Tested Through Wilderness: A 50-Day Journey Reshaping Life Experiences

Every summer at The Survival University in Colorado, a new group steps into the wilderness for a 50-day immersion program. Situated at altitudes ranging from 7500 to 9500 feet, two distinct environments challenge participants: the Mountain Camp, with its towering pines and thin mountain air, and the Canyon Reach site, offering a vast, arid expanse.

The program, run by founder and lead instructor Jason Marsteiner, is not a leisurely course; it's a transformative journey. Marsteiner and his team of skilled instructors focus on building mental grit, physical strength, and survival skills that last a lifetime. Quality over quantity is their ethos, ensuring each student receives an unparalleled learning experience.

Upon arrival, participants are given a tarp and shown a patch of ground for their first shelter. The days that follow are a test of adaptation, endurance, and self-reliance, with lessons in wilderness survival, fire craft, shelter building, and water purification. Fire-starting techniques might involve bow drills, while shelter construction proves a vital skill for withstanding mountain storms.

The program isn't just about skill acquisition; it's about pushing boundaries and fostering resilience. By day 10, many students have transformed, displaying confidence and leadership that was previously unseen. The solo experience, starting around day 20, is particularly formative. Alone for several days, students must apply their knowledge and adapt to their surroundings, resulting in a renewed sense of self.

The camaraderie among participants is another defining aspect of the program. Under the tutelage of Marsteiner and his team, strangers become family, bonded by the shared hardships and triumphs of the wilderness. Many forge lifelong friendships and even consider the instructors their mentors.

By the end of the 50 days, students leave with more than just survival skills. They've formed a deep connection with nature and gained a sense of self-confidence that transcends the wilderness. Some choose to delve deeper into the world of outdoor education, while others apply their newfound skills to their daily lives, feeling safe and empowered in any situation.

Jason Marsteiner's passion for survival and outdoor education stems from his lifelong experiences in nature, from the Missouri forests to the deserts of Arizona and Costa Rica. A certified Wilderness First Responder (WFR), Marsteiner has dedicated his career to equipping others with the tools to stay safe in the wilderness or during city emergencies.

The 50-Day Wilderness Immersion Program is more than just a course; it's an unforgettable journey that pushes participants to their limits and beyond, fostering resilience, camaraderie, and a deep connection with nature. For those seeking a life-altering challenge, The Survival University offers a chance to step into the wild and emerge transformed.

Instructors at The Survival University provide gear such as knives and tools essential for survival skills training.
The 50-day immersion program delves into various challenges, including water purification and navigation in the wilderness.
With their newly acquired skills, graduates of the program find themselves better equipped to withstand emergencies at home or during outdoor-living activities.
Marsteiner teaches students about the importance of shelter in the wilderness, emphasizing the crafting of sturdy bushcraft shelters.
As part of the program, participants learn about fire safety and various techniques for starting a fire, such as using bow drills or flint and steel.
The courses offered by The Survival University cater not only to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts but also to those interested in home-and-garden lifestyle, as well as sports.
George, a first-time participant, was surprised by the level of camaraderie among strangers who became his family through the shared experiences of the survival program.
After the 50-day immersion, many participants continue their journey in the world of survival, enrolling in advanced courses or leading their own camps.
For those who desire a unique lifestyle, outdoor-living becomes an integral part of their life, fueling their passion for adventure and wilderness exploration.
Upon completion of the program, students gain a newfound understanding and appreciation for the resilience needed to thrive in the wilderness and apply this quality to their everyday lives.