
The final ascent to Uhuru Peak is both grueling and exhilarating. Headlamp on, you step into the darkness. Stars twinkle above as the world below fades away. As dawn breaks, you reach the summit, the Roof of Africa. Cheers and emotions mix with the icy wind. You’ve conquered Kilimanjaro.

Shared Triumphs
Along the way, you'll bond with fellow trekkers. It’s not a race; it’s a collective endeavor. You swap stories, cheer each other on, and celebrate small victories. The camaraderie is as vital as the summit itself.

Perspective Shift
From Uhuru Peak, the world unfolds. The sun rises and unveils a vast expanse of plains and distant horizons. You realize that this journey isn’t just about conquering a peak, it’s about discovering your own resilience, connecting with the world, and embracing the human spirit.

Difficulty
To ensure the safety and best experience for all, we're going to be quite selective for this trip. This is a challenging high-altitude adventure for experienced hikers and campers. Kilimanjaro weather can vary quite a bit from tropical storms at lower elevations to blizzard conditions near the summit. Participants must be comfortable camping and hiking in any weather conditions. We expect participants to be well organized, on their A-game, and ready to face every challenge with optimism.

AS ALWAYS >>> A gear list and trip details will be available upon registration via access to the event "Group" page on the website. This group page will serve as a discussion/planning forum for everyone on the trip.

Price: $5,400 (final payments are due June 1st)
A $1,000 non-refundable deposit will secure your spot. This deposit will be put towards your final balance.

Embark on the Journey of a Lifetime: Exclusive 8-Day Great Migration Safari and Zanzibar Island Escape

This exclusive safari and Zanzibar tour has been expertly crafted to follow our Kilimanjaro climb in August and line up with the peak season for animal viewing during the Great Migration along the Mara River and Ngorongoro crater.

Experience Unparalleled Luxury and Adventure
Immerse yourself in a once-in-a-lifetime journey that seamlessly blends the thrill of the Great Migration in the Serengeti with the tranquil allure of Zanzibar’s pristine beaches. This exclusive, private-guided safari and island experience is meticulously designed for discerning travelers who demand the highest standards in luxury, service, and adventure.

Safari
We begin our adventure with a guided drive through Tarangire National Park, renowned for its iconic baobab trees and diverse wildlife. Marvel at large herds of elephants, graceful giraffes, and elusive leopards as our expert guide provides insightful commentary. Enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch in the heart of this wildlife paradise.

We'll discover the wonders of the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with the “Big Five.” After an unforgettable game drive and lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery, we'll visit a Masai village enroute to the Serengeti. Here, we'll have the unique opportunity to mingle with the Masai people, learn about their fascinating culture, and participate in traditional activities.

During our venture to the Northern Serengeti and the Mara River, we'll witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration. Watch as thousands of wildebeest and zebras navigate this treacherous crossing, a spectacle that stands among nature’s greatest wonders. We will explore varied terrain that's home to lions, cheetahs, elephants, and more during a sunrise game drive deeper into the Serengeti. Our guides, equipped with unmatched expertise, ensures that every moment is extraordinary.

Zanzibar
Our visit to the Serengeti will wrap up with a scenic drive to Kogatende Airstrip, where a chartered flight whisks you to Zanzibar. Relax by the turquoise waters and soak in the unparalleled beauty of this tropical paradise. We'll spend the day basking in the sun on Zanzibar’s white sandy beaches or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.

We'll continue our island retreat with optional water sports or simply relax on the beach. Zanzibar offers an array of activities, from paddleboarding and sailing to swimming with sea turtles, ensuring every moment is memorable.

On our final day, we'll venture into Zanzibar’s lush spice plantations for a guided tour that reveals the island’s rich history as a global spice hub. We'll visit Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore its vibrant markets, historic sites, and cultural treasures. Our journey concludes with a transfer to Zanzibar International Airport, ready to depart with cherished memories.

What Sets Us Apart?

• Unrivaled Expertise: Our private guides are seasoned professionals, offering unparalleled knowledge and personalized service to enrich our journey.
• Top-Tier Equipment and Vehicles: Travel in comfort and style with our fully equipped, custom safari vehicles designed for exceptional game-viewing experiences.
• Exquisite Lodging: Each accommodation is hand-selected to provide a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and authenticity, ensuring a memorable stay.

Reserve Your Exclusive Experience
This premium 8-day Great Migration Safari and Zanzibar Island Escape offers a rare opportunity to witness the wonders of East Africa in absolute luxury and privacy. Book now to secure your place on this extraordinary journey.

Difficulty: Easy
You should be able to provide sufficient personal clothing and gear as per the provided gear list. Everyone will be provided lodging and transportation. This is a luxury lodge-based trip with daily game drives and cultural tours that may require many hours in the field walking, driving, or on watercraft.

AS ALWAYS >>> A gear list and trip details will be available upon registration via access to the event "Group" page on the NOW Outdoors website. This group page will serve as a discussion/planning forum for everyone on the trip.

Price: $6,200 (final payments are due June 15th)
A $1,000 non-refundable deposit will secure your spot. This deposit will be put towards your final balance.