Northern Tier High Adventure

Northern Tier National High Adventure Bases

Northern Tier High Adventure is one of the three National High Adventure Bases operated by the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). It is located in the northern part of the state of Minnesota, near the border with Canada. The base offers wilderness canoeing expeditions in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) in Minnesota and the Quetico Provincial Park in Ontario, Canada.

History

Northern Tier High Adventure was established in 1923, making it the oldest of the BSA's high adventure bases. The base was originally known as the Region Ten Canoe Base and was later renamed the Charles L. Sommers Wilderness Canoe Base in honor of a prominent Scouting leader. Over the years, the base has expanded its programs and facilities to accommodate a growing number of participants.

Programs

Northern Tier offers several different programs designed to provide Scouts with a challenging and rewarding wilderness experience. These programs include:

• Ely Base - The main base located near Ely, Minnesota, which serves as the starting point for most canoeing expeditions into the BWCAW.
• Atikokan Base - Located in Atikokan, Ontario, this base offers access to the Quetico Provincial Park.
• Bissett Base - Situated in Bissett, Manitoba, this base provides access to the remote wilderness areas of northern Manitoba.

Activities

Participants in Northern Tier High Adventure programs engage in a variety of outdoor activities, including:

• Canoeing - The primary activity, with routes ranging from easy to challenging.
• Fishing - Opportunities to fish for species such as walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass.
• Camping - Wilderness camping in remote areas, often on islands or along the shores of pristine lakes.
• Wildlife observation - The chance to see animals such as moose, black bears, and bald eagles.

Training and Safety

Northern Tier places a strong emphasis on training and safety. All participants receive instruction in wilderness skills, including navigation, first aid, and Leave No Trace principles. The base also provides experienced guides, known as "Interpreters," who accompany each crew to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Environmental Stewardship

Northern Tier is committed to preserving the natural environment of the areas in which it operates. The base follows strict environmental guidelines and encourages participants to practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the wilderness.

See Also

• Philmont Scout Ranch
• Florida National High Adventure Sea Base
• Boy Scouts of America
• Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
• Quetico Provincial Park