Our Unique Approach to Recovery

Who We Are

Wilderness Reconnection

Full Imersion Recovery Program – Bartlett, NH

Wilderness Reconnection is an immersive addiction recovery program for men, set in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, along sections of the Appalachian Trail. The program blends structured outdoor living, physical challenge, and in-depth recovery education grounded in the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.

This is not a typical rehab environment. Participants live and move in the wilderness—hiking daily, eating and sleeping outdoors, and engaging in thoughtful, challenging group discussions throughout the day. The program is designed for those who are serious about recovery and willing to step outside their comfort zone—literally and figuratively.

Program Model

Wilderness Reconnection is built on two foundations:

12-Step-Based Recovery Work

Each day includes structured group discussions centered around AA, spirituality, psychology, and the real mechanics of recovery. Topics include:

• The historical and spiritual foundation of AA

• Psychology of addiction, ego, isolation, and relapse

• Deep exploration of certain steps (e.g., Steps 1–3 and 10–12), often from angles that may not be covered in traditional treatment

Even if you’ve been through the steps before, you’re likely to encounter new insights. This program is not designed for people being introduced to recovery for the first time, though newcomers are not excluded.

Wilderness Immersion

Recovery work happens in motion. Participants hike 5 to 10 miles daily, with group sessions integrated throughout the day—during breaks, at camp, or mid-trail. The physical aspect of the program is intentional: it helps lower defenses, build momentum, and create space for new perspectives to take hold.

Structure and Schedule

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Each week at Wilderness Reconnection is led by a two-person team: one 12-step leader and one therapeutic leader, typically a Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LDAC) or equivalent. All program leaders are in recovery themselves, each with a minimum of seven years of solid, continuous sobriety. These are not run-of-the-mill staff—they are among the most insightful and knowledgeable individuals on the subject of addiction in the state, and arguably far beyond. Together, they guide the group through daily recovery discussions, in-depth educational lectures, and individual one-on-one meetings with each participant. The 12-step leader brings deep lived experience and understanding of spiritual recovery, while the therapeutic leader provides clinical perspective and targeted guidance to help participants confront relapse patterns, disconnection, and internal resistance. This combined leadership ensures every week is grounded, challenging, and highly supportive.

• Program length: 21 to 28 days

• Group size: Typically 3–16 men

• Location: White Mountains, NH – Appalachian Trail region

• Field days: Tuesday–Sunday (backcountry)

• Base day: Monday (return to warehouse facility for showers, laundry, gear reset, rest, food resupply, phone calls, and intake of new participants)

• Staff schedule: Group leaders alternate shifts, with at least one week off for every week on, ensuring consistent support without burnout

What’s Provided

• All meals

• All group gear (tents, cookware, etc.)

• Personal gear can be provided if needed—used but fully functional (packs, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, etc.)

• Staff supervision and recovery support throughout the program

Substance Use & Testing Policy

• A drug test and breathalyzer will be administered upon arrival

• Random testing may occur throughout the program

• Testing will also occur at any time there is suspicion of substance use

• Any confirmed use of alcohol or drugs during the program will result in immediate dismissal

Detox Requirements

Participants must complete detox before arrival for the following substances:

• Alcohol

• Benzodiazepines

• Barbiturates

Detox is strongly recommended for:

• Opioids

Detox is recommended for:

• All other substances

Who This Is For

This program is geared toward men who:

• Are 18–40 years old (older participants may be accepted based on physical capability)

• Have previously attended a traditional treatment center

• Have a working knowledge of the 12 steps and have relapsed after some recovery experience

• Are physically capable of hiking 5–10 miles daily with a pack

• Are open to honest, challenging group work in a non-clinical setting

While prior step work is not required, the material covered assumes familiarity with the AA framework. This program dives deep, and those unfamiliar with the 12 steps may find it difficult to keep up with the pace and depth of group discussions.

What to Expect

• Structured yet flexible daily rhythm

• Hikes, camp setups, and group sessions interwoven throughout the day

• Real conversations—not therapy scripts or lecture formats

• A physically and mentally challenging environment, with consistent staff and peer support

• An opportunity to step away from the noise and focus on what matters

Wilderness Reconnection offers a different kind of treatment experience—one that relies on nature, movement, and honest connection as the backdrop for real recovery work. If you're ready to take a hard but hopeful look at yourself and the path ahead, we’re here to walk it with you.

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Absolutely. Here's your revised packing list for Wilderness Reconnection. It's clear, realistic, and reflects your program's logistics and tone—practical and supportive, not overbearing.

What to Bring

Summer Program – White Mountains, NH

Below is a list of items to bring with you to the program. While we recommend certain gear for comfort and safety, most hiking-specific items are optional. If you don't have something, let us know—we can provide used but fully functional gear as needed. Our goal is to make sure you're prepared, not burdened.

General Notes

• Bring enough clothing for 6 days of hiking and outdoor living

• Prepare for a range of summer conditions in New Hampshire, including rain, heat, and cooler nights

• Backpack is recommended but not required—gear can be packed in any soft bag

• The more you bring, the more you’ll carry

• If you decide not to carry something in the field, it can be safely stored at our base facility the following week

Recommended Clothing

Choose lightweight, quick-dry, and non-cotton materials when possible.

• 3–4 short-sleeve shirts

• 2 long-sleeve shirts

• 2–3 pairs of hiking pants or athletic joggers

• 1 pair of shorts

• 5–6 pairs of socks (wool or synthetic preferred)

• 5–6 pairs of underwear

• 1 lightweight jacket or fleece

• 1 rain jacket or poncho

• 1 set of sleepwear

• Hat or cap for sun protection

• Warm hat (for nights)

Footwear

• 1 pair of sturdy sneakers or hiking boots (broken in if possible)

• 1 pair of sandals or slip-ons for camp

Toiletries (Travel Size)

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Deodorant

• Biodegradable soap or body wipes

• Sunscreen

• Bug spray

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We provide all of these items 

Other Useful Items

• Water bottles (2 one-liter bottles or equivalent)

• Journal and pen

• Sunglasses

• Extra plastic bags or stuff sacks for organizing

• Small comfort item (photo, token, etc.)

Gear (Optional)

• Backpack (50–65L recommended)

• Sleeping bag 20degree Minimum

• Sleeping pad

• Headlamp or flashlight

• Personal Camp Stove

Note: If you don’t own this gear, we can supply it.

Do Not Bring

• Drugs, alcohol, vapes, or paraphernalia

• Weapons

• Valuables or large amounts of cash

• Outside food or snacks

If you have questions about specific items or need help sourcing something, reach out to the team before your arrival. We’ll make sure you have what you need to start strong.