Journal and nature

Nature, culture & belonging

Field Notes

On growing up well in a crazy world

Featured Article

A Grandmother’s Trust, A Young Man’s Transformation

When Candace Keith first heard about Back to Earth, it was through her grandson’s godfather, Steve Snider. He spoke about a program that brought young men into the mountains - not just to hike,...

December 3, 2025
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A Grandmother’s Trust, A Young Man’s Transformation
What we mean by rites of passage

What we mean by rites of passage

Back to Earth guide Amani Cary Simms presides over a ceremonial river crossing that marked this young woman's graduation from 8th grade.”When we talk about settling the world's...

Eli Marienthal
September 5, 2025
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Back To Earth: What’s in a Name

Back To Earth: What’s in a Name

Have you ever thought about our name - Back to Earth? Intuitively, I think, we all know what it means. It's a reminder that, although we never really leave...

Eli Marienthal
March 11, 2019
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Alumni Q&A: Gia DePalma

Alumni Q&A: Gia DePalma

Alumni Q&AEli: Thank you so much for agreeing to share your experience with our wider community. To start, can you just tell us a little bit about your...

Eli Marienthal
March 11, 2019
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