Students have the opportunity to go hiking, mountain biking, and cook with professional chefs. Moreover they will become agricultural explorers, conducting real soil tests and investigating the hidden life beneath their feet. They'll observe wildlife, analyze ecosystems, and learn how farmers are using nature as a guide for food production. Hands-on experience with livestock will bring to life the very principles of the system behind our ecosystem. Each day builds toward a deeper understanding of how land, animals, and people work together in regenerative systems. By the end of the trip, students will leave with a renewed sense of leadership, purpose, and connection to the land.

Day 1 - SOIL LIFE

"Underground Explorers: Life Beneath Our Feet"

Description: Like pioneering regenerative farmers uncovering soil's mysteries, students become agricultural detectives investigating the vibrant world beneath our feet. Working alongside experienced ranchers and innovative farmers, participants dive into hands-on soil investigations using professional field testing kits. They'll measure water infiltration rates across different management practices, track soil temperature variations, analyze plant sugar content through Brix readings, and explore the fascinating universe of soil microorganisms through magnification. Through these direct experiences, students discover how regenerative producers are reading the land's signs and transforming their operations through enhanced soil health. 

Learning Outcomes:

- Master practical soil assessment techniques used by successful farmers, including water infiltration tests, soil temperature monitoring, Brix measurements, and magnification analysis

- Develop an explorer's mindset for investigating natural systems

- Connect soil health indicators to real-world regenerative farming practices

Day 2 - HEALTHY ECOSYSTEM

"Living Networks: Adventures in Nature's Food Web"

Description: Channel your inner naturalist while exploring the wild connections between wildlife, ecosystems, and food production. Guided by veteran farmers and conservation ranchers, students track wildlife, investigate plant communities, and discover how adventurous producers are reimagining agriculture by working with nature. Learn from farmers documenting the return of wildlife to their regenerative operations.

Learning Outcomes:

- Develop observation skills used by successful ecological farmers

- Apply ecological thinking to agricultural challenges

- Document and share discoveries like professional regenerative producers

Day 3 - ANIMALS IN THE FIELD

"Holistic Planned Grazing: Animals as Ecosystem Rainforests"

Description: Discover how innovative ranchers mimic ancient grazing patterns to restore landscapes. Students work hands-on with livestock while learning how animals shape healthy ecosystems through their natural behaviors - from soil impact and nutrient cycling to grass stimulation and seed dispersal. Working alongside experienced ranchers, participants learn to read landscape indicators, plan grazing moves, and understand how strategic animal impact can regenerate degraded land. Experience how cutting-edge ranchers combine nature's time-tested patterns with modern planning tools to create thriving, resilient landscapes supporting wildlife and livestock.

Learning Outcomes:

- Master the principles and practice of holistic planned grazing

- Develop skills in reading landscape health indicators and animal behavior

- Understand how grazing animals historically shaped ecosystems and how we can replicate these patterns

- Learn to plan livestock moves that benefit both the land and animal performance

Day 4 - EATING IS AN AGRICULTURAL ACT

"Growing Together: Finding Your Peak in Regenerative Leadership"

Description: On this culminating day, students channel their inner mountain goat to reach new heights. Working with experienced farmers and storytellers, participants synthesize their learning into personal action plans. Connect with young ranchers and farmers who are blazing new trails in regenerative agriculture while pursuing their peaks.

Learning Outcomes:

- Develop a personal vision for agricultural leadership

- Create action plans that push personal boundaries

- Build lasting connections with innovative farmers and ranchers

Clothing:

• 3–4 base layer t-shirts (moisture-wicking, not cotton)

• 2 thermal/long-sleeve base layers

• 2 fleece or wool mid-layers (crewneck, hoodie, or pullover)

• 1 insulated jacket or puffy (mornings/evenings get cold)

• 1 durable rain jacket or waterproof shell (essential)

• 2 pairs of durable pants (jeans or hiking pants)

• 4 pairs of warm, wool or synthetic socks

• 1 beanie or warm hat

• 1 baseball cap or sun hat (for daytime sun)

• Gloves (lightweight work gloves or fleece gloves)

• Undergarments for 4 days

• Sleepwear (warm and layered—think hoodie and joggers)

• Sunglasses

Footwear:

• 1 pair of waterproof hiking boots or durable closed-toe shoes

• 1 pair of comfortable shoes/slip-ons for indoor/down time

• Flip-flops or shower sandals (for communal areas)

Gear:

• Daypack or small backpack

• Reusable water bottle (32 oz+)

• Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)

• Insect repellent (optional)

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen (UV is still there in February)

• Toiletries (biodegradable soap, toothbrush, etc.)

Inquire Within

1. MAP OF HEADQUARTERS

   MAP OF HEADQUARTERS

   Please use this MAP of HEADQUARTERS to help you know where to go for meeting spaces, lodging and meals.

2. MEALS & MEETING SPACE

   Paicines Ranch Chef Maggie and team will be preparing delicious, locally-sourced meals featuring products from the NoRegrets Portfolio pantry. Meals are served at the Overlook Kitchen & Dining Hall with both indoor and outdoor seating available.

   Programming happens at our Event Center Barn & Awning (or occasionally Club 25) with time spent outdoors and on field walks out on the land.

3. (WE CAN ADD MORE)

This journey to Paicines Ranch deeply reflects the spirit of Laudato Si, Pope Francis’s call to care for our common home. By engaging directly with regenerative farming, ecological restoration, and ethical land stewardship, students witness how integral ecology unites care for the earth with care for people. Rooted in the Jesuit mission, this trip invites reflection, hands-on learning, and a deeper commitment to justice - environmental, social, and spiritual. It empowers students to become leaders who act with discernment, compassion, and a reverence for creation.