1130 Greenleaf Avenue Wilmette, Illinois 60091 1.800.RECREATE +1.847.256.4409 www.nwpassage.com www.polarexplorers.com
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PRSrT STD U.S. Postage
The Northwest Passage Š
Making Adventure Dreams a Reality Since 1984
Chicagola Backpacking Kayaking Rock Climbing Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP)
Adventure Guide 2011
nd
The Northwest Passage
©
Sea Kayak Instruction
Serving as Chicago’s premiere sea kayaking outfit, The Northwest Passage offers a number of sea kayaking opportunities in Chicago and the surrounding area. From our basic Introduction to Sea Kayaking classes to more advanced paddling techniques to overnight adventures, we take pride in representing the most professional sea kayaking outfit and community in the Chicagoland area. With ACA and BCU certifications, The Northwest Passage instructors and guides have dedicated themselves to providing the highest quality of Sea Kayaking Instruction and leadership to each and every participant. If you’re looking to get started in the sport of kayaking or advance your skills in kayaking techniques, The Northwest Passage is your premier source for kayak instruction in Chicago and the Great Lakes. Introduction to Kayaking
This 3-hour Introduction to Sea Kayaking course covers the basics of sea kayaking. Our nationally certified guides will teach you what you need to know to get started in this wonderful world of sea kayaking. The course covers proper outfitting, forward stroke, reverse stroke, sweep strokes, kayak safety and wet-exits. If you already have a kayak or you are simply interested in learning how to sea kayak, this is a great course to get you started.
Skill Rating
1
2
3
Duration
9 a.m. - 12 p.m. (Saturday/Sunday)
Location
Gillson Park, Wilmette, IL (primary location) or Skokie Lagoons
Price
$79
Dates
June 4 June 26 July 2 July 10 Aug. 7 Aug. 13 Aug. 27 Sept. 11
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Photo by: Keith Heger,
Advanced Kayaking Techniques
Basic Rescue Skills
This 3-hour Sea Kayaking course is designed to introduce and teach you basic sea kayaking rescues used throughout the paddling world. Our nationally certified guides will teach you a step-by-step process for every rescue we cover through this course. Safety is the most important thing when it comes to sea kayaking and our guides are versed in the most recent rescues out there.
Skill Rating
1
2
3
4
This 3-hour Sea Kayaking course is designed to enhance your paddling techniques to prepare you for different sea kayaking conditions. Our nationally certified guides will teach you what you need to know to get you moving to the next level of sea kayaking. This course covers proper outfitting, high-brace stroke, low-brace stroke, sweep strokes, draw strokes and kayak safety & awareness.
Skill Rating
1
Duration
1 p.m. - 4 p.m. (Saturday/Sunday)
2
3
4
Duration
1 p.m. - 4 p.m. (Saturday/Sunday)
Location
Gillson Park, Wilmette, IL (primary location) or Skokie Lagoons
Location
Gillson Park, Wilmette, IL (primary location) or Skokie Lagoons
Price
$79
Price
$79
Dates
June 4 July 10 Aug. 7 Aug. 27
Dates
June 26 July 2 Aug. 13 Sept. 11
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“We were extremely satisfied with the overall experience. We would definitely do it again, as well as recommend NWP to other organizations.” – Brian Monje, Mayor Daley’s Region 1 Youth Net
Photo by: The Northwest Passage Staff
Kayaking Fundamentals I
This full day Sea Kayaking course is designed to introduce and provide you with a foundation for sea kayaking. Our nationally certified guides will teach you a step-by-step process for every sea kayaking skill we cover throughout this course. Instruction will include but is not limited to: forward stroke, reverse stroke, forward sweep, reverse sweep, wet-exits, rescues, proper paddling technique, safety & more. Once you have built the basics, we encourage you to return for a Fundamentals II course.
Skill Rating
1
2
3
4
Duration
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Saturday/Sunday)
Location
Gillson Park, Wilmette, IL (primary location) or Skokie Lagoons
Price
$99
Dates
June 11 June 25 July 17 July 31 Aug. 20 Sept. 4 Sept. 25 Oct. 2
Kayaking Fundamentals II
This full day Sea Kayaking course is designed to elevate and build your sea kayaking skills and experience. Our nationally certified guides will teach you a step-by-step process for every sea kayaking skill we cover throughout this course. We expect that participants already have a foundation of basic sea kayaking skills (see Introduction to Sea Kayaking and/or Fundamentals I) that we can help develop into more advanced techniques. This course will focus on advanced strokes, rescues, safety, awareness & more.
Skill Rating
1
2
3
4
Duration
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Saturday/Sunday)
Location
Gillson Park, Wilmette, IL (primary location) or Skokie Lagoons
Price
$99
Dates
June 12 July 16 Aug. 14 Sept. 18 Sept. 24 1.800.RECREATE (732-7328) | www.nwpassage.com
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Private Instruction & Packages
Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP)
Learn to Kayak Series
Looking to jump into the exciting sport of sea kayaking? Look no further. The Northwest Passage has packaged the premier sea kayaking instruction opportunity. Begin your summer with a Fundamentals I clinic followed by two day or evening paddles to cement your skills followed by a Fundamentals II clinic. This progression is sure to provide you with the confidence and skills to jump-start your sea kayaking career. Choose from any of the Fundamentals dates and Chicago Day Kayaking dates. Learn on your time at one low cost.
Skill Rating
1
2
3
4
Ever wanted to stand up on a surfboard and slice gracefully through the water? Well, you don’t have to fly to Hawaii to do it! Come Stand Up Paddleboarding with us. You’ll learn to navigate a board with a long, single-bladed paddle, read the water from an elevated vantage point and maybe even ride a few waves back into shore. Come see why SUP boarding, or “Waikiki Beach Boy Surfing,” is one of the world’s fastest growing watersports.
Skill Rating
1
2
3
Duration
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Duration
See Fundamentals dates and Chicago Day Kayaking.
Price
$50/lessons, $90/private instruction
Includes
Instruction and Equipment
Dates
June 4 June 27 July 2 July 10 Aug. 7 Aug. 13 Aug. 27 Sept. 11
Fundamentals I, Fundamentals II and two Day or Evening Paddles (see Chicago Day Kayaking)
Location
Gillson Park, Wilmette, IL (primary location) or Skokie Lagoons
Price
$250
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Skills to Thrills
Sea kayaking can be an exciting method of exploration and discovery. Let The Northwest Passage provide you with the opportunity to learn new skills and explore new places. Your experience will begin with a Fundamentals I clinic to sharpen your sea kayaking skills followed by a thrilling overnight adventure. You choose the Fundamentals I date and any of our local three-day Door County or Lower Wisconsin trips. Learn on your time at one low cost.
Skill Rating
1
2
Duration
See Fundamentals dates and individual trip dates.
Includes
Instruction and Equipment
3
4
Fundamentals I and one Door County or Lower Wisconsin trip
Location
See individual clinic and trip details.
Price
$400
Pool Rolling & Rescues Class
This 8-hour, four-evening class covers the basic progression of Eskimo rolling and deep-water rescues. Each class includes classroom instruction followed by exercises in the pool. Three evenings will focus on rolling while one focuses on rescues. A high instructor to student ratio (1:3) will ensure a steep learning curve.
Skill Rating
1
2
3
4
Photo by: The Northwest Passage Staff
Kayaking Private Instruction
One-on-one private instruction from the Chicago area’s finest ACA and BCU-certified instructors! Whether you want to refine your strokes with personalized attention or learn a new skill, a private lesson offers the perfect environment.
Duration
7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Location
Life Time Fitness - Skokie, IL
Price
$199
Skill Rating
Dates
Session IV: Oct. 2, 9, 16 & 23 Session V: Oct. 30, Nov. 6, 13 & 20
Details
Contact the office to arrange a time and location that best fits your schedule.
Price
$90/per person, 2 hours private instruction
4
1
2
3
$70/per person, 2 hours semi-private (2 or more) instruction
4
Signature Paddle Series
No experience necessary! We will set out on the water to enjoy the sights our wonderful coastline has to offer. These 2-hour sea kayaking programs are designed for participants looking to experience the tranquility of sea kayaking without a full instructional course. *We’ll meet at Gillson Park, Wilmette, IL (our primary location) or Skokie Lagoons.
Chicago Day Kayaking
This is a great way to take advantage of a summer adventure and experience the pleasures of paddling under the close supervision of Chicago’s most experienced guides.
Skill Rating
1
2
3
4
Duration
Two hour sessions (held Tuesday & Wednesday evenings, Friday morning, and Saturday/Sunday day and evening)
Price
$55
Dates
Please call or visit us online to schedule your outing.
Photo by: The Northwest Passage Staff
Weekend Wrap-up
Close the weekend and start the week refreshed and invigorated.
Skill Rating Duration
1
2
3
4
6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Aug. & Sept. Please call to confirm as times vary as days become shorter.
Price
$55
Dates
June 5 June 26 July 10 July 24 Aug. 7 Aug. 28 Sept. 11 Sept. 25
Friday Morning Escapes Photo by: Northwestern University
Morning Meditation & Kayaking
Transcend the everyday with this combination yoga, meditation and kayaking experience.
Skill Rating Duration
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Price
$75
Dates
July 15 Sept. 19
1
2
3
4
Skill Rating
1
Duration
10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Price
$55
Dates
June 3 July 8 Aug. 5 Sept. 2
2
3
4
3
4
Summer Holiday Kayaking
What better way to spend a day off than on the Lake!
Kayak & Coffee
Link’s Sweet Bean and The Northwest Passage invite you to put some adventure in your coffee break! We’ll start out with an invigorating morning paddle, then relax with a soothing cup of coffee and a sweet treat.
Skill Rating
Vacation days, stay at home moms and dads - join us as we kick the weekend off with a relaxing morning escape.
1
Duration
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Price
$65
Dates
June 17 July 22 Aug. 19 Sept. 16
2
3
4
Skill Rating
1
Duration
10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Price
$59
Dates
Memorial Day, May 30 Father’s Day, June 19 Independence Day, July 4 Labor Day, Sept. 5 Columbus Day, Oct. 10
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+1.847.256.4409 | www.nwpassage.com
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Midwest Kayaking
Apostle Islands
“We were very, very pleased with The Northwest Passage approach to our Boundary Waters trip. The guides – Jon and Connor were skilled, professional, experienced and patient with our Boy Scouts. We’ll be back!” – Paul Brown, Troop #210
Photo by: Ryan Allen, Guide
Apostle Islands:
Door County:
Rich in sea caves, lighthouses and sandy shores, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a sea kayaker’s dream. Disappear into this pristine collection of islands and shoreline featuring a potpourri of stunning geological formations - caverns, arches and pillars - uniquely accessible to kayakers. We’ll pack our gear into our kayaks and set out to explore. You’ll spend four days paddling the deep blue waters of Lake Superior before bedding down under the big sky over Gitchee Goomee at night. This trip offers an ideal introduction to kayak tripping for the paddler with local experience.
With yoga sessions in the mornings and evenings, combined with wonderful kayaking excursions on Lake Michigan’s scenic shores, you will experience Door County like never before. We have created a weekend program designed to teach you the basics of sea kayaking (no experience necessary) during the day, complemented with yoga and meditation each morning and evening. Join us as we embark on a journey of the mind, body and spirit in one of the most beautiful locations Lake Michigan has to offer.
Kayaking & Camping
Skill Rating
1
2
3
4
Yoga, Kayaking & Camping Retreat
Skill Rating
1
Duration
3 days, 2 nights
Duration
5 days, 4 nights
Depart
Peninsula State Park, Wisconsin
Depart
Bayfield, Wisconsin
Price
$485
Price
$685
Dates
July 22-24
Dates
June 8-12 July 6-10 Aug. 3-7 Aug. 10-14 (Family Date) Sept. 1-5
Photo by: Keith Heger, Guide
2
3
4
Door County:
Kayaking & Camping Weekend
Relish in the beauty of Door County’s scenic coves, lighthouses, and sandy beaches while you learn or enhance your sea kayaking skills on the clear, calm waters of Green Bay. You’ll spend some time learning or reviewing the basics of sea kayaking, including paddling techniques and open water rescues, then enjoy the weekend on the water surrounded by beauty. With a base camp on the Door County peninsula, we’ll paddle one day on the bayside and another day on the Lake Michigan side. This is a fabulous weekend for beginner and/or experienced paddlers.
Skill Rating
6
1
2
3
4
Duration
3 days, 2 nights
Depart
Peninsula State Park, Wisconsin
Price
$385
Dates
June 3-5 July 8-10 (Family Date) July 15-17 Aug. 12-14 (Family Date) Aug. 19-21 Sept. 9-11
Isle Royale
Pukaskwa Provincial Park:
Kayaking Adventure
If you are an intermediate or advanced paddler looking for a first-class wilderness kayak tour, join us for a week of paddling one of the most scenic sixty-mile stretches of coastline on any of the Great Lakes. We will paddle past pristine wilderness, white sand beaches, and explore the mouths of cascading rivers as they join forces with Lake Superior. This is one of the finest wilderness paddling adventures Gitchee Goomee has to offer.
Skill Rating
Photos by: Ryan Allen, Guide
Isle Royale, Lake Superior:
Kayaking & Camping Adventure
Located 22 miles off-shore in the world’s largest lake, Isle Royale is the most realistic sea-like destination for sea kayakers in the Midwest. The waters can be calm or challenging, offering both adventure and wild beauty as we paddle the southern shore and nearby Amygdaloidal Islands. From protected coves to exposed points, and abandoned fishing villages to restored lighthouses, Isle Royale offers a fantastic sea kayaking escape. You will also have plenty of time to relax and explore some of the many hiking trails found within the least-visited national park in the world.
Skill Rating Duration
8 days, 7 nights
Depart
Rock Harbor, Isle Royale
Price
$1,595
Dates
Sept. 2-9
1
2
3
4
Depart
Munising, Michigan
Price
$685
Dates
June 15-19 July 13-17
Hattie Cove, Ontario
Price
$1,895
Dates
Aug. 25-31
4
Wisconsin River:
Kayaking & Camping Weekend
This beautiful stretch of the Wisconsin State Riverway is ideal for easy paddling and camping. Just a few hours northwest of Chicago, the Wisconsin River provides a perfect escape that surrounds you with beautiful scenery and the sounds of nature. If you are looking for a weekend getaway that will refresh and reward you, look no further.
Skill Rating
1
2
3
4
Duration
3 days, 2 nights
Depart
Mazomanie, Wisconsin
Price
$325
Dates
May 27-29 July 29-31 (Family Date) Sept. 16-18 Sept. 23-25
Enjoy our very own central Illinois paddling gem. Often described as one of the most scenic stretches of river in Illinois, the Rock River offers the casual sea kayaker a paradise of paddling possibilities. Join us for an amazing Northwest Passage escape.
Skill Rating
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers some of the most spectacular coastline on the southern shore of Lake Superior. Spend five days exploring the cliffs, coves and forests of this remote and wonderful area. Superior’s clear blue waters offer the Midwest’s finest paddling, a perfect environment for intermediate or experienced paddlers. At night, you’ll enjoy hearty meals under the stars and relax around the campfire. 5 days, 4 nights
Depart
3
Kayaking & Camping Weekend
Kayaking & Camping Trip
Duration
8 days, 7 nights
2
Rock River:
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore:
Skill Rating
Duration
1
1
2
3
Duration
3 days, 2 nights
Depart
Oregon, Illinois
Price
$325
Dates
July 22-24 Aug. 19-21
1
2
3
4
4
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Midwest Rock Climbing & Backpacking
Devil’s Lake
Photo by: Keith Heger, Guide
Devil’s Lake:
Devil’s Lake:
Join us for an introduction to the exciting world of rock climbing and hiking at Devil’s Lake State Park. Surround yourself with colorful bluffs and trees as we teach the basics of climbing to beginners and challenging climbs to those of you ready to take it higher. Our experienced guides will show you the ropes - literally - and help you reach your goals.
Can’t decide whether to spend the weekend kayaking or rock climbing? Don’t! Join us for a multi-sport weekend at beautiful Devil’s Lake. Spend the first day learning the basics of rock climbing, putting your new skills to use and marveling at the fantastic view of the lake from high atop the colorful bluffs. The following day give your climbing muscles a rest and glide across the sparkling lake using newly acquired kayaking skills. High adventure in two sports, don’t miss out on this trip.
Multi-Sport Adventure & Camping Weekend
Rock Climbing & Camping Weekend
Skill Rating
1
2
3
4
Duration
3 days, 2 nights
Skill Rating
Depart
Devil’s Lake State Park, Wisconsin
Duration
3 days, 2 nights
Price
$325
Depart
Devil’s Lake State Park, Wisconsin
Dates
May 6-8 June 17-19 June 24-26 (Family Date) July 8-10 Aug. 5-7 (Family Date) Sept. 2-4 (Labor Day)
Price
$365
Dates
June 24-26 Sept. 16-18
Isle Royale, Lake Superior:
Explore the best of the “Big Island” on our 45-mile traverse of Isle Royale, the largest island in Lake Superior and the best kept secret of our national parks. A natural sanctuary for wildlife and nature lovers, Isle Royale offers opportunities to observe moose, beaver, muskrat, fox, mink and a vast array of other wildlife in their natural habitat. Spend your nights relaxing around the campfire and listening for the nocturnal serenade of wolves or the call of the loons. One of our Top-5 places to visit in the United States, Isle Royale will take you away from it all. 1
2
3
4
Porcupine Mountains:
Backpacking & Camping Adventure
Skill Rating
1
2
3
4
Backpacking & Camping Trip
Picturesque trails and sparkling waterfalls await you in the Porcupine Mountains in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on this introductory backpacking trip. If you’ve never been on an overnight backpacking trip or are looking for a chance to explore the unique wilderness of the Midwest, this long weekend in the “Porkies” is a great opportunity. Join us for three nights and four days of hiking, playing and relaxing amid the hills and brooks of these picturesque mountains.
Skill Rating
1
2
3
4
Duration
8 days, 7 nights
Duration
4 days, 3 nights
Depart
Rock Harbor, Isle Royale
Depart
Ontonagon, Michigan
Price
$1,395
Price
$425
Dates
Aug. 21-28
Dates
May 27-30 July 14-17 July 21-24 (Family Date) Sept. 8-11
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Adventures Outside the Midwest
Greenland
Florida Everglades:
Kayaking & Camping Tour
Join us as we explore the wetlands of southern Florida by sea kayak. The Everglades are home to a rich diversity of plant and animal species and was named a World Heritage Site in 1987. The wetlands offer the silent sea kayaker a wonderful opportunity to explore and experience the sandy beaches, morning sunrises and the famous “Chickees” where we’ll camp.
Skill Rating
Duration
7 days, 6 nights
Depart
Fort Myers, Florida
Price
$1,495
Dates
Oct. 30-Nov. 5 Nov. 6-12
1
2
3
4
Photo by: Dirk Jensen, Guide
Greenland Adventure Paddling:
Sea Kayaking & Camping
Ely, Minnesota:
Lodge-Based Dogsledding
Plan ahead and experience winter at its finest as you spend your days exploring the Boundary Waters Canoe Area by dogsled, then retreat to the warmth and comfort of our cozy northern lodges for four nights to enjoy the well-earned luxuries of delicious meals and warm fires. Learn the basics of dogsledding during the day from harnessing and driving the dogs, to navigating the frozen lakes and snowy trails.
Skill Rating
1
2
3
4
An incredible opportunity to explore the fjords of Greenland’s west coast by kayak. Stunning views of glaciers, mountains and fjords are daily highlights. This trip combines fabulous kayaking with camping in some of the world’s most remote environments. A traditional Greenlandic dinner and hotel stay along the Jacobsfjord awaits your return from the wilderness. The perfect adventure destination for the enthusiastic paddler.
Skill Rating
1
Duration
10 days, 9 nights
Duration
5 days, 4 nights
Lodging
Hotels/Tents
Depart
Ely, Minnesota
Depart
Reykjavik, Iceland
Price
$1,695
Price
$3,895
2012 Dates
Jan. 25-29 Feb. 26-March 1
Dates
July 21-30
2
3
4
Lake Powell, Utah:
Spitsbergen, Norway:
The geological formations in the southwestern region of the United States are about as magnificent as anyone can imagine. Surrounded by the beautiful red rock that makes up Glen Canyon, we will explore the hidden-most parts of Lake Powell that have only recently become accessible to kayaks only. Imagine a painted sky at the end of the day that changes from a breathtaking sunset to a star-filled sky that is larger than life - all right before your eyes. It doesn’t get any better than this. Join us as we set out for the southwest on this special trip.
Renowned for its soaring mountains, glaciers, alpine valleys and polar bears, Spitsbergen is an adventurer’s paradise. In recent years, it has also become a staging area for North Pole expeditions, including our own. Join us as we embark on a kayak camping journey through this arctic playground. We will travel through a protected wildlife refuge, home to polar bears, reindeer, arctic fox, seals, walruses, narwhal and killer whales. Spitsbergen boasts the high Arctic’s greatest variation in nature and fauna. Come explore with us!
Sea Kayaking, Hiking & Camping
Sea Kayaking & Camping Adventure
Skill Rating
1
2
3
4
Skill Rating
1
Duration
7 days, 6 nights
Duration
10 days, 9 nights
Lodging
1-Night Hotel/5-Nights Camping
Lodging
Hotels/Tents
Depart
Flagstaff, Arizona
Depart
Longyearbyen, Norway
Price
$1,795
Price
$3,895
Dates
April 10-16 April 17-23 Sept. 11-17 Sept. 18-24
Dates
Aug. 6-15
2
3
4
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Greece -
Adventures in Crete, Santorini, Naxos, Paros/Antiparos, Milos & Gavdos
Denali, Alaska -
7+3 Father-Son, Daddy-Daughter Expedition Series
The Northwest Passage offers many more exciting adventures! Please visit our website or call us directly for more information or to request a catalog detailing our memorable and exciting travels. Go to www.nwpassage.com for links to our adventure blogs, Facebook and MySpace!
Galapagos Island Multi-Sport Adventure
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Mexico Yoga Retreat
Meet Our Guides At The Northwest Passage, we’re proud of our family of guides and instructors. We choose our guides for their experience in their field, attention to safety, dedication to positive group experiences, and knowledge of the trip area. Our guides are always personable and professional. All instructors hold certification in First Aid (usually Wilderness First Aid) as well as appropriate certifications and/or awards in their area of expertise. All of our instructors and guides enjoy sharing their adventures and experience.
Custom Adventures
The Northwest Passage has created custom adventures for: Active Endeavors
Emily Oaks Nature Center
JCC of Chicago
Skokie Park District
Arlington Heights Park District
Endangered Spirit
Lake Forest Park District
The Sierra Club
Boy Scout Troops
Erehwon
Lakeshore Ski Club
Tom & Woods Outfitters
Broadtree Adventures
Evanston Ecology Center
LaSalle Partners
Uncle Dan’s Outfitters
Camp Manito-Wish Alumni
Get Up and Go!
Loyola Academy
Wilmette Park District
Chicago Park District
Girl Scout Troops
Mayer Kaplan JCC
Windy City Sports
Chicago Highlife Adventures
Glencoe Park District
Merchandise Mart
Young Presidents’ Organization
College of DuPage
Goldman Sachs
NOLS
Cove School
Heller Nature Center
Northwestern University
Deerfield High School
iExplore
Outside Magazine
Eastern Mountain Sports
Indian Hills Ski Club
R.E.I.
As well as many other companies, organizations and private groups. Please call 1.800.RECREATE today to plan your next group adventure!
Do it your way! Whether you’re looking for a way to spice up the company picnic or the family reunion, whether you want to get a group of Scouts on the water or your board members really “outside of the box,” a custom outing with The Northwest Passage is the answer. From a 2-hour kayak outing to a custom flight to the North Pole, we offer adventures limited only by your imagination. We work with local park districts and multi-million dollar corporations, families, ski clubs, high schools and outdoor retailers to create the perfect group adventure. Our dedication to high-quality custom adventures has earned us a long list of satisfied clients. 1.800.RECREATE (732-7328) | www.nwpassage.com
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The Northwest Passage
©
Since 1984, The Northwest Passage has been providing quality kayaking trips and adventure programs for our clients here in Chicago, across the country and around the world. Whether you’re looking to kayak the clear blue waters of ancient Crete or learn the basics of paddling, we pride ourselves on providing only the highest quality possible. Our Mission
The Northwest Passage Adventure Programs are designed to be fun, enhance personal development, promote self-confidence and teach skills through adventure challenge while providing a safe and exciting environment for every participant.
Skill Ratings 1
1
2
3
“Thank you very much for such a very special experience. I didn’t realize until I was home, that a major reason I enjoyed myself so much is because I felt safe and comfortable the entire time. I felt comfortable because I felt safe, I felt safe because your staff is so competent” – Melanie & Alex, Apostle Islands
4
Easy
No Experience Required! Our guides will work with you to help you learn a new sport or become comfortable with the outdoors. Calm waters, well marked trails and helpful instructors characterize these trips. An eager spirit and a smile are all you need.
2
Moderate
Try out new skills, learn new techniques and stretch your comfort zone a little. You’ll encounter short open water crossings, 20-30 mile bike rides and full day hikes over varied terrain. Your heart rate will go up, but no special conditioning is necessary. Basic experience with the trip activities is required and our guides will help you expand your skills and take on new challenges.
3
Photo by: John Lionberger, Guide
Demanding
4
Extreme
Your level of skill and physical conditioning must be high as you may encounter adverse conditions that will test your abilities. You’ll spend both days and nights in some of the most extreme conditions the planet has to offer. You will test all your limits. Trip specific preparation is required and you must obtain the consent of the trip leader to participate. All outings require a minimum number of participants.
Photo by: The Northwest Passage Staff
When you’re proficient in the basic and intermediate skills of any sport and are ready for open water, challenging weather, backcountry camping and a chance to push your limits without going over the top, this is your level. Prepare in advance for some strenuous days in order to fully enjoy these adventures.
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