There have been numerous scientific studies that show the mental health benefit of hiking. Backpacking enhances those benefits even more. Getting away from the masses, being surrounded by the forest and experiencing full nature immersion can be a life changing experience. Spending the night in the wilderness and hiking miles of forest trail with a pack on is an immense confidence booster. However, it’s wise to embark on such a journey in the company of experienced, first-aid trained therapists who will keep you safe and ensure your personal growth through mind, body and spirit connection to self, others and the more-than-human world.

Dates: April 29th-May1st 

Meeting Location: Carpool meeting in Towson at 1 pm and return on Sunday around 4 pm. Driving time is 1 hour and 45 minutes from Baltimore. 

Hiking Location: Sugar Knob Park, West Virginia 

Cost: $350 with gear rental (tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, backpack)

Cost: $275 without gear rental

Cost includes retreat materials, 5 meals, and camping and backpacking permits

*Scholarship available upon request! 

A note from the leaders, Bradford Drewniak, LCPC and Zoe Jack, LMSW:

Greetings! 

Zoe & I are very excited to co-lead a backpacking trip for mental health and well-being at the end of April (April 29th-May 1st). Our offering is very much an introduction to backpacking and gear is provided (if needed). Zoe & I both bring a wealth of knowledge as therapists and former leaders/trainers in various outdoor organizations, including previous wilderness medicine training. We invite 18+ year old participants who are open to a weekend of movement, mindfulness, psychoeducation, and a whole host of experiential opportunities to enhance their own mental health. We encourage a basic level of physical fitness and are happy to connect with folks to assess and ensure readiness. If you think of a client who may benefit or you, yourself, are interested, please sign up or reach out to learn more! 

P.S: We do have a scholarship fund if finances are a concern.