Vision Quest and other wilderness programs require careful preparation.  For nine day Vision Quest programs, a handbook is sent to registrants with information on the physical, psychological and spiritual preparation needed to undertake the program.  Emails or letters to participants supplement the handbook, providing additional information about travel, meeting time and place, equipment, weather, terrain and food arrangements.  The first three program days provide further orientation and  deepening before the solo begins. Incorporation of the teachings and lessons of the quest takes place over three days following the solo. Enrollment is limited to ten participants.    

We schedule the Vision Quest for every season of the year, with most of the trips going to the California desert.  In summer, we go to the high desert country.  We choose this country because it is truly wild, rugged and unspoiled.  However, no backpacking experience is required to participate.    

Our programs involve time spent in the wilderness and are not without an element of risk;  participants should carry their own health and accident insurance, and must sign a liability release form.  People under age 18 may participate with parental permission.   

Rites of Passage does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, ethnicity, age or disability.  The USDA has requested that we post the following announcement:

In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.  To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Rites of Passage accepts major credit cards for payment (Visa, Master Card and Discover Card); see Registration Information for details. There may be limited scholarship funds available for those who cannot afford the full tuition; if interested,  inquire with staff.    

Tuition fees cover preparatory meetings and staff guidance for the entire program duration, plus a reunion meeting when feasible.  Tuition does not cover carpool or other transportation costs, campground fees (when required).  Tuition includes all food except restaurant meals (the group may eat out 1-3 times during the program).  A $250 non-refundable deposit is required to register.  The balance, due one month before departure, is non-refundable after that date.  We also require a Letter of Intent with registration, telling us about yourself and expressing your purpose or intent for undertaking the quest.     

All base camp meals are vegetarian.  While many participants fast during the three day solo, fasting is not required.  Information about fasting is presented in the Handbook and at group meetings.    

Carpooling is arranged among group members; we can help coordinate rides for those from out of town.   

See our Registration Page for Enrollment information and to receive our brochure.