The wilderness is a gift, and every person who walks the trail becomes its steward for a little while. The Backcountry Code reflects how Eremos approaches the outdoors: with respect for creation, consideration for others, and a commitment to leave every place better than we found it by practicing a Leave No Trace philosophy.
What you’re stepping into
An Eremos experience is not a guided hike in the traditional sense. It is time in the wilderness shaped by presence, shared responsibility, and attention to the land.
Camp is a shared responsibility
When we arrive in camp, we are not just resting, we are participating in a small, temporary community based around the Leave No Trace philosophy.
The guide is responsible for the overall safety and organization of camp. Participants are responsible for following instructions, caring for their own equipment, and contributing to a clean and respectful shared space.
Decisions in camp are made with the group in mind. Flexibility is part of wilderness travel, and adjustments are normal.
We move with the land, not against it
Water sources change. Weather shifts. Conditions are never identical from one trip to the next.
We care for what we use
Everything in camp has to last the trip.
Gear is used with care, stored with intention, and treated as something shared between people and the environment.
If something breaks or becomes unsafe, it is addressed. Not ignored.
Night in camp is different
When the sun goes down, camp changes.
We do not compete with nature
Wildlife is not an attraction. It is part of the environment we are entering.
Food and scented items are stored carefully so that camp does not become a source of risk or disruption.
We observe wildlife from a distance, and we do not interfere with it.
Presence matters more than convenience
Phones and electronic distractions are not part of the experience unless needed for safety or approved by the guide.
Quiet is part of the rhythm
As evening settles, the pace of camp slows.
Conversation softens. Movement becomes more intentional. Rest becomes the priority.
This shift is not enforced as silence, but offered as rhythm.
Trust is part of the agreement
Participants are not expected to know everything about wilderness travel before arriving.
The point of it all
An Eremos experience is not about control.
It is about creating enough structure that people can stop managing everything and simply be present in the wilderness.
Everything in this code exists for that purpose.
Caring for the wilderness is one way we care for one another. Every thoughtful step, every piece of trash packed out, and every moment of respect for the trail helps preserve these places for those who will walk them after us.
Where to go next…
Experience the Wilderness
Not sure where to start?
You don’t need to decide everything before beginning.
Each experience offers a different rhythm of time, distance, and attention… but all of them begin in the same place: slowing down and becoming present.
If you’re unsure, start with what feels most accessible.
- Half-Day Hikes are the simplest entry point.
- Full-Day Hikes offer more space for reflection.
- Backpacking journeys are for those ready to step into longer simplicity on the trail.
Or begin with the Solitude Guide if you want to start by practicing attention where you are.
Still not sure? Let Eremos help.