Stronger Together
Step into the wilderness of the Superior Hiking Trail on this women’s backpacking trip where we’ll explore the wisdom of collaboration through Conscious Nature Connection.
May 16th-18th
(near) Little Marais, Minnesota
Registration opens January 4th @ 10 AM 2025
Linda Hogan
There is a way that nature speaks, that land speaks. Most of the time we are simply not patient enough, quiet enough, to pay attention to the story.
More than a backpacking trip…
Have you been going it alone for too long? This retreat invites you to explore how collaboration naturally unfolds in the wilderness—and how it can inspire deeper connections with yourself, others, and the world around you.
Over three days and two nights, we’ll backpack 7-12 miles, immersing ourselves in the quiet beauty of nature. Through guided group activities, reflective nature practices, and shared experiences, you’ll discover how the wisdom of the natural world can help you embrace the strength and support of authentic connection.
Terry Tempest Williams
To be whole. To be complete. Wildness reminds us what it means to be human, what we are connected to rather than what we are separate from.
What’s Included:
transformative activities integrated into the experience that support the theme. Expect a mix of guided meditations, group processes, and self-paced activities.
learn principles of Laura’s signature methodology, Conscious Nature Connection, for self-discovery, growth and healing through nature
introduction to backpacking, Leave No Trace ethics, and wilderness camping through Laura’s online course ($150 value)
2 nights of backcountry camping on Superior Hiking Trail
expert wilderness guide Laura with Wilderness First Responder certification
two LIVE virtual trainings to support you in preparing for the trip. We’ll go over packing, training, as well as mental training for the backcountry.
small group of 8 participants max (one guide per 4 participants)
all high-tech lightweight basic backpacking gear such as headlamps, sleeping bag, pillow, camping pad, and cookware (with option to purchase gear for reduced rate)
meals prepared from organically and locally sourced ingredients (about 95%) Friday dinner to Sunday lunch + healthy snacks :-). We supply coffee (we know you’re wondering) as well as an assortment of teas.
Prerequsites
You have experienced Secrets of Nature or backpacked for at least 2 days (not necessarily in a row) and camped in a tent for at 5 nights in the last 3 years
You are free from major spinal injuries
You can carry a 25-35 lb backpack for at least 3 mile stretches
You are looking to experience a deeper connection to nature, not just a vacation
You are interested in the full group experience. You are able and willing to contribute, be proactive, and connect to all the participants
About Your Guide
Laura Adrian
Laura Adrian is a yogini and meditator who finds beauty, awe and inspiration by directly connecting to the Earth whether in a city park or wilderness area. Since 2014 she has been offering retreats and expeditions across the Upper Midwest where she shares her adventurous spirit with seasoned adventurers or nature-curious folks. Laura is a Certified Wilderness First Responder and has spent over 365 nights in the wilderness. She is especially interested in creating supportive spaces for people new to nature and wilderness into nature. Through these experiences, Laura has encouraged women to develop wilderness skills, challenge themselves, and develop a more beautiful relationship with the natural world.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: We’ll meet around 1 PM near the trailhead and go through a welcome circle. We’ll get our gear ready and set out for our adventure. Hike about 3 miles through wooded terrain. After making camp you’ll have time to explore and rest. We'll have a nice cooked dinner. In the evening we'll have a special program and a fire. There will be free time to relax, explore, and socialize.
Day 2: Start the day with a freshly cooked breakfast. We'll stretch a little then we'll pack up camp and continue on the trail. On the way we'll have lunch and get to the campsite mid-afternoon. After settling in, you’ll be guided through an afternoon workshop, have an amazing meal, and the evening will conclude with a group activity.
Day 3: Wake up to a freshly cooked breakfast we'll do some more yoga and meditation to set ourselves up for the day. We’ll pack-up camp and finish our journey. We’ll end with a final workshop and closing circle. The program ends around 1 PM on Thursday.
Investment:
$800
Register by January 11th you’ll get free access to Women’s Wellness Bootcamp
Registration:
1) Register here and pay deposit of $200
2) You will receive a welcome email regarding trip specifics, how to prepare, and plan. You’ll be able to contact Laura with pre-trip questions.
3) Expect pre-trip communication including packing lists, virtual meetings, and additional information to assist you in preparing for the expedition.
4) Balance is due 60 days prior to trip. Access to Intro to Backpacking course will be granted after balance is paid.
Cancellation Policy:
In the event you choose to cancel 60 or more days before the start of the trip, you’ll receive any payments made less the deposit. Cancellations made less than 60 days before the start of the trip will not receive a refund. Please consider purchasing travel insurance if you think you may need to cancel. You may transfer your space and payments made to another person suitable for the retreat (no cancellations will be made less than 30 days prior to the trip).
If payments are not made on time, your spot may be forfeited.
In the event of unsafe weather conditions, the trip may be adjusted the trip and/or the itinerary to ensure the safety of the group.
Whole Life Elevation LLC and its employees and its contractors have the right to remove anyone from a trip for any reason without a refund.
In the event of severe weather, natural disaster, government intervention, acts of god, etc, Whole Life Elevation may choose to cancel the trip. If this is the case participants can 1) attend the rescheduled trip or 2) receive a full credit towards another trip or service with Whole Life Elevation to be used within 365 days of retreat cancellation.