The Alaska Outdoor Science School
Celebrating the Wisdom of NatureWe immerse students in hands-on experiences that spark curiosity, inspire stewardship, and leave a lasting mark on them—and the planet.
* Learn by Doing
At AOSS, we blend traditional learning with real-world exploration. Walk on glaciers, hold ice from melting streams, and study rivers and forests teeming with wildlife. These firsthand experiences transform abstract concepts into meaningful understanding, making learning memorable, engaging, and fun.
** The Living Classroom of Haines, Alaska
Nestled at the end of North America’s longest glacial fjord, Haines is known as the Valley of the Eagles and the Adventure Capital of Alaska. Surrounded by glaciers, mountains, and rivers that support all five species of wild Pacific salmon, the area is home to abundant wildlife—from bald eagles and moose to humpback whales and brown bears. Its dramatic landscapes and dynamic geology provide a unique living laboratory for climate study, ecology, and sustainability.
***Cultural Connections
Students also gain insights into the Tlingit people and their village of Klukwan, where Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) links nature, culture, and history. This connection helps students understand how humans interact with the environment and the importance of living in harmony with natural rhythms.
****Transformational Experiences
Whether hiking glaciers, observing wildlife, or exploring cultural traditions, the AOSS experience engages students in ways that ignite curiosity, deepen understanding, and inspire lifelong stewardship of the planet.
“My AOSS course was truly an amazing, once in a lifetime experience. I learned more in this two week course than I did over an entire semester worth of courses.”
~ Quennita, student
“AOSS turned science into an adventure I’ll never forget. Holding ice from the glacier, coring trees, and trapping salmon made everything real.” ~Liv, student.
” I enjoyed everything about my course with AOSS. Being able to have classroom sessions and being able to experience nature first-hand was fantastic. I felt like I learned more deeply from this approach.”
~ Amanda, student
*****See It for Yourself
Curious what the AOSS experience feels like? Watch this 45-second teaser by award-winning filmmaker Wes Overvold and step into the adventure.
“Visiting Klukwan and learning from the Tlingit people was amazing. I never realized how connected culture and nature are. This trip helped me see how humans fit into the environment in a totally new way.”
~Sophie, student