Welcome to The Off Grid Ark Journal - a behind-the-scenes look at life on our 164-acre off-grid property in the Outaouais.
From building cabins and milling lumber to hosting outdoor education groups and boiling maple syrup, this is where I share the real work, lessons, and stories from life at The Ark.
Whether you’re curious about off-grid systems, outdoor education, or just living a little closer to the land, you’ll find it all here — one project at a time.
Mike Caldwell Published on: 12/11/2025Inspired by Mike Caldwell’s high school mentor, The Off Grid Ark Outdoor Education Program helps students build resilience, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving skills through hands-on wilderness learning near Ottawa.
The newest blog entries appear first, so if you don't want to "skip to the end" scroll back through the entries to find the "origin story" and work your way through to follow the story from beginning to now.
Mike CaldwellDuke of Edinburgh AJs near Ottawa partners with the Off Grid Ark. Structured Bronze, Silver, and Gold journeys, plus the Gold Project, supported on our private off-grid property in Quebec.
Mike CaldwellA satirical look at how we’ve imprinted on our phones, why modern life keeps us buzzing at high frequency, and how nature helps us reset and feel human again.
Mike CaldwellAn honest look at building the off-grid bunkhouse as winter arrived early at The Off Grid Ark. From milling hardwood floors to hauling lumber in snow, here’s how the project pushes forward and why it matters for future outdoor education programs.
Mike CaldwellOutdoor education needs more than time outside. Discover how a structured, experiential 3-day program at The Off Grid Ark builds real skills, confidence, and teamwork.
Mike CaldwellA day at The Off Grid Ark turns into an honest reflection on killing a squirrel, cooking it with respect, and what it means to eat meat in a modern world.
Mike CaldwellEarly winter hit The Off Grid Ark three weeks ahead of schedule, turning the bunkhouse build into a test of mindset, problem-solving, and off-grid resilience in real time.
“New stories posted every week (or so....) — follow along as The Ark grows and evolves.”
🏕️ About the Author
Mike Caldwell is the founder of The Off Grid Ark, a 164-acre off-grid property in Western Quebec where he's built multiple businesses, hosts outdoor education programs, and shares life close to the land.
A retired paramedic and lifelong outdoorsman, Mike also rescues dogs and organizes The Mad Trapper, Canada’s longest-running trail and snowshoe race series. His work blends adventure, sustainability, and storytelling — inspiring others to live more intentionally and closer to nature.
