Carrying the Flame: Ian Yolles on Outdoor Education, Leadership, and the Legacy of NatureBridge and Outward Bound

Ian’s introduction to Outward Bound came in 1978, when he joined the organization as a skeptical intern. Initially, he thought the structure was overly rigid, but his perspective shifted as he saw how deeply transformative the program was for both students and instructors. The philosophy of experiential learning, leadership development, and environmental stewardship resonated with him, setting him on a path that would eventually lead him to NatureBridge.

Fast forward to 2011, when Ian received a call from a search firm recruiting new board members for NatureBridge. He had never heard of the organization before, but as soon as he learned about its mission—bringing young people into national parks for immersive science and outdoor learning experiences—he recognized joining the board as a natural extension of the work he had been devoted to for decades.

“I immediately recognized its mission as something close to my heart,” Ian recalls. “The work NatureBridge does—helping students connect with nature, build confidence, and develop leadership skills—is exactly what I experienced in my early days with Outward Bound.”

Over the next 12 years, Ian served on the NatureBridge board, including six years as board chair. His leadership spanned a crucial time in the organization’s history, particularly through the development of the National Environmental Science Center at Henness Ridge in Yosemite National Park. He helped guide NatureBridge through challenges and transitions, all while remaining committed to the idea that outdoor education should be accessible to all young people.

Both NatureBridge and Outward Bound share a core belief: nature is a powerful teacher. While their programs vary slightly—NatureBridge focuses on environmental science and national park-based education, Outward Bound emphasizes leadership, adventure, and exploring personal potential—their impact is remarkably similar.

Both organizations facilitate:

• Immersive Learning: Students don’t just learn about the environment; they experience it firsthand, strengthening their understanding through real-world application.
• Personal Development: Time in nature builds resilience, teamwork, and leadership skills that extend far beyond the outdoor experience.
• Environmental Stewardship: By fostering a deep connection to nature, students develop a sense of responsibility to protect it.

Ian believes outdoor education is more relevant now than ever before. “Young people today face unique challenges—technology, social media, mental health struggles, and a growing disconnection from nature,” he says. “Programs like NatureBridge and Outward Bound help them step outside of those pressures and reconnect with the world around them in a meaningful way.”

He also notes that outdoor education has changed over time, particularly in how risk is managed. “We live in a much more risk-averse world now,” Ian reflects. “When I started, we were taking students on 15-day wilderness expeditions with no cell phones, no satellite communication—just full immersion in the wild. Today, programs have to adapt to a different reality, but the core lessons of resilience and self-discovery remain just as important.”
 

Carry The Flame is not just a time capsule for the Canadian Outward Bound Wilderness School—it’s a collection of voices, perspectives, and stories that capture the essence of the Canadian Outward Bound Wilderness School. Over 40 contributors, including former staff, board members, and students, share their experiences and reflections.

One particularly powerful story in the book highlights a unique program designed for survivors of domestic violence. “These wilderness expeditions provided a space for healing,” Ian explains. “Participants found strength in the physical challenges—paddling, climbing, hiking—but also in the support of their group. It was about rebuilding confidence and reclaiming a sense of self.”

Another recurring theme in the book is leadership. Many Outward Bound alumni have gone on to become leaders in education, conservation, and advocacy. The book emphasizes how skills developed in outdoor programs—problem-solving, adaptability, teamwork—are universally applicable, no matter what career path someone chooses.

For Ian, Carry The Flame is a tribute to the power of outdoor education and a call to action for future generations. “I hope people see the value of these experiences,” he says. “Time in nature shaped my values, my career, and my life. Whether it’s through Outward Bound, NatureBridge, or another program, I hope young people continue to have these opportunities.”

As he looks ahead, Ian remains committed to the principles that have guided him for decades—helping young people build confidence, resilience, and a connection to the natural world. And just as Outward Bound shaped his leadership at NatureBridge, the lessons of both organizations continue to inspire a new generation of environmental stewards and educators.

Carry The Flame: The Remarkable Story Of The Canadian Outward Bound Wilderness School is available on May 6 through Insight Editions, distributed by Simon & Schuster. Pre-order before May 6 to receive a special 30% discount for the NatureBridge community or purchase the book on Amazon.