BOLD GOLD

Here in Minnesota and Western Wisconsin, we operate canoeing and rock climbing trips for youth ages 11-18. We run out of four camps — two closer to the Twin Cities (Camps Ihduhapi and St. Croix) and two in northern Minnesota (Camps Widjiwagan and Menogyn).

Canoeing trips operated by Camp St. Croix and Camp Ihduhapi canoe on the St. Croix River. Trips operated by Camp Widjiwagan and Camp Menogyn canoe in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Our BOLD GOLD trips are unique from other tripping opportunities, as we intentionally engage youth in a curriculum focused on leadership development, cultural competency, and community building.  

• Tier One trips are typically for younger youth who want a shorter tripping experience. Tier one trips usually run two nights tenting on the trail, with the rest of the time spent in camp prepping for the trip or closing out a group's time together.
• Tier Two trips are longer for youth interested in spending more time on the trail.
• Tier Three trips are for youth who want a long wilderness expedition, where you can build on skills and curriculum learned during shorter trip experiences.

• Learn how to persevere and practice resilience in the face of challenges.
• Develop emotional intelligence by practicing the YMCA way with each group member.
• Learn to work with peers of different backgrounds in an emotionally and physically safe environment.
• Develop the multicultural leadership and communication skills needed to be successful in an increasingly globalized world.
• Find personal success, ally with others, serve their community, and feel needed and respected amongst their peers.