Wilderness Experience is an opportunity for participants to adventure into a wilderness environment for personal growth and discovery. This experience allows participants to break away from barriers of the past, live for the present, and prepare for the future. Participants will learn to expect more of themselves and to challenge their perceived limits through the accomplishment of difficult, unfamiliar tasks. Critical thinking and decision making skills as well as team work will be emphasized. Bonds of mutual trust along with an understanding that accomplishment requires cooperation will be developed.

This program is ideal for the novice as well as the more experienced outdoor person. Participants will learn by doing. Emphasis will be placed on learning to move safely through a wilderness setting with low or no impact to the environment. Our five or six day trips develop and enhance a multitude of skills, including but not limited to: backpacking, map and compass proficiency, hazard evaluation, first aid, minimum impact camping, outdoor cooking, nature study, and rock climbing. A solo experience will also be provided depending on the group. Our programs are not easy and good overall fitness is a definite asset. The trips are designed to challenge participants mentally, physically, and emotionally. Packs are heavy, the hiking is challenging, and the weather can be grueling. However, the feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment at the end of the experience will be overwhelming, and well worth the effort.

Necessary equipment (with the exception of some clothing) is provided.
Wilderness Experience trips can be arranged in the Delaware Water Gap National
Recreation Area, the Catskill Mountains, or the Adirondack Mountains.

Arrangements can be made to design programs for individuals with special needs.

Instructors are Certified Wilderness First Responders and New York State Guides.

For more information please contact Lord Stirling Outdoor Education Center at:
(908) 766-1786 ext. 119 or outdoors@lordstirling.org