Boreal Forest Excursion in Ontario, Canada

Since 2016, NRDC has been deploying a multipronged strategy to stop the logging industry from clearcutting irreplaceable boreal forests for products like toilet tissue, paper towels, and lumber. The forest degradation threatens a biodiverse, climate-critical ecosystem as well as the rights of resident Indigenous Peoples.  

NRDC is advocating in Canada and the United States for trade standards, international agreements, and other policies that hold governments accountable for forest protections. We’re also leveraging consumer and investor pressure to shift giants like the Kimberly-Clark Corporation and Lowe’s away from products derived from the boreal forest. We’re generating public awareness of this issue and shifting consumer preferences with our annual Issue with Tissue ranking of leading brands, like Procter & Gamble’s Charmin, that use virgin fiber from northern forests instead of sustainable options. And we’re supporting local conservation efforts, sharing technical expertise and strategy with the Indigenous communities fighting for their traditional territories. 

NRDC has partnered with Elevate Destinations, a leader in sustainable and ethical travel, to plan this incredible journey. 

Yes. Your passport should be valid at the time of entry to Canada and include one blank page for a stamp. U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Canada for stays up to 180 days.

International flights, travel and medical insurance, personal expenses (shopping, phone calls, laundry, etc.), and activities not mentioned in the itinerary.  

If you wish to arrive in Thunder Bay early or stay after the trip concludes, please contact trips@nrdc.org to inquire about rates and availability of pre- or post-trip rooms.

Gratuity is included for drivers, airport transfer drivers, porters, tour guides, Wabakimi staff, and restaurant staff. We recommend a few dollars ($5) for your housekeeping crew in Thunder Bay.

In mid-September, you can expect an average high temperature of approximately 63 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of about 45 degrees Fahrenheit. A mix of sun and clouds is typical, and rain is possible during this month. It’s advisable to bring a warm coat, layers, thick socks, and a waterproof jacket.

Yes. Please inform us of any special dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, food allergies, etc.) on your trip application form. In most cases, dietary needs can be accommodated, but it is very important to notify NRDC prior to the trip departure.

A 40 percent nonrefundable deposit of $3,940 (plus $180 for single supplement) is due to secure your spot on this trip. The final deposit is due on May 30, 2025, and is nonrefundable. If you cancel less than 90 days before departure, you will not receive a refund.

We recommend that all travelers do the following: 

• Travel doctor: Consult with a travel clinic or your primary care physician regarding immunizations or other precautions you may need to take in order to participate in this journey. You will need to do this well in advance of your trip as some vaccinations require time to take effect, and you may need to allow time between a series of shots. 
• CDC guidance: Please be sure to check the CDC website for Canada for updated information about vaccinations and health concerns and check with your medical provider or travel clinic about your individual requirements. 

NRDC and Elevate Destinations recommend that all travelers have medical insurance, which covers them in Canada. Elevate Destinations provides evacuation insurance for this trip. If you would like to purchase medical insurance in Canada, below are two insurance brokers that Elevate Destinations recommends. 

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services 
info@travelinsure.com  
+1-800-937-1387 

Travel Insurance Center 
Dan Drennen
dan@travelinsurancecenter.com 
+1-402-343-3621  

Please contact the insurance broker or company with questions or for specific information.

Please reach out to trips@nrdc.org for more information and questions about this trip.