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
