Have you ever been on the NOLS trip to the Yukon territory?

L

Lexi Tyler

New member
I came across a program called NOLS and they offer semester programs, and I found one for the Yukon Territory. Any reviews/ comments? How is this program in general? How is this particular trip? Any extra information/ tips before I decide?
Thanks!
 
Hi Lexi,

I didn't do the NOLS semester, but I did the NOLS 30-day Backpack/Canoe course last summer (2010) and loved it. I also live in Yukon, so I am a little bias, but I can let you know that the scenery is amazing! The Yukon has lots of diverse characteristics, including magnificent mountains and tons of lakes and rivers. The semester program looks great because you really get to explore all these areas and aren't limited to one type of terrain. You get to climb, paddle, hike etc.. I know I'm extremely jealous of where the group last year spent their time (flying in a float plane, mountaineering, canoeing), especially when I returned home and I knew that there were still groups out there!

In terms of the NOLS programs - they know their stuff and will make sure you are prepared for the course. The Yukon does have some harsh climates, so be prepared for all/any weather! I'm sure you'd get a taste of everything the Yukon has to offer over the whole semester.,,but NOLS make sure you have the right gear and will teach you the leadership skills to help you along the way..One of my favorite things was getting creative with the food (backcountry cooking) and getting to know 15+ other individuals. The people that the Yukon courses attract are really amazing and it's the friendships that you build during your time that will really stick with you.

Maybe check out Facebook and Flickr for some pictures, there might be some from past years that will give you a good sense of what to expect.

Best of luck,
Lia Johnson
 
Hi Lexi,

I hope this message finds you well.

I had the great opportunity to spend a month on an outdoor educator course in the Yukon that was split across two disciplines (backpacking and whitewater canoeing).

Like the previous author, Lia, I am a resident of the Yukon and have been for 2 years: as such I may have some biases as well.

The Yukon is a wide, vast and sparsely populated place with amazing terrain, flora and fauna. When you are up here, you can be sure that very few people have been and seen what you will be experiencing. Unlike other write ups of wild spaces that you might come across (that often fall short), I can safely say that what NOLS has written about the Yukon is true. It is truly an amazing place.

As for the NOLS program, it provides a solid instruction on fundamental back country skills that you will be able to use across whatever outdoor discipline you choose to pursue in the future. You may even find that these skills will creep out into your front country life too ; )

Whatever program or semester you choose, I hope that it provides you with what you seek and more.

Take care,

George Kokuryo
 
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