story
Taking retreat to the remote areas of our landscape,
where the trees, granite, waters and sky
are allowed to dominate with their presence,
provides solitude, as well as a sense of belonging.
This is a place where we can share, honor & hold each other's stories.
"As someone that has always been eager to "learn" how to backpack, but didn't know where to start, I felt nervous to try and do it on my own without guidance. I've known Aly for many years and was excited when she offered to lead my on my first backpacking trip! She took me and another new-to-backpacking friend into Desolation Wilderness in 2021. From teaching us how to properly pack and what gear to use, to going over hygiene necessities and practices, how to leave minimal trace in all that we do (cooking, setting up camp, etc), how to fillet fish, how to adjust to high altitudes, how to pick the perfect sleeping spot, how to read a map, etc. we felt incredibly confident in our ability to go out solo after that trip. In fact, the very next month I went on a solo 2 night trip in Grouse Ridge and felt confident and at peace. Aly's guidance has gifted me the ability to take MYSELF out into nature - where the deepest healing and integration takes place. And being able to go out alone has been a complete life-changing skill to acquire. The freedom to trust yourself and your knowledge and embark into the beauty of the mountains for clarity and perspective is invaluable. Thank you so much, Aly. Your patient and kind guidance led me to another chapter of life itself, one in which I can integrate with nature on my own."
-Bethany W.
"Journeying into the wilderness with Aly is a gift. Her thoughtful attention to the details of each trip—meals, routes, journal prompts—and her easeful and competent guidance creates an experience with space for reverence, reflection, and delight. I always return with new friendships, a deepened connection to the natural world, and a fresh affirmation of my own place in it."
~Jaclyn M.
