The OAE staff hosts the "Institute" spring break trip to a new location every year.
For 2025: kayaking in the Outer Banks. Watch the video below to get a taste of the trip.
*Note, this was shot on digital cameras from 2005...
The OAE Wilderness Institute is a staff-only trip that occurs every Spring Break.
The program travels across the United States to either Joshua Tree CA, Cochise AZ, or the Outer Banks, NC.
Its purpose is to challenge the staff mentally, physically, and emotionally to grow as better leaders.
Baltimore, MD to Cape Lookout was a smooth, but long 8 hour drive. We spent the first evening fighting a violent windstorm. It took out one of our tents and kept us awake all night. We were still able to light our mountaneering stoves, plan the next day out, and participate in a debrief. Debriefs are opportunities for staff to reflect on their wellbeing through guided questions. Talk about a mental and physical challenge!
At a small coastal campsite and RV area in Beaufort, NC.
With no wind, we were able to travel out from the campsite onto the island. The staff used charts and tide measurements to get there efficiently. It meant an early start, but a midday nap as well! The rest of the day consisted of camp set-up and beach shenanigans before an early slumber.
Prepping the kayaks to travel to Carrot Island.
An early 4:40am start and a 7 mile paddle brought us to the the park's iconic lighthouse. It was worth every paddle. Living out of kayaks was finally an easy lifestlye. A pavillion and plenty of trees gave shelter from the wind and rain. Turtles, dolphins, plovers, and horses were seen along the way.
Staff makes it to Shackleford Banks, where the famous lighthouse is.
A windstorm kept us on the island for the whole day. Lighting kept us in tents for a few hours. When the sun came out, though, we rejoiced. The whole day was based around education about the biodiverse island and bonding with fellow staff members. To describe the day in one word: magical.
Traveling to the side of Core Banks that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean.
After seeing the Atlantic Ocean and the great dunes, it was time to head back to shore. It was time for a hot meal in the town of Beaufort! Smiles could be seen brimming as staff took in such a beautiful scene. Another year, another amazing Institute...
Staff goes on a hike to explore the dunes and find wild horses.
Cape Lookout National Seashore is just 1 of 28 national seashores in the United States.
Its rich history and biodiversity make it a must-see destination on the East Coast.
Use the map below to explore where we went. Click here to plan your visit.