Rites of Passage (707-537-1927) has opened registration for its Fall Wilderness Quest, a nine-day ceremonial program in Death Valley National Park designed for adults facing major life transitions.
-- Rites of Passage has announced its Fall Wilderness Quest in Death Valley, which will take place from November 15 to 23, 2025. The program invites adults at any life stage to engage in a guided wilderness experience rooted in ancient initiation traditions.
Additional details are available at https://wildernessquest.org/schedule/fall-2025
The event follows a three-part structure: three days of preparation, a three-day solo period in nature, and three days of integration and return, says a spokesperson. Held in the Black Mountains of Death Valley National Park, the quest draws inspiration from cross-cultural vision fast traditions and has been adapted for contemporary participants seeking renewal and reflection.
Research supports the psychological benefits of ritualized practice. One 2023 study found that structured rituals like rites of passage can reduce anxiety by fostering predictability and self-reflection, while earlier research published in 2009 found that ceremonial processes contribute to long-term emotional and physical well-being.
"We see ourselves as guides and protectors of the sacred container of transformation," said the Rites of Passage representative. "By marking life-cycle changes, we help people grow in their capacity to live from their deepest values and visions."
The November program will be led by staff members Larisa Blum and Steven Encinas, who bring extensive experience in wilderness guiding. Blum completed her first quest in 2008 and trained as a guide in 2010-2011. Encinas has studied under multiple mentors and speaks at colleges about the importance of rites of passage for youth.
The Fall Wilderness Quest is open to adults of all genders and sexual identities. Early registration before October 15 is priced at $2,500, which includes tuition and backcountry dinners. After that date, the cost increases to $2,600. Subsidized options are available starting at $1,400, including tuition and meals.
Participants begin at a campground in Shoshone, California, before spending six nights in the backcountry and returning for a final evening of reflection. The itinerary includes council sessions, teachings on the Medicine Wheel, safety briefings, and solo time in nature. The program concludes with an all-night vigil marking the end of the solo experience.
About Rites of Passage
Founded in 1977, Rites of Passage is a California-based non-profit organization dedicated to creating ceremonial experiences that reconnect humans with nature and foster psychological and spiritual growth. Its programs serve individuals from diverse backgrounds seeking purpose and transformation through guided ritual practice.
For more information, visit https://wildernessquest.org/quest1
Contact Info:
Name: Mike
Email: Send Email
Organization: Rites of Passage
Address: PO Box 8454, Bend, Oregon 97708, United States
Website: https://wildernessquest.org/
Source: NewsNetwork
Release ID: 89171999
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