At Wild Society, our mission is to cultivate wonder and belonging in the natural world, and we believe one of the best ways to do that is to get outside and experience it firsthand! Wild Society programs follow a daily structure that incorporates reflection, direct instruction, and exploration. Guides engage participants throughout the day to encourage connection with, and a deeper understanding of, the natural world.
While the structure of each trip is unique because of variations in route and groups, there is a general structure trips follow. On the first morning, the guides will introduce the trip, go over gear, help everyone pack up, and review some basic trip information before loading up the bus to head to the trailhead! At the trailhead, guides will cover some hiking information and facilitate the group in creating a community agreement, before setting off on the trail to the first campsite!
In the mornings, groups will wake up, get ready for the day, eat breakfast, and then pack up the campsite. Each day campers will be assigned various jobs to assist the group (cooks, navigators, gear managers, etc). During the day, the group will hike to the next campsite, taking breaks along the way to explore, eat, and learn. They will travel together at a pace that is suitable for the whole group.
We structure our trips around having time to explore, play, and enjoy the beautiful area you are in, rather than speed through as many miles as possible. Once the group reaches their destination, they will set up a new campsite, cook dinner, and have some group time in the evening. Built into every day is time for reflection and gratitude.
Campers can expect to learn backpacking skills (such as backcountry cooking, navigation, and packing), environmental awareness (including Leave No Trace principles, plant knowledge, and local animals), and interpersonal skills (such as leadership styles, working at a team, and gratitude practices). Our guides all have a wealth of knowledge and personal passions that they love to share, but what each trip learns is largely dependent on what the group is excited about!
