“Dave and Ellie took us on a kayak excursion that was phenomenal. Not only did they choose a ridiculously cool location, but how they guided us in ‘just being’ in nature was inspiring. I will certainly sign up again and again!”

John E. - South Portland, Maine

"I have done many yoga classes, but never have I enjoyed doing yoga as much as when I have done retreats led by Kara! The way Kara integrates the seasons, meditation, and breath with the physical body is truly unique. I have done 3 retreats and 2 workshops with her and can’t recommend her highly enough!”

Alice - Gouldsboro, Maine

“Ellie is a fantastic leader. I’ve done two women’s weekend Nordic ski trips with her and can’t wait for the third! When people get tired or the distance is long, Ellie can cheer you on and keep you smiling and happy the whole way!”

Robin O. - Portland, Maine

“Ellie was an amazing guide for me and I could not have asked for someone more knowledgeable and fun to be with!”

Christine M. - Portland, Maine

“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.” - John Muir

“Venture Outside did an incredible job in planning and getting us ready for our trip to Ecuador, and we had the most amazing time. It’s only a matter of time until we’ll be doing another trip with you guys.”

Diane and Paul H. - Buffalo, New York

“Ellie is not only gifted as a musician, but also gifted as a teacher.”

Mary L. - Westbrook, Maine

“I was an inexperienced skier when VO guides led me on a trip. They helped me through physically challenging moments with great instruction. They gave me the confidence I needed to ski down the hills safely. Their guidance put me at ease and made it a great and memorable weekend! I would recommend a VO trip to anyone!”

Chrissey E. - Scarborough, Maine

"It's not tourism! It's an experience!"

Sheryl P.

“Ellie’s positive energy, humor, and expertise are wonderful to be around.”

Masey K. - Falmouth, Maine

“I have done several wilderness canoe trips, but the ones I’ve done with Ellie and Dave were by far the most enjoyable. Even in the worst weather, they remain cheerful and fun and motivating. You almost forget about paddling or physical excursion because they’ll be singing or pointing out some incredible natural phenomenon.”

Arne K. - Yarmouth, Maine

"Dave's knowledge of natural history and a wide range of environmental issues are outstanding. His grasp of cultures from around the world, and his positive way of getting insights across make him a wonderful teacher and guide. Dave is a pleasure to be with and to learn from."

Mike W. - South Carolina

“We had a great weekend of skiing while truly enjoying the beauty of the Maine woods. We even had the rare treat of seeing a snowshoe hare because our VO guide knew how to track it.”

Chris W. - Portland, Maine