Father's Day
2025-06-15 | TN
JUNE 15, 2025
Father’s Day is an important date on the calendar for families, churches, communities, and our nation. It’s a day to celebrate dads, to affirm them for the strength they bring to their families, and to encourage them to be the fathers that their kids need them to be.
But it takes more than words of encouragement for men to become better dads. Even the best men need a plan, a blueprint, for becoming intentional fathers. So, in an effort to help our dads step up, we at Blueprint for Men, are providing you a wide variety of resources that can be put into action immediately.

RESOURCES FOR CHURCHES
Father’s Day Tribute Video
Play this 1 minute video in your church on Father’s Day weekend to inspire your congregation. Super simple!

Father’s Day PowerPoint Slide
Show this slide in your church on Father’s Day weekend to inspire and equip dads using the QR code.

DOWNLOAD HERE

RESOURCES FOR DADS

Blueprint Documents

The Adulting Blueprint
This is a practical checklist of what every father should teach his child before launching into adulthood. Take action!
DOWNLOAD HERE

Manhood Rites and Blessings
A fresh approach to the ancient practice of preparing your son for manhood. Make a plan and take action today!
DOWNLOAD HERE

10 Roles of an Intentional Father
This short list describes the major roles an intentional father plays in his home. Take action today!
DOWNLOAD HERE

A Prayer of Blessing for Your Wife
This simple prayer is one of the most powerful ways to say “I Love You” to the mother of your children. Take action!
DOWNLOAD HERE

Following Jesus
This is a practical ebook developed by the Collegedale University Church. This booklet provides a clear pathway for raising children in today’s confusing world.
DOWNLOAD EBOOK HERE

The Dad Plan
Read the “Dad Plan” blog complete with video teachings and downloadable documents. Take action today!
READ BLOG HERE

Blueprint Videos

Fatherhood in Focus Video Series

Part 1: The Father’s Hand

Part 2: Fathers Living a Blessing

Part 3: Fathers Giving a Blessing

Part 4: Fathers Using the Outdoors to Teach

Restore: A Father-Son Story
This is a short film about a story of a father and a son who restore an old Porsche and the bond it forms between them.
WATCH HERE

The Intentional Father
This short video describes the 5 different types of dads and simple steps you can take to be an intentional father.
WATCH HERE

Purposeful Outdoor Experiences for Dads
This short video features ways Blueprint for Men provides outdoor experiences for dads and their kids including the perennial favorite, “The Father’s Blessing”.
WATCH HERE

RECOMMENDED VIDEOS

Father’s Love Letter (4:40)
The Boy Crisis: A Sobering look at the State of our Boys (12:50)
Developing a Rite of Passage for Your Sons (57:33)
Every Child Deserves a Loving Dad (3:01)
Little Light Studios, Blueprint for Dads (56:19)

RECOMMENDED BOOKS
For Raising Children

The Blessing: Giving the Gift of Unconditional Love and Acceptance, by John Trent and Gary Smalley
Rite of Passage: A Father’s Blessing, by Jim McBride

For Raising Sons

The Intentional Father: A Practical Guide to Raise Sons of Courage and Character, by Jon Tyson
Raising a Modern Day Knight: A Father’s Role in Guiding His Son to Authentic Manhood, by Robert Lewis

For Raising Daughters

Strong Fathers, Strong Fathers: 10 Secrets Every Father Should Know, by Meg Meeker, MD
52 Things Daughters Need from Their Dads: What Father’s Can Do to Build a Lasting Relationship, by Jay Payleitner

ORGANIZATIONS

National Fatherhood Initiative
Manhood Journey
Focus on the Family
All Pro Dad
Dad Tired

Father-Son Rite of Passage
2025-07-16 - 2025-07-24 | Big Sandy Trailhead, Boulder, WY, Big Sandy Trailhead, Boulder, WY, United States
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

ITINERARY

Sun, Jul 19 – Travel Day – Arrival in Pinedale. Hotel lodging.
Mon, Jul 20 – Basecamp Trek – Big Sandy Trailhead, hike 7 miles to Clear Lake basecamp
Tue, Jul 21 – Outdoor Skills – climbing, fishing, survival, etc.
Wed, Jul 22 – Summit Day – climb East Temple Peak (12,605′)
Thu, Jul 23 – Solo Day
Fri, Jul 24 – Cirque of the Towers day hike
Sat, Jul 25 – Hike out to Trailhead, Drive to Hotel, Celebration Dinner
Sun, Jul 26 – Breakfast, Head home

TIMELINE

Now – Register
Now – Acquire gear
Now – Begin physical training
Now – Read “Manhood Rites and Blessings”
Now – Begin the “Adulting Challenge Blueprint”
May 11 – Zoom Meeting #1
June 2 – Zoom Meeting #2
July 6 – Zoom Meeting #3

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

“Leader of the Day”
During the trek each “father-son team” will have an opportunity to provide leadership for the entire group in what we call “Leader of the Day”. During your leadership day you will guide and manage the group as pertaining to safety, schedule, teaching, devotionals, etc. Oversight will be provided by the trip leaders, but just enough to ensure that our objectives are met.
We all need to become better leaders. And, as fathers, when we grow, our children grow! By intentionally engaging our children in the decision making and leadership opportunities on this trip they grow with us!

TRIP PREPARATION

Manhood Rites and Blessings – 2024.docx
The Adulting Challenge Blueprint 2024.docx
Rite of Passage Expedition Planner – COMING SOON!

New Years Day Hike
2026-01-01 05:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | TN
Greetings Winter Wanderer,
You are not like most men. You see, most men seek comfort when the thermometer dips toward zero and the snow starts flying. But that’s not you. The sophisticated man hunkers down at the local coffee shop on these blustery days, but not you. No, you are a bit of a primitive man, a man who embraces the biting cold, just to experience the most silent and exquisite of all seasons, winter!
If this is indeed the man you are, or that you want to be, we invite you to join us for a challenging new years day hike of the most iconic peak within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Mt. LeConte (6,593′).

“The mountains are calling and I must go.” John Muir

Our group will take the classic Alum Cave Bluff trail which ascends 2,763′ in 5.5 miles to the summit. This gives us around 500′ of elevation gain for every mile hiked so you’ll need some good legs and good lungs!
Winter conditions will likely include ice, snow, wind, rain, clouds, or sun. This is a hike that requires proper prior planning, so get on it!
If this sounds like an adventure you would like to start the year out with then register below, pack your gear, and then head for the summit!
Here’s to Living the Adventure!
Your Wilderness Guides,
Jeremiah Curda: 817-298-1520
Marty Miller: 423-322-8491

PLANNING GUIDE

TRIP SCHEDULE
TRIP DATE:

Thursday, January 1, 2026

TRIP ITENERARY:

7:30 am – Meet-Up @ Sugarlands Visitor Center
8:15 am – Arrive @ Alum Cave Bluff Trailhead (3,834′)
8:30 am – Start Hiking
10:00 am – Alum Cave Bluff (+2.3 miles, 4,950′)
12:00 pm – Mt. LeConte Lodge (+2.8 miles, 6,360′)
1:00 pm – Mt. LeConte Summit (+.4 miles, 6,593′)
2:00 pm – Descend from Summit to Trailhead (+5.5 miles)
5:00 pm – Arrive back at Trailhead
6:00 pm – Supper in Gatlinburg
7:00 pm – Head Home

SIGN-UP DEADLINE:

Sunday, December 28, 2025
Space if very limited so register today!

REGISTER HERE
PRETRIP ZOOM MEETING:

Tuesday, December 30, 2025
7:00 – 8:00 pm ET
This meeting is required to ensure that all participants are prepared and all questions are answered. If there are any issues or any changes in plans we will discuss them during this meeting.
JOIN PRETRIP ZOOM MEETING HERE

WHAT TO EXPECT
This is a demanding winter hike that should not be taken lightly. Here’s what you should expect…

Distance – 11 miles
Elevation Gain – 2,763′
Difficulty – moderately difficult
Duration – this is a full day hike
Trail Conditions – rocky steep and exposed trail with patches of ice and snow
Risks – falls from icy exposed sections could be life-threatening
Rewards – you will experience a winter wonderland, spectacular views, and a sense of the awe of God!

Disclaimer – If you have never gone winter hiking in the mountains before, call Marty first.

ONLINE RESOURCES
Trail Information on the AllTrails website
High on LeConte Daily Updates website
Mt LeConte Lodge website
Mountain LeConte Weather website

HOW TO PREPARE
Clothing:

Warm waterproof hiking boots
Gaiters (if snow is deep)
Wool socks
Waterproof/breathable jacket and pants
Medium-heavyweight insulating layer
Heavy-weight fleece jacket
Insulated parka
Quick-dry underwear
Quick-dry T-shirt
Heavy mitts or gloves
Warm cap

Equipment:

Backpack
Toilet paper/wipes
Sunglasses
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Lip balm
Headlamp

Food & Hydration:

Trail lunch & snacks
2-3 liters of water
Electrolyte drink mix

Safety Gear:

Small first aid kit – just the basics
Trekking poles – not essential but add stability
Microspikes – trail conditions will be icy

Fitness:
Because of the short lead-time on this trip you are either in shape for this hike or you’re not. If you have any doubts about your ability to comfortably do this hike, we recommend that you stay home. The mountain will be there in the summer!

SAFETY PLAN
Communication:

Rocky Talkie Mountain Radios (4) for trail communication
InReach Mini 2 satellite communicator for emergency

First Aid:

Everyone should carry their own basic first aid kit
We will carry a more extensive kit for the group
Trip leaders are Wilderness First Responder trained

QUESTIONS
If you have any questions or gear needs please text either Jeremiah or Marty.

Jeremiah Curda: 817-298-1520
Marty Miller: 423-322-8491

JOIN US
To join us on this hike complete the participant release and registration forms below.
PARTICIPANT MEDICAL RELEASE FORM
REGISTER HERE

Advent Wilderness Expeditions
Advent Wilderness Expeditions (A.W.E.) is a consortium of Christian outdoor enthusiasts that desire to contagiously share their love of God and nature with others in awesome wild places. Check out our webpage for upcoming events and ways to join our leadership team.
Climb On!

The Forge @ The Outpost
2026-01-16 18:00 - 21:00 | The Outpost, 5050 Layton Lane, Apison, TN, United States
What is The Forge?

The Forge is our winter season Blueprint for Men gathering at the Men’s Outpost. The Outpost is an old warehouse, near a little airstrip, tucked into the oaks and pines. We meet around a big campfire out back or, if the weather is bad, we hangout inside the shop.
It’s a man code evening complete with good food, good music, good fellowship, and maybe even a little bit of forging! At every Forge event we watch and discuss a Christian movie so sometimes we stay a little late but…
if you’re looking for fellowship you’ll find it at The Forge!
If you’d like to join us, here are the details…

Time – From 6-9 pm
Location – 5050 Layton Lane, Apison, TN
Reservation – None needed, just show up!
Bring – Campfire food, camp chairs, music instruments, and friends.

Movie Line-Up

October 24 – War Room

November 21 – I Can Only Imagine

December 19 – The Ultimate Gift

January 16 – The Jesus Revolution

February 20 – The Heart of a Man

Questions?

Contact – Marty Miller at 423-322-8491

Pictures from a recent Forge event…

Men’s Prayer Breakfast
2026-02-01 08:30 - 10:00 | Collegedale Church, 4829 College Dr E, Collegedale, TN, 37315, United States
MEN’S PRAYER BREAKFAST
Collegedale Church Fellowship Hall
Sunday, February 1
8:30-10:00 am
Gentlemen,
You are invited to attend our annual Collegedale Church Men’s Prayer Breakfast on Sunday, February 1 at 8:30 am in the Fellowship Hall. Men and boys of all ages are encouraged to attend. Breakfast is free.
Our theme this year is “Men of Courage” and our focus verse is…

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

If there’s ever been a time when God needs men to lead with courage it is now. Are you ready to take action and lead? If so, join us for this outstanding event.
Our time together will feature a hearty man-style breakfast, inspirational music, and powerful message brought to us by Pastor Kris Eckenroth.
Our menu will feature breakfast burritos and more! Vegan and gluten-free options available upon registration.
Join us as we “gird up” for action in 2026!
Marty Miller, Tony Dahlberg, and Phillip Pfeifer
Collegedale Church Men’s Ministry Leaders
Questions?
Call or text Tony Dahlberg at 423-618-7362
REGISTER HERE

MAIN SPEAKER
Pastor Kris Eckenroth

ROCK CLIMBING @ SAND ROCK
2026-04-26 08:00 - 18:00 | TN
Intro to Rock Climbing
Sunday, April 26, 2026
8:00 am – 6:00 pm ET

Overview:
God created men to embrace life in the great outdoors. It’s a place where we often experience a closeness to God that can’t be found in our day-to-day world. That’s why we at Blueprint for Men are seeking to provide an increasing number of outdoor experiences for men like you!
If you’ve ever wanted to experience rock climbing with your family but needed someone to show you the ropes, this is the perfect opportunity. We will provide you with the equipment, training, and guidance to climb some easy sport routes at some sandstone crags.
The day will consist of a nice balance of instruction, involvement, and interaction. We will have a selection of climbing opportunities for varying levels of ability. The day will be targeted for first time climbers who want to see if this is something they might enjoy.
Registration:
Registration deadline is April 24
REGISTER HERE

Climbing Location:
Cherokee Rock Village (Sand Rock), Alabama

Overview:

Sand Rock is an excellent destination for climbers at any skill level. Its free-standing pinnacles offer an amazing variety of climbing, ranging from easy toprope jugfests, to crimpy face routes, to fine crack lines. Sport routes run side-by-side with tough trad climbs. Beginners can get easy access to set up topropes, and there’s a plethora of good bouldering problems. And the many different areas are spread out enough that you can almost always find a place that isn’t crowded. The approach is one of the shortest and easiest in the south — walk about 100 feet from your car and you’ll find yourself at the Pinnacle or Holiday Block.

Details:

Mountain Project webpage info HERE

Schedule:
Note – All times are in Eastern Time
8:00 am – Meet-Up

Meet at The Outpost (Blueprint for Men Headquarters)
Address is 5050 Layton Lane, Apison, TN
Orientation, introductions, and short devotional

8:30 am – Driving

Drive/Carpool to Cherokee Rock Village (Sand Rock), Alabama
Address is 2000 County Rd 70, Leesburg, AL
Location is in the Central Time Zone

10:30 am – Climbing

Short hike to the cliffs and climbing routes.
Climbing basics, gear use, safety, etc. Start climbing!
We will set-up several climbs from very easy to more challenging.
When not climbing you are free to explore and boulder… but be careful.
Close out the climbing day with a debrief and prayer of blessing.

4:00 pm – Driving
6:00 pm – Home

Waiver
All climbers must complete and submit the online waiver to be able to climb. Parents can fill out a waiver for minors.

Trip Leaders
Doug Brown, Ph.D.
Doug is a seasoned outdoorsman who has a long resume of climbing, whitewater, and backcountry adventures throughout the United States and beyond. He is a certified rock climbing instructor with the American Mountain Guide Association and a Wilderness First Responder.
Jeremiah Curda
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.
Contact: 817-298-1520
Alex Swafford
Alex has been climbing the sandstone crags of Tennessee and Alabama since his teenage years and is passionate about sharing his love of climbing with beginners.
Contact: 932-698-0278

Climbing Gear

Provided

Shared climbing gear such as ropes, anchors, belay devices, etc.
Individual harnesses, helmets, and rock shoes in limited sizes.
If you can borrow or buys rock climbing shoes that would be great!

Personal Items

Small Backpack
Clothing – weather appropriate clothing and trail shoes
Energy – sack lunch, snacks
Hydration – 2-3 L of water
Small first-aid kit, sunscreen, sunglasses, cap
Attitude – bring your positive adventurous attitude!

Pretrip Meeting

Prior to our departure to Sand Rock we will have a required pre-trip meeting at The Outpost. Our goal is to answer all your questions and prepare you to be comfortable with being uncomfortable!

Consent Form

All participants must complete and sign this consent form. Bring this to our pre-trip meeting.
Download HERE

Cost
Although there is no charge for this trip please consider making a donation to this ministry. Thank you!
DONATE HERE

ROCK CLIMBING @ FOSTER FALLS
2026-05-17 08:00 - 18:00 | TN
Rock Climbing @ Foster Falls
Sunday, May 17, 2026
8:00 am – 4:00 pm ET

Overview:
God created men to embrace life in the great outdoors. It’s a place where we often experience a closeness to God that can’t be found in our day-to-day world. That’s why we at Blueprint for Men are seeking to provide an increasing number of outdoor experiences for men like you!
If you’ve ever wanted to experience rock climbing with your family but needed someone to show you the ropes, this is the perfect opportunity. We will provide you with the equipment, training, and guidance to climb some easy sport routes at some sandstone crags.
The day will consist of a nice balance of instruction, involvement, and interaction. We will have a selection of climbing opportunities for varying levels of ability. The day will be targeted for first time climbers who want to see if this is something they might enjoy.

Climbing Location:
Foster Falls, Tennessee

Overview:

Foster Falls is a major destination for sport climbing in the south. Near the town of Jasper (just west of Chattanooga), it features high-quality sandstone and challenging climbing in a pleasant locale. Though you might want to stay away in the hottest or coldest seasons, Foster’s season is pretty much year-round.

Details:

Mountain Project webpage info HERE

Schedule:
Note – All times are in Eastern Time
8:00 am – Meet-Up

Meet at The Outpost (Blueprint for Men Headquarters)
Address is 5050 Layton Lane, Apison, TN
Orientation, introductions, and short devotional

8:30 am – Driving

Drive/Carpool to Foster Falls
Address is 498 Foster Falls Rd, Sequatchie, TN
Location is in the Central Time Zone

9:30 am – Climbing

Short hike to the cliffs and climbing routes.
Climbing basics, gear use, safety, etc. Start climbing!
We will set-up several climbs from very easy to more challenging.
When not climbing you are free to explore and boulder… but be careful.
Close out the climbing day with a debrief and prayer of blessing.

3:00 pm – Driving
4:00 pm – Home

Register Here

Forms
All climbers must complete and submit the online waiver to be able to climb. Parents can fill out a waiver for minors.

Trip Leaders
Doug Brown, Ph.D.
Doug is a seasoned outdoorsman who has a long resume of climbing, whitewater, and backcountry adventures throughout the United States and beyond. He is a certified rock climbing instructor with the American Mountain Guide Association and a Wilderness First Responder.
Jeremiah Curda
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.
Alex Swafford
Alex has been climbing the sandstone crags of Tennessee and Alabama since his teenage years and is passionate about sharing his love of climbing with beginners.
Contact: 932-698-0278

Climbing Gear

Provided

Shared climbing gear such as ropes, anchors, belay devices, etc.
Individual harnesses, helmets, and rock shoes in limited sizes.

Personal Items

Small Backpack
Clothing – weather appropriate clothing and trail shoes
Energy – sack lunch, snacks
Hydration – 2-3 L of water
Small first-aid kit, sunscreen, sunglasses, cap
Attitude – bring your positive adventurous attitude!

Cost
Although there is no charge for this trip please consider making a donation to this ministry. Thank you!
DONATE HERE

ROCK CLIMBING/ Sunset Rock
2026-06-14 09:00 - 17:00 | The Outpost, 5050 Layton Lane, Apison, TN, United States
Sunset Rock Climbing Adventure | Lookout Mountain
Ready for an unforgettable day of adventure, challenge, fellowship, and incredible views? Join us for another amazing rock climbing outing at the legendary Sunset Rock overlooking the Chattanooga valley.
Whether you’ve never touched a climbing rope before or you’re an experienced trad climber looking for a classic challenge, Sunset Rock has something for everyone. From beginner-friendly routes like One-Ten to technical test pieces like Jennifer’s World, this area offers some of the best traditional climbing in the Southeast. There’s also plenty of top-rope climbing available for those who are new to leading or simply want to enjoy the experience safely.
What to Expect

Guided and coached climbing experience
Beginner-friendly instruction and safety orientation
Devotional and group icebreaker before climbing
Incredible mountain views and outdoor fellowship
Opportunities for both first-timers and experienced climbers

No experience is necessary. We provide all appropriate safety gear and coaching throughout the day. We do have a limited number of climbing shoes available to borrow, but we highly recommend bringing your own if possible.
Important Information

Meet Location: The Outpost 5050 Layton Lane Apison TN 37302
Meet Time: 9:00 AM Eastern Time
End Time: 5:00 PM Eastern Time
Transportation: We will complete waivers and carpool to the climbing site together
What to Bring: Snacks, hydration, comfortable outdoor clothing, shoes for hiking and climbing shoes if you have them

Please note:Sunset Rock is a traditional climbing area with a strict ban on fixed protection, so there is no sport climbing available at this location.
Registration Required
TO REGISTER PLEASE CLICK HERE

We’re looking forward to another great day outdoors filled with adventure, encouragement, and good company. Come push your limits, learn new skills, and enjoy one of the best climbing views in Tennessee.
MOUNTAIN PROJECT INFO
Rock Climbing in Sunset Rock, Sunset Park
MEET YOUR TRIP LEADERS

Doug Brown, Ph.D.
Doug is a seasoned outdoorsman who has a long resume of climbing, whitewater, and backcountry adventures throughout the United States and beyond. He is a certified rock climbing instructor with the American Mountain Guide Association and a Wilderness First Responder.
Jeremiah Curda
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.
Alex Swafford
Alex has been climbing the sandstone crags of Tennessee and Alabama since his teenage years and is passionate about sharing his love of climbing with beginners.

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Paddling the South Chickamauga Creek
2026-06-27 | 5050 Layton, 5050 Layton Lane, Apison, TN, 37302-9513, United States
Step away from the noise and get out into God’s creation with a group of men committed to growth, challenge, and brotherhood.

BRIEFING:

We’ll kick things off with a short devotional, followed by a mandatory safety and logistics briefing. Then we gear up, load out, and roll at 2:15 PM sharp to the put-in location.
Once we launch, expect a ~4-hour paddle through scenic waterways surrounded by local wildlife and natural beauty. This isn’t just a float—it’s time to reset, sharpen your mindset, and build real connections with other men.
We operate as a team, and every man needs to be prepared and aligned before we hit the water. Put-in and take-out locations will be shared during the briefing.
No briefing = no paddle

ITINERARY:

1:30 pm Trip Briefing @ The Outpost (5050 Layton Lane, Apison, TN)

Devotional
Safety
Logistics

2:15 pm Drive to Boat Launch
3:00 pm Boat Launch
7:00 pm Take Out & Head Home
8:00 pm Arrive back Home

WHAT TO BRING:

Kayak, Paddles, PFD (life jacket) – these are provided!
Sunscreen
Hat
Towel
Snacks
Phone (waterproof bag)

RSVP:

Text either of the trip leaders to reserve your spot! Space is limited to 10 people so don’t delay.

Jeremiah Curda (817) 298 1520
Jacob Carvalho (707) 490 5313

MORE INFO:

Paddle South Chickamauga Creek – Chattanooga Audubon Society

Father-Son Rite of Passage
2026-07-19 - 2026-07-26 | Wind River Range, WY, Boulder, WY, 82923, United States
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

Info Packet: 2026 Rite of Passage Expedition

SUPPLEMENTAL RESOURCES

Manhood Rites and Blessings
The Adulting Challenge Blueprint
