Teen Science Expedition: Apostle Islands
Imagine kayaking through a sea cave and exploring North America’s largest freshwater lake. Now make it a reality: Join us in the Apostle Islands as we discover the beauties of Lake Superior's natural treasures while learning about aquatic science and exploring the ecology of the Great Lakes region. No camping or kayaking experience is necessary.
Age
High school teens (14+)
Program dates
Registration is closed.
Program fee
$1,750 ($1,575 for Shedd members)
A nonrefundable deposit of $500 is due at the time of registration, and the remaining balance is due within 30 days of registration or by May 1, whichever is sooner.
Highlights
On this trip, participants will
- Kayak to remote islands accessed by a limited number of people each year to camp in the wilderness
- Practice conducting science experiments and methods in the field to learn about animals
- Connect to culture of Native Americans of the region
- Participate in team-building activities that foster friendships and personal growth
- Have fun and make lifelong friends and memories
related program
Program dates
July 8-14
Included
- Tents, camping pads, dry bags and sleeping bags for 6 nights of camping
- Meals and snacks each day
- Wetsuits, paddles and kayaking instruction
- Guided hikes and paddles with Shedd Aquarium’s experienced instructors
- Guided science investigations with appropriate permits
- Travel costs between Chicago and Bayfield, Wisconsin
What do participants say about Teen Science Expedition: Apostle Islands?
“This trip has taught me so many new things about the environment and how we play a role in the changes that happen to it. I have so many new friends now and so many new views on the world.”
“This trip made me realize that I really did enjoy science more than I thought I did and that I would actually want to major in a science field.”
“I met a group of amazing people through this program that I can call family. I also saw some amazing things such as the sea caves, animals (bears, eagles, etc.) and learned a lot of history (the sunken ships, Native American history).”
“I am truly grateful for being a part of such an amazing experience that I will remember for the rest of my life.”
“I feel like when the basic luxuries of living in society are taken away, so many more doors open up to experiencing new things.”
“It usually takes me long periods of time before I am comfortable conversing with people; however, this program brought me out of my comfort zone and connected me with not only nature but also with people. I can truly say the connections you make on this trip will be unforgettable.”
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At Shedd Aquarium, it is our mission to spark curiosity, compassion and conservation for the aquatic animal world. One of the best ways to do this is to dive directly into nature! This trip will provide teen participants with an opportunity to learn about the animals and ecology of the Great Lakes region, including – fishes, amphibians, birds and mammals, - through science investigation and exploration. Expeditioners will become one with nature as they camp for a full week on the beautiful Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Wilderness Inquiry provides camping gear, permits and expertise as groups kayak from island to island, exploring sea caves and learning about the diverse ecosystems surrounding Lake Superior. Join us as we discover the beauties of Lake Superior's natural treasures while learning about aquatic science and local wildlife in the Apostle Islands with Shedd Aquarium instructors. No camping or kayaking experience necessary!
On this trip, participants will
- Kayak to remote islands, accessed by a limited number of people each year, to camp in the wilderness
- Practice conducting science experiments and methods in the field to learn about animals
- Connect to the cultures of Native Americans of the region
- Participate in team-building activities that foster friendships and personal growth
- Have fun and make lifelong friends and memories
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This program is led by Shedd Aquarium’s learning specialists, who have years of experience facilitating learning programs in a variety of outdoor settings. Each instructor is Wilderness First Aid- and Wilderness Water Safety-certified. Families will meet instructors at the program orientation. Our partner, Wilderness Inquiry, will outfit the group with all camping materials, skills and permits necessary for the trip.
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Hearty, healthy, teen-friendly meals and snacks are provided each day so participants can focus on learning and exploring. Wilderness Inquiry can accommodate food preferences, allergies and restrictions, including vegan and vegetarian meals. Please notify us of these in the food preference paperwork during orientation.
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This is a seven-day, six-night camping experience in Bayfield, Wisconsin, and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. An orientation will precede the trip, during which parents and guardians can ask questions, and participants will get to know each other and learn more about what to expect.
Program cost includes
- Tents, camping pads, dry bags and sleeping bags for six nights of camping
- Meals and snacks each day
- Wetsuits, paddles and kayaking instruction
- Guided hikes and paddles with Shedd Aquarium’s experienced instructors
- Guided science investigations with appropriate permits
- Travel costs between Chicago and Bayfield, Wisconsin
Requirements
Signed doctor’s note approving the trip’s activities.
Must be comfortable near water and open to outdoor living experiences and physical activities such as hiking, kayaking and backpacking.
Program fee
$1,750 ($1,575 for Shedd members)
A nonrefundable deposit of $500 is due at the time of registration, and the remaining balance is due within 30 days of registration or by May 1, whichever is sooner.
Physical activities
- Hiking over uneven terrain
- Lifting and carrying activity equipment
- Being outdoors in hot/cold weather or rain
- Kayaking for 2+ hours at a time
Change in Plans?
Please review our refund and cancellation policy.
Questions?
Email us or call 312-939-2438.