Wilderness Walks is an outstanding experience for seniors. The hiking was appropriately challenging and adaptions were made as necessitated by weather and physical needs of the group. The housing was very comfortable. We worked together to prepare delicious meals which developed great comraderie. Evening discussions were deeply meaningful. The week was a wonderful spiritual retreat.

Marilyn - Wilderness Walks, 2025

Just loved it!

Birgitta - Wilderness Walks, 2025

When I signed up for this trip, I was prepared to "hike" w/the correct combination of appropriate clothes, items (bug spray) and full backpack (rain gear, water bottles, etc) but this trip was a lot more than a "hike"! It was about new friendships; it was about cheering each other on; helping each other on the more difficult slopes; about sharing and caring; about finding God's hidden treasures amongst the mud, trees and rocks; experiencing the "divine" both in nature and in our gatherings back at the house; about sharing prayers and songs as Jonathan strummed on his ukulele; cooking and eating meals together; stories w/laughter and tears; hugging new friends; and devouring 7-pints of ice cream in 1-night; it was about Jonathan's sense of humor and his incredible leadership. I learned what "taking a picture" really meant; and that every "hike" is always 2/10 of a mile!! I went on this journey wanting to learn about me; I ended this journey with so much more...I learned what it was to be part of a community.

Dede - Wilderness Walks, 2025

Jonathan was a superb leader and easy to spend time with because he tailored all the activities to the group and since we were all active agers that was important. It was one of the most amazing weeks I have ever had complete with great exercise, camaraderie, food, accommodations, laughter, and discussions. I love being outside in nature and reveling in God's creations and this was an immersive joyful experience from start to finish.

Susan - Wilderness Walks, 2025

Jonathan is an excellent leader. On the hike he was sensitive to our capabilities and helpful at all times. In conversation he drew us out. We all shared inner thoughts and broad life perspectives. What a hike !!

Jim - Wilderness Walks, 2025

I am going to be exploring the impact of this trip for a long time! The southbound Lost Coast is breathtaking and unforgettable. Jonathan Malone’s wilderness knowledge and pastoral presence helped me to do some important soul work. He guided with presence, humor, and wisdom. I deeply appreciated his attention to detail in everything from mapping tidal charts to packing a chocolate bar for every dessert. He offered daily reflection prompts that helped me to let go of performance, orient toward embracing my personhood, speak to my body/anxiety with compassion and conviction, and reach out to other hikers with openness and generosity. I felt safe, cared for, and capable with every step! So get out there and hike… but even better, go with Jonathan!

Christine - Lost Coast Trail, 2025

I'm always glad to get out on the trail with Jonathan. His expertise with everything from cooking, to hiking, to matters of the soul, and his quiet competence, encouraging words, and ability to hold space for deep conversation make a trip with Wilderness Journeys more than just a backpacking trip - they become a way to connect with a deeper part of nature, and a deeper part of yourself. I can't wait for my next trip!

Paul - Evergreen Trip, 2025

A wonderful spiritual and physical adventure. Jonathan adapted our trip to meet the needs of everyone. He is an amazing listener and asks questions that helped me dig deeper into the experience. The food was good, including fresh baked bread on our final night. It was wonderful to just show up with my gear and know that a plan was in place.

Teresa - Evergreen Trip, 2025

Ohh - I came out from this hiking trip at a different place in my walk through life.... a peace settled on me with the meditative moments before each hike, and settled with soft music on Jonathan's ukulele and us all humming or singing.. very peaceful way toward a good night's sleep. I thank you, Jonathan

Birgitta - Creature Comforts Trip, 2024

This was a unique opportunity to not only experience the awesome wilderness but also to share thoughts with kindred folks (all on the precipice of life changing elderly encounters). The hike (walk) was nicely adapted to our capabilities.

Jim - Creature Comforts Trip, 2024

Being outdoors in the wilderness with other senior adults is a special gift. We define "wilderness" as more than 3 miles away from an outhouse. But our spirits are lifted by a blue sky, or rocks in the water, or delicate wildflowers. Sharing with others who understand that the slowing down of our bodies does not dim the wonderment, excitement and joy of our souls is a welcome respite.

Marilyn - Creature Comforts Trip, 2024

My Wilderness Journey was beyond expectations. Jonathan is an expert group leader both on the trail and in discussions. You won’t regret signing up.

Katie - Creature Comforts Trip, 2024

Thank you for leading us on the spiritual retreat backpacking in Dark Canyon via the Sundance trail. Jonathan was clear on what to expect, how to train, and gear to bring. Jonathan leads with honesty, humor, & kindness; he explains, gives options, & makes you think. The question of the day, assigned in the morning and discussed in the evening helps figure yourself out. A hot cup of tea and singing while he plays the ukulele is a lovely evening ritual. This is my 2nd trip with Jonathan and I'd go on another!

Susan - Dark Canyon Episcopal Trip, 2024

This was my first backpacking/hiking/camping adventure, and it was spectacular. Jonathan took careful steps to ensure the entire experience was safe, fun and educational. I learned many things, not the least being the deep respect of our forests and wilderness. Spiritual reflections further enhanced the awareness of being one of a group, and being one with nature. Thank you, Jonathan!

Tom - Adirondack Trip, 2024

Our trip was fantastic! Wilderness Journeys delivered adventure, fun, as well as opportunities for challenge, reflection and enrichment. The food and company were also wonderful.

Stacey - Adirondack Trip, 2024