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Freshman Wilderness Experience

Main page of the Freshman Wilderness Experience.

About FWE

FWE Group PhotoThe Stout Adventures Freshmen Wilderness Program was created to offer a unique outdoor adventure specifically for incoming Freshmen.

The FWE is designed to help high school graduates transition to college life. A wilderness setting provides an intimate setting where discussion, learning, communication, trust and self confidence can be encouraged.

Choosing the Right Trip

Typically, there are two or three different outdoor trips offered each summer. Each trip focuses on a different activity. This way we are sure to offer trips that appeal to all interests and abilities. Whether you are drawn to water or more of a land lover, Stout Adventures will provide an unforgettable experience you will not soon forget.

Trips for Summer 2008

Sea Kayak the Apostle Islands: August 17th - 22nd, 2008

Now is your chance to paddle your kayak across the magnificent waters of Lake Superior. The Apostle Islands are 22 Islands located off the coast of the Bayfield Peninsula in Northern Wisconsin. The Islands offer mile long sand beaches, beautiful second growth forests, wildlife, and deep echoing sea caves in which we will paddle into and explore. The sunsets are remarkable and the shear beauty will not be soon forgotten. If you have never sea kayaked before, don't worry. We will spend our first day on a local lake to learn the skills necessary to take on Lake Superior. This trip is consistently a favorite and spots fill up quickly.

Backpack & Rock Climbing on the Superior Hiking Trail: August 10-15th, 2008

If you've ever wanted to experience a true Northwood's backcountry experience, this is the trip for you. We will hike a beautiful section of the Superior Hiking Trail. The forests in this part of the country are filled with amazing views and waterfalls. If you are truly adventurous, you'll also be excited to know we will be climbing some of the 100 foot vertical cliffs lining Lake Superior's northern shoreline.

Previous trips have included activities and locations such as the following:

Learn More - Photo Galleries and Videos

Apostle Islands, Minnesota in 2005
Porcupine Mountains, Michigan in 2005

What will the food be like?

Backcountry meals are definitely different from meals usually prepared in the front country. Weight, equipment and ease of preparation are important factors to consider when planning a backcountry meal. On Stout Adventures trips we hope to broaden your horizons while providing nutritious and filling meals. Please notify Stout Adventures if you have any special dietary needs.

Examples of what to expect:

Breakfast - Usually cold food or food prepared using only hot water. Examples:

Lunches - A lunch easily prepared on the trail. Examples:

Snacks - Quick energy or a side dish for any meal. Examples:

Dinners - Usually requires more preparation time, however campers are rewarded with a hot meal at the end of the day. Examples-

What do we get from the experience?

FWE - Sky Light StreaksWell, if history has taught us anything, then FWE participants develop long lasting friendships with other participants. There is a phenomenon that occurs when a group of strangers embark on a journey together. In the end, many have developed relationships and friendships with other people that share similar interests and pursuits. While on course and hiking or paddling together, many participants find that they will live in the same dormitory or will take the same classes. There are instantaneous moments in which strong bonds are formed. Participants of the FWE can then transition to Stout life and have an edge on other incoming freshmen. You will already have friends and already be familiar with Stout Adventures, a program on campus designed to support outdoor recreation.

Quotes from past participants

“It was one of the best things that I decided to do when coming to Stout.”
“…it probably helped me more that I will ever realize…”
“The trip leaders were professional yet fun and answered any questions that we had.”
“…above any beyond my expectations…”
“My trip was such a memorable and life changing experience for me.”
“I devote all my success at UW-Stout to my FWE trip.”
“My trip leaders were great and I continue to look up to them as role modals today.”
“My FEW trip helped me make friends before I even moved on campus.”
“The most positive experience of my college career”
“They made you feel like part of the team from the beginning.”
“No experience was needed; even an Eagle Scout learned a few things.”
“It calmed my nerves about coming to college.”
 

University of Wisconsin - Stout