Everyone likes the idea of an adventure.

And everyone wants to like the idea of an extreme adventure.

But what, precisely, does that mean?

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There is no single or simple definition.

Some adventures are bound by physical ability or inherent danger.

Others are defined by the financial means necessary for such a trip.

Several tourists carefully observe a polar bear from their boat hosted by Akook Arctic Adventures.

Others are simply a bucket list of challenging yourself to get out of your comfort zone.

But all extreme adventures are set by individual willingness and determination.

Polar bears

The worlds largest land carnivore has no fear of you.

Whitewater rafters crash through the Pillow Rock rapid on the Upper Gauley river near Fayetteville, West Virginia.

If this sparks a primal human fear, thats good.

Seeing a polar bear in the wild has few equals in the natural world.

To do so, of course, means traveling north, the far north.

Viewing a polar bear in the wild is a seasonal pursuit.

During the winter, the bears retreat to the polar ice.

The area is remote and accessible only by air.

Only a few polar bear tour outfitters operate in this area, includingAkook Arctic Adventures.

A run of Class III, IV or V whitewater can define extreme conditions.

The Gauley is a more technical and challenging river with dam-controlled whitewater runs that peak in September and October.

Being an experienced outfitter is a must.