The Father-Son Rite of Passage is a 7-day backpacking trip in one of the most stunning sections of the Rocky Mountains, the Wind River Range of Wyoming. The purpose of this trek is not to see how fast we can go but how deep we can go, so most days are fairly short in distance but long in meaningful experiences. During our time together you will not only strengthen your outdoor skills and nature knowledge but you will also be challenged to go deeper with God, yourself, and others. Plus you will have a special bonding experience with your son(s) that will last a life-time. Be prepared to be stretched in every way… but we’ll have fun doing it!
OVERVIEW
- WHEN: July 19-26, 2026
- WHO: Fathers and their sons (ages 13+)
- WHAT: Backpacking, nature study, outdoor leadership, walking with God
- WHERE: Big Sandy Trailhead, Wind River Range, WY
- PROVIDED: Trip leadership, naturalist education, spiritual guidance, etc.
- BRING: You are responsible for your own camping equipment
- COST: $300 per dad. This helps cover our shared expenses.
- SIGN-UP DEADLINE: April 30, 2026 or until filled!
REGISTER HERE
ITINERARY
- Sun, July 19 – Travel Day
- Mon, July 20 – Hike from trailhead to Big Sandy Lake
- Tue, July 21 – Day hike to Cirque of the Towers
- Wed, July 22 – Hike to Clear Lake
- Thu, July 23 – Climb Haystack Mountain
- Fri, July 24 – Climb East Temple Peak
- Sat, July 25 – Rest and Renewal
- Sun, July 26 – Exit Wilderness & Ceremony
- Mon, July 27 – Travel Day
TIMELINE
- Now – Register
- Now – Acquire gear
- Now – Begin physical training
- Now – Read “Manhood Rites and Blessings”
- Now – Begin the “Adulting Challenge Blueprint”
- May 12 – Zoom Meeting #1 @ 8:00 pm ET – link
- June 2 – Zoom Meeting #2 @ 8:00 pm ET – link
- July 6 – Zoom Meeting #3 @ 8:00 pm ET – link
LEADERSHIP
Marty Miller, M.S. Ed.
Marty is gifted at discovering and sharing spiritual lessons from nature, God’s second book, as modeled by Jesus Christ, the master educator. He is an experienced outdoorsman with skills and certifications that include WMI/NOLS Wilderness First Responder, ACA Swift Water Rescue, and AIARE Avalanche Safety. Marty and his wife Gale have two adult children and 6 grandchildren. Life is good!
- Email – marty@blueprintformen.org
- Phone – 423-322-8491
Jeremiah Curda, CCP/FPC
Jeremiah is an avid outdoorsman whose resume includes everything from rock climbing to skydiving instructor. With a background of over 15 years of 911 EMS experience including, ground transport, critical care transport and flight paramedic he brings a high level of expertise and skills to our outdoor leadership team. Jeremiah is passionate about sharing his love for God through community outreach, homeless ministry, and outdoor adventure. His high energy and skills are indispensable to the success of our expedition!
TRIP PREPARATION