Unplug & Connect Montana Backcountry Experience 2026
2026-07-25 - 2026-07-31 | Missoula MT, Missoula, MT, 59808, United States
Genesis 1:31-2:1:
And God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them.
Come to Missoula, Montana July 25-31, 2026, for an adventure of unplugging from the world and connecting with God through nature.
Experience the “very good” that God intended, as you share in the rich and diverse witness of God’s handiwork. This experience is designed, not only to restore the soul, but to advance your vision of the kingdom of God and His sovereignty and care for your life in wonderful Christian company.
Enjoy hiking, fishing, wilderness and camping skills in an uplifting environment designed to help you connect with God. This unique backpacking adventure in the mountains of Montana will be led by our experienced outdoorsmen.
Participation is limited, so register soon.
Is this change of focus what you need to restore your soul and connect with your heavenly Father?
If so, then this Unplug & Connect adventure is for you.
For more details, please contact either Ted Bidon at (419) 733-4037 or tbidon@yahoo.com or Curt Belts at (406) 544-4076 or cbelts@gmail.com.
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Expectation of Participants for Montana Unplug and Connect 2026
Be able to hike six miles on a forest service trail with moderate incline with a backpack.
Provide own hygiene necessities (camp soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, ETC)
Sleeping system (sleeping bag or quilt, ground pad, and backpack tent if available)
Backpack (recommended to keep total weight of backpack to 40 pounds)
Prepare a morning devotional
Sharing about the day
Help with camp chores (including preparing meals)
Follow instructions
Pack own food and part of the overall camp food
No food kept in tent
Be respectful of each other
Recommended Gear
(Very helpful to use lightweight equipment, designed for backpacking)
Backpack (keep total weight of backpack to 40 pounds or less)
Backpack cover (to keep equipment dry)
Prescription medications
Light jacket or sweatshirt
Change of socks and undergarments
Travel towel and wash cloth
Rain gear or poncho
Water for hike in (hydration pack or water bottle)
Hiking shoes or boots (have them well broken in)
Matches or lighter
Fire starter
Eating utensils, small cooking pot and coffee cup (these might be a combination set)
Toilet paper
Knife
Headlamp/flashlight (extra batteries)
Compass or GPS
Safety whistle
Bear spray
Optional Gear
Snacks are on your own (remember your 40 pounds)
Trekking poles
Camp shoes such as sandals or slippers
Baby wipes for personal clean-up
Sunglasses
Camp chair
Gloves
Bandana
Provided items and equipment
Food for all meals (dehydrated meals; participants will be expected to pack in part of your food)
Breakfast will be a common meal each day.
Covered common area
Water filtration system
Coffee, tea and hot chocolate
Area maps
First Aid kit
Repair kit (Multi-tool, duct tape, cordage, etc.)
Bear fence
Food cannisters
It is certainly our desire that lack of equipment doesn’t prevent you from coming. We do have a limited supply of extra equipment available.
Equipment that can be made available if needed*
3 backpack tents
1 lightweight sleeping bag
1 sleeping pad
3 backpacks
Compass
1 set trekking poles
1 backpacking stove
*Requests for these items will be on a first-come basis
Notes

Possible pre-event Zoom meeting to answer questions and provide some forest safety instruction
If there are equipment needs, please notify
Provide travel schedules
OIKEOS determines the selection process for participants
First day supper and last day supper will be a BBQ

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