Ascend Retreat
Roan Highlands, TN/NC
May 12-15, 2026
Get Outside. Get Perspective.
Ascend is a four-day Appalachian Trail retreat for men seeking clarity, renewal, and direction. Designed for midlife men who feel stuck or overworked, Ascend creates space to take a break, reflect, and gain perspective.
From May 12–15, you’ll experience two nights at Doe River Gorge Camp and a guided two-day backpacking journey along the Appalachian Trail through the Roan Highlands of the Blue Ridge Mountains, straddling the North Carolina-Tennessee border.
Schedule
Tuesday, May 12 — Arrival & Preparation
Arrive at Doe River Gorge Camp by 1:00 PM. Settle in, enjoy dinner together, pack gear, and prepare for the trail.
Wednesday, May 13 — Trail Day 1
After breakfast at Doe River Gorge Camp, shuttle to Carvers Gap and begin our hike to Bradley Gap (approximately 8.5 miles). Overnight camping on the trail.
Thursday, May 14 — Trail Day 2
Continue hiking on AT to 19E (approximately 6.5 miles). Return to Doe River Gorge Camp.
Friday, May 15 — Debrief & Departure
Enjoy breakfast together, followed by an early morning debrief and closing conversation. Dismissal by noon.
What to expect...
Difficulty
Expect sustained climbs, high-elevation hiking, unpredictable weather, and moments of uncertainty.
Availability
Ascend is for men and is limited to 9 participants.
Pace
The pace is intentionally unhurried and designed to support reflection rather than performance.
Meals & Gear
All meals and backpacking gear are provided.
Fitness
Participants should be in good general fitness and comfortable hiking 15 miles over two days with a pack.
Basecamp
Our basecamp will be at Doe River Gorge in Hampton, TN.
Who Should Participate?
This adventure retreat is for men who need perspective. In this experience, we create space to slow down and pay attention. As we move through valleys and climb ridgelines together, the physical journey mirrors the inner one. Coaches walk alongside participants, creating room for silence, reflection, and good questions about calling, identity, season, and faithful next steps.
The journey is marked by shared conversation, laughter, friendship, healthy fatigue, and moments of awe shaped by the beauty of the mountains... an environment that naturally invites perspective and renewal.
Ascend is not a bootcamp, conference, or crisis care. It's not for men unwilling to slow down, be honest about their life, or engage in thoughtful conversation.
The Ascend Team
