Family Backpacking 101
July 28, 2023
July 30, 2023
Together in nature – pathway to stronger, closer family
It is hard to imagine a more effective means of bringing generations together than a nature vacation in our mobile age of disconnection and distraction by electronics.
Nature doesn’t have ring tones or deadlines. It provides the opportunity to escape your daily routine and enter a world of peace, beauty, and magic.
As you leave your screens and technology behind, Nature will awaken you and guide you back to each other. Getting outdoors can help both you and your child feel better, while giving you common ground for discovery and play.
You'll be together in a small group, in a remote place where it’s just you, the wildlife, the scenery, and the amazing memories you’ll make.
New to the camping game? Is it time to get back into it after a long break? Even if it's not your first camping trip, it can be challenging to pack your gear, find a campsite, and get out there, whether for a one-nighter or an extended trip.
I provide all necessary camping equipment, gourmet camping food, expert guidance and as much historical, geological and wildlife interpretation you can handle. I am attuned to the needs of all ages and will ensure that your family has a fun, exciting and worry-free adventure of a lifetime!
My goal is to empower clients with skills and knowledge so that they can be self-sufficient in the wilderness and undertake future trips of their own. As you become more comfortable with camping, you can branch out and discover the beauty of your state and national parks or one of many campgrounds across the country.
I recognize the powerful effect that several days spent exploring in nature can have on a person’s well-being. I am here to provide a safe and comfortable opportunity for you and your family to experience the magic of these amazing places first-hand, while having fun, make new friends, and expanding your comfort zones.
Every trip includes unique, daily hiking opportunities, nature site exploration & interpretation and, of course, relaxation whether it be leisurely near the lake, enjoying the sounds along the trail hiking or unwinding around a campfire.
Always feel free to contact me. If you are going to spend time in the woods with me, why not call and get to know me first. I am happy to chat about any questions you may have before booking a trip with me.
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ITINERARY
(subject to change due to weather)
Day 1
Meet at parking area. We’ll divvy up food and gear, circle up, set intentions, and set out on our journey into the wilderness. We hike 1 mile into designated backcountry campsites with fire pits, outhouse and bear boxes. Get expert tips as we work together to set up camp. Learn how to build a fire to cook on and enjoy our first meal together. Smores for the kids and mulled wine for the adults to finish the evening as we fall asleep under a blanket of stars.
Day 2
Hot beverages & breakfast. Guided hike of exploration as we hike to an isolated beach. Afternoon open to wild exploration and paying special attention to cultivating intimacy with nature. I will have activities that you can do together or spend the day laying on the beach and playing in the water. We build a fire and cook our dinner on the beach as we watch the sun set over Lake Michigan. After dinner we’ll practice a group activity & story time.
Day 3
Hot beverages & breakfast. Pack up and hike back. We will have final gratitude circle, say our goodbyes as we step into a new appreciation of life affirming nature and family! We did it!
Meet Your Leader
Meet your leader: Heather Zigler is an experienced International Tour Guide who has led women to far away regions on the planet including: Belize, Patagonia, New Zealand and Antarctica.
An outdoor guide, backpacker, nature-based mentor, and storytelling goddess. She is super excited to share with you the place where her fierce passion for the outdoors was born, Michigan.
Heather creates a strong, compassionate, loving environment that facilitates deep healing and sacred connection to the wilderness. Every person can open up, be real and reimagine themself while finding a new community of friends.
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