WHAT WE DO:
Provide adventure therapy opportunities for those struggling with Depression, Anxiety, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
WHO WE SERVE:
We are an Ohio based non-profit for Ohio first responders. We serve current and retired First Responders. Including, but not limited to:
- Law Enforcement Officers
- Corrections Officers
- Fire Fighters
- Paramedics /EMS / EMT
- Healthcare Workers
- 911 Call Takers / Dispatch Personnel
HOW WE SERVE:
We host expense free backpacking trips and offer the ability of static camping trips for those unable to meet the physical demands of backcountry hiking.
During each trip, we connect you with experienced First Responders who understand the intricacies of mental health. You will begin to build a network of other First Responders through the task orientation process of Adventure Therapy.
We do not directly provide counseling. However, we will gladly share resources to assist you in finding the mental health professional that you deem beneficial.
Why?
In 2019, 189 Police Officers and Fire Fighters lost their lives in the line of duty. Sadly, 358 lost their lives as a result of suicide during the same time-frame.
Most people will face a significant traumatic event one or two times during their lifetime. Our First Responders are exposed to major traumatic events multiple times per month. The continued exposure to traumatic events has shown to have a significant negative impact on mental health.
Research has shown that Adventure Therapy programs can reduce anxiety, tension, and other symptoms relating to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
2023 Destinations
24-26
**FULL**
March
Dolly Sods Wilderness
The 17,371 acre Dolly Sods Wilderness in the Monongahela National Forest is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. It is located in Grant, Randolph, and Tucker Counties, West Virginia. The Dolly Sods Wilderness contains much of the Red Creek drainage and contains bog and heath eco-types, more commonly typical to southern Canada. Elevations range from 2,500 to over 4,700 feet. Trip lead by guide Michael Slocum.
10:00 am
Elkins, WV
27-29
**FULL**
March
McAfee Knob
With its stunning, 270-degree panoramic views of the surrounding valley and mountains, along with its signature ledge that has become a popular place for photos, McAfee Knob should be included in any trip that includes hiking in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
It’s been recognized by USA Today Travel as one of the most spectacular hikes in the United States!
The knob is located atop Catawba Mountain with an elevation of 3,197 feet and is one of the highlights of the Appalachian Trail.
10:00 am
Catawba, WV
14-16
**FULL**
April
Grayson Highlands (Appalaichain Trail)
Section Hike the Appalachian trail. Near Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, Virginia’s two highest mountains, Grayson Highlands offers scenic views of alpine-like peaks more than 5,000 feet high. Trip lead by guide Michael Slocum.
10:00 am
Mouth of Wilson, VA
5-7
May
**FULL**
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
Preserving America’s early transportation history, the C&O Canal began as a dream of passage to Western wealth. Operating for nearly 100 years the canal was a lifeline for communities along the Potomac River as coal, lumber, and agricultural products floated down the waterway to market. Today it endures as a pathway for discovering historical, natural, and recreational treasures. Trip lead by guide Rocky Hise.
10:00 am
Cumberland, MD
20-21
May
Allegheny National Forest
This 10.8 kilometer (6.6 mile) trail begins at the Minister Creek Campground and forms a loop through the Minister Creek Undeveloped Area north of SR 666.
The trail is marked with gray diamonds. Watch the informational signs…this trail offers challenges to a wide range of skill levels as it climbs to the plateau within the Minister Creek Undeveloped Area. The Minister Creek Trail joins the North Country National Scenic Trail (marked with blue diamonds) along the most northerly segment. The North Country National Scenic Trail then continues and the Minister Creek Trail turns south back towards the campground.
Trip lead by guide Larry Jones.
10:00 am
Maineville, PA
15-17
September
Adirondack Mountains – Great Range Loop
Experience this 15.2-mile loop trail near Keene Valley, New York. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 10 h 12 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking, camping, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Trip lead by guide Michael Slocum.
10:00 am
Keene Valley, NY
29-01
September/October
Appalaichain Trail – Annapolis, Maryland
The Annapolis Rock/Black Rock Cliff hike on the Appalachian Trail, is one of the most popular in Maryland, and for good reason. The views from both lookouts are spectacular on a clear day. From Annapolis Rock the vista is to the southeast and Greenbrier Lake, and from Black Rock Cliff a 180 degree panorama west. Trip lead by guide Michael Slocum.
10:00 am
Annapolis, MD
14-15
October
Allegheny National Forest
This 10.8 kilometer (6.6 mile) trail begins at the Minister Creek Campground and forms a loop through the Minister Creek Undeveloped Area north of SR 666.
The trail is marked with gray diamonds. Watch the informational signs…this trail offers challenges to a wide range of skill levels as it climbs to the plateau within the Minister Creek Undeveloped Area. The Minister Creek Trail joins the North Country National Scenic Trail (marked with blue diamonds) along the most northerly segment. The North Country National Scenic Trail then continues and the Minister Creek Trail turns south back towards the campground.
Trip lead by guide Larry Jones.
10:00 am
Maineville, PA
Healing
Being in nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress and increases pleasant feelings. Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing, reducing blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension, and the production of stress hormones. It may even reduce mortality.
– University of Minnesota, Earl E. Bakken Center
FIrst Responders
Guides
Backcountry Hike / Camp Miles
Cost
we have You Covered
Experience Wildlife
Our Grayson Highlands Trip drops you into an area inhabited by wild ponies. Watch out for bear and follow the guide’s instructions on proper bear protection techniques.
Tents and bags
No need to bring anything other than your clothes. We supply backpacks, tents, and sleeping bags. We highly recommend investing in sweat wicking hiking clothes and hiking boots.
Don't get lost
During your trip, you will learn advanced map navigation techniques. In addition, our guides are all equipped with GPS recievers as well as emergency locator beacons.
Re-psyche-le
Reset your mind. Learn who you are again. Experience feeling again.
Medical evaluation
Once you download and complete the application, be sure to have it signed by a physician. You must be able to walk over uneven terrain for up to 10 miles, while carrying a 30 lb. pack for the Grayson Highlands Trip.
Peer to peer
We pair you up with guides and peers who have experienced the same things as you. This has proven beneficial to the mental healing aspect of each trip.