Ozark Canoe Trips
Spring 2012
Guided By Rob Kesselring
Uncommon Seminars LLC is offering a guided canoe trip/trip down the Buffalo River this spring. In partnership with the University of St. Thomas, teachers and administrators can also earn 
college graduate credits for this trip. But registration is not limited to educational professionals. Any adult that has an interest in the outdoors, canoeing, camping, nature, bushcraft or leadership is welcome to register.
The Buffalo River
A Return to the place of Fire…
Essential Conversations for Instructional Leaders
April 2-6 with Rob & Darlene Patterson
This is a spectacular time of year in the Ozarks. The weather is quite warm days and spring is in full bloom. Depending on water levels we will paddle a portion of the river that is suitable for our group. The trip is 5 days and 4 nights camping out and traveling every day.
We will travel by canoe down one of the most scenic rivers in North America learning leadership from the land, each other, and selected readings. Darlene Patterson is a former Outward Bound instructor and an Indiana teacher and artist.
Deluxe tents, wholesome meals, comfortable canoes and all group gear is all included in the fee. Participants need only bring personal gear and clothing. A list of recommended articles will be provided upon registration. The class is suited for first-time paddlers and experienced wilderness travelers. Participants should have a medium or better fitness level.
$699 before Jan 31
$799 thereafter
all inclusive
2 CEU University of St. Thomas grad credits are available ($90)
For more information or to register for one or both of these classes please call or e-mail me directly:
rob@robkesselring.com
952.432.8884
The classes/trips are operated under a special use permit with the United States Forest Service (Superior National Forest) and are fully insured and licensed. Uncommon Seminars LLC is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Photos courtesy of Cliff Jacobson.
The following are comments from participants that traveled with me last year:
The Kopka River was, by far, the most complete and enjoyable wilderness experience I have had to date. Rob’s leadership and expedition experience was a big part of making this a successful trip, I would highly recommend traveling with Rob if ever you get the opportunity and I know I will look forward to my next chance to do the same! - Michael A. Branham
From time to time, we all have experiences that change who we are and how we look at life. The paddling adventure that was led by Rob Kesselring was this kind of experience for me. I came away from that adventure with a refreshed sense of life, my heart and mind were reshaped. – Darlene Patterson
Rob’s competence and steadiness and his being one with the waters and the surrounding nature allowed a physically and emotionally challenging men’s trip to become an exhilarating adventure of self exploration - Peter S.
No other class has influenced my teaching philosophy as profoundly as the BWCA class did. This course placed me into my students’ shoes and reminded me of the excitement, apprehension, and sense of accomplishment my students experience daily. The whole structure of the class reinforces the role of teacher-leader: As educators, we cannot passively do what we are told but instead search out opportunities to strengthen and challenge ourselves just as we want our students to. - Diane Temple
On a recent canoe trip down the Rio Grande River in Texas, my friend Rob Kesselring prepared what I think is the world’s best traditional bannock.
– Cliff Jacobson
You are a great story teller, and have created a wonderful way to incorporate your experiences into your work, and then touch the hearts of so many. I’m certain you continue to make a difference in many people’s lives. You have in mine.
– Deb Harley
I appreciated the organizational aspect of the trip, your experience was obvious and evident, but not pushy. I liked your leadership approach/style. You let us participate in every aspect of decision making, but when tough decision needed to be made you stepped forward to make the choice. An interesting memory was, shortly after Paul mentioned he had never seen a Moose, you went on a mission to find one for him. Within what seemed like 20 minutes you spotted the Moose and her two calves, who we then noticed were being stalked by a black bear.
-David Lasslett
Aside from his canoeing competency Rob really likes people. I look forward to my next trip with him. – Dave Burkhart
Rob has taught me the nature of balance
And the quiet joy of solitude and silence
I’ve also learned that the balance of nature
Cannot be entrusted to any human legislature
- Terry Weare
Any trip into the wilderness has potential to become arduous or even somewhat risky. Rob’s lifelong experience has taught him to foresee these potentials and skillfully, safely adapt to whatever arises. If you are looking for a wonderful, safe adventure don’t hesitate to trip with Rob! – Ken Wood
The Canyons were awesome (Rio Grande) – Darrell Foss
I’ve also concluded that what the co-instructor in the bird ecology class, Rob Kesselring, said is true: that preservation of the wilderness depends on knowledge and experience, “You’ve got to know it and to live it!” Discovering the birds of the northern forest has enriched my wilderness experience and has drawn me closer to nature, which is really my purpose of going to the BWCA. - Julie Neitzel Carr
Rio Grande in 2012? Yes, I’m In, thanks for thinking of the old Cap’n
Also thanks for the great photos. Already in frames. Way cool.
Good to hear from my old trip leader. Take care. See you in February for my third trip with you.!!!! – Paul Grondin
Rob, a lot of my leadership qualities have come from you! – Mat Mahoney (Fairmont HS Head Football Coach and MN State Champion Runner-up 2011.)
Rob’s canoe trips are light
He’s witty and bright
When his energy runs out
I’ll never figure out
To paddle with him is a delight.
-Carl LaPlante