What we’re about
Want to spend more time in nature, learn new skills, and meet great people? This is the biggest outdoor adventure meetup in WI. All skill levels are welcome. We have free social events at least once per month that focus on things like backpacking skills, wild edibles, cold weather adventure, day hikes, gear, or just sitting around the fire sharing stories.
We hold a variety of classes and trips based on member interest including Wilderness First Aid certifications, backpacking and canoe camping trips, survival courses, cooking classes, firearms training and more. We also offer very unique and one of a kind international expeditions. From Mt. Everest to the Arctic to the Amazon Jungle these trips are organized and guided by NOW Outdoors.
We help people become more skilled, more experienced, and more confident outdoors. We never want to exclude anyone from classes or trips so please contact us with any questions or concerns so we can help you to be fully equipped for any adventure.
If you have a trip or event idea that you'd like to see, please email us at info@nowoutdoors.org.
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Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Boundary Waters Canoe AdventureEly, Ely, MN$2,300.00
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.
> Payments can be made at nowoutdoors.org CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
> Spaces are limited and are filled in the order payments are received. An RSVP on Meetup will not hold your spot.
> Cancelations made within seven days of payment and on or before the payment deadline are eligible for a refund. Other cancelations will be converted to a credit to be used within one year for another Now Outdoors event.Included:
• Expert guides
• BWCA permits and user fees
• All meals from put-in to take-out
• Purified water in camp and on the go
• Lightweight Wenonah Spirit 2 canoes
• Premium CCS packs with padded backs, waist belts and adjustable straps
• Paddles and PFD's
• Camp kitchen including mess kits
• Group tarp and other misc. items
• Lodging fees the night before put-in and after take-out
• Free parking/shuttle to or from the put-in location from the lodgeNot Included:
• Personal gear items (rental equipment available)
• Fishing licenses
• Transportation to/from the BWCA (we can arrange shuttles if need be)
• Gratuities are always welcome if you've had a great time :)Please send all questions to info@nowoutdoors.org.
- Kilimanjaro Full-Moon Summit Trek: 11-Day Lemosho RouteKilimanjaro International Airport, Tanzania
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.> Payments can be made on the NOW Outdoors website at CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
> Spaces are limited and filled in the order payments are received. An RSVP on Meetup without payment will not hold your spot. The trip may fill before the payment deadline.
> Cancelations made within seven days of payment and on or before the payment deadline are eligible for a refund. Other cancelations will be converted to a credit to be used within one year for another NOW Outdoors event.INCLUDED
- Airport transfers
- Private transportation
- Hotel accommodations (dual occupancy)
- Tents on the trail (dual occupancy)
- Camping equipment
- Expert guides
- Chefs during the trek
- Professional porters
- All meals during the trek
- Drinking water during the trek
NOT INCLUDED
- Tanzania visa, $50
- Single supplement hotel $150
- Laundry service
- International flight
- Meals before and after the trek (breakfast is included with hotel stay)
- Personal gear and clothing (boots, rain gear, warm pants, warm jackets)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Gratuities for our guides and porters
If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at info@nowoutdoors.org.
- Great Migration Safari & Zanzibar: Private, Luxury 8-Day TourKilimanjaro International Airport, Kilimanjaro
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.CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
> Spaces are extremely limited and filled in the order payments are received. An RSVP on Meetup without payment will not hold your spot.> Cancelations made within seven days of payment and on or before the payment deadline are eligible for a refund. Other cancelations will be converted to a credit to be used within one year for another NOW Outdoors event.
SERVICES INCLUDED:
- Airport transfers
- Private tour
- Transport in a customized safari vehicle equipped for game viewing, photographing and touring
- Full board accommodation on safari to include three meals a day
- Park entry permits and local government taxes for safari
- Safari game drives
- Snorkeling
- English speaking guides and drivers
- Drinking water
- Flight from Serengeti to Zanzibar
- Transfers in Zanzibar
- Beach hotel in Zanzibar on half board (bed and breakfast)
- Spicy tour and Stone town tour in Zanzibar
SERVICES NOT INCLUDED:
- Tanzania visa
- Laundry service
- International flight
- Personal items
- Tipping
- Alcoholic drinks
If you have any questions, please contact us at info@nowoutdoors.org
- Voyageur Canoe Training (ORCKA L1-L2 & Trip Leader Certification)High Cliff State Park, Sherwood, WI$1,300.00
Overview
Step into the rhythm of the paddle and the power of the past. In partnership with the Indigenous-led 7th Fire Jiimaan Journey, we're hosting our first official Voyageur canoe certification and training course on the shores of Lake Winnebago, WI. This course is open to everyone with a passion for big canoes—whether you're stepping into a Voyageur canoe for the first time or you're an experienced paddler looking to refine your skills. No prior experience is needed—just a willingness to learn, paddle, and embrace the adventure!Guided by expert instructors from ORCKA, the Ontario Recreational Canoeing and Kayaking Association, you’ll master the art of paddling in a Voyageur canoe, the legendary vessels that shaped the fur trade and Indigenous traditions. Learn the skills of the gouvernail (steersman), navigate open water rescues, and uncover the historical and cultural significance of these mighty canoes.
Certification Details
This 5-day certification course will cover Voyageur canoe paddling theory, transporting, lifting, launching, landing, entering and exiting, skills in every paddling position, flatwater maneuvers, weather, individual and group safety, rescues, leadership including the gouvernail position, group dynamics, and re-enactment knowledge and skills. Participants will also learn Indigenous peoples’ practices in the development of large canoes, the historical development of Voyageur canoes for the fur trade, and the potential for these canoes to play a role in reconciliation and adaptive paddling. This course is great for staff in camps, educational institutes, and organizations using Voyageur canoes for team-building, trips, and re-enactments. Participants who successfully complete the course will receive Voyageur Canoe Level 1 (VC1) and Voyageur Canoe Level 2 (VC2) certification from ORCKA. Participants who are eager for more may also be able to achieve certification for Voyageur Canoe Level 3 – Voyageur Canoe Day-Trip and Overnight Wilderness Trip Leader.Itinerary
📅 Arrive: Sunday, Sep. 7 after 5 PM — Set up camp
🚣 Training Begins: Monday, Sep. 8 at 8 AM
🏕️ Completion: Friday, Sep. 12 by 5 PMDifficulty: Moderate
The course will be conducted in calm to moderate water conditions with waves under 2 feet. The pace will be relaxed at times and challenging at others. Participants must be able to perform the following essential functions:- Independently breathe (i.e., without a medical device), maintain a sealed airway while under water, turn from face-down to face-up and remain floating face up while wearing a properly fitted life jacket, hold head and body upright, enter and exit a canoe at a landing, re-enter a canoe in open water after a capsize, paddle, swim, communicate, and manage personal care and safety.
- See, hear, follow, and communicate instructions.
- Maintain a safe body position while performing all skills, maneuvers, lifts, carries, launches, activities, and rescues.
- Dress for all possible weather conditions and plan to be in the water every day.
- Be comfortable in a canoe and in the water.
- Participate throughout the class.
- Carry gear or a canoe for short distances.
- Paddle several hours at times.
Background
A Voyageur Canoe is a style of big canoe that was typically made from the bark of paper birch trees that was stretched over a white cedar frame. Voyageur canoes were originally designed based on birchbark canoes that had already been used by America’s Indigenous cultures for thousands of years. The Anishinaabe People of the Great Lakes region call the birchbark canoe wiigwaasi jiimaan, and the large freight canoes chi jiimaan (big canoe). These canoes have always been, and remain today, a key part of Anishinaabe life and culture.These canoes were widely used across North America, especially around the Great Lakes, during the 18th and 19th century by the French, French Canadians, and others, called Voyageurs, for exploration and to transport furs and other trade goods during the North American fur trade era. The largest Voyageur canoes, also called Montreal Canoes, were 36-40 feet long and about six feet wide, weighed about 600 pounds, could carry up to 9,000 pounds of cargo, and had a crew of 8-14 paddlers, called Voyageurs. The smaller Voyageur canoes, also called North Canoes, were 24-28 feet long and about four feet wide, weighed about 300 pounds, could carry about 3,000 pounds of cargo, and had a crew of 4-6 paddlers. Modern Voyageur-style canoes may be made with wood, fiberglass, aluminum, or plastic and are commonly used for recreation and historical reenactments. Without cargo, the larger canoes can handle up to 20 paddlers.
Price: $1,300 (spaces are limited and will be filled in the order that payments are received)
Deadline September 1stUpon registration, you will have access to the event "Group Forum" where the gear list, directions, and other important information can be found. Some of these details will be added closer to the event date.
Included:
- Expert instructors
- Staff with advanced safety and rescue certifications
- Campsite and waterfront permits, user fees
- All meals Monday breakfast through Friday lunch
- Group gear (group tarp, camp kitchen including cooking and eating utensils, comprehensive first aid kit)
- Purified drinking water in camp and at the course location
- Voyageur canoes
- Paddles
- Life jackets
- Course equipment (bailer/pump, ropes, communication/signaling/navigation devices, etc.)
Not Included: Rental gear available
- Personal gear items and a water bottle (a packing list will be provided)
- Notetaking items (pens, notepad)
- Personal snacks and drink mixes
- WI State Park sticker for vehicle parking
- Transportation
Photo credit of jiimaans and artwork used with permission from Fred Harrington, Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.
If you have any questions, please reach out to us at info@nowoutdoors.org
