There is nothing like time in the wilderness to get fresh perspective and renew yourself.

Each summer on the Big Island of Hawaii, the koki frogs sing and the maina birds celebrate as the mangos ripen and we transition from Ho'oilo (the wet season) to Kau (the dry season).

For those who are blessed to spend time in the wilderness here, we find all kinds of wonders, as well as a quietness in which we can hear our own voice more clearly.

What teen participants taking this journey over the years have said is that they want to enjoy the beauty and adventure of the wilderness, and to have some dedicated opportunities for self-reflection.

So this is what we are here to do: to look at ourselves and where we are at, to get clear and motivated about our next steps and feel inspired and moved from the stories shared around the campfire.

Along with three guides and up to ten other participants, you will spend almost the entirety of these seven days in the wilderness, backpacking and developing skills in wilderness living, connecting with peers and mentors, playing games, enjoying some solitude, and much more.

Along with being down-to-earth, experienced wilderness guides, your mentors will provide a safe and supportive setting to reflect deeply, share honestly, and set personally-meaningful intention for our teens moving forward in life.

Our intention is to hold safe space for our teenagers, so that they may connect to their authentic voice, their truth, and their inner spark.

There will be campfires with storytelling and talking circles under the stars by night. By day, we’ll keep cool and hydrated along the trail, enjoying big views, black sand beaches, waterfalls galore, beautiful rivers, and many opportunities to swim and play.

In this program we welcome young people with any amount of backpacking experience, including none. Participants should be in physical condition to hike up to 4 to 5 miles in a day with a heavy pack; however, physical challenge isn’t the purpose of this experience, and most days will be less strenuous.

Join us on this epic adventure and prepare to explore your inner landscape while adventuring into one of the most magical valleys in the Hawaiian Islands, Waimanu Valley.