Feb 17 - Feb 19, 2012, #BEW12B.

These are exciting weekend trips traveling to and along the Mississippi River in southwestern Wisconsin and Iowa to observe and study one of America's largest wintering and migrating populations of Bald Eagles. Photographic opportunities should abound as our groups observe these magnificent creatures flying free in the wild! Other winter birds of prey and wildlife will also be studied and observed as part of the weekend's activities. Groups are strictly limited to 10 participants. The package includes round-trip van transportation from the Chicago area, lodging, snacks, group equipment, guides and instruction. The groups depart the Chicago area early Friday afternoons and return Sunday early evening. ACT QUICKLY TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE! THESE ARE ANNUAL FAVORITES AND FILL FAST!   (DUE TO THE MANY DIFFERENT DIETARY NEEDS AND REQUESTS, MEALS SHALL BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE INDIVIDUAL PARTICIPANTS AND ARE NOT INCLUDED.) (FUEL SURCHARGES MAY APPLY)

Join us for a very full day of Bald Eagle watching along the Illinois River and then on to the bluffs of the Mississippi River for the grand finale! Program includes transportation to and from the Chicago area guides and complete natural history instruction about our native birds of prey and, of course, photography instruction as needed. We depart the Chicago area at approximately 7 AM on Saturday and return at approximately 9-10 PM that night. Snacks will be furnished but any meals will be the responsibility of the individual participant. These programs are sure to fill fast, so, reserve your spot early! FUEL SURCHARGES MAY BE ADDITIONAL.

Michigan's fantastic Upper Peninsula awaits! That's where we will spend these TWO fantastic full days and evenings filled with non-stop excitement as we quietly enter into the secretive world and lives of the these mighty predators and "top dogs" of the region. These programs are specifically dedicated to the study of wolves but, who knows, we could just observe some of the other mighty predators of the region such as black bear, coyote, and fox as they interact with their favored prey species, the moose and white tailed deer.  Programs Include classroom and day & night field sessions. We will also explore and investigate the social impact that the growing wolf population has created. Our teaching staff and guides will be joined in part by renowned and respected wolf researchers and observers. It should be non-stop excitement with excellent photo possibilities every step of the way! Groups will quietly hike and possibly snow shoe into various habitats to study, learn and observe first-hand. Weather conditions shall dictate groups' actual itineraries and activities. and target species may vary as the season progresses. Programs include all local transportation, guides, and complete instruction. Lodging is not included. Programs begin Thursday evening with a presentation on wolf ecology and conclude Saturday night. NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED!  Participants must get themselves to us. A roundtrip transportation option from Chicago, Milwaukee and Green Bay is sometimes available with very limited seating for an extra Fee. Call for details and availability. A complete Program Information Packet with maps and personal gear requirements will be sent to all participants upon Registration. Limited to 8 participants maximum. Minimum of 4 participants required. Maximum of 8. (DUE TO THE MANY DIFFERENT DIETARY NEEDS AND REQUESTS, MEALS SHALL BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE INDIVIDUAL PARTICIPANTS AND ARE NOT INCLUDED. SHARED FOOD GROUPS WILL BE FORMED.)                                 *A FUEL SURCHARGE MAY APPLY.

EARLY BOOKING SPECIAL!  BOOK YOUR ALASKA 2012 RESERVATION BY JAN 15, 2012, & RECEIVE A 5% DISCOUNT!

WOW! Here they are, the trips of a lifetime! Come with us as we explore America's last great frontier for 13 full days and 13 nights! These trips encompass just about everything---photography, birding, wildlife studies, geology! We will really "DO ALASKA"! Our groups will observe and photograph the grizzlies of Katmai National Park at Brooks Falls, Hallo Bay, Geographic Harbor, or Lake Clark NP. Then enjoy everything else along the way as we journey to and explore Denali National Park. Our routes are planned along the scenic Denali Highway, the original route into the park. Two full days will be spent on the Denali Highway as we enjoy and experience the Alaskan Bush as it really is, and as it really should be experienced, unfettered by the crowds and the many restrictions of the National Park. Wildlife and scenic photo ops will abound!

Groups will also visit and explore the Kenai Peninsula as we travel to Homer and/or Seward, AK. Programs also include a full-day boat excursion on a small charter boat to view and photograph glaciers and ocean wildlife. There is no pushing or shoving to get rail space on our excursions! We have the boat to ourselves.

As always, complete instruction, guides, fees, destination group travel including local air transfers and float planes, boats, and Alaska Rail travel if needed, all scheduled accommodations, and some meals may be included.

(DUE TO THE MANY DIFFERENT DIETARY NEEDS AND REQUESTS, MOST MEALS SHALL BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE INDIVIDUAL PARTICIPANTS AND ARE NOT INCLUDED.) Air Fare to Alaska is Not Included. Our groups will meet and form in Anchorage, Alaska. The first day is spent in and around the Anchorage area in an all day training session for photography and natural history while exploring the local area's great natural areas such as Potter's Marsh, the Tony Knowles Recreation Trail, and Kincaid Park. We will also journey to Turnagain Arm of Cook Inlet in search of beluga whales.

Group maximum of 10 participants, minimum of 6. Accommodations are all double to quad occupancy depending on location and facilities. Many facilities in the bush can be anything from primitive or much less than 5-Star. Private, single accommodations may be possible for extra fees but cannot be guaranteed at any destination. Private accommodations for couples are sometimes available for extra fees. More details to be announced as they become available. Prices and trip specifics subject to change. Confirmed reservations lock in current, scheduled pricing.

Due to the nature of the Alaska economic environment, local business practices, and the lack of local refund policies due to the extremely short seasons, our deposits, fees, and any portion of the Total Balance required, reflect those policies and once paid, are Non-Refundable. Purchasing separate Trip Insurance is highly recommended! Additionally, due to extreme weather variables in Alaska, travel delays and extended stays at some locations may be required, and any additional costs such as extra accommodation charges and flight change fees shall be at the participant's own and extra expense. Patience is truly a virtue (and requirement) when traveling in Alaska! Delays are not uncommon and can be expected.

Complete participant information packages are sent upon confirmed reservation. These trips are designed for those individuals who really want to experience as much of what Alaska has to offer as possible. The days will be long and filled with non-stop excitement and adventure! Some moderate hiking is involved, but individuals of average health and stamina should have absolutely no difficulties with any of the itineraries or scheduled activities. No camping is involved. BEGINNERS ARE DEFINITELY WELCOMED.

Fees are fully refundable if trip is cancelled by Wilderness Institute. Feel free to call or email us with any questions.
Fuel Surcharges May Apply & Be Additional.  BOOK EARLY to get best Airline Fares!

FEE: CONTACT US FOR DETAILS.
DEPOSIT: CONTACT US FOR DETAILS.    
 

CONTACT US FOR DETAILS, SPECIAL REGISTRATION FORMS,
& ANY EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNTS.
Seats Available >       AUGUST:  ( 6 )      (AS OF 12/04/11)

EARLY BOOKING SPECIAL!  BOOK YOUR ALASKA 2012 RESERVATION BY JAN 15, 2012, & GET A 5% DISCOUNT!

WILDLIFE & WILDFLOWERS OF THE NORTH WOODS 2012
WEEKEND ADVENTURES CONDUCTED IN MICHIGAN'S UPPER PENINSULA

 MAY 10 - 13, #BWFN12A       JUNE 7 - 10,  #BWFN12B,       JULY 12 - 15,   #BWFN12C  

NEWLY EXPANDED PROGRAM!

                                                        (Birding, Wildflowers, Ecology, Photography)   GREAT PROGRAMS FOR THE BEGINNER!
Look Up! Look Down! Look ALL Around! These weekend workshops are held during the peak of the spring wildflower bloom and bird migration in the north woods of Michigan and Wisconsin and then on through the mating and nesting seasons! Emphasis is on field identification of individual species. Studies of ecological concepts, including predator-prey relationships, habitats and all other natural residents encountered play major roles as well. These programs also pay particular attention to the magnificent birds of prey such as the Bald Eagles and Osprey and include night studies of Owls & predators. Actual program content and species specialties and targets vary as the season progresses. Mostly field work. BEGINNERS ARE WELCOMED! A very moderate pace is the order of the day but includes some hiking. Includes some meals and snacks, complete instruction, and guides. Lodging is not included. These programs are geared for non-photographers, but great photo opportunities should abound! Strictly Limited to 10 participants. Programs begin Thursday evenings with dinner and conclude Sunday morning. NON-STOP EXCITEMENT! A roundtrip transportation option from Chicago, Milwaukee and Green Bay is sometimes available with very limited seating for an extra Fee. RESERVE YOUR SPACE EARLY! THESE ARE SOME OF OUR MOST POPULAR ANNUAL OFFERINGS! Due to the many varied dietary restrictions of the groups, meals shall be the individual participant's own responsibility.

FEE: $245.00*.    DEPOSIT: $150.00.    BALANCE DUE DATE: 45 days prior to program start date.
*A FUEL SURCHARGE MAY APPLY.

NATURE STUDY & PHOTOGRAPHY   FIELD WORKSHOPS
"WILDERNESS VISIONS 2012"

MAY 16 - 20, 2012, # WV12A,          JULY 18 -22, 2012, # WV12B,

Join us at WILDERNESS INSTITUTE for "WILDERNESS VISIONS" our exciting, in-depth nature study and photography workshops, They are conducted in Michigan's fantastic Upper Peninsula, the lower 48's LAST FRONTIER! All programs include both classroom and field sessions and deal primarily with the natural side of nature photography and observation, always stressing the holistic approach to study and awareness. These are hands-on programs that, at all times, stress low impact on the environment and a sound understanding and appreciation of basic ecological concepts. Segments are limited to a maximum of 8 participants to facilitate low environmental impact as well as individualized attention and instruction. Groups are led primarily by J.P. Speno, professional photographer and Executive Director of WILDERNESS INSTITUTE. His credits include many years of field ecology studies, nature writing, and group instruction / leadership, both independently and at the community college level.

Some of the topics covered in each program, in addition to photographic techniques, include species identification both plant and animal, tracking, navigation and "staying found", use of blinds and camouflage, equipment and films, habitat studies, ethics in the field, dealing with the environment, and behavioral studies. Program itineraries take our groups to all types of natural habitats for study from forest to stream to bog. Tremendous diversity of species of flora and fauna can be expected in all segments but will vary as the season progress. Wolf, deer, black bear, fox, coyote, and hopefully bobcat, and many various species of delicate wildflowers, including many rare varieties, can be anticipated. Special emphasis will be placed on larger mammals such as deer, black bear, moose, the wild cats of the region, and the wolf and its growing population in the north woods region!

Primarily field programs, our groups will literally be immersed into the habitats studied! Weather permitting, programs might also include an overnight camping session to one of the region's superb natural areas.   Group equipment will be provided if camping is included. Larger mammals and predators highlight most of the later segments as participants learn to "hunt" with a camera or binoculars! Many wildlife "trophies" are brought back each summer by our groups but only to be mounted in a photograph or cherished in the memories of a lifetime!

Programs are complete including instruction, local group transportation (participants must get themselves to us), use of group field equipment, limited use of some photographic equipment including telephoto lenses, and reference material handouts. Meals and lodging are not included. Group lodging may be available at local chalets in a country setting for an extra Fee. Programs begin Wednesday evening with dinner thru Sunday mornings. A roundtrip transportation option from Chicago, Milwaukee and Green Bay is sometimes available with very limited seating for an extra Fee. NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED!  BEGINNERS AND NON-PHOTOGRAPHERS ARE WELCOMED AND ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE! Nature study at its absolute best! Please include a 2ND CHOICE program date when making your reservation!   These programs usually fill fast! A complete Information Packet with maps and personal gear requirements is sent to all participants upon Registration. Limited to 8 participants. Minimum of 4. PROGRAM CONTENT, ITINERARY, & DETAILS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

FEE: $345.00*.    DEPOSIT: $145.00.    BALANCE DUE DATES: 45 days prior to session start date.
*A FUEL SURCHARGE MAY APPLY.

REGISTRATION FORM

Join us for twelve glorious days and nine nights on our bi-annual wildlife and nature study extravaganza to YELLOWSTONE & GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARKS! On our way, weather permitting, we will tour through Rocky Mountain National Park. Several other pristine National Wildlife Refuges will also be visited and studied along the way such as RED ROCK LAKES NWR! Weather permiting, our group will visit Rocky Mountain NP as well. This is truly a western adventure to our Nation's original National Treasure! Fire ecology, studies in natural succession and rebirth, and the Yellowstone wolf reintroduction program play all-important roles in this program. These are primarily beginning level camping trips (we stay in cabins, not tents) with all amenities close at hand. But, they also include at least 3 fabulous nights at the historic Old Faithful Inn, several nights in rustic cabins, and several other nights of prescribed lodging. It is intentionally scheduled at the time of year when most tourists have left the area and the animals have begun reclaiming what is rightfully theirs. Day hiking at a very moderate, easy pace will be our group's main mode of travel into the many varied habitats that will be explored. Program includes all lodging, some meals, all destination area group transportation, instructional meetings and classes, basic photo instruction for those who are in need, guides, and all required fees. This is NOT a backpacking program! NO EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED. These trips are nature photography and nature viewing spectaculars! Lodging is double to quad occupancy. Group will meet and gather in, and return to, Denver, Colorado. Air fare is not included. Minimal equipment requirements. DON'T DELAY! THIS PROGRAM FAVORITE FILLS REALLY FAST! Strictly limited to 10 participants maximum. Minimum is 6.  (DUE TO THE MANY DIFFERENT DIETARY NEEDS AND REQUESTS, MEALS SHALL BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE INDIVIDUAL PARTICIPANTS AND ARE NOT INCLUDED.)

FEE: $2,395.00            DEPOSIT: $495.00              BALANCE DUE DATE: JULY 15, 2012

These programs consist of four (4) days (16 hours) of instruction and practice (can be condensed). The basic objective of these programs is to show the participants how to have fun and enjoy the creative art form of photography without making it more complicated than it really needs to be. Participants will "take control" of their cameras. This course will be taught in a hands-on, inter-active fashion both in the classroom and on several field trips to various sites "on location" in and around the area. It is designed to give the participant a working knowledge and comfort level of using a 35mm SLR camera or digital SLR, a basic understanding of creating a good exposure by understanding the basic facts of film and light as well as a basic understanding of sound composition, depth-of-field, and good visual technique. The classes themselves shall be declared (as much as possible) "no stress zones". Even though this is not specifically a class in digital photography, digital concepts will be discussed during the program. The use of basic “point-and-shoot” cameras is not advised.

NOW PRESENTED AS INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION & SCHEDULING!   MAXIMUM 2, MINIMUM 1.
CONTENT & PACE TAILORED TO THE PARTICIPANT'S NEEDS.

Dates To Be Scheduled With Participant.   INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION! (NEW)
INFO REQUEST BASIC PHOTOGRAPHY

These programs consist of one full day field experience that will deal with the aesthetic as well as the mechanical aspects of the world of close-up photography primarily dealing with wildflowers, garden flowers and any insects or critters that might be encountered along the way. An understanding and enjoyment of the natural world around us will also be stressed.  These programs are not designed to be a class in basic photography, however only basic equipment will be required to participate. A sound, basic working knowledge of photographic concepts and techniques will be required including depth-of-field, bracketing, and basic flash techniques.  It will be assumed that each participant knows his/her equipment and basic photography concepts. The programs will travel to and study several different habitat types. 

All field class sessions will meet rain or shine unless the threat of serious storms exists. The students must be aware of the fact that the entire time will be spent in the field in most any weather condition. Anyone with serious allergies should think twice about enrolling in this program UNLESS THEY ARE UNDER CONTROL. These programs are geared around field trips and hands-on instruction and not classroom lecture.

JASPER-PULASKI -- SANDHILL CRANE SPECTACULARS
                                                          MAR 18,  #SHC12A.   ----  NOV 3,  #SHC12B.

These one day programs journey to the Jasper-Pulaski Wildlife Area in central Indiana to witness and be part of one of nature's spectaculars, the semi-annual migration of thousands of sandhill cranes, are events and trips of a lifetime! Many other species of waterfowl and wildlife will also be observed along the way, too. Includes round-trip van transportation from the Chicago area, guides and instruction, refreshments. Groups depart the Chicago area at 7:00 AM and return approximately 6:00 PM. Limited to 10 participants. (Fuel Surcharges May Apply)

CHICAGO AREA-- MAR 18,   MAR 24,   APRIL 7

Don't know where or how to get started? LET US SHOW YOU THE WAY! Join us for one of these in-depth, one day, classroom workshops that encompass everything from species studies and identification, ecology, tracking, field techniques, use of blinds, scouting and finding locations and critters, and yes, even some photo techniques, and much, much more! Programs are conducted by Joe Speno, Executive Director of Wilderness Institute, college photography instructor, and professional photographer. The day’s program is "crammed" with useful knowledge and pointers. The day’s program is not designed to bore the participants with purely equipment presentations. It is not designed to be a showcase for Mr. Speno’s works. It is, however, designed to get the participants "up and running" as quickly as possible in their pursuit of the very gratifying field of nature and wildlife photography. All the equipment in the world will not get the photograph if the photographer does not know his/her way around and into the natural world. Hunting with a camera will be the topic of the day! Morning and afternoon refreshments are provided. The programs begin promptly at 9:30 AM and conclude at approximately 5:00 PM. These are great programs for those individuals that would like to start enjoying this exciting and gratifying endeavor but don’t know where to begin. BEGINNERS ARE DEFINITELY WELCOME! Seating is limited, and advance reservations are required. Actual locations announced upon registration.

FEE: $135.00.      DEPOSIT: Fee Due In Full With Reservation.
BALANCE DUE DATE: 30 Days Prior To Event.

Schedules, trip specs, and prices subject to change without notice.   Prices guaranteed only upon receipt of deposit.

DUE TO THE MANY DIFFERENT DIETARY NEEDS AND REQUESTS RESULTING FROM TODAY'S VARIED LIFESTYLES, MOST MEALS SHALL BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE INDIVIDUAL PARTICIPANTS AND ARE NOT INCLUDED UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED.

To register in any program simply click on the Registration Form link below and print out the form. Phone reservations held for 5 days pending receipt of Registration Form and Deposit.

CLICK ON LINKS BELOW

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