The YMCA

For Youth Development
For Healthy Living
For Social Responsibility

Programs

Widjiwagan's programs bring the camp's mission alive through experiences that develop leadership and responsibility. Small groups are a hallmark of Widjiwagan's programs, fostering both leadership and bonding.

Widjiwagan's unique location in Ely, MN provides an excellent location for private groups to make use of the facilities. Widji’s resources allow everyone from teens, corporate groups, non-profit groups, and adult retreats to truly experience the northwoods.

 

Summer Program - Wilderness trips are the heart of Widji's summer program. We have been sending campers into the wilderness every summer since 1929. Widji has come a long way since its humble beginning and now offers both canoeing and back packing trips throughout the summer. Widji facilitates trips ranging in length, from 10 to 50 days, for 12-18 year old campers.

Canoe Trips | Grades 7-12
Backpacking Trips | Grades 7-12

 

Outdoor Learning Program - Since 1973, Widji has offered residential environmental education for schools. The program provides learning opportunities which empower students to invest in themselves and an environmentally sustainable future. The Widjiwagan curriculum is designed to provide an understanding of ecological concepts, knowledge of cultural and natural history of the region, problem solving, decision making, and team building skills. We tailor the curriculum to meet each school’s specific goals and objectives.

Outdoor Learning Program

Backpacking Campers

I learned a lot about pushing myself and confidence in myself along with living in the moment and appreciating the world around me.
Camper