Image 1 of 7
Image 2 of 7
Image 3 of 7
Image 4 of 7
Image 5 of 7
Image 6 of 7
Image 7 of 7
June 6, 2026
9am-3pm
Interested in a wilderness canoe adventure this summer, but not sure where to start? Join us for a one-day Wilderness Canoeing Basics 101 course, designed to give you the confidence and knowledge to plan and take your own canoe adventure near or far.
This course covers the essentials of wilderness canoe travel, from choosing the right destination to mastering the fundamental paddling and camping skills. You'll learn how to plan routes, prepare food and gear, and navigate the logistics of traveling in popular waterways such as the Boundary Waters, Quetico, and other Canadian Provincial Parks.
The day is divided into two main sections, the first part focusing on the pre-trip preparations, including route planning, food packing, and essential gear. The second part covers on-trail basics, where you'll learn paddling techniques, how to portage a canoe, map and compass basics, efficient canoe loading, and setting up a wilderness campsite.
All the necessary gear and course materials will be provided, but you are encouraged to bring clothing for outside portions of this class, as well as footwear that can be used for uneven terrain. Participants are also encouraged to bring any maps or gear they may have any questions about.
Your instructor, Zach Fritz, will share stories and photos from real canoe expeditions across North America to inspire and provide practical insight from years of experience. Whether you are new to canoeing or looking to take your paddling into the wilderness, this course is the perfect starting point for your next adventure!
Tuition: $80
Materials: $0
Since this is an all day course, lunch is included.
This course is for students 16+.
Look out for Wilderness Canoeing 102 (on July 11th & 12th), coming soon!
Your Instructor
ZACH FRITZ
(he/him)
Zach Fritz found his love for all things canoeing and the outdoors when he went on his first canoe trip when he was four years old. Since then, he has paddled thousands of miles through some of the last remaining wild places left in North America. Zach is passionate about sharing his love for the outdoors, seeking adventure, and the importance of getting out of your comfort zone. When off the water, Zach has found a love for building his own canoe paddles, bird hunting with his dog Scout, or anything else that will get him outside! Zach is currently living in Madison, WI while his girlfriend pursues her PhD at the University of Wisconsin.