Imbark on a transformative journey down the Manistee River, where the wilderness calls you to reconnect with your inner self. This retreat isn’t just about canoeing—it's about stepping away from the demands of daily life, finding solace in nature, and rediscovering what truly matters. Surrounded by the nearly one-million-acre expanse of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, this adventure offers more than just an escape; it’s an opportunity to realign with your purpose and reclaim your sense of freedom.

Journey Along the Manistee River:

The Manistee River is a pristine, spring-fed artery winding through the heart of Northern Michigan’s wilderness. Designated as a National Wild and Scenic River, it offers a steady, moderate current that allows you to glide effortlessly through long stretches of untouched forest. As you paddle, you'll be immersed in a landscape that has remained unchanged for centuries, with towering trees reflecting off clear, clean water. Occasional light riffles add a touch of excitement, but the river’s gentle flow ensures that your journey remains peaceful and meditative.

A Brotherhood in the Wild:

This retreat is a chance to forge deep connections with like-minded men, all seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world. Around the campfire, under the vastness of the starry sky, we’ll share stories, laughter, and reflections. These moments of camaraderie are not just about forming friendships; they’re about building a brotherhood, a community of men who support each other in their quest for personal growth.

Workshops & Reflection:

Each day, guided workshops will help you tap into your inner strength and wisdom. Through nature-based activities, you'll be encouraged to let go of what no longer serves you and to embrace the man you’re meant to be. Whether it’s through guided meditation by the river, reflective journaling in a quiet grove, or a group discussion on overcoming life’s challenges, you’ll find the tools and support you need to move forward with clarity and purpose.

Release and Rebuild:

Through powerful healing ceremonies, including water and fire rituals, you will have the chance to let go of what no longer serves you. Imagine standing by the water’s edge, feeling the cleansing power of a cold water plunge as you release your past. Or sitting around a fire, watching the flames consume your fears and doubts, leaving you with a sense of peace and renewed purpose.

Rediscover Your Inner Strength:

This retreat is designed to help you reconnect with your true self, away from the noise of daily life. Through guided meditations, reflective exercises, and time spent in the wild beauty of the dunes, you’ll find clarity and strength within. This is your time to realign with your goals, rediscover your passions, and set a new course for your life.

Reconnect with the Wilderness:

Imagine drifting under the wide-open skies, the warmth of the sun on your face, with the symphony of birds and the evening chorus of spring peepers as your soundtrack. Each day on the river brings new opportunities to witness wildlife in its natural habitat—eagles soaring overhead, deer drinking from the river’s edge, and perhaps even the flash of a fish beneath your canoe.

The Manistee River’s banks offer some of the best camping in the country, with sites ranging from river-level clearings to high bluffs that provide breathtaking views of the endless Northern Michigan forest. Whether we choose to set up camp beside a babbling creek or atop a ridge overlooking miles of unspoiled wilderness, each night will be a retreat into tranquility, with cool nights perfect for restful sleep under a canopy of stars.

Why This Retreat?

This isn’t just a break from routine; it’s a break through to a new way of being. It’s a chance to shed the layers of stress, expectation, and disconnection that modern life often imposes. The Manistee River, with its unspoiled beauty and timeless presence, invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and listen—to nature, to your inner voice, and to the wisdom that arises when you allow yourself to be fully present in the moment.