What is included in the price of a trip?
Back to Earth Outdoors provides just about everything during the trip itself including delicious, organic, local, and lovingly prepared meals both at retreats and in the back-country (After all, Back to Earth Organic Catering and Gather Restaurant both emerged out of the meals prepared on Back to Earth Outdoors trips!). Also included are all group gear including water purification, first aid supplies and trained responders, kitchen gear, supplies for course activities, instruction of the highest caliber, guides with experience and passion, and tents to clients who request them. We can also provide logistical support in the form of recommendations on timing, transportation and lodgings for our clients flying in from the wide world.
What’s not included in the price of a trip?
Because people fly from all over the world and travel from all over the country to join our adventures we do not generally provide transportation to and from the starting points of our trips. We do however offer our time and energy to help organize carpools for those who are interested in reducing transportation costs and carbon emissions. Clients are also asked to bring their own backpacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and other minor personal effects such as a bowl and spoon for meals. With prior arrangement however we can also loan backpacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, water bottles, bowls, spoons, and mugs. These supplies are limited and loaned on a first come basis.
What are the accommodations?
Each trip and retreat is designed uniquely and has unique routes and destinations. For the most part our accommodations are the soft earth and the company of plants, animals and the night time sky, be it filled with moon or stars. Retreats are often held in retreat centers close to wilderness and farm land. For the accommodation of your trip in particular please look to the trip description.
What should I bring?
This will vary from trip to trip and we’ll provide you with a specific packing list prior to your trip. There is also a general packing list located on the forms page.
Where does my trip start?
General location details are listed along the side bar of your trip’s page along with the instructor’s names, difficulty rating, and the cost of the trip. Specific directions to the retreat center, campground or trail-head will be sent in an email prior to your trip.
What precautions does Back to Earth Outdoors take to ensure their clients safety?
Each trip is guided by an experienced Wilderness Guide who has led countless trips, gone through an 80 hour medical training to become a certified Wilderness First Responder, and been trained in emergency protocols and evacuation procedures. Leaders also carry a satellite phone, and Emergency Response Plan, and the contact information for the local authorities. Additionally, each client submits a confidential health form in advance with information about specific health challenges.
If your question is not answered here please send us an email through our contact page.