WHAT WE DO:
At Frontline Freedom, we understand a frontline worker’s tremendous stress and responsibility. You’re on the front lines daily, protecting our communities, offering medical service, and keeping us safe.
Those who give so much deserve a chance to relax, unwind, and recharge amidst nature. That’s why we’ve dedicated ourselves to providing quality outdoor, camping, backpacking, and hiking experiences designed to meet your needs.
Our mission is to offer you a chance to unwind from the daily stressors with other public service individuals. And to give you experiences that take you away from the hustle of everyday life and immerse you in the tranquility of the great outdoors. With each breath of fresh air, each step on a hiking trail, and each night spent under the stars, we aim to help you rejuvenate your spirit.
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, you will begin to build a network of other First Responders through the task orientation process of setting up camp or hiking challenging routes.
We aim to allow you to unwind, have fun, build new friendships, and perhaps gain a new hobby.
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.
We believe that the best offense is a good defense. The best way to build defense is by giving people the building blocks for personal resiliency. Research has shown that a strong social network and exposure to nature increase emotional regulation capabilities. These are the building blocks to being resilient in the face of whatever obstacles life (or the job) may throw at you.
Get outside with friends. have fun, unwind, relax, and try something new.
*Most people will face a significant traumatic event one or two times. Our First Responders are exposed to major traumatic events multiple times per month. Continued exposure to traumatic events has been shown to impact mental health negatively.
Research has shown that Adventure Therapy programs can reduce anxiety, tension, and other Post Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms.
2025 Destinations
28-2
February / March
FBINA #293 Leadership Summit – Triple Crown
Learn to boost your leadership skills through the lessons of nature. Build the team you have always wanted with an intensive retreat. The Triple Crown is a combination of three amazing hiking destinations in Virginia. And they’re all conveniently located right around Roanoke. This overnight backpacking trip begins and ends at the Route 311 Appalachian Trail head. This is a difficult hike totaling about 32 miles. Trip lead by guides David Brown, Michael Slocum, Larry Jones and Gene Smith.
10:00 am
Roanoke, VA
4-6
April
Grayson Highlands *GROUP A* Reverse Route (Appalachian 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 led by guide Michael Slocum.
10:00 am
Mouth of Wilson, VA
4 - 6
**Private**
April
Grayson Highlands *GROUP B* (Appalachian Trail) **Private Department Specific**
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 Gene Smith.
10:00 am
Mouth of Wilson, VA
3-4
May
Minister Creek Trail
The Minister Creek Trail is a hiking trail in Allegheny Forest in northwestern Pennsylvania. It consists of a main loop trail totaling 6.3 miles. A scenic trail with a few ups and downs leading to a fantastic view on the second day. This is an easy-to-moderate hike with many large rock formations. Trip led by guide Larry Jones.
10:00 am
Sheffield, PA
30-1
May / June
FBINA #294 Leadership Summit – Triple Crown
Learn to boost your leadership skills through the lessons of nature. Build the team you have always wanted with an intensive retreat. The Triple Crown is a combination of three amazing hiking destinations in Virginia. And they’re all conveniently located right around Roanoke. This overnight backpacking trip begins and ends at the Route 311 Appalachian Trail head. This is a difficult hike totaling about 32 miles. Trip lead by guides David Brown, Michael Slocum, Larry Jones and Gene Smith.
10:00 am
Roanoke, VA
19 - 21
September
Seneca Creek
Spruce Knob/Seneca Creek Loop is a 16.5-mile backpacking route in West Virginia’s Monongahela National Forest. This lollipop-style hike includes six trails, including the Huckleberry, Lumberjack, and High. Meadows, Horton, Seneca Creek, and Judy Springs Trails. The route begins near the top of Spruce Knob, West Virginia’s highest point, and offers views of waterfalls, streams, and mountain meadows. The hike is moderately difficult and best done in spring through fall. Trip led bu guide Larry Jones.
7:30 p.m.
Riverton, WV
26 - 28
September
Dolly Sods
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 led by guide Michael Slocum.
7:30 p.m.
Salem, VA
22-25
August
FBINA #295 Leadership Summit – Triple Crown
Learn to boost your leadership skills through the lessons of nature. The Triple Crown is a combination of three amazing hiking destinations in Virginia. And they’re all conveniently located right around Roanoke. During this hike, you will complete nearly 18 miles and just over 4,000 feet of elevation gain. It is a moderate hike with amazing views. Trip lead by Guides David Brown and Mike Slocum.
The Triple Crown consists of the following hikes:
McAfee’s Knob
Tinker Cliffs
Dragon’s Tooth
7:30 p.m.
Salem, VA
21-24
November
FBINA #296 Leadership Summit – Triple Crown
Learn to boost your leadership skills through the lessons of nature. The Triple Crown is a combination of three amazing hiking destinations in Virginia. And they’re all conveniently located right around Roanoke. During this hike, you will complete nearly 18 miles and just over 4,000 feet of elevation gain. It is a moderate hike with amazing views. Trip lead by Guides David Brown and Mike Slocum.
The Triple Crown consists of the following hikes:
McAfee’s Knob
Tinker Cliffs
Dragon’s Tooth
7:30 p.m.
Salem, VA
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.
Self assess
Once you read the trip requirements, take an honest assessment of your abilities to complete the trip. Backpacking is often strenuous with upwards of 30 lbs. of additional load.
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.