Shared by Tim MacWelch, Advanced Survival Training, as Guest Blogger.

In today’s fast-paced life, relief and restoration can be just a short hike away. But let me ask, what might you miss when you stroll along trails without understanding the rich natural diversity around you? Imagine knowing the landscape on a deeper level, recognizing the plants that surround you, and understanding their valuable uses.

That opportunity awaits you at Sky Meadows State Park.

Sky Meadows State Park in bloom

I am a native of Fauquier County and a professional outdoor skills instructor. I have written numerous books about self-reliance in nature and am pleased to be offering the 2019 Earth Connection Series at Sky Meadows. I have roamed this park since I was a boy, learning more about the flora and fauna of the Blue Ridge each year, and now teaching and writing about the skills of the outdoors.

While a book or nature show can whet your information-hungry mind, these tools are no substitute for a real immersion into nature. That is why I am thrilled to be partnering with Sky Meadows to share my passion for the outdoors with you.

Wild geranium – spring ephemeral

We have already run a few programs this spring and summer, including a full registration for the first of two Backcountry Crash Courses. Imagine spending 24-hours in nature learning wilderness skills and survival techniques with a professional instructor. There you will learn where to find food and medicine in the wild, how to build shelter from the elements, track animals, light fires, cook over the open campfire and much more!

Sign up before registration fills for the second Backcountry Crash Course, August 17-18, 2019.  

Grasses and plants found in the park

And for those who, like I, love plants, check out Summer Wild Edible Plants (July 13, 2019), and Fall Mountain Herbs (September 28, 2019). On these guided hike workshops, spend an entire day exploring the beautiful and diverse plants of Sky Meadows. Summer Edibles will focus on the food uses of native and non-native species, while Fall Mountain Herbs will cover both edible and medicinal plants.

Both of the full-day plant classes include a full color plant book as a take home gift and reminder of what you learned. 

Sky Meadows State Park Bee Balm wildflowers 

To learn more and register, visit the Earth Connection website. Space is limited to 15 people per class, so book your spot early. Tuition is non-refundable. The registration deadline is three days prior to each event. These workshops are held rain or shine. Sky Meadows parking and camping fees are included in the tuition price.

We hope to see you rekindle your connection to nature, and happy to help you along the path!

Tim MacWelch

Founder of the Earth Connection School 

• Summer Wild Edible Plants – July 13 – 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. – $127
• Backcountry Crash Course – August 17-18 – 11 a.m. – 11 a.m. – $189
• Fall Mountain Herbs – September 28 – 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. – $127

About Tim MacWelch

School Founder and Head Instructor at Advanced Survival Training

Tim’s love of the outdoors started at a young age, growing up on a farm in the rolling hills of Virginia. Eating wild berries, fishing for trout and learning about the animals of the forest were an everyday part of his country life. This rustic setting built the foundation for the wilderness expertise that he brings to his classes and writing. Tim has been an active practitioner of survival and outdoor skills for over twenty-four years; and he has been actively teaching survival skills for over 20 years.

Tim’s teaching experiences over the years have been rich and diverse. He has worked with Boy Scouts, youth groups, summer camps, as well as adults in all walks of life. Tim has provided outdoor skills training for numerous personnel in Law Enforcement, Search and Rescue, all branches of the United States Military, the State Department and other agencies.

Tim and his wilderness school have been on Good Morning America and National Geographic, and featured in several publications including Conde Nast Traveler Magazine and the Washington Post newspaper. Tim’s school was sponsored by Men's Journal and Rolling Stone to teach at Camp Jeep events.