At Pathway Outfitters, we believe that the wild calls to something deep within us—a place where adventure meets the soul, and the rhythm of nature whispers truths that everyday life often drowns out. Founded in 1998 as Pathway Ministries by brothers Scott and Mark Nesbitt, our journey began with a simple yet profound vision: to guide people to the sacred intersection of outdoor exploration and spiritual formation. In the lush, rolling green mountains of central Vermont, we established an adventure camp designed not just for thrills, but for transformation—where paddling across serene lakes, hiking ancient trails, and gathering around crackling campfires become pathways to deeper self-discovery and connection with the divine.

Tragedy struck early when Scott, our visionary co-founder, passed away in 2000, leaving an indelible mark on our story. Yet, in honoring his legacy, we pressed forward with renewed purpose. Over the years, Pathway evolved into a tapestry of experiences tailored to foster growth amid grief, wonder, and wilderness. We’ve led unforgettable backpacking and canoe expeditions through the untamed beauty of New England, hosted immersive retreats in Chicago blending music, art, and the poetry of place, and partnered with churches and organizations for bespoke spiritual formation seminars. Each program is a deliberate invitation to step away from the noise, to breathe in the stillness, and to emerge renewed.

At our core, three timeless values anchor everything we do:

• Peacer: Inspired by Wendell Berry’s words—”I come into the peace of wild things who do not tax their lives with forethought of grief”—we create spaces where you can surrender to the quiet presence of still waters and ancient forests, finding solace in the unhurried pulse of creation.
• Connection: Adventure is never solitary here. We cultivate fellowship around shared stories, laughter over trail mix, and moments of vulnerability under starlit skies, helping you forge bonds with others, yourself, and the greater whole.
• Growth: True change happens on the edge—of a ridge, a rapid, or a revelation. Through guided challenges and reflective practices, we empower you to stretch, heal, and bloom, turning obstacles into opportunities for spiritual and personal evolution.

Today, as Pathway Outfitters, we continue this 25-year legacy with the same heartfelt commitment, offering retreats, trips, and workshops that blend the exhilaration of the outdoors with contemplative depth. Whether you’re seeking healing after loss, clarity in chaos, or simply a return to wonder, we’re here to walk that path with you. Join us in the wild, and let the adventure unfold your story.

Our Values