Wolf Den Bunkhouse and Cabins Blog

March Break Retreat for Educators and Nature Lovers

2012-01-05T09:08:00.004-05:00

We are excited to be offering our fourth annual March Break Nature Retreat! This retreat will offer you a chance to rejuvenate in nature’s beauty, deepening your connection to, and understanding of, the natural world. We will be expanding our awareness & knowledge, while exploring some of the many uses of nature’s gifts. Learn new skills to bring back to the classroom or integrate into your life with friends, family, or at work. Families are welcome to attend and learn new ways to connect in the outdoors as a family.

A Children & Youth (6 – 16yrs) program will run simultaneously with the adult program.

When: March 12 – 15, 2011 (March Break)
Where: Wolf Den Hostel and Nature Retreat, Oxtongue, ON, 8 min West of Algonquin Park.
Food: We will provide healthy, wholesome dinners. Participants bring & prepare their own lunch & breakfast in the Wolf Dens communal kitchen.
Cost:  Includes 3 nights accommodations, 3 dinners, course materials, snow shoes extra if required.

Adult: $360

Youth/Child: $220

Activities Include:

Studying Wildlife through the “Eye of a Tracker”
Snowshoeing and Camp Fires
Basket and Container Making with Natural Materials
Wilderness Awareness Games/Activities
Story Telling
Wilderness Crafts with Natural Materials
Intro to Mentoring with Nature’s Cycles (Coyote Mentoring)
Good Food & Good Fun
And Much Much More

For more information please visit The P.I.N.E. Project

Algonquin Winter Wildlife Tracking

2011-12-21T10:32:00.003-05:00

Join White Pine Programs on it’s 13th Annual Winter Wildlife Tracking
trip to scenic & Wild Algonquin Provincial Park.

Over the past decade, White Pine Programs, a unique nature-based learning or-ganization from Maine, has developed a relationship with the Wildlife Research Station, a well-known field science facility located in the heart of Algonquin Park. As a result, we’re able to offer this unique educational expedition that focuses on wildlife tracking, winter ecology, and nature connection.

The goals of the trip are to immerse participants in a tracking culture. Each day, we scout for track & sign, make a plan, then track & trail wildlife all day in small groups. At the end of the day, we unwind, eat hearty meals, and share the story of the day, all the while making hypotheses as to the movements and interactions of the animals we track and trail.

Over the past 12 years, we’ve tracked & trailed: Eastern Wolf, American Mar-ten, Fisher, River Otter, Red Fox, Snowshoe Hare, Moose, White-Tailed Deer, Long and Short-Tailed Weasels, Mink, Ruffed Grouse, and more.
Topics Studied include: track identification, sign identification, trailing, trail interpretation, trail patterns vs. gaits, predictive trailing, winter birding, bird language, kill site analysis, and more.

Contribute to Science: Each year, we coordinate our efforts with those of various re-searchers in the park and serve as a data collection team- contributing to interesting studies. Past courses have collected data for studies on: Eastern Wolves, Moose, Fisher, Flying Squirrels, American Marten, & Gray Jays.
We only take 10 participants on this journey. Such small groups facilitate quality tracking time in the field and around the dinner table at night. The Staff is led by Dan Gardoqui and Alexis Burnett

Read the Reviews….
“This was a wonderful week. Small groups, excellent leader-ship, and exciting animal tracks wherever we looked. I could’ve stayed another week!” -2004 Participant
“Everyone was so supportive – the instructors & the group. It doesn’t matter where you are on your journey…beginner or experienced… you feel comfortable.” -2002 Participant
“The Algonquin Tracking trip is unbelievably rich with learning experi-ences – inside and out.” -2008 Participant

Register online http://www.whitepineprograms.org/get-involved/register/ or call 207-361-1911 today. There are only 10 spaces.
Dates: Sunday Feb. 19 - Friday, Feb. 24 2012
Cost: $695 USD (includes food, & lodging)
For more Details: Contact Dan Gardoqui dan@whitepineprograms.org

Edible Wilds and Medicinal Plants Class

2011-04-22T12:18:00.001-04:00

June 9th - 12th

Presented by Earth Tracks

The plant world provides many gifts for us; Nutrition, Medicine, Utilitarian Uses, Natural Beauty & Guidance among others. It can be hard to know where to start when first learning how to work with the plants that surround us. In this class the student will learn how to penetrate the ‘wall of green’ and begin their own journey with the plants that surround us. We will focus on proper identification techniques, the use of field guides, drying, storing and preparation of these plants, medicinal properties as well as herbal tea making. The participant will gain practical hands on experience and come away from the program with an understanding of how to pursue future studies of wild edible and medicinal plants. These skills and techniques will help to deepen your relationship with the plant nation and provide a solid foundation on which to increase your knowledge.

This class will take place at the Wolf Den Hostel and Nature Retreat
near Oxtongue lake next to Algonquin Park The cost of the program is $350 and includes 3 nights lodging, 3 dinners*, instruction and all materials.

Registration for this program will be done through Earth Tracks. We require a $100 deposit in order to secure your spot in the program. For more information please visit our website at http://www.earthtracks.ca/

For information on the Wolf Den and their facilities please visit their website at
http://www.wolfdenbunkhouse.com/

* We will supply 3 dinners. Participants are responsible for their own breakfast, lunch and snacks. Full kitchen facilities are available.

Wolf Den Green Building Workshop #1 - Stage Two - April 29th, 30th, May 1st

2011-04-14T12:21:00.003-04:00

The Wolf Den is currently undertaking its first building project. We are building a very small, experimental building using recycled material and alternative building methods. The building purpose is to explore less impactful building options while re-using waste materials. From the ground up the building will consist of used car tires, local timber, straw bale, used windows and doors, used glass bottles and possibly a living roof. The building will be off the grid with day lighting and solar powered LED lights for night time. The eventual building design will evolve through the process allowing for learning along the way

Stage one – Site Preparation – Removal of a few small trees and root systems - hand shovelling a hole10’X10’ wide and 4’ deep to get below the frost line. COMPLETE Many thanks go out to Earth Steward Intern Stephen Fuller, and our 2 Irish helpers Rory Maguire, and Mark Bulling. They spent many hours digging the hard ground while being devoured by blackflies and mosquitoes

Stage two – Foundation – No Gym memberships required for this great full body work out! The dirt removed from the hole will be pounded into used car tires which are stacked like bricks to form the foundation walls in a design sometimes referred to as earthship or tire home. The days will not just be pounding tires. There will be routines of health, community and nature incorporated into the event, including sit spots, morning exercises and stretching, nature hikes, music and pot luck meals.

Cost: Just your labour, eagerness to learn and a fun attitude

What you get: Free accommodation at the Wolf Den for Friday and Saturday nights. Experience with tire home building (also can be used for retaining walls), good work out, free guided interpretive nature hike, free time with nature.

To Register: Please email Ben at wden@wolfdenbunkhouse.com Space is limited to 6 people but we plan on running more workshops this summer.

Great Wilderness Clean up - May 14th

2011-04-11T10:35:00.002-04:00

The Wolf Den Hostel and Nature Retreat is proud to announce that once again we will be participating in the Great Wilderness Clean up.

On Saturday May 14th the Wolf Den, in partnership with Algonquin Outfitters will be forming The Wolf Pack to beautify interior sites in Algonquin Park. Participants will receive free day passes from Algonquin Park, free canoe rentals from Algonquin Outfitters, and ½ price accommodation from the Wolf Den. The event will begin on Friday night with organizing into groups and the distribution of gloves and bags. We will clean up all day Saturday, returning to the Wolf Den for a potluck supper and prizes provided by Algonquin Outfitters. This event is fun, social and extremely successful.

We will be keeping The Wolf Den group to a 30 person maximum for simplicity and effectiveness. Please contact The Wolf Den for further details.

Earth Steward Intern

2011-03-11T15:04:00.000-05:00

Come to the edge of Algonquin Park and immerse yourself in natural learning, primitive and traditional wilderness & naturalist skills, organic gardening, sustainable energy projects, permaculture and ecotourism. The Wolf Den Hostel and Earth Mentorship Programs have teamed up to create this great internship position. You will have the chance to build your resume while learning a diverse range of transferable skills that promote resiliency & adaptability in a changing world and stewardship of the land.

Tasks with the Wolf Den:
- 1 hour of cleaning in Wolf Den lodge per day
- Landscaping and organic gardening
- Assisting in development and implementation of permaculture planning
- Develop and implement interpretive nature trail
- Learn about various task involved in the operations management of an
ecotourism business and outdoor education business
- Assist in log building maintenance and the construction of a rammed tire foundation
- Assist in building alternative energy sources (ie. Solar collector, solar dehydrator)
- Assist Lake Steward in lake water sampling, lake vegetation
inventory, local nature club

Benefits and Programs:
- Complete Wilderness Awareness school Kamana 1 Naturalist training program
- Tent site at the Wolf Den and garden space/sharing and use of all facilities
- Meet people from all over the world
- Use your time off to explore the wonders of the Algonquin region by
canoe, kayak, bike, hiking, and camping.
- A chance to also learn about wilderness living skills, bush craft and sustainable living.

Tasks with Earth Mentorship Programs:
- Wild crafting natural materials for upcoming workshops such as plants & friction fire kits
- Preparing demo pieces such as bow drill kits and containers (you will be
mentored in how to do this)
-Helping collect forest inventory and write sustainable management plans for land owners
- Helping mentor local youth at wilderness skills summer camps
- Helping build primitive living camp including birch bark lodge
- Helping implement permaculture and forest gardening plans
- Working in organic garden

Educational workshops you will get to attend:
- Empowering Ancient Ways: April 21 – May 1 or Sept 4 – 10
- Intro to friction fires & bird language – May 13th & 14th
- Edible & medicinal plants – June 9 – 12
- Staff training for kids wilderness camps (wilderness skills mentoring intensive)
- Several other opportunities will likely be available and discussed at beginning of internship
- Ongoing mentoring throughout summer in tracking, naturalist skills and primitive/survival skills

For More information on these workshops please see: http://www.earthmentorship.com

Work hours: 4 hours per day mid may through until the end of August
Position is unpaid but provides many benefits including career skill development and programs worth over $1000 plus accommodation

Please send applications to Ben Teskey at wden@wolfdenbunkhouse.com by April 10th

Reading Week Special

2011-02-14T20:59:00.003-05:00

Looking for a fun and relaxing way to spend your school break? College and University Student special for this upcoming reading break of 25% off regular prices for students with valid student cards. Ski, snowshoe, hike, play some music, sweat it out in the sauna or even READ in our comfy lounge by the fireplace. If there is enough interest we are planning on running some survival and tracking workshops during this time as well. Inquire at wden@wolfdenbunkhouse.com Subject to availability!

Cheers, Ben
P.S. Please spread the word!

Wolf Den as a Wedding Venue

2011-02-07T11:02:00.001-05:00

We received this nice review from a guest who thinks the Wolf Den would make a nice wedding venue. Please read http://jessicalinphoto.blogspot.com/2011/02/unique-wedding-venue-wolf-den-algonquin.html Thanks

Program - March Break Retreat

2011-01-09T11:03:00.000-05:00

For Teachers, Parents, Educators &
Nature Lovers
March 15 - 18, 2010

Spend March Break relaxing in nature’s beauty, learning new skills to bring back to the classroom, to your day-to-day life, or to share with your children, while increasing your knowledge of the natural world.
Earth Mentorship Programs brings you the third annual, "March Break Nature Retreat - For Teachers, Parents, Other Educators, and Nature Lovers" being held at the Wolf Den Hostel and Nature Retreat on the edge of Algonquin Park.
Activities Include:
- Studying Wildlife through the Eye of a Tracker
- Snowshoeing and Camp Fires
- Basket and Container Making
- Wilderness Awareness Games/Activities
- Story Telling
- Wilderness Crafts with Natural Materials
- Intro to Earth Based Mentoring (coyote mentoring)
- Good Food & Good Fun
- Sauna
- And Much Much More

For more information please view:

Our Web Page: http://www.earthmentorship.com/
Or contact us at: 705-635-1991 or mailto:chris@earthmentorship.com

Tracking Club - January 30th

2011-01-04T13:37:00.000-05:00

Eastern Woodlands Tracking Club will be hosting a meeting at the Wolf Den on January 30th, 1pm - 5pm. All ages welcome. No experience necessary. Cost is only a willingness to learn and share.
We will spend the afternoon outside interpreting the stories written in the snow by the local wildlife. Past events have found us trailing; moose, deer, fisher, otter and wolf to name a few.

We track to understand better the life strategies and challenges of the animals we love. We read into how they move, what they eat, where they hang out, when they are active, what they react to...

Please let us know if you plan on attending.
Happy Trails!

Eastern Woodlands Tracking Club

2010-10-29T10:58:00.000-04:00

Have you ever been to a wilderness area that you thought was ripe with wildlife, only to see next to nothing? Wondered if something was wrong and the animals were gone? Wondered if they even existed?
Enter the world of tracking! Take your explorations deeper and you may find that the animals have left behind the story of their existance. Footprints, signs of feeding, getting rid of waste, bedding down for the night, playing, hunting and escaping (maybe from you?) are often all around you. When were they here? What were they doing? Why were they here? How were they moving? How are they influenced by the world around them and by time and space? These are the questions of the tracker.
Join us this Sunday, October 31st for our first meet of the year, at the Wolf Den, starting at 11:00. Topics will include tracking philosophy, animal forms, trailing, pressure releases, and tracking as a team. It is halloween so come dressed as an animal and bring a dish for a pot luck afterwards. This is an almost free event. The cost is a smile and a willingness to learn and share! Please email me, Ben at wden@wolfdenbunkhouse.com for more info. Happy Tracking!

Hostess with the Mostest!

2010-10-28T12:26:00.000-04:00

It’s been quite the experience here working for the Wolf Den as one of the hosts this past summer and fall season. The summer season was filled with warm sunny days and amazing people from all over the world while the fall season was a little more calm, but I was able to experience the stunning colours of the trees while enjoying the different hikes and trails through Algonquin and the Wolf Den area. I am looking forward to continuing my stay through the winter season until next summer. This past summer my boss Ben decided to hire two people as a host as well as an intern who spent the summer created a trail as well as learning about the environment and nature in depth. After just recently graduating University and looking for a fulltime position for a year, I have been lucky enough to continue my work as hostess at the Den until May as I should have been finished this coming weekend. Staying at the Wolf Den has allowed me to do some soul searching of my own. Just being here for a number of months and experiencing all the new opportunities that nature and the Wolf Den has to offer, I’ve already learned a lot about myself and what it is I want in life. My love for nature and the outdoors has grown extensively since I have been here. Hiking all of the different trails in Algonquin I got to experience what the trails looked like in the summer as well as during Algonquin’s peak season for coloured leaves... stunning, words and photos don’t do justice. I look forward to the winter season where I can experience Algonquin’s cold weather and learn about the different animals that inhabit Algonquin and the Wolf Den through the winter season. Not to mention seeing some familiar faces as well as new ones. Everyone that comes to stay here is always friendly and they have no trouble interacting with others. I invite everyone to come out and join the pack to visit the Wolf Den and experience all the different activities winter has to offer such as cross country skiing, snow shoeing, dog sledding, and tracking. I guarantee, it will be an experiences you won’t ever forget.. I know I sure won’t!!
Signing out for know..
Cheers,
Kristen Wozniak

Great Wilderness Clean up

2010-04-27T10:41:00.000-04:00

Happy spring! The Wolf Den is once again participating in the great wilderness clean up. On May the 8th we will be spending the day cleaning the back country of Algonquin Park. Half price accommodation for friday and saturday nights, free day pass from the park, bbq provided by m+ms plus a potluck, free canoe rentals from Algonquin Outfitters, and loads of prizes and fun! Please email wden@wolfdenbunkhouse.com or call 1-866-271-9336 to register. Thanks, Ben

Spring Newletter

2010-03-30T14:45:00.000-04:00

Spring is well underway and signs are more visible everyday out here in Algonquin Park. The sun has been keeping us in good company these days as we have been tapping maple trees and boiling down the sap for syrup. We have seen fresh moose tracks across the road and some guests even caught a glimpse of them trotting along highway 60. Many of the birds are returning from their holidays down south and are busy making nests. We expect the wild flowers to start popping up any day now.
Aside from all the natural beauties that are unfolding around us, we have a few things happening here at the Wolf Den too.
Easter Weekend still has space available for anyone wanting to join us for a weekend to enjoy the excitement of spring with temperatures near the end of the week predicted to hit around 20 degrees!

The Great Wilderness Clean-Up - May 8-10
The Wolf Den, in partnership with Algonquin Outfitters will once again be forming The Wolf Pack to beautify interior sites in Algonquin Park. Participants will receive free day passes from Algonquin Park, free canoe rentals from Algonquin Outfitters, and ½ price accommodation from the Wolf Den. The event will begin on Friday night with organizing into groups and the distribution of gloves and bags. We will clean up all day Saturday, returning to the Wolf Den for a potluck supper and prizes provided by Algonquin Outfitters. This event is fun, social and extremely successful.
Read more: http://wolfdenbunkhouse.blogspot.com/2010/03/great-wilderness-clean-up.html
Groups across North & South America and the UK will be taking part in their own Park Systems. If you would like to set up a group in your own area follow this link: http://www.wildernesscleanup.com/

Edible Wilds and Medicinal Plants Class - June 10th - 13th
Presented by Earth Tracks
The plant world provides many gifts for us; Nutrition, Medicine, Utilitarian Uses, Natural Beauty & Guidance among others. It can be hard to know where to start when first learning how to work with the plants that surround us. In this class the student will learn how to penetrate the ‘wall of green’ and begin their own journey with the plants that surround us.
Read more: http://www.wolfdenbunkhouse.com/education-centre/index.html

Wishing you great adventures,
The Wolf Den team

Earth Steward Intern

2010-03-26T15:19:00.000-04:00

Come to the edge of Algonquin Park and immerse yourself in natural learning, wilderness & naturalist skills, organic gardening and ecotourism. The Wolf Den Hostel and Earthmentorship Programs have teamed up to create this great internship position. You will have the chance to build your resume while learning a diverse range of transferable skills that promote resiliency & adaptability in a changing world and stewardship of the land.

Tasks with the Wolf Den:
- 1 hour of cleaning in Wolf Den lodge per day
- Landscaping and organic gardening
- Assisting in development and implementation of permaculture planning
- Develop and implement interpretive nature trail
- Learn about various task involved in the operations management of an
ecotourism business and outdoor education business
- Assist in log building maintenance
- Assist in building alternative energy sources (ie. Solar collector,
solar dehydrator)
- Assist Lake Steward in lake water sampling, lake vegetation
inventory, and starting up a local nature club

Benefits and Programs:
- Complete Wilderness Awareness school Kamana 1 Naturalist training program
- Tent site at the Wolf Den and garden space/sharing and use of all facilities
- Meet people from all over the world
- Use your time off to explore the wonders of the Algonquin region by
canoe, kayak, bike, hiking, and camping.
- A chance to also learn about wilderness living skills and bushcraft

Tasks with Earth Mentorship Programs:
- Wild crafting natural materials for upcoming workshops
- Preparing demo pieces such as bow drill kits and containers (you will be
mentored in how to do this)
- Office work such as: data entry & filing, setting up data bases, office
organization, web page updates
- Taking pictures at the workshops you attend

Educational workshops you will get to attend:
- Natural Container Making - June 20th
- Intro to Wilderness Survival & Ancient Living Skills - Aug 4 – 6
- Family Nature Awareness Games – August 7
- Wolf Howl Canoe Trip into Algonquin Park - Aug 12 – 15 (still to be confirmed)
- Empowering Ancient Ways (week long wilderness skills immersion)- Sept 5 – 11
+ mentoring in tracking, naturalist skills and survival throughout the summer

For More information on these workshops please see: http://www.earthmentorship.com

Work hours: 4 hours per day mid may through until the end of August
Position is unpaid but provides many benefits and programs worth over $1000 plus accommodation

Please send applications to Ben Teskey at wden@wolfdenbunkhouse.com by April 10th

Empowering Ancient Ways

2010-03-25T09:21:00.000-04:00

– Deepening our connection with nature through

Ancient Wilderness Living Skills -

The core skills of this course have been brought together after much preparation and introspection as to how to incorporate the most well-rounded and universal wilderness wisdom and teachings into one week-long experience. This course provides the ingredients to enrich the life of anyone who lives on planet Earth, from the most seasoned wilderness guides to wildlife biologists, busy professionals who yearn for the sanctity of the wild, or anybody interested in being thoroughly introduced to wilderness living skills.

Our Passion to teach has evolved from our experience as passionate students, learning to integrate the wisdom found in pure wilderness, and emulating that firm sense of connection. Our approach has evolved out of learning to help our students to create intentful routines from the skills that have lasted through all time. We set students up for success by helping them to become aware of the wilderness that surrounds them all the time. Here begins the journey to understanding the difference between Wilderness Survival & Wilderness Living. The choice is yours, when you make it.

Course Topics Include:

Shelter, Water, Fire, Food
Wildlife Tracking
Bird language, concentric rings and base line symphony
Stone, bone, and antler tools and usage
Tree and Plant Fibers- Harvesting, Processing and Preserving
Tanning and Preserving Hides and Animal Skins in various ways
Stalking, Natural Movement, and Camouflage
Stewardship and Caretaker Ethics Emphasized
Empowering our ecological footprint (your tracks)
Traditional cooking and food preservation
Container making, and More!
Student Testimonial

“My experience at Empowering Ancient Ways really helped to clarify the direction I want to take in my life. The awareness skills and sit spot exercise helped me acquire my summer job last year and reinvigorated my interest in pursuing post-graduate studies at university. The teaching and support given by Skeet and the rest of the crew was incredible and really helps you strive for success. The bow drill was personally the most difficult skill that I succeeded in performing and gave me the greatest sense of accomplishment I’ve had as far back as I can remember. The people that you meet there are great and the sense of community that develops exceeds the duration of the courses. I would highly recommend Sticks and Stones Wilderness School to anyone who loves the outdoors, wants a challenge or wishes to experience something new. I am definitely looking to take more classes.” ~ Chris Deduke, student

When: April 25 – May 1 & Sept 5 – 11, 2010

Where: Kimbercote Farm, Grey Bruce County, ON

Cost: $650

Includes: Instruction, 3 hearty meals/day, dorm style accommodation or camping and materials for duration of the course.

Contact Chris at chris@earthmentorship.com for more details

Great Wilderness Clean up

2010-03-23T14:04:00.000-04:00

The Wolf Den Hostel and Nature Retreat is proud to announce that once again we will be participating in the Great Wilderness Clean up. On Saturday May 8th groups from North and South America, and the UK will be going out into nature and cleaning up garbage! To join a group in your area or to form your own group please visit Great Wilderness Clean Up

The Wolf Den, in partnership with Algonquin Outfitters will once again be forming The Wolf Pack to beautify interior sites in Algonquin Park. Participants will receive free day passes from Algonquin Park, free canoe rentals from Algonquin Outfitters, and ½ price accommodation from the Wolf Den. The event will begin on Friday night with organizing into groups and the distribution of gloves and bags. We will clean up all day Saturday, returning to the Wolf Den for a potluck supper and prizes provided by Algonquin Outfitters. This event is fun, social and extremely successful.

We will be keeping The Wolf Den group to a 30 person maximum for simplicity and effectiveness. Please contact The Wolf Den for further details.

Jobs at The Wolf Den

2010-03-16T08:53:00.000-04:00

Spend an amazing summer working at the edge of beautiful Algonquin Park as a host at the Wolf Den Hostel & Nature Retreat. Meet people from all over the world and use your time off to explore the wonders of the park by canoe, kayak, bike, hiking, and camping. A chance to also learn about wilderness living skills and bushcraft.

Title: Host - 2 positions

Job Duties:
- Greet guests and acquaint them with facility and activities of Algonquin Park
- Housekeeping and general maintenance
- Dealing with payments and accounting spreadsheets
- Use permaculture principles to help integrate into Wolf Den function and site
- Care for organic gardens
- Deal with guest concerns, inquiries and bookings

Requirements and Attributes:
- Love of natural world
- Standard First Aid
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to take initiative and work independently
- Able to work in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook

Work Term:
Position 1: May 1st – August 31st (full time) with possibility of extension.
Position 2: July 1st - August 31st (full time) with possibility of extension.

Rate of Pay:
$ 1450/ month, plus accommodation.

Please send resume and cover letter to Ben Teskey:
wden@wolfdenbunkhouse.com

4568 Hwy 60, Dwight ON,
POA 1H0

March Break Nature Retreat

2010-02-02T15:02:00.000-05:00

For Teachers, Parents, Educators &
Nature Lovers
March 16 - 19, 2010

Spend March Break relaxing in natures beauty, learning new skills to bring back to the classroom or to your day-to-day life, and increasing your knowledge of the natural world. Earth Mentorship Programs brings you the second annual, "March Break Nature Retreat - For Teachers, Parents, Other Educators, and Nature Lovers" being held at the Wolf Den Hostel and Nature Retreat on the edge of Algonquin Park. For more information please view:

On line Poster: http://www.chris.earthmentorship.com/MarchBreakRetreat.pdf

Our Web Page: http://www.earthmentorship.com

Or contact us at: 705-788-1210 or chris@earthmentorship.com

Edible Wilds and Medicinal Plants Class

2010-01-05T17:33:00.000-05:00

June 10th - 13th

Presented by Earth Tracks

Live at the Wolf Den - Saturday December 5th

2009-12-02T09:59:00.000-05:00

Come and enjoy an evening of original piano-folk and guitar songs with singer song writter Kate Jones.

Kate is a solo piano-folk artist who began her song writing career at the age of fourteen. Kate's third and most recent cd, Her Seasons, was released in December 2008. The album is a collection of guitar and piano songs that explore the rhythmic, brave journey of a relationship through its cycle of bliss, traum, and renewal. Kate's music is lyrical and heart-felt, and her sweet angelic voice penetrates to the heart of her listeners. Her sensitive piano and guitar playing coupled with her honest vocal emotionality bring a sense of calmness to her listeners. Kate's lyrics are thoughtful and rich, with the theme of nature recurring throughout. Also a talented painter and drawer, Kate sets out original art pieces to decorate her stage.
Blessed with an angelic voice and a love of performing, Kate began her music career at the age of fifteen by playing at local talent shows and cofeee houses in Newmarket, Ontario. She has continued to perform locally in Ontario as well as in Quebec, and internationall in France and Germany.

Kate has several shows and performances lined up for 2009, including the annual ASK Soiree in King City, Renees Cafe in South River, The Wolf Den Hostel in Oxtongue Lake, the Round House in Caledon, and the Lyric Pond Festival in Honeywood, Ontario. She is also currently working on her next cd, to be released in early 2010.
Please visit http://www.katejones.ca/ for updates and information about upcoming performances.
Make sure to reseve your spot for this lovely evening at The Wolf Den

2009-11-06T12:30:00.000-05:00

Is anyone out there or have you all gone into hibernation yet?!

Well don’t go to sleep yet! With winter upon us that does not mean that we nod off here at the Wolf Den. Throughout the winter months we have a number of events and programs running.

“Gifts from Your Own Hands and an Evening with Kate Jones”
December 4-6, 2009
Coming up quickly is your opportunity to join us for a festive craft making weekend here at the Wolf Den. We will be running 4 workshops on Friday, Saturday and Sunday to help get you started on some homemade gifts. Workshops will include beading, wreath making, felting and potato stamp card making. Fees for each session will only amount to material costs and each is optional attendance. You may join a free Saturday morning guided walk before sessions begin. Saturday night we have a special guest, Singer Song writer Kate Jones, who will perform a by donation concert in our cozy lounge.
Accommodation rates for that weekend will be $25/person per night.
For more information call 1-866-271-9336 or email wden@wolfdenbunkhouse.com.

Chris Gilmour, founder of Earth Mentorship, has a number of programs running here through the winter and into the spring.

“At Home in Your Body, at Home in Nature”
Exact dates to be determined but to fall late February or early March.
This program intertwines yoga and a deeper connection to your body with wilderness awareness and a deeper connection to the natural world.

“A Retreat for Teachers, Parents and Other Educators.”
March 14-17, 2010
This course offers the opportunity to explore and learn more about the natural world through tracking, natural crafts, other naturalist studies while also learning how to mentor others in these ways. It is also a chance to deepen your connection with the natural world.

“Family Awareness & Nature Skills Retreat”
March 17- 20, 2010
A chance for the whole family to spend time learning more about the natural world through tracking, survival skills, naturalist studies, camp fires, storytelling and crafts.
For more information please see Chris’ website www.earthmentorhip.com or call him at 705-788-1210.

As the Holiday Season approaches we still have room for you and your family and/or friends join us. What better way to spend the festive season than in beautiful Algonquin Park!
Winter days of cross country skiing and snowshoeing are popular here in Algonquin Park and our weekends are booking quickly. Call or email us soon to ensure you have a chance to enjoy some of the beauty of the winter season in Algonquin. Weekends that still have space available are: all weekends in December, January 16/17 and any weekend including and after March 13-14. Weekdays throughout the winter are available and a perfect time to enjoy the peace of the Park.

Family Wilderness Skills Weekend

2009-09-21T16:19:00.000-04:00

Bring the whole family and join us at the Wolf Den for a weekend of wilderness and nature exploration. We will lean about the natural world first hand through the practice of ancient wilderness living skills
including: wilderness crafts, survival skills, and educational wilderness games.

When: The weekend of Nov 7 & 8, 2009. We will start at 10am Saturday and go till 4:30pm Sunday

Location: Wolf Den Bunkhouse, Oxtongue, ON. Hwy 60, 8 minutes west of Algonquin Park.

Accommodation: Each family will have their own room in a beautiful log cabin in the woods. All bedding material is provided.

Food: We will provide a pizza dinner Saturday night and snacks. Your family can cook lunch and dinner in the Wolf Dens communal kitchen.

Price: $120/person, $340 for a family of 3, $380 for a family of 4, $420 for a family of 5, 5 yrs old and under free.

Includes: 1 night accomodation at the Wolf Den, Saturday night dinner, all materials, and 2 mentors.

For more information or to reserve your spot please contact Chris at 705-788-1210 or email him at chris@earthmentorship.com

At Home in Your Body, At Home in the Nature

2009-09-20T17:10:00.000-04:00

This multi day retreat bridges two ancient paths, yoga and wilderness awareness. Join us for morning and evening yoga, intentional breath and meditation, interpretive nature walks, wilderness living skill workshops, nature crafts, and a chance to deepen your connection to the natural world, your understanding of your own body, and how the 2 fit together.

Dates: Oct 22 - 25, 2009 & Feb 25 - 28, 2010

Times: Program starts with dinner at 6pm on Thursday and will finish around 4pm the Sunday.

Location: Wolf Den Bunkhouse, Oxtongue, ON, 8 min West of Algonquin Park. Each participant will sleep in a beautful log cabin.

Cost: $380/person or $720 for 2
Includes: 3 nights accomadation, healthy food, snacks, materials, yoga and naturalist mentoring.

For more info or to reserve your spot please contact Chris at 705-788-1210 or email him at chris@earthmentorship.com

Algonquin Outfitters - My Ultimate Canoe Trip Contest

2009-07-11T12:15:00.000-04:00

Our Friends and Neighbors over at Algonquin Outfitters are running the following contest:

Contest runs from June 24th until Sept 30th 2009
To celebrate the launch of our new website, Algonquin Outfitters and several key partners have came together to present you with the "My Ultimate Canoe Trip Contest".
Enter the contest by first visiting one of the locations listed below where you will need to find our Logo or obtain an access code (Cavalcade foto source) to be able to enter the contest. Each location will provide you a way that you can enter the contest, thus presenting you with multiple chances to enter the contest, enter more often to increase your chances of winning.
The Ultimate Prize:
An Ultimate Canoe Trip Adventure in Algonquin Park, for two people over three days, departing from our Oxtongue Lake outfitting base, near Algonquin Park's west gate, the trip must be taken in the summer or fall of 2010.
At the end of the trip, you will be presented with a new 2010 Swift Gold Fusion Kipawa canoe, 2 paddles, 2 PFD's and a safety kit. (Canoe provided by Swift Canoe & Kayak).
An Olympus Stylus Touch-6000, Waterproof digital camera, with case, floating strap and 2gb memory card, provided by Cavalcade Foto Source, Huntsville.
Ballistic Canoe Pack, Food Barren with Harness and Yoke Pad provided by Hooligan Gear.
Mountain Pass, 3 person dome tent provided by Eureka.
Two self-inflating air mattresses provided by Therm-a-rest.
LED head lamp for hands free light, provided by Petzl.
Dry Bags to keep your gear dry, provided by Sea to Summit.
We will be adding a few more items like Sleeping Bags, Camp Stove and a Camping Pots set.
Location
Find
Frequency
Huntsville Forester, Newspaper
Our Logo in the Paper
Weekly (15x)
Bracebridge Examiner, Newspaper
Our Logo in the Paper
Weekly (15x)
Swift Canoe & Kayak, Website
Our Logo in Website
Once
Cavalcade Foto Source, Huntsville
Ask for an Entry Code, in the store
Monthly (4x)
Algonquin Adventures, Website
Our Logo in Website
Once
Algonquin Outfitters, Website
Our Logo in Website
Once
AO Boatwerks, Website
Our Logo in Website
Once
* The above list presents you with 38 chances to enter the contest.
The Draw
A winner will be drawn on Oct 5th 2009.The contest winner will be announced on this webpage and in the Huntsville Forester before the end of October 2009. Winners must book their Ultimate Canoe Trip before Sept 1st 2010. If you can not book the trip before Sept 1st 2010 then a new winner will be announced from the remaining entries. No purchase necessary. Open to persons 18+ years of age.
First visit one or more of the locations above.
ENTER CONTEST

Kayak lessons at The Wolf Den

2009-06-23T17:47:00.000-04:00

Mondays and Tuesdays June - September

SK1 Flatwater Kayak Instruction - ORCKA and Paddle Canada Certified Instructor James Seabrook

Courses and Costs
Beginner - Intermediate - Advanced Levels

At the Wolf Den location - By Appointment
1 Person $120
2 Per. $110 Each
3 Per. $100 Each
4 Per. $90 Each
5 Per. $80 Each

Includes all paddling, safety equipment and kayaks

We meet your needs:
Every aspect of our kayaking school is a reflection of our commitment to put the student's needs first. No other kayak school combines the best in: ideal course locations, class size limits, instructor experience, and equipment selection.
Our kayaking lessons are designed to maximize your learning. We provide you with a kayak, paddle, PFD, spray skirt and all necessary safety equipment.

For more info or reservations please contact James at
416 576-7332
twocre8fun@hotmail.com

Family Wilderness Awareness & Skills Retreat - July 26 - 29

2009-06-19T11:45:00.000-04:00

- Yoga, Survival, Birds, Trees, Plants, Stories, Fire, Crafts, Family -

An exciting retreat to invigorate our connection with nature and to
inspire exciting new ways for us to nurture family relationships. Join
Chris Gilmour of Earth Mentorship Programs & Wendy Martin of Sacred
Breath Yoga for 3 days of family fun, relaxation, and education near
Algonquin Park.

*Activities include:*

: sensory awareness games
: family and team building activities
: nature crafts: guided nature hikes
: learning about local wildlife, trees, and plants

: interpreting the sounds and signs of the forest

: music and stories around the camp fire

: wilderness survival skills
: yoga activities to explore balance, strength, the power of breath and
finesse vs. force
: empowerment and role playing games for kids that allow their own
unique voice to be spoken and heard.
: simple, quick and effective De-stress exercises, that connect body,
mind and breath

: free time to explore and relax

The program will begin with dinner Sunday night followed by an activity.
Monday and Tuesday will each have 3, 1-3 hour sessions: morning,
afternoon, and evening, with free time in-between. Some sessions we will
have separate youth and adult programming and in some we will all work
together. We will be done by 12 noon Wednesday.

When: July 26 - 29, 2009. We will meet for a 5pm dinner Sunday night and
finish around noon on Wed.

*Location:* Wolf Den Bunkhouse, Oxtongue, ON. Hwy 60, 8 minutes west of
Algonquin Park.

*Accommodation:* Each family will have their own room in a beautiful log
cabin in the woods. All bedding material is provided.

*Food:* We will provide dinner Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. Participants
bring and prepare their own breakfast and lunch in the Wolf Dens
communal kitchen. All cooking utensils, stoves, and refrigerators are
provided.

*Price:* $265/person, includes, accommodation, 3 dinners, 2 instructors,
all course materials.

Please contact Chris at chris@earthmentorship.com for more info or to reserve

Earth Based Mentoring - A Retreat for Teachers & Other Educators - August 3-6 at The Wolf Den

2009-06-17T11:11:00.000-04:00

This retreat will offer you a chance to rejuvenate in nature’s beauty,
deepening your connection and understanding of the natural world, while
exploring some of the many uses of nature’s gifts. Come learn new skills
to bring back to the classroom or integrate into your life outside of work.

Activities Include:

- Wildlife Tracking and Studies

- Edible and Medicinal Plants

- Hiking and Camp Fires

- Basket and Container Making

- Wilderness Awareness Games/Activities

- Story Telling

- Wilderness Crafts with Natural Materials

- Intro to Earth Based Mentoring (coyote mentoring)

- Good Food & Good Fun

- And Much Much More

When: Aug 3 - 6, 2009. We will meet at the Wolf Den Bunkhouse
<http://www.wolfdenbunkhouse.com/> for a 6pm dinner Monday night and
finish around 2pm Thursday.

Where: Wolf Den Bunkhouse, Oxtongue, ON, 8 min West of Algonquin Park.
Each participant will sleep in a beautful log cabin.

Food: We will provide healthy, wholesome dinners.
Participants bring & prepare thier own lunch & breakfast in the Wolf
Dens communal kitchen.

Price: $340/person - Includes 3 nights accomodations,
3 dinners, all course materials,

Please contact Chris at chris@earthmentorship.com for more info or to reserve.

Intro to Wilderness Survival & Ancient Living Skills

2009-06-16T10:16:00.000-04:00

Sun, July 12 – 9:30am – 4:30pm $50/person

Join Chris Gilmour of Earth Mentorship Programs for day of getting back to the land and reconnecting with the ancient ways of our ancestors.
Throughout the day we will touch on the essentials of survival and how to accommodate them without modern day implements in a wilderness setting.
Topics will include: natural shelter building, water purification, friction fire making with the bow and hand drill, and a introduction to local ecology and edible plants.

Please email Chris at chris@earthmentorship.com for more info or to reserve your spot.

Tale of the Track - Intro to Algonquin Park Wildlife Tracking & Studies

2009-06-16T09:59:00.000-04:00

Sat July, 11 - 5:30pm - 9:30pm

$25/person or 2 for $40

Join Chris Gilmour of Earth Mentorship Programs for an interactive evening of exploring the deep and ancient art of tracking. Come learn to turn lifeless depressions in the ground into living stories of the past, present, and future and interpret the many other signs left around Algonquin Park and your backyard.

This workshop will interest the novice outdoors enthusiast and the seasoned naturalist as we learn to deepen our understanding of the natural world and learn what the forest is doing when we are not watching!

Please email Chris at chris@earthmentorship.com for more info or to book your spot.

Kate Jones Live at The Wolf Den - July 18th, 8pm

2009-06-09T17:06:00.000-04:00

Come and enjoy an evening of original piano-folk and guitar songs with singer song writter Kate Jones.

Kate is a solo piano-folk artist who began her song writing career at the age of fourteen. Kate's third and most recent cd, Her Seasons, was released in December 2008. The album is a collection of guitar and piano songs that explore the rhythmic, brave journey of a relationship through its cycle of bliss, traum, and renewal. Kate's music is lyrical and heart-felt, and her sweet angelic voice penetrates to the heart of her listeners. Her sensitive piano and guitar playing coupled with her honest vocal emotionality bring a sense of calmness to her listeners. Kate's lyrics are thoughtful and rich, with the theme of nature recurring throughout. Also a talented painter and drawer, Kate sets out original art pieces to decorate her stage.

Blessed with an angelic voice and a love of performing, Kate began her music career at the age of fifteen by playing at local talent shows and cofeee houses in Newmarket, Ontario. She has continued to perform locally in Ontario as well as in Quebec, and internationall in France and Germany.

Kate has several shows and performances lined up for the summer of 2009, including the annual ASK Soiree in King City, Renees Cafe in South River, The Wolf Den Hostel in Oxtongue Lake, the Round House in Caledon, and the Lyric Pond Festival in Honeywood, Ontario. She is also currently working on her next cd, to be released in early 2010.

Please visit http://www.katejones.ca/ for updates and information about upcoming performances.

Make sure to reseve your spot for this lovely evening at The Wolf Den

Empowering Ancient Ways - Wilderness Living Skills Course

2009-03-31T10:19:00.000-04:00

"Growing our relationship with nature through Ancient Wilderness Living Skills"

The core skills of this course have been brought together after much preparation and introspection as to how to incorporate the most well-rounded and universal wilderness wisdom and teachings into one week-long experience. This course provides the ingredients to enrich the life of anyone who lives on planet Earth, from the most seasoned wilderness guides to wildlife biologists, busy professionals who yearn for the sanctity of the wild, or anybody interested in being thoroughly introduced to wilderness living skills.

Our Passion to teach has evolved from our experience as passionate students, learning to integrate the wisdom found in pure wilderness, and emulating that firm sense of connection. Our approach has evolved out of learning to help our students to create intentful routines from the skills that have lasted through all time. We set students up for success by helping them to become aware of the wilderness that surrounds them all the time. Here begins the journey to understanding the difference between Wilderness Survival & Wilderness Living. The choice is yours, when you make it.

Course Topics Include:
Shelter, Water, Fire, Food
Wildlife Tracking
Bird language, concentric rings and base line symphony
Stone, bone, and antler tools and usage
Tree and Plant Fibers- Harvesting, Processing and Preserving
Tanning and Preserving Hides and Animal Skins in various ways
Wild Edible, Medicinal and Utilitarian applications
Traditional Hunting and Trapping methods
Stalking, Natural Movement, and Camouflage
Stewardship and Caretaker Ethics Emphasized
Empowering our ecological footprint (your tracks)
Traditional cooking and food preservation
Container making, and More!

Student Testimonial
“My experience at Empowering Ancient Ways really helped to clarify the direction I want to take in my life. The awareness skills and sit spot exercise helped me acquire my summer job last year and reinvigorated my interest in pursuing post-graduate studies at university. The teaching and support given by Skeet and the rest of the crew was incredible and really helps you strive for success. The bow drill was personally the most difficult skill that I succeeded in performing and gave me the greatest sense of accomplishment I’ve had as far back as I can remember. The people that you meet there are great and the sense of community that develops exceeds the duration of the courses. I would highly recommend Sticks and Stones Wilderness School to anyone who loves the outdoors, wants a challenge or wishes to experience something new. I am definitely looking to take more classes.” ~ Chris Deduke, student

There are two courses scheduled for this year.

When: Sunday April 26, to Saturday May 2, 2009

Where: Wolf Den Bunkhouse-Hwy 60 West of Algonquin Park, Huntsville For Directions to the Wolf Den Hostel click on the link below: http://www.wolfdenbunkhouse.com/

When: Sunday August 23, 2009 to Saturday August 29, 2009

Where:Sticks and Stones Workshop- Caledon, ON

Cost: $650, $300 Deposit
Includes: Instruction, 3 hearty meals/day, dorm style accommodation and materials for duration of the course.

To register and reserve your space click here.
Please send check or money order, payable to Sticks and Stones Wilderness School, after sending your online registration. You will be sent a confirmation package via email unless otherwise noted. It will contain a list of what to bring and travel directions. Please notify us of any changes and inform us that Payment has been sent via email, Thank You.

For further details or questions we can be reached via email at:
sswsinfo@gmail.com or by phone at: 519-216-6842

Great Wilderness Clean up

2009-03-26T08:56:00.001-04:00

Spring has sprung and it’s that time again, yes that’s right, The Great Wilderness Clean-Up! On Saturday May 9th, groups from North and South America, as well as the UK will be going out in their natural areas and cleaning up garbage! To join a group in your area or to form your own group please visit Great Wilderness Clean Up.

The Wolf Den Hostel & Nature Retreat in partnership with Algonquin Outfitters will once again join forces to form The Wolf Pack to beautify interior sites in Algonquin Park.
Participants will receive free day passes from Algonquin Park, free canoe rentals from Algonquin Outfitters, and ½ price accommodation from the Wolf Den. The event will begin on Friday night with organizing into groups and the distribution of gloves and bags. We will clean up all day Saturday, returning to the Wolf Den for a potluck supper and prizes provided by Algonquin Outfitters. Last year’s event was fun, social and extremely successful.We will be keeping The Wolf Den group to a 30 person maximum for simplicity and effectiveness. Please contact The Wolf Den for further details.

Edible and Medicinal Plants Class

2009-02-08T12:24:00.000-05:00

June 4th-7th

Presented by Earth Tracks

Winter Fun Weekend

2009-02-02T21:03:00.000-05:00

Winter seems to be flying past us here, but it has been a beautiful season with a great amount of snow for all sorts of winter activity and fun! Our friends at Algonquin Outfitters will be contributing to it by hosting “Winter Fun Day” on February 21. Saturday will be full of all sorts of free winter activities for the whole family and there is a guided hike on Sunday. There’s still room left at the Wolf Den to make it into a “Winter Fun Weekend”, so give us a call soon to make sure you get a space.
Check out Algonquin Outfitters website for more information on the day. Algonquin Outfitters

March Break Nature Retreat for Teachers

2009-01-11T10:38:00.000-05:00

Relaxation, Exploration, Celebration, and Nature Education

March 15 – 18, 2009

Come join us for 3 days and 3 nights in the beautiful wilderness surrounding Algonquin Park, .

This retreat will be catered to the busy teacher looking to rejuvenate in Nature's Beauty, learn more about the natural world, and explore some of the many uses of natures gifts. Naturalist and Outdoor Educator Chris Gilmour along with guest instructors will be leading the group through fun and educational activities that could be brought back to the classroom or used as hobbies away from your work!

Activities will include:
- Pine needle basket making
- Felting Project
- Winter Ecology
- Snowshoeing or hiking
- Wild edible and medicinal plants
- Wildlife Tracking
- Kids Games
- Fire Making
- Warm delicious dinners
- Free Time
- And More!

The cost of this program is $260* and it includes: 3 nights accommodation at the Wolf Den Hostel and Nature Retreat, 3 nights and 2 ½ days of programming, craft and other coarse materials, 3 instructors, and 3
dinners**

Day care may be available for parents at no additional cost. Please inquire.

* Snowshoes will likely be needed for outdoor activities (weather permitting). Please bring your own if you have them. Snowshoes can be rented for you at Algonquin Outfitters for the 16th & 17th at an additional cost of $40. Please let us know a.s.a.p. if you will need them.

** Participants are responsible for their own breakfast, lunch, and snacks. They can be prepared and stored in a fully equipped communal kitchen.

The program will begin with dinner at 5:30pm Sunday evening and finish at roughly 1pm Wednesday. Additional nights accommodation can be booked at the Wolf Den by visiting: Wolf Den Hostel and Nature Retreat or calling:
1-866-271-9336

Photo Contest

2009-01-08T09:43:00.000-05:00

ONLINE PHOTO CONTEST

WILDLIFE OF ALGONQUIN PARK

http://www.algonquinoutfitters.com/contest

The contest has been running over at Algonquin Outfitter's website for over a month now and we've received 44 great entries thus far. The third photo contest of 2008 (or the first one of 2009, all depends on how you look at it), features "Wildlife and People". So keep digging through your photos for those great pictures showing the wildlife of Algonquin Park (moose, deer, loons, raccoons or even chipmunks, oh and don't forget blackbears), bonus points will be awarded if your photo also include people watching the wildlife.

There are great prizes to be had. The contest closes on January 15th so please visit the above link to enter.

2008-12-05T15:47:00.000-05:00

Did someone say snow? If anyone put an order in, it has been delivered! It is an absolute winter wonderland here in Algonquin Park.

Christmas is fast approaching and the surroundings have certainly contributed to that “Christmas Feeling.” There's so much to do here whether it be hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, dog sledding, or just relaxing by a fire. We are also hoping to have a skating area ready in the next week or so (weather dependent.) Through the holidays we are excited to be offering nature programs for children and youth with Chris Gilmour of Earthmentorship on Dec 28th and 29th. Four different sessions will be run (2 a day) with a cost of $10/session. You can find out more information on Chris Gilmour’s website http://www.earthmentorship.com. We will also be running similar programs with Chris through the March break and will provide more information pertaining to the programs soon.

With plenty of room here at the Wolf Den for individuals, couples, families/ groups, feel free to give us a call or email to spend some time with us through the holidays. If we don’t see you here, have a wonderful holiday season and best wishes for 2009!

November Algonquin

2008-11-04T21:57:00.000-05:00

We don’t always fully realize when in the midst of it.
All morning the tasks tromped through my head with a few bucking up just to make sure I wouldn’t let dust settle on them. Winter door installed...check, rooms cleaned...check, laundry folded...check. My companion for the day, Jasmine, a wonderfully spirited dog, was prancing around playfully which she rarely does inside the main lodge. Finally, I realize she wants to take me outside for Frisbee or ball fetch. We step outside and, as soon as we do, I feel my mind chug to a full stop and my senses step forward for their time to frolic.
It is a grey, November, autumn day here in Algonquin Park, and like any of the other three seasons it has its own beauty that evokes a sense of awe within me. As I hit the dampish, cool air, I am overwhelmed by how everything around touches and plays with my senses. I feel as if I have been given smelling salts to awaken me from my sleep of busyness. The misty air dances around the pines and other naked deciduous trees that have lived here far longer than I. Tree branches seem so delicate as they reach far above me. I think of a ballet or classical Thai or Indian dancer who is particular with the movement of their fingers, it seems as if each tiny branch is holding its pose with this same grace and intent. I take some deep breaths and feel the cool, damp air travel through my nasal and other passages rushing into my lungs as if it were on a mission to remind every part it touches how vibrant and full of life it is. The scent of the earth and the leaves that are starting to break down into the soil drift past my olfactory senses in subtle presentation. Some birds go on as if in conversation and I stand still happy to listen to their voices instead of those in my head which kept me marching all morning.
Sometimes I find myself getting lost in “busy” , but such a magnificent setting as Algonquin Park has a way of grabbing hold of me and in a most loving way says “Wake up! Step outside of the “To Do” list and breathe....feel, receive the gifts that surround you.”

Blog....check. Hmmmm, well at least I was able to linger in those sensory experiences a little longer while writing this.

Kayak Lessons

2008-05-18T14:13:00.000-04:00

Wilderness Skills Workshops

2008-05-18T12:22:00.000-04:00

The Wolf Den Hostel and Nature Retreat is very proud to be working with Skeet Sutherland of Sticks and Stones Wilderness School and Chris Gilmour of Chris Gilmour's Earth Mentorship Programs to bring high quality Wilderness Skills Courses and Workshops throughout the Summer. These programs deepen participant's connection with the wilderness while empowering a new perspective and set of skills.

All weekend workshops will be offered at the Wolf Den Bunkhouse and Cabins, Algonquin area.
Cost $350, Includes dorm style accommodation, dinner and workshop materials.

Keeper of the Flame
July 11, 12, 13, 2008

Wilderness Food Skills
July 18, 19, 20, 2008

Wildlife Tracking Skills
July 25, 26, 27, 2008

Sacred Awareness
August 1, 2, 3, 2008

Empowering Ancient Ways
August 30, Sept. 6, 2008
Wolf Den Bunkhouse and Cabins, Algonquin area
Cost $750, $300 Deposit due by July 31, 2008
Includes 3 meals/day, dorm style accommodation and materials for course.

Empowering Ancient Ways- Advanced Skills
September 7 - 13, 2008
Wolf Den Bunkhouse and Cabins, Algonquin Area
Cost $750, $300 Deposit due by August, 7, 2008
Includes 3 meals/day, dorm style accommodation and materials for course.

Please contact Skeet through Sticks and Stones Wilderness School or Chris through Chris Gilmour's Earth Mentorship Programs for further details or to reserve your spot.

Bow Making Workshop

2008-05-05T21:22:00.000-04:00

When: June 19 - 22, 2008

Where: The Wolf Den Hostel in Oxtongue, ON. (Hwy 60, west side of Algonquin Park)

With Who: This program will be run by Sticks & Stones Wilderness School and led by seasoned bow maker Skeet, a former Instructor at Tom Brown Jr’s Tracker School, now teaching classes through his Ontario based company Sticks and Stones Wilderness School (SSWS).

For Who: Anyone interested in archery, hunting, woodworking, and/or deepening their connection to the land that supports us. No experience is required.

Price: $400 includes:

All course materials, wood and tools (bring your own tools if you have them.)
• 3 nights cabin corm style accommodation at the Wolf Den Hostel.• Dinner is provided on the 19th, 20th, & 21st,
• Bring your own Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks, Full Kitchen facilities available at the hostel, fridge/stove/wares.-Coffee/tea provided.
• $150 NON REFUNDEBLE deposit required with application by June 5th, 2008, space is limited to 10 students, apply soon.

This 4 day course will start at the very beggining, learning to harvest a stave from the woods in a sacred manner and continue right through to the completion of a wooden bow ready to release its first arrow.

Each student will be given a wooden stave to carve, instructions, and be leant tools to make thier own bow. Space is limited so book soon by contacting Skeet Sutherland @ skeetsutherland@hotmail.com or calling: 519-216-6842

Great Wilderness Clean up

2008-04-25T11:50:00.000-04:00

The Wolf Den Hostel and Nature Retreat is proud to announce that once again we will be participating in the Great Wilderness Clean up. On Saturday May 9th groups from North and South America, and now this year, the UK will be going out into nature and cleaning up garbage! To join a group in your area or to form your own group please visit Great Wilderness Clean Up

The Wolf Den, in partnership with Algonquin Outfitters will once again be forming The Wolf Pack to beautify interior sites in Algonquin Park. Participants will receive free day passes from Algonquin Park, free canoe rentals from Algonquin Outfitters, and ½ price accommodation from the Wolf Den. The event will begin on Friday night with organizing into groups and the distribution of gloves and bags. We will clean up all day Saturday, returning to the Wolf Den for a potluck supper and prizes provided by Algonquin Outfitters. Last year’s event was fun, social and extremely successful.

We will be keeping The Wolf Den group to a 30 person maximum for simplicity and effectiveness. Please contact The Wolf Den for further details.

Algonquin Outfitters - Photo Contest

2008-03-14T09:34:00.000-04:00

Got some great shots? Want some great gear?
Our Friends over at Algonquin Outfitters are running a Photo Contest this spring.

Algonquin Outfitters Photo Contest Rules and Regulations
Algonquin Outfitters is holding a photo contest from March 15th to May 31st, 2008. Upload your favorite photo(s) taken in Algonquin Park or showing Algonquin Outfitters canoes or events, to enter to win prizes. A winner will be chosen June 2nd, 2008. Photos need to be at least 1024x768 in low compression JPG format and should not be any larger than 2mb each, if higher resolution.

Prizes: 1st place $100 Gift Certificate for Algonquin Outfitters
2nd place $75 Gift Certificate for Algonquin Outfitters
3rd place $50 Gift Certificate for Algonquin Outfitters

Gift cards can be picked up at any of the Algonquin Outfitters (Bracebridge, Huntsville, Oxtongue Lake or Opeongo Lake) or at Boatwerks in Haliburton or Minden. Any additional shipping (above the cost of shipping a gift card) will be the responsibility of the winner if arrangements for a product to be shipped are agreed upon.

Disclaimer
By uploading a picture, you hereby grant Algonquin Outfitters the right to publish, display, post and otherwise use the photo for their websites and other media. You agree that the photo may be cropped, edited, electronically manipulated or otherwise altered, and that whether or how the photograph is used is entirely for Algonquin Outfitters to decide.

You certify that you are the photographer and sole copyright owner of this photo, and have obtained the consent of all identifiable persons shown in it for these uses. Algonquin Outfitters has the sole discretion to use or not use any photo. You also understand that all photos are subjected to a moderation process before being posted in the gallery.

To submit a photo to the contest visit the website at Photo Contest , fill out the form and email us your photo.
Winners will be announced on June 2nd.

March Break Special and Events at the Wolf Den, Algonquin Park

2008-02-27T11:58:00.000-05:00

10% off Accommodation from Sunday March 9th – Friday March 14th

Monday at 10am: Trees of Our Forest (approx. 1.5hrs) A short talk on the function and importance of trees plus a beginner’s ID lesson on 11 local species.
Followed by a walk and look at the trees of our forest.
Monday at 7pm: Campfire. Grab a hot chocolate and gather around the fire for free marshmallows and swap your adventure stories.

Tuesday at 10am: Kids Craft Corner (approx. 1.5hrs) Learn the art of beading and make your own bracelet. For both boys and girls! $5 charge to cover supplies
Tuesday at 7pm: Nature Video Night. Grab a spot on the couch and watch a nature video. Free popcorn!

Wednesday at 10am: Animal Tracks and Signs (approx. 1.5hrs) Introduction lesson on marks left by local wildlife followed by a walk in the forest looking for animal signs
Wednesday at 7pm: Wolf Howl. There is a pack in our area we’ll try and make them talk. Short night walk included.

Thursday at 10am: Shelter Building. Learn about different types of natural shelters and what a shelter really is, followed by building a real shelter.
Thursday at 7pm: Campfire. Grab a hot chocolate and gather around the fire for free marshmallows and swap your adventure stories

All activities except for the Kids Craft Corner are free of charge. Activities are aimed at a general audience (Kids and Adults). Children must be accompanied by an adult for all activities except for the Kids Craft Corner. Activities are for Wolf Den guests only. Please indicate interest at time of booking.

Empowering Ancient Ways - Deepening our connection with nature through Ancient Wilderness Living Skills

2008-02-26T17:43:00.000-05:00

The Wolf Den has proudly teamed up with Wilderness Educator Chris Gilmour to bring you a Traditional Skills and Bush Craft course.

When: April 27 - May 2, 2008
Where: The Wolf Den Hostel in Dwight, ON. (west side of Algonquin Park on highway 60)
With Who: Wilderness Guide and Outdoor Educator Chris Gilmour & Skeet Sutherland a former Instructor at Tom Brown Jr’s Tracker School, now teaching classes through his Ontario based company Sticks and Stones
Wilderness School (SSWS)
For Who: The core skills of this course are sure to enrich the lives of the most seasoned wilderness guide to the novice nature enthusiast
Price: $ 500 before March 31st
$ 560 after March 31st
* Price includes meals and 5 nights accommodation

Course Topics Include:
● Shelter, Water, Fire, Food
● Wildlife Tracking
● The language of nature
○ concentric rings
○ base line symphony
● Stone, bone, and antler tools and usage
● World of Natural Fiber- Harvesting, Processing and Preserving,
○ Trees and plants
○ Animal skins and sinew
○ Wild Edible, Medicinal and Utilitarian applications
● Traditional hunting and trapping methods
● Stalking, Natural Movement, and Camouflage
● Caretaker Ethics Emphasized
● Empowering our ecological footprint
● Traditional cooking and food preservation
● Container making

For registration and more information please visit http://www.chris.earthmentorship.com/
Via e-mail at: chris@earthmentorship.com or by Telephone at: 705-788-1210

Igloo at Algonquin's Wolf Den

2008-01-05T12:11:00.000-05:00

This past week, with a little help from some guests and friends, we added a new building to the Wolf Den. Unlike the rest of our buildings this new one is not built to last. Infact it probably won't last past the end of March. As you have probably guessed, due to the title, pictures and our previous post. We built an igloo!

The great people over at Algonquin Outfitters lent us their demo model of the Ice Box, made by Grand Shelters. The Ice Box is available for purchase from Algonquin Outfitters

At first the Ice Box seemed to be quite complicated. But as we built, it became simpler as we understood the whole process a bit better. We made a few flaws along the way which we would surely not do the second time.

Here is the beginning of the third course of the igloo. We weren't supposed to leave a gap for the door but it made it a lot easier to move around. We fixed the problem later by bridging the gap with a board.

The concept is simple, a series of connecting rods with one end pegged down in the middle of the igloo and the other connected to a plastic box. The diameter of the igloo is determined by the selection and placement of the rods. As the igloo goes up, the length of the rod is shortened and lengthened. During the building of each block, finely mixed snow is dumped in and packed. After each block 2 mechanisms were released and the box slid over.

Building was slow at first, until we got a feel for it. Gentle was the key. Packing too hard fractured the block causing it fall apart after the next move.

It was great to have the help of some of our friends and some of the guests who were here. Everyone seemed to enjoy the experience.

As the Igloo got bigger and bigger. Everyone became more excited and were spurred on by the progress.

With a tiki torch we were able to work into the dark.

In the daylight we noticed the rod had been some how moved from the centre peg, causing some funky angles. We decided to correct the bad angles by losing the rod and taking turns supporting the box at the desired angle.

As we got higher, a ledge along the bottom was important to allow the shoveller to get the snow to the box.

As we neared the finish, the outside pannel of the box was removed to allow easier shoveling.

When completed, a person over 6 feet tall could stand straight up inside the igloo. The base was 11 feet in diameter.

Even our dog Miko was happy with the final outcome.

We plan to add a breezeway and a Balsam Fir needle floor. Other than this is the finished product.

All that is left is for you to check it out next time you visit Algonquin Park!!

Cheers!

Happy Holidays from Algonquin's Wolf Den

2007-12-16T13:22:00.000-05:00

We would like to wish everyone a very joyous and festive holiday and all the best in the New Year.

Winter sure has arrived in Algonquin Park. It is shaping up to be a great winter season, with tonnes of snow already on the ground. This year we are offering a few additional activities at no additional charge.

During the Christmas Break we will lead a guided hike to Gravel Falls. This pretty little waterfall is located up river on the Oxongue, from Ragged Falls. It is around a 4 hour round trip moderate hike along an unmarked route, off the beaten path. Snowshoes will be neccessary and are available for rent from Algonquin Outfitters

On December 28th and 29th from 1pm - 3pm we will be building an igloo here at the Wolf Den. Algonquin Outfitters has lent us an igloo making tool called the Ice Box. The Ice Box, made by Grand Shelters "is an affordable, lightweight, and packable tool for building a snow shelter in any snow conditions" and is available for purchase from Algonquin Outfitters. Warm up by the campfire and enjoy free hot chocolate.

We will also now be open for New Years. On New Years Eve day there will be another guided hike to Gravel Falls and will have an optional Pot Luck and campfire for all our guests to get to know each other

Spaces for this holiday season are filling up fast. To reserve your spot call us today.

Coming this January we will begin free guided hikes every Thursday. Themes will include such topics as Wildlife Signs and Tracks, Trees of our Forest, and Waterfalls and River Ecology of the Oxtongue.

Stay Tuned for Events and Activites coming this March Break.

Cheers,
Robin and Ben from the Wolf Den

Reduced Permit Fees for Algonquin Park

2007-11-03T09:42:00.000-04:00

Algonquin Park has reduced its permit fees from $13 /day/vehicle to $11 /day/vehicle for the period of November 1st - December 17th.

This is a very quiet time in Algonquin Park The cooler weather and the fallen leaves have caused the crowds of tourists to stay away. However for the slightly more hardy adventurer it has its own magical appeal. The Tamaracks (Larix laricna) have turned a lovely golden yellow, the bare deciduous trees reveal the not long ago shrouded forest, and you can pretty much have any of the day hike trails to yourself. It is a lovely yet under appreciated time!

Happy Hiking!

Fall Colours in Algonquin Park

2007-09-28T12:59:00.000-04:00

Fall in Algonquin Park is in full swing. I have just come across this Ontario Parks website. http://www.parkreports.com/fall/ reports on fall colour for the Province.

At last check Algonquin Park was at 90-100% change with 10-15% leaf fall.

Cheers

Kayaking Lessons

2007-06-28T09:47:00.000-04:00

Last Monday I had the opportunity to go out kayaking with Jimmy Seabrook, our in house Kayak Instructor who gives lessons every Monday and Tuesday throughout the summer.

I have always wanted to learn how to kayak and I had an amazing time! Who would have thought that making myself flip over in a Kayak and doing self-rescues would be so much fun!

Having someone to instruct me on kayaking techniques has given me the confidence I needed to be able to take out a kayak on my own and I am absolutely looking forward to doing just that!

We have also had a couple of other people, either staying with us at the Wolfden or just coming up for the day, who have benefited from this great opportunity. There are definitely great things to say all around!

So, I highly recommend this opportunity to anyone who wants to learn how to kayak or to anyone who just wants to better their technique. It’s a lot of fun and the locations for the lessons (Oxtongue Lake and the Oxtongue River) are excellent.

To find out more about Kayak Lessons at the Wolfden, you can check out our website: http://www.wolfdenbunkhouse.com/

Thanks for the awesome time Jimmy!!!

The Algonquin Art Centre & Parks Programs

2007-06-28T09:34:00.001-04:00

The Algonquin Art Centre has officially opened for the summer. I went to the Algonquin Art Centre yesterday to check out their exhibits for summer 2007: "Landscapes of Algonquin", "Wolves of Algonquin " and "Wildlife of Algonquin". Each exhibit has a great display of paintings and sculptures, it’s definitely tough to choose a favourite! Each artist captures aspects of Algonquin Park in their own original way and, therefore, there is a little something for everyone.

So, while you’re driving through Algonquin Park, make sure to drop into the Algonquin Art Centre. There is no fee to go into the gallery, though they will accept a donation, and there is even a great spot to sit outside in the Art Gazebo and have a drink or a snack before or after you set off on a hike.

The Algonquin Art Centre also has an excellent boutique with a variety of unique pieces. I definitely intend on going back there to do some gift shopping and maybe some for myself too!

In addition to checking out the Algonquin Art Centre there are also a variety of interpretive programs that are going on in the park throughout the summer.

I blogged more about these events previously, but here is a small list of some of the programs that are being held over the week of June28th – July 5th:
June 28th – "Insect Colours" (Algonquin for Kids program) at 10:30am
June 29th – "Canoe Outing"
July 1st – "The Black Bear" Evening program at 8pm
July 5th – "Calling All Birds!" (Nature Craft); Paint your own wooden bird house with acrylic paint and take it home with you!

To find out about more events check out "This Week in Algonquin " at http://www.algonquinpark.on.ca/programs/thisweek.html

Interpretive Events in Algonquin Park

2007-06-21T10:03:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone!

Algonquin Park is starting to host their summer series of interpretive events, which come out weekly through the summer till Labour Day. There are a ton of great programs available for kids and adults, such as guided walks, evening slide show presentations and fun games that will all bring you new knowledge and appreciation of beautiful Algonquin Park!

Furthermore, these programs are an excellent addition to any trip you are taking to Algonquin Park, whether it is for a day of hiking or a couple days of paddling!

Some of the events that are taking place this week (June 23rd - 28th) include:

The opening of the Algonquin Art Centre: Open daily from 10am – 5:30pm
"The Loons of Algonquin Park" evening program: 7pm – Sat. June 23rd
"Reptiles & Amphibians" Algonquin for Kids program: 10:30am – Wed. June 27th
Bird Walk with an experienced birder: 8am – Thurs. June 28th

For a more detailed listing of the events being held this week in Algonquin Park you can follow the following link:
http://www.algonquinpark.on.ca/programs/thisweek.html

Or, you can pick up a copy of "This Week in Algonquin" at any of the gates and campground offices, at the Visitor Centre and Logging Museum or find it posted on any of the Park bulletin boards.

Kayak Lessons at the Wolf Den

2007-06-02T12:05:00.000-04:00

Join us this summer as we launch into a new Venture at the Wolf Den: Kayak Lessons!
We will be hosting a certified O.R.C.K.A instuctor every Monday and Tuesday, starting this coming week, through till the end of August.
The course being offered is a Level 1 Beginners including Self -Rescue Techniques, on Oxtongue Lake. Lessons are 3 hours, including all equipment for a cost of $120.

Contact the Wolf Den to reserve your spot today
1-866-271-9336 or (705) 635-9336
wden@wolfdenbunkhouse.com

Great North American Wilderness Clean-up - A Success

2007-05-20T14:39:00.000-04:00

Photo by Lynn Robinson

Algonquin Park Clean up - A Success

On Saturday May 12th the 2nd Great North American Wilderness Clean up was held across North America. Approximately 170 people particiapted in places like Fort Mcmurray Alberta, Kawartha Lakes, Durham, Parry Sound and here in Algonquin Park

"From those who submitted results to me, together we took 92.5 bags of various sizes out of our wilderness, and 12.5 bags of recycling items, 10 of which were large industrial-sized bags. That totals 105 bags. That's a nasty amount, and I'm so very glad it's outta there!

People found lots of other items, too, such as the usual tires, socks (I actually found a matching pair of socks in a fire pit!!), gloves... Also found were some nasties like used diapers, feminine hygiene products, used condoms, those ever-so-popular white flowers around campsites, on portages and around put-ins and access points. Let's see, what else? A tar bucket, toilet seat, a full propane tank, a car battery (who would have a car out there?), a child's play kitchen set, an old & rotting cedar strip canoe, pots & pans (enough to make a complete set), an old half-filled gallon tin of linseed oil, stubby beer bottles (I remember those!!), a broken flute, an outdoor eletrical junction box (huh?), a cigar box, lots of folding patio chairs, plastic pails, a flourescent tube light, an umbrella, rusty grills, a large tent, and a disposable fuel tank in a fire pit...

...So that's how much more beautiful our wilderness is now". Nancy Maddock, Event founder and co-organizer

Here at the Wolf Den we organized a group of 27 of to beautify Algonquin Park
.
Some went via canoe (provided free by Algonquin Outfitters ) up Joe Lake. Some to Guskawaa Lake and Maple Leaf Lake on the Western Uplands backpacking trail. The last group to Provoking Lake on the Highland Backpacking Trail. Very pleased to say for the most part we didn't find a whole lot of garbage. Most of it came from just a few sites and in some parking lots. We also hit the Oxtongue River Picnic area (lots of garbage) and Ragged Falls (dido)

After a full day of cleaning we held a free BBQ provided by M+M meats.

Sunday morning those who were interested were invited to partake in a free ecology hike provided by Ernie Silhanek, a Fleming College Professor, avid natualist and Wolf Den friend. It was amazing to see that all on the hike also continued to collect garbage. Participants received 1/2 price accommodation at The Wolf Den

Total: 10 large industrial sized garbage bags of recycling, 27 small ON park bags of garbage, 2 tires, a kids play kitchen set, a pile of metal and an old rotting cedar strip canoe.

It was a day about Stewardship, care, and respect for the land and water that supports each and everyday.

Special Thanks to :

Algonquin Outfitters for graciously providing free canoe rentals.

Algonquin Park For donating free day passes to the Park

M+M Meats for providing a free BBQ.

The Outing Club of East York for their continued support.

Joey Gill of hi concept productions For generating a lot of media publicity

CBC Radio for interviewing Robin Golloher co-owner of the Wolf Den on Saturday morning

Huntsville Forester and Vitality Magazine for running the story

Last but not least Kevin Callan and Nancy Maddock who dreamed the dream of the Great North American Wilderness Clean-up and made it a reality and all who participated in making our world a bit more beautiful.

Thanks to all for you made this event a success!!!

Wilderness Clean up Media Release - By Joey Gill

2007-05-01T08:42:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 30th
THE GREAT NORTH AMERICAN WILDERNESS CLEAN UP
Algonquin Park Canoe Route Clean Up to Inspire International Event
Toronto: On May 12 and 13th, the first ever Great North American Wilderness Clean Up will take place in Algonquin Provincial Park. World renowned, Algonquin Park is also the victim of one of humanity’s least desirable attributes: littering

"We all do it. We sit around and complain about canoe route maintenance, ramble on and on about how the government should be doing more, question the mentality of those who leave all that garbage and toilet-paper mounds at the campsite, or scratch our heads over why anyone would leave just one sock at the end of the a portage", said Kevin Callan, author and avid canoeist and key participant in the event.

In addition to the dozens of hikers and paddlers scouring the park for litter, there will be a computer link-up at Sir Sandford Fleming School in Lindsay, Ontario for those groups around North America who are not able to attend at the venue so that they may send photos and information about their own particular clean-up accomplishments. There are plans to use this link-up with a projector to show the audience, North America-wide, who's winning the challenge to collect the most garbage.

Although focused initially in Algonguin Park, the scope of the Clean Up is truly North American in scale. "We’re encouraging people across North America anywhere and everywhere there that people go to enjoy green space and wilderness", said Nancy Maddock, event organizer. Last year’s clean up of Algonquin resulted in 125 bags of garbage being collected by a determined group of volunteers.

Visit www.wildernesscleanup.com for sign up details and more information.

"Our goal with this event is to encourage people on Mother’s Day weekend to take better care of Mother Earth", added Callan.

About Kevin Callan
Kevin Callan is the author of eleven books, including the best selling The Happy Camper and the incredibly popular series of paddling guides. On a regular basis he presents across North America and has been a key speaker at all the major canoe events for over 20 years. Callan is also a frequent quest on radio and television, field editor for Explore, and writes on a regular basis for ON Nature, Kanawa and Rapid Magazine. He is a winner of three National Magazine Awards and four film awards’ including "best of" in the prestigious Waterwalker Film Festival. For the last 15 years he has taught Environmental Issues and Sciences at Sir Sanford Fleming College and lives in Peterborough, the birthplace of the modern day canoe.

About Nancy Maddock
Passionately in love with wilderness, Nancy Maddock began to notice more and more garbage in and around the Algonquin Park region, creating the first Algonquin Clean Up event. With over 125 large bags of garbage collected, Nancy was inspired to launch the first Great North American Wilderness Clean Up.

For Further Information, contact event organizer Nancy Maddock
wildernesscleanup@rogers.com
www.wildernesscleanup.com

For Media Inquiries, contact: Publicist, Joey Gill
joeygill@hiconcept.ca
o.416.929.9397 c.416.556.0675.

Great North American Wilderness Clean-up Update

2007-04-23T10:11:00.000-04:00

Saturday May 12th wherever you are, whatever you are doing I invite you to pick up a bit of garbage/recycling in support of the Great North American Wilderness Clean-up. I know that many of you already do this whenever you can and that is great. Actually that is the bigger picture of clean up events like this one. By helping on May 12th you will not only be helping to beautify the earth but you will be contributing to the bit of noise needed to promote the idea of stewardship. This can make a few more folks think twice about tossing that wrapper on the ground and value the idea of taking out somebody else’s wrapper (or what not).

So please, on May 12th, whether you are in Algonquin Park or the Wilderness of downtown Toronto, go outside and pick up a grocery bag or 2 of garbage (better yet – separate recycling) and email the number to Nancy at wildernesscleanup@rogers.com

Alternatively you can join an existing group or form one on your own. Check out http://www.wildernesscleanup.com for more info.

Our group the Wolf Pack will be cleaning in Algonquin Park. Some will hike, some will paddle. We will hit interior campsites accessible from Hwy 60 (and some not for public roads and short cuts) such as Joe Lake, Maple Leaf Lake, and Provoking Lake. Day hike parking lots and if time allows Ragged Falls and the Oxtongue River Picnic area will also be targeted. Additionally we will be raking firepits and scattering ash when we can.

Algonquin Park http://www.algonquinpark.on.ca is providing Free Day passes. Algonquin Outfitters http://www.algonquinoutfitters.com is sponsoring and providing free canoes to the members staying at the Wolf Den. The Great Artist Olaf will on hand helping out with the cleaning and taking pictures of the event. M+Ms is sponsoring a free BBQ on Saturday to volunteers. The Wolf Den is offering ½ price accommodation to all participants for the nights of Friday May 11th and Saturday May 12th. A free guided hike will also take place on the Sunday Morning featuring local ecology and the impacts of logging. Space is limited as we only have dorm beds and a few private rooms for 4 left. Please contact me at wden@wolfdenbunkhouse.com if you are interested.

If you are in the Park that weekend and need a place to drop off garbage feel free to leave it at the Wolf Den and we will deal with it.

Cheers, Ben From the Wolf Den

The Great Awakening

2007-03-28T19:42:00.000-04:00

After a brief yet intense winter, spring is once again resurrecting the slumbering landscapes of Algonquin. Just a few weeks ago we were snowshoeing in knee deep snow, racing down Nordic Ski trails and busting our backs shovelling yet another new snow fall. Now the ski trails are officially closed for the season, the snowshoes are hung for another year, and the snow shovels, thank God, are being hidden out of sight for at least 8 months!

On Friday, March 23rd Miko and I went for a short hike around Whiskey Rapids, in Algonquin Park. The trail was a bit icy in sections as it was early in the morning. It was Spring Meets Winter All round.

Miko, who loves to swim, had been out of the water for nearly 6 months, which had resulted in her being dirty and smelly, in dire need of a bath! She is an extremely intelligent and obedient dog and I had to give her the ok on heading on in for a swim. Oh the excitement! Even though the water was still frigid the sun was warm and Miko, stick in mouth, looked as if she was in heaven.

On Sunday the 25th Robin and I decided on an afternoon hike with some guests, across the road, on the Beetle Lake Trail. The warm sun once again doin’ it’s thing and the freshness of the Algonquin spring air was a force too strong to ignore.

I was amazed at how little snow was present in the forest, a lot less than 2 days prior. In patches the sun had melted the snow right away from the forest floor, where it found hundreds of maple keys. The tiny seeds had just jumped into action and began to germinate, producing tiny seedlings.

We paused briefly at the 2 really impressive lookouts over Oxtongue Lake and bathed in the afternoon sun.

There were a few soakers along the way, but all in all it was a great day out. I love this time of year. You can feel and smell life coming, well back to life I guess. Moose are once again being seen along the road, coming to lick the salt and eat the early plants in the ditches. For getting new gear, local stores, like Algonquin Outfitters are unloading all of their winter stock at great prices! Although whenever I go in I can’t help but look at all of the canoeing stuff.
Any day now the first of the magnificent spring wildflowers, the trout lily will poke out a leaf or 2. Today, the 28th of March, I noticed that the Oxtongue River across the road from the Wolf Den has been freed. I looked over towards my canoe in building anticipation. Maybe next week, Pontiac (16’ fibreglass) will get to be like Miko and take it’s first swim of the year!

Reel Paddling Film Festival

2007-03-07T09:33:00.000-05:00

March 15th, 8pm at the Algonquin Theatre, Huntsville

Our friends over at Algonquin Outfitters will be hosting this years Reel Paddling Film Festival at the Algonquin Theatre on March 15th, 8pm. What better event to attend for March Break, a great opportunity to get ramped up your excitement for the spring and summer paddling seasons. Films featuring all kinds of paddling from flat water Canadian canoe tripping, that we all love, to some of the craziest moves possible on all class of white water rivers by some of the best white water paddlers on the globe.

Come check it out, tickets are a special price of only
$12 for adults / $10 for students Tickets available now at the Algonquin Theatre website or by phone

Algonquin Theatre
37 Main Street East
Huntsville, ON P1H 1A1
Box Office (705) 789-4975
Toll-free 1-888- 696-4255 ext. 2352
http://www.algonquintheatre.ca/events/reel_padd_fest.htm

Job Opportunity at the Wolf Den

2007-03-06T19:05:00.000-05:00

Summer Host Position

The Wolf Den Bunkhouse and Cabins is currently looking for a reliable, outgoing, friendly person to assist in hosting duties. Spend your time off canoeing, hiking, biking and exploring in beautiful Algonquin Park.

The position is available from June 1st to August 31st 2007. The dates are negotiable. Preference will be given to those with an Eco-tourism/Environmental background and/or those returning to school in September.

Duties may include, but are not limited to:

Hosting --- greeting both domestic and international guests, giving tours of the facility, answering phone/e-mail, taking bookings, providing information on local attractions i.e. Algonquin and Ragged Falls Provincial Parks

Cleaning --- laundry, keeping the cabins, rooms, and the main building (kitchen, lounge and washrooms) tidy

Customer service --- handling cash, selling environmental products in our on-site store

Gardening and outdoor work --- watering, planting, and permaculture planning

Education --- Assisting in planning and preliminary implementation of Environmental Education Centre

You will be working independently, as well as in a team. Tasks may include moderate lifting. Must be able to be assertive yet friendly with guests, and communicate well with others.

Monthly wage of $1450 and includes accommodation. Hours to be negotiated. Bonus opportunities available.

Please forward resumes via email to: Benjamin Teskey at wden@wolfdenbunkhouse.com

Great North American Wilderness Clean-up

2007-03-04T10:24:00.000-05:00

May 12 & 13, 2007

For 365 days a year your mother nurtures you. She provides you with clean water to drink, clean air to breathe, good nourishing food to eat, protects you from intense UV rays, and presents you with renewing recreational opportunities.
This mother’s day is your chance to give just a little bit back. Join us in the Great North American Wilderness Clean-up. Hike, bike, or paddle, pick-up a bit of garbage and have a fun day out with great people. Show Mother Earth that you are grateful for all she does for you.

Join an existing group in your area or form your own. Ask Ben from the Wolf Den wden@wolfdenbunkhouse.com for details or visit www.wildernesscleanup.com

Wolf Den’s Group "The Wolf Pack" will be cleaning in Algonquin. Participants will receive ½ price accommodation for the 2 nights.

March Break Special at the Wolf Den

2007-03-02T09:56:00.000-05:00

Come and Join us for your March Break and Receive a 10% Discount

Things to do while in the area:

Snowshoeing, Cross Country Skiing, Hiking and the World Class Visitor Centre in
Algonquin Park (7 min Drive)
Soak up the grandeur of Ragged Falls (15 min Walk)
Hike through mixed forests and past spectacular
Lookouts on the Beetle Lake Trail
(Right Across the Road from us)
Relax by the Fire in our Lounge or Warm up in our
Cedar Log Sauna
Down Hill Skiing at Hidden Valley
Skating in Dwight

Offer Valid From the Night of Sunday March 11th to the

Night of Thursday March 15th.

No Snowmobiles please!

Contact Ben or Robin today

Email wden@wolfdenbunkhouse.com

1-866-271-9336 1-705-635-9336

www.wolfdenbunkhouse.com

A message from The Wolf Den Hosts: Our Story

2007-03-01T16:36:00.000-05:00

The Wolf Den Vision:

To create an ecology education facility while maintaining affordable and comfortable accommodation and eco-tourism related operations.

The Dream:

Our passion is truly the environment, and we believe the best way to protect and honour it, is to teach and educate anyone who is willing to listen about the earth. Many people have lost touch with our Earth Mother, and don’t realize how our fast paced, industrial, commercialised lives are dramatically affecting our earth. It is important to get back in line with the land and understand how it works, in order to fully respect its true worth. This is why we wish to offer the opportunity for people to come here and be immersed in a natural and beautiful setting in which they enjoy, and then learn about the importance of this environment. Being so close to Algonquin Park really affords this opportunity, allowing people to have a protected, amazing place in which to explore so close to us.

Our plan is to still provide year round, affordable and cozy accommodations for a wide variety of guests, but we will to add to that, an environmentally focused learning centre and outdoor education facility. This will unfold throughout the next few years but has already begun through increased awareness of conservation, distributing environmental education pamphlets and by conducting workshops and guided hikes on nature and ecology. As time, funds and knowledge allow we will expand this new branch of the Wolf Den. We are also working on obtaining a sustainable energy demonstration to be put here on site, such as a small wind turbine and/or solar panels. We will have workshops on the equipment and show how they are a viable resource for energy. Education is key.

The Goals:

To overtime add the following additional services and make changes:

Informative guided hikes in the area

Programs with hands on learning on such things as fire building, outdoor survival, animal observation and tracking, edible and wild plants, ecology, and oneness with the earth

Open a small on-site gift shop and new reception area, in a reclaimed original log cabin, selling local, ethically produced products with minimal to no packaging with items such as Wolf Den clothing, handmade jewellery, natural beauty products, local art, nature books ect.

Obtain sustainable living working demonstrations such as solar power, wind power, alternative transportation, composting toilets, and permaculture methods

Build additional alternative cabins from methods such as reclaimed wood, used tires, straw bales, rammed earth, & adobe building methods
Show video presentations on Algonquin’s various animals and plant life, bringing together the ecology of the park

Create an arboretum trail illustrating local native plant species
Reduce waste through conservation, intensified recycling, and composting
Make and post factsheets on native flora and fauna, conservation, and sustainable living practices

Completely switch to environmentally friendly cleaning and toiletries products

Encourage outside educational organizations to recognize and use facilities

Provide public internet services

Provide a shuttle service, and ecotourism tours into the park and local areas

Align strategic partnerships with local outfitting, tourism, environmental and alternative energy companies

Provide increased information about Algonquin Park

* Please note that these goals will take time and will be heavily influenced by financial viability and time

Final note:

The Wolf Den is truly a magical place where people can get together from all around the World. And although it may look as though it is simply an affordable, comfortable place to spend the night, the Wolf Den is much more. It is a launching pad, a place in which we can grow and create real learning opportunities to educate the public. A place where we can make a difference in this place we all call home, our EARTH.

How you can help us succeed:

Spread the word about our place to your family and friends

Take some brochures and pass them out

Write to your favorite guide book about the Wolf Den

Come back for another visit

Organize a group trip of your friends, a club or family reunion

Go online and write a review about your stay here. Some places to go online for travel reviews such as:
worldweb.com, igougo.com, tripadvisor.com, gusto.com,
travelpost.com, realtravel.com, travelblog.org