Map and Compass Class
This is an on-land class. Learn how to use a compass, read a topo map and not get lost in the woods. We will use the many acres of State Forest on Beaver Island to accomplish our goal after spending a couple hours inside learning the basics.

The class lasts about 6 hours. Bring a lunch and join in the fun! Call for dates and to make a reservation. Class runs year-round. Cost includes all equipment, use of maps and hand-outs. $60. Call or email for dates and reservations.

Learn to use your GPS
The GPS can be a great tool but it can also be quite confusing. We'll take the guesswork out of it for you as we go over tracks, routes, Lat/Lon, UTM coordinates and more. Lasts about 4 hours. Bring your GPS and join in the fun. $40. Call or email for dates and reservations.

(You should never rely solely on any one navigational tool. You should have good compass and map skills and we highly recommend you take our compass and map class first if you do not already possess these skills).

Astronomy Lessons
We are available most evenings to introduce you and your family and friends to the night sky. We will bring our telescope and several pairs of binoculars to your location or we can meet at one of the many great spots on Beaver Island where there is little or no light pollution. We will point out constellations, the Milky Way, galaxies, star clusters, planets and much more. You will gain a better understanding of the night sky and learn many myths and legends about the constellations. Learn how the sky changes through the night and throughout the seasons. $60 - $100 per session depending on the location you choose and the size of your group. Reservations need to be made in advance with an alternate rain/cloud date.

Low-Impact Camping Skills
Here at the Inland Seas School of Kayaking we are very interested in promoting low-impact environmentally friendly outdoor fun. We can enjoy the outdoors without impacting it in a negative way just by taking some simple precautions. In this way we can protect and save our beautiful woods and lakes for our children to enjoy also.

In this class, we'll cover such things as: choice of campsite, proper human waste disposal, proper washing of dishes, proper body washing, fires, enjoying wildlife without causing harm (it may be easier to cause harm than you think), outdoor cooking and more.

Take the 2 hour class for $30 or use what we learn on an overnight camping trip here on the island for $80. Family and group rates available. Call or email for reservations and dates.

Winter Camping
Spend an exciting weekend with us as we explore our winter world and learn that winter camping can be great fun! We'll set up a base camp after we hike or snowshoe into the woods. You'll learn some basic differences between summer and winter camping as well as the extra precautions that are required in the winter. Part of the class is taught indoors where we'll learn about winter clothing, winter camping gear, stoves that work in the winter, staying warm, etc.

If we have snow we'll learn how to build snow shelters and caves for winter survival. Price includes all equipment and food. 2 nights/$160. Call or email for dates and reservations.

Snowshoeing
Join us as we spend a little time inside learning about the history of snowshoeing and about the various types of snowshoes, bindings, etc. Then we'll head outside and play in the snow for a couple of hours. This class will provide you with an opportunity to try out various types and styles of snowshoes. You'll learn various techniques for turning, climbing, traversing and getting up after you have fallen. Kids are welcome as we have little snowshoes too. $30 for adults & $15 for kids. Call or email for dates and reservations.