Call of the Wild
A 5 Day Backpacking Adventure for Young Males
August 4-8th
What the Wild Calls…
It is a terrain of uncertainty; a fertile ground for possibility. The intrepid explorer, willing to strike out into wilderness, sharpens those possibilities into focused purpose. Whether it’s charting a path on a mountain or finding a trail of inner resolve; the wild is a place beyond our knowing of what is.
As boys, we are raised and held in the comfort of our motherly garden. In this place we are cared for, nurtured, given our sustenance– one meal– one day at a time.
And then we begin to grow up. We start to feel curious about our own capabilities, for not only providing this sustenance for ourselves, but to provide for others as well.
We begin to ask– what is our purpose?
We can ask these questions of ourselves (and we must), but as with any adventure, it’s important to have guides help show us the way.
Boys need men to light the path.
To ask the right questions. And to listen.
And boys need men to remind them that this world is meant to be explored. That we need to walk the edge of risk for growths’ sake; and that there is a difference between healthy and unhealthy risk-taking.
This is the Call of the Wild
Program Overview
There is nothing like a backpacking adventure. Leaving home with everything you need strapped to your back; life gets stripped down to the studs. It’s the perfect opportunity to see what we’re capable of.
Boys attending this program will take an active role in everything the trip entails–helping choose the trail, providing and preparing meals, setting up camp– leadership (both personal and group) is a developmental trait emphasized throughout the program.
This is a 5 day backpacking trip, and there will be preparatory hikes and other pre-trip meetups (in person and virtual) also included in the program.
The group will choose the trail but the departure and return will be from Portland.
Please read through all the FAQ’s to learn more!
Location Options
** Please note this will be determined once the group is finalized. Transportation will be provided from Portland.
Timberline Loop
Location: Mt. Hood Wilderness
Distance: 40 miles
Why it's great for this age group:
Incredible views of Mt. Hood throughout
Travels through diverse landscapes: forests, meadows, rivers
Passes beautiful waterfalls and streams
Numerous established campsites with reliable water sources
Crosses the famous Pacific Crest Trail
Paradise Park's wildflower meadows are spectacular in summer
Easy bailout options at Timberline Lodge if needed
Matthieu Lakes Loop
Location: Three Sisters Wilderness
Distance: 16-17 miles
Why it's great for this age group:
Moderate elevation gain spread across multiple days
Stunning mountain views and alpine lakes for swimming
Several established campsites near water sources
Relatively short daily distances (3-4 miles per day)
Easy bailout options if needed
Broken Top Loop
Location: Three Sisters Wilderness
Distance: 18-20 miles
Why it's great for this age group:
Spectacular views of Broken Top mountain and multiple alpine lakes
Good camping at Green Lakes, Todd Lake, and No Name Lake
Swimming opportunities in several pristine lakes
Relatively mild elevation changes after the initial climb
Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities (deer, marmots, eagles)
Well-marked trail with good water sources throughout
FAQs
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Our trip leaders are wilderness professionals with extensive experience working with youth. All leaders hold Wilderness First Aid certification, CPR certification, and have undergone background checks. Each trip is staffed with a minimum 1:5 adult-to-participant ratio.
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We carry satellite communication devices that work without cell service. Our comprehensive emergency action plan includes evacuation routes, nearby medical facilities, and daily check-ins with our base contact. Each trip leader carries a fully stocked first aid kit and is trained in wilderness medicine.
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Participants receive thorough instruction on wildlife safety protocols before and during the trip. We practice proper food storage techniques, travel in groups, and camp in designated areas that minimize wildlife interactions.
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This trip covers 12-20 miles over five days with moderate elevation gain. Daily hiking distances range from 2-4 miles, with packs weighing approximately 25-30 pounds. The pace is appropriate for beginners with basic fitness levels.