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Posted by maureen
March 14, 2007 |
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Recently I wrote about some ideas for grandparents to spend time away with their grandchildren and I wanted to take a closer look at some of the options. What better way of spending time with a grandchild than to explore nature together. Elderhostel Intergenerational tours offer some great intergenerational programs that allow you to spend time and learn together. One of their Grand Adventures takes you to Finland, Minnesota’s beautiful north woods. It was one of the last areas of Minnesota to be settled due to its rugged isolation, and offers a stunning location that is ideal for outdoor activities and ecology.Here you take part in a variety of activities like hiking and canoeing that will give you an appreciation for the spectacular location and scenery. It offers a week long stay that will engage you and your grandchild in exploring for animals, practicing Native American skills and learning ecology of forests and streams. If that is not enough there is a high rope challenge course and indoor rock climbing wall. As you can see this is an adventure for active seniors!
Where.
The Grand adventure takes place in Finland, Minnesota at the Wolf ridge Environmental Learning center. Wolf Ridge occupies nearly 2,000 acres of creeks, lakes, high peaks, and 18 miles of trail and plenty of wildlife including Raptors (American eagle) and wolfs.
Who can participate.
This intergenerational program is for Elderhostelers and young learner’s ages 8-12, one or two youth per adult.
Program Plan.
Program in association with Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center. . Wolf Ridge occupies nearly 2,000 acres of creeks, lakes, high peaks, and 18 miles of trail and plenty of wildlife including Raptors American eagle, wolfs. Among other things, the facilities include dormitories, classroom building, dining hall, and a ski chalet.
Accommodations.
Accommodations are shared with grandparents, each family sharing one room.
The lodge has an open spacious lobby, simple dormitory style bedrooms with wooden bunk beds, table and lockers. Private bath in each room. All meals included. Bed linens and towels are provided. A mid-week towel exchange and light housekeeping are available.
Meals.
Meals are served cafeteria style. Vegetarian meals are only available if requested ahead of time.
Program Activity Level 4.
To help in your selection of tours the programs are assigned a program activity level. This tour has a level 4. Basically you need to be in good health mobile, able to participate in three to five hours of physical activity per day, and walk three to five miles at a 2.5-mile-per-hour pace over uneven ground. Be sure to check thoroughly before making your choice.
What to expect
A large variety of activities in a different environment that will give you the opportunity to learn and connect with your grandchildren. I am sure that you will discover new things about each other that will strengthen the ties. Keep in mind that you will responsible for the supervision of your grandchild and that most classes are outdoors and active and continue regardless of weather. Some of the trails are rugged and climb to several hundred feet. With that said, I think it is a wonderful opportunity and one that will have lasting, fond memories for all.
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