Archived Information Sheet from 2003

Yellowstone Kayak Trip
August 11-14, 2003

Program
Cradled gently in the bowl of a high plateau, Yellowstone Lake's 110 miles of shoreline bisect some of the most remote wilderness in the lower 48. Even if you have never kayaked you can enjoy this unique backcountry experience.

Yellowstone welcomes travelers from around the globe to view its many wonders. The world's first national park is famous for its amazing geysers, as well as being home to bison, elk, deer, eagles, moose, pelicans, bear and other wildlife. It is also infamous for its crowds. But on this trip, you'll hardly see them. On our tour we'll explore thermal features, view wildlife, camp near pristine lake shores and enjoy the wilderness in relative solitude.

In addition to exploring the region by kayak, we will spend some time on the trail (degree of difficulty: easy to moderate). The TorahTrek program combines Jewish study with spiritual practices, such as walking in silence, learning simple mindfulness meditation techniques, joining together in song, davenning together and leaving individual time for reading, writing, individual meditation, prayer or simply enjoying the quiet and solitude. Rabbi Comins teaches the theory and practice of connecting to the divine in wilderness, within and without, as we paddle and hike.

Schedule
We meet in Jackson, Wyoming at 8 AM on Monday, August 11. We transfer to Yellowstone Lake, stopping to view the Grand Tetons, as well as geysers and wildlife along the way in Yellowstone National Park.

Traveling by motorized shuttle boat from Bridge Bay Marina, we cruise to the southeast arm of Yellowstone Lake and into the wilderness. Your guide will teach you the basics of paddling a touring kayak in this serene corner of the lake.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, your kayak will take you deeper into the wilderness and waters open only to paddlers. Wildlife sightings, snow capped mountains and verdant forest will all compete for your attention. We combine paddling and hiking with the TorahTrek program.

After touring on Thursday, we break camp and return to Jackson late in the day.

Transportation, Lodging and Jackson Hole
Participants should arrive in Jackson by Sunday, August 10th. Jackson is a wonderful combination of cowboy grit and Western high culture. If you care to round out your vacation with a stay in the area, you'll find: Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, thousands of miles of national forest and BLM land; hiking (take the ski tram and start at the top), camping, backpacking, horse or llama pack trips, fishing, boating, rafting, river kayaking, horseback riding; tens of art galleries, quality restaurants, musicals and 2 step-cowboy dancing.

The Jackson Hole airport, serviced by Delta, United, Northwest and Continental, is about 15 minutes from the town of Jackson. As of this writing, cab rides to town are $20, shuttles are less. Some hotels pick you up at the airport for free. A number of car rental companies are based at the airport. Flights to Idaho Falls are often cheaper. Idaho Falls is two-hours away by shuttle (contact Jackson Hole Express at htttp://www.jacksonholebus.com/home.html).

Jackson sports a wide variety of accommodations, from the six-star Amangani resort to camping and everything in-between. You might consider renting a ski condo for a few days.

Check out the following web sites for information on all aspects of a stay in Jackson Hole: http://www.jacksonholechamber.com/ , http://www.jacksonholenet.com/ or http://www.dojacksonhole.com/

Weather
We can expect warm days at 50-85 degrees. Typically, evenings are cool but seldom dip below 40 degrees. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. Keep in mind that we are at high altitude; summer storms and low temperatures are possible. Please bring sleeping bags that are rated for cold weather!!

Food
The food is "backcountry gourmet", at its best. All meals are vegetarian. Contact Rabbi Comins to see if special food needs can be accommodated. Participants will take turns helping with food prep and clean-up.

Safety
Our guides are outdoor professionals with extensive wilderness experience. Our kayak guide is trained in First Aid and Rabbi Comins is a Wilderness First Responder, having completed an advanced, 10 day First Aid course especially designed for backcountry leaders. The leaders carry an emergency short-wave radio. Nevertheless, there are unavoidable risks in a wilderness trip and participants are required to sign a waiver acknowledging that they understand and accept the risks involved. Participants are expected to be in sufficient physical condition, exercise sound judgment and avoid unnecessary risks.

Gear
We work with the highest quality touring kayaks, gear and camping equipment. Kayaking and camping gear, transportation, shuttles and meals are provided. You need only bring your camera, personal clothing, toiletries and a sleeping bag. We provide sleeping bags for additional fee. An equipment and clothing list is included in the registration packet.

Physical Condition
If you are comfortable with water and ready for adventure your guide will help you feel confident in your kayak. Touring is a low impact activity that is easy to learn and is enjoyed by people of all ages. Touring kayaks are swift, quiet and stable. They have rudders to help you steer and are comfortable to sit in.

Participants must be in sufficient physical condition to operate an open-sea kayak. This is not strenuous like backpacking or mountain climbing, but requires moderate physical ability. Some kayaks are two-seaters and stronger participants can support others. If you have questions about the physical demands of the trip, please call our outfitters, Rendezvous River Sports, at 307-733-2471.

Your detailed and accurate information on the health form makes it possible for the staff to prepare for your needs. Staff reserve the right to refuse participation on the basis of inaccurate or incomplete health information.

Religious Observance
There are no religious pre-requisites for this trek. Beginners in spiritual practice and Judaic observance will need a bit of tolerance, but most group practices will be taught to all from the beginning. A background in Judaic and/or spiritual practice will enhance a participant's experience. This program is not intended for those whose Jewish practice is strictly observant. Prayer services are egalitarian and traditional-style with contemporary, English additions; those who wish to pray a more traditional service, an alternative service or alternative practice will have the opportunity to do so on their own. Meals are kosher style; dishes are not kosher.

Registration and Payment
The cost of $795 includes TorahTrek program, meals (Monday lunch through Thursday lunch) wilderness permits, guides, camping fees, equipment and transportation from Jackson.

This program is limited to a maximum of ten participants. Early registration is recommended. To reserve your place, a deposit of $200 may be sent anytime before July 1st, 2003. The deadline for registration and full payment is July 1st, 2003. Participants accepted after July 1st, space permitting, are subject to a $100 late fee. A minimum of four participants registered by July 1st, 2003 is required for this program to run.

Cancellation Policy
A full refund, minus $50 registration fee, is extended when notice of cancellation, in writing, is received by TorahTrek before July 1st, 2003. A 50% refund is extended when notice of cancellation, in writing, is received by TorahTrek on or before July 15th. No refund will be extended after July 15th, unless the trip is filled by other participants. We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. See your travel agent, or search under "travel insurance" on the web for a host of insurance companies. If the program is cancelled due to insufficient registration, a full refund is extended.

Questions
Further information will be sent upon receipt of payment, including a detailed equipment list and suggestions to prepare for the trip. Write us with any additional questions or concerns at info@torahtrek.com.