OVERVIEW
Follow in the footsteps of ancient Native Americans, mountain men, and trappers into the high wilderness saddle of the Wind River Range. Venture off the beaten path on remote trails through lush meadows interconnected by rushing streams and pristine mountain lakes teeming with trout. Hike, fly fish, and primitive tent camp on an unforgettable backcountry experience. This is the ideal opportunity for withdrawal and renewal.
Each day you will be guided through prayer, biblical teaching, solitude, journaling, and reflection. You will also receive personal coaching and hands on instruction in basic primitive survival skills. This is an incredible opportunity to rediscover your heart and re-orient your life to the things that matter most.
Come engage with like-minded leaders, be strengthened and encouraged in your faith, and take an important step in your journey to live fully into your identity, freedom, and influence. Whether you are a seasoned outdoor explorer or experiencing the joys of the wilderness for the first time, your Explorer Adventure will provide a fun and transformational memory of a lifetime.
HIGHLIGHTS
- First night at a remote and rustic lodge
- Backpacking and fly fishing in the Wind River Range
- Daily worship, scripture devotion, prayer, and journaling
- Solitude and renewal
- Basic instruction in primitive survival skills
- Gospel friendship and shared learning
- Celebration Dinner
ITINERARY
Friday
Arrive at Salt Lake City Airport by 9:30AM. Drive to lodge. Dinner and stay the night.
Saturday - Saturday
A typical day in the Winds begins with coffee and journal time, then gathering for morning prayer and scripture devotion. We eat a simple breakfast together, pack up camp, discuss the day, and head out.
We spend much of the day hiking – taking breaks to rest, eat, enjoy a view, fish, or learn a primitive survival skill. Once we reach camp, group members set up tents and prepare dinner together. Each evening is a leadership development session and group discussion. We will close the day relaxing around the campfire and enjoying the company of new friends.
Sunday
After breakfast we will drive back to the Salt Lake City Airport. Please book returning flights after 4:00PM.
FOOD
Away from stocked cupboards and the temptation of the fridge, you will be amazed at how satisfying a very basic meal in the back country can be. You are welcome to bring your favorite snack and special dietary items.
Typical meals in the backcountry consist of the following:
BREAKFAST - coffee, oatmeal or granola, dehydrated fruit, power bar, etc
LUNCH - peanut butter and tortillas, summer sausage, bagels, cheese, tuna, trail mix. etc.
DINNER - the very best dehydrated meal pouches, and all the fresh trout you can catch
GEAR & CLOTHING
The key to staying comfortable while on an active adventure at high altitude is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation, and weather protection. This gear list has been created to help you choose the proper equipment. Try to bring only what is necessary; this will help you and your guides.
Gear
The following items are required and brought by you:
- Backpack (55-70L) with rain cover
- Sleeping Bag (20 degree recommended)
- Sleeping Pad
- Headlamp (with fresh batteries)
- Bowl, Cup, Spoon
- 2 Wide Mouth 1-Quart Water Bottles (Eg. Nalgene)
- Sunglasses
- Sun Hat
- Bandana
- Sun Block
- Lip Balm (with sunscreen)
- Insect Repellent with Picaridin
- Small Backpacking Camp Towel
- Toilet Paper and Personal Wipes (in Ziplock bag)
- Hand Sanitizer
Hygiene
Your instructors will explain about backcountry hygiene when you arrive. Please bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, and any prescription medications you need.
Clothing
The following items are required and brought by you:
- Insulated Jacket
- Rain Jacket (hooded, waterproof, breathable)
- Rain Pants (lightweight, waterproof, breathable)
- Hiking Boots
- Comfortable Shoes to wear around camp at night with warm socks (eg. Tevas, Crocs, etc.)
- Underwear (2 for the trail)
- Hiking Pants (quick dry, lightweight - to wear at night or during the day if it’s cold)
- Hiking Shirts (quick dry, 1 long sleeve, 1 shirt sleeve)
- Hiking Socks (2-pair, synthetic or wool)
- Fleece or Wool Hat
- Head Net (eg. Sea to Summit Head Net)
Optional:
- Tent or Hammock with Rain Fly
- Pocket Knife
- Gloves
- Base Layer (top and bottom, synthetic or wool)
- Camera
- Ear Plugs
- Fly Fishing Rod, Reel, and Tackle (very basic and minimal)
Please reach out with any questions about appropriate gear or clothing. It is important that you prepare and pack well.
What's Included
Lodging. Transportation to and from Salt Lake City. All food (except for lunch on day of arrival and departure). Cooking gear. Tents (unless you would like to bring yours). Professional guide service. All permits and fees. Leadership coaching. Survival skills instruction.
What’s Not Included
Airfare. Airport transfers. Fishing license. Insurance of any kind. Optional gratuities. Items of a personal nature.
Cancellation Policy
We do not refund trips. If you have to cancel for any reason, you may donate your trip as a scholarship or receive credit for your trip that is good for two years.
A preacher on a swaybacked mule asked Jim Bridger if he knew God’s mission for him in life. Without pause Bridger answered, “Go to the Rockies.”
― Michael Punke, The Revenant
MEET THE TEAM
MATT KESSLER
Lead Guide & Spiritual Director
The Rt. Rev. Matt Kessler has 26 years of experience in ordained ministry - serving as a pastor, church planter, regional leader, and Anglican bishop. Matt has started and led several non-profits and taught numerous courses and workshops. He is a certified leadership coach and spiritual director. Matt and Amanda have been married for 24years and have three children 20, 16, and 14.
DARRIK WALKER
Instructor
Darrik lives in Minnesota where he owns and operates several entrepreneurial businesses including Walkers Braintan Leather & Bushcraft. Darrik and Stacie married in 2009. They teach a variety of courses for both adults and youth. Darrik possess a vast knowledge of primitive living and survival skills and is a highly regarded instructor.
Preparing for the Adventure
You do NOT have to be an athlete or highly-trained to attend a Explorer Adventure. You DO have to be physically capable and active. Backpacking at altitude is demanding. You will use your muscles and lungs in new and challenging ways, so begin now to work on your fitness and strength. Have some fun training for your adventure! Your efforts will pay off with enjoyment and comfort.
Also, be ready to be part of a team. Think about other team experiences you may have had in sports, school, or in business. Remember what helped your team be successful, and plan to be a positive contributor during your adventure.
Health Guidelines
Participants must arrive at the course start neither experiencing nor presenting any signs or symptoms of illness. If any signs or symptoms of illness exist, participants will not be allowed to start the course. Participants are encouraged to wear a mask when traveling and follow safe and consistent hygiene practices. There is nothing worse than planning and preparing for an epic adventure and getting sick the week before. (Updated February 1, 2022)
Substance Policy
No alcohol, illegal drugs, or unprescribed medication.
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