Voyageur Outward Bound School

Voyageur Outward Bound School is one of the oldest of eleven regional Outward Bound Schools and part of the broader Outward Bound movement. Through the development of core social-emotional learning skills (grit, determination, creativity, and collaboration) learned by overcoming challenges in nature by oneself and as part of a group, students learn an appreciation for their full potential in life.

VOBS has two program bases in Minnesota and one in Texas. We founded our Twin Cities Center in Saint Paul, MN in 2011 for the specific purpose of bringing Outward Bound experiences to urban youth. Whether we are working with young adults challenged by homelessness or junior high school students who find themselves in the principal’s office too often, our goal is the same: to provide opportunities for adventure and challenge in a group setting, where individuals can grow personal skills and contribute to a positive group culture.

Homeplace, our base camp in Ely, MN, is sandwiched between the boundaries of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. We serve women’s groups, veterans, youth, teens, adults, college students, alumni, outdoor educators, teachers, professionals, and at-risk youth. We strive to connect these folks with the power of an amazing ecosystem to cultivate personal excellence. Lastly, our Texas base in Big Bend National Park allows us to strengthen and diversify our programming, offering unique opportunities for challenging desert backcountry experiences and whitewater canoeing. This venue also provides VOBS with unique professional development and leadership opportunities for our own staff.