MAN MAKER: BackpackING

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 Mount Zirkel Wilderness 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 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 leave from Fort Collins, Colorado at 7 a.m. on Monday, July 20th (specific location TBA) Return to Fort Collins, Colorado by 6 p.m. on Friday, July 24th. 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 Mount Zirkel Wilderness 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 provide delicious meals, are certified in Wilderness 1st Aid, and offer training and teaching in outdoor skills.

We provide all group gear, all meals, and back country guides- thus creating the space for any father-son pair to participate.

You are responsible for all your personal clothing and supplies. A limited number of tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and backpacks are available for rent.

Upon registration 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 Michael Krommendyk at michael@restorationproject.net

He loves talking with folks about expeditions!