Join us on this fantastic multi-element program for adults on Vancouver Island’s majestic west coast. Sea kayak in the spectacular Clayoquot Sound and travel among some of the Island’s highest peaks. During the ocean portions of this incredible land and sea expedition, your group will kayak its way through the coves, natural harbours, and small islands in these Pacific Coastal waters. We will meet you in Tofino BC, to begin your adventure. You will travel in solo or tandem sea kayaks learning and practicing many ocean travel skills: paddling and bracing techniques, ocean navigation using nautical charts and tide tables, and safety and rescue procedures. Clayoquot Sound, declared UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2000, is a maze of small old-growth cedar covered islands and protected inlets, rocky reefs, sandy beaches and deep fjords, and an exquisite marine environment with resident pods of orcas, seals and sea lions, as well as bald eagles and intertidal marine life. You will camp on isolated, sandy beaches on remote islets where you can explore old growth cedar groves, visit hot springs and sleep under the stars.

I suppose this is what the mountains do to people. We pulled together. – Participant

During the backpacking portions of the course, you’ll add backpacking to your repertoire of technical skills. Your group will explore the spectacular and challenging trails up into the old growth forests of Strathcona Park – BC’s first Provincial Park. You’ll travel through ancient stands of Western Red Cedar and Douglas Fir, and valleys laced with rivers, streams and creeks, on your way to the alpine meadows above the tree line. In the Park you might be fortunate enough to glimpse a herd of Roosevelt Elk, hear the howl of a Wolf and spy an elusive, endangered Vancouver Island marmot. You’ll work closely with your group as you master technical and leadership skills – navigation and route finding using a map and compass, hazard evaluation, cross-country travel and minimal impact camping. You’ll spend time reflecting and goal-setting while on a traditional Outward Bound solo. As you acquire more technical skills and confidence in your group's ability to manage hazards and travel in safety, you will have opportunities for independent travel. Join us on this fabulous course.

Please read: 'How fit do I have to be?' to prepare for your course