Adventures Youth Programs

The Minne-Loppet is an 8-10 week cross country ski program for third, fourth and fifth graders in North Minneapolis and Osseo area schools. We focus on partnering with schools with a majority of the school population eligible for Free and Reduced Lunch. The program occurs during the school day, on school grounds. Students learn the fundamentals of cross country skiing and healthy eating to fuel physical activity. The program culminates with the annual Minne-Loppet “race” during our City of Lakes Loppet Festival each February, where participants test their new skills and are celebrated with hugs, cheers, hot chocolate, cookies and finisher medals! The primary goal of the Minne-Loppet program is to help elementary schoolers build self-confidence; pride in their abilities; and a love of outdoor activity by learning to ski in a supportive environment.

Minne-Loppet School Partners:

Bethune Community School
City View Community School
Crestview Elementary School
Elizabeth Hall International
Harvest Prep/Best Academy
Hmong International Academy
Loring Elementary School
Lucy Laney @ Cleveland Park Elementary School
Nellie Stone Johnson Elementary School
Park Brook Elementary School
Pillsbury Elementary School

Minne-Loppet Funding Partners:

Share Winter Foundation
UCare
Allina Health
Riverway Foundation

The Junior Loppet program is a year-round, after school program that empowers Minneapolis middle schoolers through healthy outdoor activities like cross country skiing, mountain biking, trail running, orienteering and paddling. We focus on partnering with middle schools with a majority of the school population eligible for Free and Reduced Lunch. The program occurs 2-3 days per week after school, and throughout the summer. Students also participate in events, races, and weekend camping and training trips. The program uses outdoor adventure to help middle schoolers build healthy habits; social and emotional skills; and personal connections that promote success both on and off the trails.

Junior Loppet School Partners:

Anwatin Middle School
Franklin Middle School
Northeast Middle School

Northside Adventures Program

Junior Loppet Funding Partners:

Otto Bremer Trust
Share Winter Foundation
McVay Foundation
REI Co-op
Butler Family Foundation
Minneapolis Kiwanis Foundation
Glen Helgeson Family Foundation
Dorsey & Whitney Foundation

The Loppet Leadership Academy is a new program designed to provide a continuation of outdoor engagement and recreation for high school aged youth of all skill levels. The program will consist of winter outdoor activities and strength training sessions, building on skills learned in Junior Loppet programs, as well as a curriculum focused on building leadership skills necessary to seek or continue employment in an outdoor or adventure setting. There will be mentorship and leadership opportunities that include invited speakers, shadowing coaches, and volunteering with other Loppet programming.

High School Program Funding Partners:

George Family Foundation

Stay tuned for more events!

Click here to view and sign up for upcoming volunteer opportunities with the Adventures Youth programming.