MAN MAKER: BackpacK

The Man Maker: Backpacking trip creates the space for the application of genuine masculine initiation. It’s designed as an intensive experience for both father and son. God the Father used the wilderness as the context for this Son’s preparation for ministry, and we believe there is not better place to help your son discover who he is becoming as a man. The aim of the adventure is to have the boys head into the wilderness but return as initiated men.

This trip is truly a backpacking experience that takes place in the in the Collegiate Peak and Buffalo Peak Wilderness areas near Buena Vista, Colorado. We’ll hike above tree-line, fish pristine mountain lakes, and enjoy the rugged beauty of the wilderness.

This is completely primitive with no facilities but the woods, however our wilderness guides from Noah’s Ark will provide delicious meals and outdoor skills-building so there is no need for prior backpacking experience.

If you have any desire whatsoever to initiate your son into Godly manhood, then use this trip to catalyze the process. It is a great kickoff, culmination or somewhere in the middle of your son’s rites of passage experience. Father will receive pre-departure material, guided conversation suggestions, and trail guides to prepare for the journey.

You will also receive a copy of The Man Maker Project: Boys are Born, Men are Made, so they are resourced and prepared to think intentionally about the Rites of Passage year for their sons. Prior to the expedition, a member of the Restoration Project team will connect with each father individually in order to best support him in our process of initiating his son.

We will be partnering with our friends and experienced outfitters for this trip at Noah’s Ark. We’ll meet up in Buena Vista, Colorado on Monday morning, July 19th (specific location TBA) Return to Buena Vista, Colorado by 3 p.m. on Friday, July 23rd. Please plan travel accordingly.

There’s no need for prior backpacking experience. In fact many this has been the first backpacking trip for many participants in the past. That said, all participants must be able to carry a 40-50 pound back for 4 miles a day at high elevation.

This experience takes place in the in the Collegiate Peak and Buffalo Peak Wilderness areas in Colorado. We’ll hike above tree-line, fish pristine mountain lakes, and enjoy the rugged beauty of the wilderness. This is completely primitive with no facilities but the woods, however our wilderness guides at Noah’s Ark provide delicious meals, are certified in Wilderness 1st Aid.

All group gear, all meals, and back country guides will be provided by the Noah’s Ark Team - thus creating the space for any father-son pair to participate.

Noah’s Ark also will supply all backpacks, tents, and sleeping pads. Sleeping bags and all other personal clothing and supplies will be your responsibility to bring. If you need a sleeping bag, Restoration Project has some available for rent upon registration.

As we get into the beginning of 2027 you will receive a welcome packet which includes a required/recommended gear list.

While on trail, we will share responsibilities amongst the group, including pitching tents, purifying water, cooking meals, etc.

We’d love to chat more with you if you have any questions. Please email our DIrector of Restorative Experiences, Michael Krommendyk at michael@restorationproject.net

He loves talking with folks about expeditions!