Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the answers to some questions you might have. For more information, please contact ericnfriedman (at) gmail (dot) com.

Will PFQ be physically challenging?

Yes. The boys will be carrying a 30-40 pound backpack over rough terrain for hours a day. In addition, various challenging exercises will take place in camp or along the trail. However, the motivation for challenge is for each young man to face and examine his own physical strengths. No one will be pushed beyond a safe limit. If necessary, we will work as a team to redistribute weight, slow down, or stop for anyone.

Is PFQ a religious trip?

NO. PFQ is a spiritual adventure. There are no organized religious teachings, prayers or ceremonies. PFQ is centered on connecting with nature and spirit.

Is PFQ for young men with behavior challenges or problems in school?

Not specifically. A participant should feel comfortable around others and should be in control of his actions. Though PFQ is designed to allow young men to experience a never before sense of freedom, it is not a program for “at risk” youth.

Should I be in good physical shape?

Yes, participants need to be ready to hike for 3-5 miles with a 30-40 pound backpack. You should practice walking in your boots with a backpack and get in shape.

Do I need to have my own health insurance?

Yes. We do have any insurance to cover accidental injuries, but your own insurance will cover non-accident type injuries. all of the course leaders are trained in first aid and CPR.

Do I need to have previous camping experience?

Not necessarily. We will learn some basic camping skills along the way. Some experience in the outdoors is helpful for making the transition from city life to the wilderness. We expect that most of the participants have at least spent the night outside in a tent. We encourage any level of camping experience to join us.

How far will we hike everyday?

The days will range from hiking as little at two miles to as much as six miles. While one of the pillars of PFQ is challenge, we don’t wish to be distracted by physical discomfort. We have designed our route to fit to the activities and teachings of each day.

What is a solo?

On the last night and day of the trip, each young man will be on a solo. That means he will spend the entire night and day by himself in a special place. Most of the young men will only take water and no food to their solo area. The purpose of a solo is to connect with nature and spirit in a deeply personal way. A solo quest has been a part of many traditions for thousands of years. It is rite of passage and a profound experience.

Is it safe to be on a solo?

Yes, completely. Each young man will not be more than 100-200 yards from another person. Everyone will be within hearing distance of each other and everyone will have a whistle to blow in case of emergency. The leaders will know the exact location of everyone and will be no more than a few minutes walk away. In the morning, everybody will communicate with a partner via a rock pile. The idea of the solo is to be alone and silent, not to be far away from everyone else.