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Wild Strides 2024: Methow, Washington.


Calling all leaders in the social and environmental impact space—founders, managers, and pre-entrepreneurs!

Join us for a Wild Strides this October in the Methow Valley in Washington State.

Join one of our Info Sessions to learn all about Wild Strides…

Session 1:  Thursday, August 15th @ 5 pm PST | Join here

Session 2: Friday, August 16th @ 9 am PST | Join here

Details:

What: A 5-day, 4-night backpacking trip designed to help social impact and environmental leaders gain clarity, build momentum in their organizations, and foster community.

Where: Sawtooth Backcountry Area, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Washington State.

When: October 4th - October 8th 2024. Meet near Methow, WA on October 4, 4pm Pacific Time.

What’s Included:

Your tuition and participation in Wild Strides makes a difference! As a 501c3 nonprofit, all Wild Strides proceeds are tax-deductible and support our free and low-cost wilderness-based programs. The cost for this retreat is on a sliding scale ranging from $1200 to $3000, with need-based full and partial scholarships available. Read more about Wild Gift’s financial transparency on the Wild Strides page.

Price includes:

  • 5-day backpacking trip through the North Cascades led by certified wilderness guides and facilitators. The route offers stunning mountain views, pristine alpine lakes, and serene Pacific Northwest forests. You'll ascend remote, hard-to-reach terrain in Washington's mountains. We carefully select less-trafficked areas to ensure a unique and special experience.

  • All meals, permits, camping fees, and group gear.

  • Daily programming and workshops curated to the specific group of participants (see “Programming” below).

  • One 30 minute coaching call focused on your organizational needs, to help you maximize the experience.

  • Connection with a network of mentors and collaborators

Who is this trip for?

Mission-driven leaders striving to make a positive impact through your nonprofit or business—whether you're a founder, company manager, executive, or pre-entrepreneur with a strong idea—are invited to join this retreat.

Connect with like-minded changemakers in a unique experience of networking, self-exploration, leadership development, and creative problem-solving. Address your greatest challenges and opportunities together, free from the distractions of “front country” life.

All backpacking experience levels are encouraged to apply! The focus of the trip is not “Intro to backpacking 101;” however, will provide support every step of the way, from prepping your gear, to ensuring you feel safe and supported throughout the trip.

Basic fitness is required for individual and group safety. We are happy to consult in physical preparation. At this time we do not have ADA-accessible trips; however this is something we are working towards!

Programming topics:

  • Discussions: Balancing purpose and profit, defining your meaning of success, leadership challenges, and more.

  • Deep Dives: Tackle your most pressing challenges, unanswered questions, strategic roadblocks, and opportunities with fellow participants.

  • Daily Mindfulness

  • Leadership Approach and Values

  • Envisioning the Ideal Future State of Your Organization and the Strategies to Get Ther

  • And more!

Itinerary:

Day 1:

Meet near Methow, WA. Review gear , purchase last minute items. Camp at FS Foggy Dew Campground.

Day 2:

Rise bright and early! Begin hike at Crater Creek Trailhead. Hike to first backcountry camp at Eagle Lake. Engage in evening programming, dinner and a fireside discussion.

Day 3:

Enjoy breakfast, programming, and free time at the lake. Pack up camp and hike to our next backcountry camp alongside another gorgeous mountain lake! Evening programming sessions, followed by dinner and stargazing.

Day 4:

Wake up, participate in morning mindfulness and optional yoga. Day hike from camp 2. Evening programming focused on the ideal future state of your organization. Enjoy another peaceful night in the backcountry with your fellow participants!

Day 5:

Enjoy an early morning breakfast and begin hiking out. Stop mid-way to capture retreat takeaways. Return to trailhead via Foggy Dew Ridge by 5pm.

Ready to Apply?

Complete this application form. Given the high level of interest in our programs and our focus on curating a group of social impact leaders, it's important that each participant aligns with the theme of this Wild Strides. Once accepted, you will receive an email invitation to pay your deposit and secure your spot.

Interested but not quite ready to apply? Join an Info Session!

Session 1:  Thursday, August 15th @ 5 pm PST | Join here

Session 2: Friday, August 16th @ 9 am PST | Join here

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