Vision Quest at BRS
A Vision Quest is an ancient tradition found across the globe.
It is an opportunity for the participant to remove themselves from the familiar distractions of life with the intention of quieting the mind and body so as to be in communication with their deeper selves, nature and Creator. It can be used as a time of prayer, reflection, clarification and insight.
Character-Based Culture
Quest Timeline
-2 days of preparation on the BRS campus. Classes to prepare the quester, site prep, mental preparation.
-1-4 days in isolation, in nature in a fixed location. This time will be spent removed from all things familiar, allowing the opportunity to connect with nature/self/creator/God. Quest protectors will be in contact via marker boxes, to ensure the safety of the quester.
-1 day of journaling after the Quest, including guidance on how to incorporate the wisdom gained into normal life.
Be Prepared
More Information
We believe every boy should have the opportunity to thrive here, which is why we offer flexible solutions to help families invest in their son’s future.
- Quester must drink water
- Quester must continue to take any prescription medications
- Quester must use the marker box daily to communicate that they are safe to Quest protectors.
While the quester is isolated, they are not actually alone. The protector team is immediately accessible to attend to any physical needs a quester may have. There are generally only three rules a quester must follow. They must drink water, take any prescribed medication, and use their “marker boxes” to communicate any needs and affirm that they are still safe. They have clothes and shelter with them and are able to use them as needed.
Despite this, there are still inherent risks. The quester will be fasting from food (not water) for 24 hours. They are in a wilderness/camping setting, so the risks are similar to that. The elements/weather are unpredictable and natural dangers from insect bites (ticks & bees), poison ivy etc. are a possibility. However, the vast majority of these are negated through the preparedness process set up by the protector team.
The Vision Quest is available at no cost to BRS seniors as we consider it a part of their Blue Ridge School character values educational experience.
Non-BRS questers are asked to make a voluntary donation to participate. This is not a payment, rather it is intended to cover the expenses incurred in running this program. This allows BRS to continue to offer this experience to others who are called to it.
Suggested donation for a 1 day quest: $300
Suggested donation for a 4 day quest: $800
The Vision Quest is available to BRS students as part of their experience, but other interested questers may apply. Our hope is that other youths and adults will benefit from this experience and gain a further understanding of how they can beneficially improve their lives and those around them.
The Vision Quest is available to BRS students as part of their experience, but other interested questers may apply. Our hope is that other youths and adults will benefit from this experience and gain a further understanding of how they can beneficially improve their lives and those around them.
High School Seniors: Boys and Girls
Adults: Alumni, parents, faculty, and other interested parties connected to BRS
Things to bring:
Sleeping bag & pad
Tent
Rain gear
2 small tarps
Flashlight
One more layer of clothes than you think you will need. Keep in mind the weather can be more extreme than normal during a quest. We have had quests during which the temperatures ranged from the 30’s to above 100 within the same four-day period.
2 pairs of shoes (closed toe)
Cold weather hat (cold months)
Sun hat (summer months)
Journal & pens/pencils (bring your list of questions also)
Insect repellant (for ticks and mosquitoes) Mirror and tweezers (for tick removal) Eyeglasses & prescription meds (and needed OTC medications)
Sunscreen
Bathing suit & towel
Camp Chair (optional)
Small camp shovel, optional
Do not bring:
Books
Weapons (including knives)
Matches
Jewelry
Rope
Controlled/Illicit Drugs or Substances
