Traveling to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), we will explore the natural history and ecology of the boreal forest in northern Minnesota as well as the human experience of wintertime in a wilderness setting. In addition to completing course readings and participating in and leading class discussions, students will learn to make natural history observations and will design and conduct an original field-based research project. Course activities will also include winter wilderness travel by snowshoe; cross-country ski, and/or dogsled in and around the BWCAW. Eagerness to experience winter in the outdoors and in a wilderness setting, and to contribute to the larger group in a communal and rustic living situation is essential.