Skip to main content

Wilderness Inquiry provides access to the outdoors for everyone no matter their age, background and ability.

Inclusion is one of our main themes, and equity, and to really bring the outdoors to people that don't otherwise get there.

Greg Lais

Connecting to Nature

Since 1978, Wilderness Inquiry (WI) has served more than half a million individuals from all walks of life. Through outdoor adventures, students gain personal growth and an enhanced awareness of the environment.

WI provides the opportunity to see the natural world from a new perspective and teaches participants how to master their environment. In turn, students gain a sense of accomplishment and a deeper appreciation of the outdoors.

Snapshots

V2 A3560 2
V2 A4018
V2 A3473
V2 A3989
V2 A3592
V2 A4089
V2 A2782
V2 A3252

Inclusion in the Outdoors

In addition to their adult trips, Wilderness Inquiry facilitates outdoor activities for urban youth, individuals with disabilities and other non-traditional users of public lands and waterways.

To me, it's about connecting people and having them really see the beauty of the natural world.

Greg Lais

More Stories

Finding Joy in Remembrance: Honoring George Floyd Five Years Later

Leslie E. Redmond organizes commemorative event for George Floyd and reflects on her work as an activist.

Read the announcement

The Foundation Convenes Minnesota Experts on the Housing Continuum

Housing leaders emphasize the economic and social benefits of addressing the state's growing housing crisis.

See the Highlights

A Decade of Growth and Giving

To celebrate Dr. Eric Jolly’s legacy at the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation, we have compiled a list of highlights and accomplishments during his tenure.

See the Highlights

Fostering Wealth in Minnesota’s Indigenous Communities

Learn how Mni Sota Fund supports Native homeownership in the Twin Cities.

See their impact

Emma Norton Services: A Century of Transformative Housing

For more than 100 years this renowned nonprofit has ensured that people in Minnesota have a safe and affordable place to call home.

See the impact

Juana Garcia: Celebrating Cultural Traditions Through Dance

Dance has been a way for Juana (Jaynie) Garcia to connect to her Mexican heritage, introducing Ballet Folklorico to others in the city of Willmar.

See the project

Rondo's Heartbeat: The Enduring Impact of Hallie Q. Brown Community Center

Learn how this community center has served as a safe haven for generations in Saint Paul.

Watch the video

Drumming for Unity: A Vision for Community Change

Created by John Salgado Maldonado, Cimarrón Batucada uses the art of drumming to address social justice issues and promote cross-cultural community engagement.

See the project

GET MONTHLY STORIES, NEWS AND UPDATES

JOIN
US!

* Indicates a required field