Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills

 

A group of adult leaders are all circled around a picnic table where they are cooking in the winter.

Outdoor Leadership Skills

Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS) is a course designed to complete the required training for Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters in just one weekend. Our course combines both the IOLS and Scoutmaster Specifics training into one fast-paced weekend of training.

 

What is IOLS/SM?

Outdoor Leadership Skills combines both the requirements of Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills with Scoutmaster Position Specifics Training. Both courses follow a Scouting America official syllabus. The course is conducted outdoors, participants are expected to supply their own tents and camping gear. Food is provided for Patrol cooking.  

When is IOLS Offered?

Courses are offered three times a year at various council camps. 

IOLS is also offered as a training program through Many Point and Tomahawk during summer camp sessions.

Upcoming IOLS Trainings:

  • October 3-4, 2026  at Adventure Base - Duluth, MN
  • December 12-13, 2026 at Phillippo Scout Camp - Cannon Falls, MN

A course leader is teaching a group of adult leaders how to tie some knots using the EDGE method on picnic tables in the Spring.

The IOLS Course Logo

Who may attend?

Not just for Scoutmasters — if you’re new to Scouting and you want to learn more, this course covers all outdoor skills from the rank of Scout through First Class. All participants are assigned a patrol for the weekend. You can experience Scouting through the eyes of the youth and make a new network of friends.

Any registered adult that’s completed Safeguarding Youth Training can attend the program.

Contact Us

gwen mcglaun

Event Coordinator
763-250-8497

Dave Arola

Training and Advancement Director
612-261-2333

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