Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of experience should participants expect?
This retreat is designed to simulate a real-world wilderness survival scenario in a controlled environment. Participants will be provided with only a limited number of essential items and must rely on their resourcefulness, problem-solving skills, and the natural environment to meet their basic survival needs.

What does a typical day at the retreat look like?
There is no rigid daily schedule. Each day is shaped by the demands of the environment and the needs of the participants. Activities may depend on factors such as shelter, hydration, rest, weather conditions, and overall well-being. Adaptability is an essential part of the experience.

Where exactly is the retreat taking place?
The retreat takes place on a private 500-acre ranch outside Denver, Colorado. Specific location and arrival instructions will be provided to registered participants.

Who will be instructing and leading the retreat?
The retreat will be led by Roary Archibald, a wilderness survival educator experienced in outdoor skills, natural movement, and wilderness preparedness.

How physically demanding should participants expect each day to be?
Physical demands will vary depending on environmental conditions and the tasks required. Participants may need to travel to collect water, gather materials, or construct shelters. Some activities may be physically challenging, while other periods may be relatively relaxed once essential needs have been met.

What happens if someone cannot complete an activity?
This retreat emphasizes the real-world consequences of survival decisions. Participants will be given adequate time, guidance, and opportunities to meet their needs. Instructors will prioritize participant safety and intervene when necessary.

Is there a minimum level of physical capacity required?
Participants should be comfortable walking on uneven and varied terrain, potentially for several miles, while carrying personal belongings or gathered materials. A reasonable baseline of physical mobility and endurance is recommended.

Is there a minimum age requirement?
Yes. Participants must be at least 18 years old.

How far in advance should participants begin preparing physically?
We recommend establishing a basic walking routine before attending. Walking approximately one mile per day is a good starting point for building endurance and comfort with physical activity.

Will participants need to complete a health questionnaire, waiver, or obtain medical clearance?
Participants must complete two liability waivers before attending: one for Earth Foot Outfitters and one for the private landowners. Participants with medical concerns should consult their healthcare provider before registering.

What equipment, footwear, or clothing should participants bring?
Participants should bring durable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear suitable for uneven terrain. Layering systems and extra clothing are strongly recommended. A detailed packing list will be provided before the retreat.

What happens if emergency assistance or search and rescue is needed? Please refer to the Release of Liability and Assumption of Risk Agreement waiver.

What are the accommodations like?
Participants will construct and sleep in their own primitive wilderness shelters using the materials and resources available during the retreat.

Are accommodations private or shared?
Shelter arrangements will depend on individual preferences, environmental conditions, and the structures participants build. Participants may work together or construct individual shelters as appropriate.

Are meals included? This retreat is designed to simulate a realistic wilderness survival experience, where food is limited and resource management is essential.

Participants will receive a one-quart bag of trail mix that must be rationed over three days. Additional opportunities may include honey water, survival rations, foraging for edible plants, and gathering natural ingredients for tea, depending on availability and environmental conditions.

One prepared meal will also be provided during the retreat.

Participants should expect limited food availability throughout the experience. Learning to manage hunger, conserve energy, and adapt to available resources is an intentional part of the survival training.

Participants must disclose dietary restrictions, food allergies, and relevant medical concerns before attending so that appropriate safety arrangements can be discussed.

Can dietary restrictions or allergies be accommodated?
Yes. We will make reasonable accommodations for dietary restrictions and food allergies when notified in advance.

What is included in the retreat price?
The retreat price includes professional wilderness survival instruction, access to the private ranch, use of designated survival equipment and materials, and one prepared meal. Certain provided items may be available to keep or rent.

What is not included?
Travel to and from the retreat, airfare, airport transfers, personal clothing and footwear, travel insurance, and personal expenses are not included.

Will payment plans be available?
Yes. Eligible participants may have the option to use Klarna for installment payments, subject to Klarna's approval and terms.

What is the refund and cancellation policy?
Please review our full Cancellation & Refund Policy for additional details.

How many participants will be accepted?
Registration is limited to 10 participants.

How should participants get to the retreat location?
Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation. Options may include personal vehicles, rental cars, rideshare services, or coordinating carpooling with other attendees. The ranch is located 1 hour and 30 minutes from DIA. If you do elect rideshare make sure you make arrangements in advance for pickup due to this being a challenge at the end of the event.

Will transportation to or from the airport or meeting point be included?
No. Airport transfers and transportation to and from the retreat location are not included in the registration fee.

What happens in the event of severe weather or another circumstance that requires an itinerary change?
Adapting to changing weather and environmental conditions is a fundamental part of wilderness survival. Activities may continue in manageable outdoor conditions. Severe weather or unsafe circumstances may require modifications, delays, or cancellation. Participant safety will always take priority.

Is travel insurance required or recommended?
Travel insurance is not required but is highly recommended.