The Wolfhounds
This idea was born in the summer of 2025 while leading a backpacking group on a three-day expedition. With little warning, the group was confronted by a series of compounding challenges—intense storms, significant equipment failures, poorly marked reroutes, and unforgiving terrain.
Any one of these obstacles could have justified turning back. Instead, I witnessed something far more powerful.
Without direction or intervention, the group instinctively slowed down, assessed the situation, and worked through a thoughtful risk analysis. They made a deliberate decision to continue forward—together. What followed was a quiet but remarkable demonstration of teamwork and resilience. They maintained visual accountability for one another, recognized when someone needed rest before it was spoken, shared food without hesitation, and collaborated to repair damaged gear.
There was no need for instruction. No need for correction. Just a group of individuals, rising to meet the moment.
It was a clear reminder that with the right foundation, ordinary people are capable of extraordinary things—especially when they choose to face adversity not alone, but together.
How to be a part of the pack
So, us here at Eagle Creek Wilderness Academy look for those traits during our courses and trips. We look for the ordinary doing extraordinary things. We may go several trips without finding that one Wolfhound. We may find that the whole class or group did such remarkable things together and everyone gets inducted. The trail is often full of surprises.
We pay close attention to how you react to stress on the trail. We listen with a empathic ear to your stories of the adversity going on in your life outside of the trail. We watch you hit your physical max and continue to push through.
Most of all, we admire than during all of this, you are the first one to offer a helping hand to a fellow trail mate.
These are the types of people we want to know, to love, respect and surround ourselves with as much as possible.
Program Discounts
Significant discounts on all academy training systems, Gear and Trips
Member Benefits
Wolfhound Events
Invitations to exclusive events, private wilderness survival simulations, and invitation-only scouting expeditions.
Leadership Paths
Opportunities to serve as trip leaders, part-time instructors, and immersive scenario roleplayers.