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Trip Preparation

How exactly did I end up in Ely, Minnesota for the best experience in my life? It's hard to think of how, but when it all comes down to it, it is rather simple.

Signing up

In January, I signed up for the trip by sending the OA Voyage Application along with a fifty dollar deposit to the National Order of the Arrow Office. A few weeks later, I received an acceptance letter from the National Office. Along with this letter was a packet of information, including a medical form, Voyageur Handbook to Adventure, Tips for Fishing By Canoe and Canoe County Nature Guide Book. These two books provided loads of information that I needed before I even arrived on the base, including what to pack and what to leave at home.

Travel Planning

Northern Tier wanted to ensure that I arrived well and on time. Since I had to fly to the base, I sent them my flight information by filling out an index card provided in the information packet I received. I sent the base my flight numbers and arrival/departure times so that someone would meet me at the airport. I found that the further in advanced I purchased my airline tickets, the cheaper the rates were. Northern Tier provided the five-hour bus transportation to and from the airport to the base for 75 dollars.

Medical Check

In order to make sure I was fit to attend the High Adventure Trek, I went to the doctors about one month before my trip. After my doctor signed my medical form provided in my informational packet, I made two copies. I mailed one copy to the Northern Tier Base and kept the other copy for my records.

Time to Leave

Before I knew it, I found it almost time to leave for my trip to Ely, Minnesota. I had my bags packed, read my books provided by Northern Tier, and held on tight to my airline tickets. I kissed my parents good-bye and headed off to the airport where little did I know, my life would change greatly.

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Revised 04/12/04