Program Itinerary (sample)

Two separate Wild Pilgrimage groups (of 12 people each) will occur over the same timeframe, taking different trail routes. The pilgrimage routes will be decided closer to date, based on early Spring conditions. The hiking itinerary below is offered as a sample, and is subject to change. Regardless, the hikes will unfold over four nights and five days, and conclude at Esalen for a weekend of shared retreat. The thru-hike below covers ~29 miles; we expect any pilgrimage itinerary to be an equivalent level of (moderate to strenuous) difficulty through rugged terrain, in the range of 25-30 miles total.

Photo of Esalen hot spring baths: Amanda Marsalis

Photo of Esalen hot spring baths: Amanda Marsalis

  • Day 1 | Monday, April 20th | Meet in Big Sur at 8:30am for orientation and to begin our pilgrimage backpacking through the Ventana Wilderness. (This day may require shuttling in vehicles to arrive at the trailhead.)

    • Example mileage for the day: ~5.2

    • Example elevation gain/loss: +1695’/-1259’

  • Day 2-4 | Tuesday, April 21st - Thursday, April 23rd | Three backpacking days in deep wilderness. As we make our journey through the Santa Lucia mountains, we will engage with daily check-ins and awareness practices in Esalen’s Gestalt tradition.

    • Example daily mileage: 5-7/day

    • Example daily elevation gain/loss: +2500/-2000’

  • Day 5 | Friday, April 24th | Our last day of hiking together, we will close our time in the Big Sur backcountry. Re-emerging from the wilderness in the afternoon, we will drive to Esalen Institute to check-in by 4pm and share a celebratory dinner.

    • Example mileage for the day: ~6.5 miles

    • Example elevation gain/loss: +1218 / -2618

  • Saturday, April 25th | Full day and night at Esalen to enjoy the extraordinary grounds featuring cliffside hot springs, organic gardens, and sweeping ocean views. At Esalen we will meet to practice nature connection and awareness, explore the land together, share stories, and integrate our wilderness time. Please make sure not to schedule bodywork or other plans during our meeting times on Sat and Sun. Esalen offers open movement classes at 7:30am every morning.

    • Meet in the morning (10:00am - 12:00pm)

    • Meet in the afternoon (3:00 - 5:30pm)

  • Sunday, April 26th| Savor a half-day at Esalen, including breakfast and lunch.

    • Meet mid-morning (10:00am - 12:00pm) for a closing circle.

    • Depart Esalen by 2:00 PM.