Michael Strong - Author

Michael Strong holds a BS in physical education and a professional diploma in education from the University of Alberta.

He also holds an MS in leisure studies and services from the University of Oregon. where he has been a member of the faculty since 1986.

He directs the University of Oregon's Outdoor Pursuits Program and Outdoor Pursuits Leadership Training Program.

Strong has taught a variety of land, snow, and water-based courses, including wilderness survival, backpacking, rock climbing, mountaineering, snow-camping, ski touring, backcountry skiing, avalanche safety, high angle rescue, mountain and river rescue, whitewater rafting, kayaking, environmental education, adventure education, and outdoor leadership.

Strong developed a love for the outdoors and a strong interest in outdoor recreation at an early age.

The forest near his home city of Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada, was a year-round playground.

Strong's amateur interest in the history of the 1898 Gold Rush and connection with the Yukon River have been influential forces.

He has hiked the Chilkoot Trail numerous times, paddled much of the Yukon River, and climbed Mt. Logan, Canada’s highest peak.

Prior to pursuing his master's degree, Strong worked as a full-time field instructor for the National Outdoor Leadership School for several years and led a variety of courses in Wyoming, Montana, Utah, Washington, and Alaska including canyon, outdoor educator, instructor training courses, and an ascent of Denali.

Leadership and Administration of Outdoor Pursuits, 3rd ed. Print