How is COVID-19 affecting these Getaways?

If you are not able to come due to  direct COVID-19 reasons such as travel bans, or developing symptoms, we will refund your deposit or transfer it to a getaway for next year.
How do you raise funds at these events?

Master Plan is charging enough for this event so that we can put any proceeds toward our ministry objectives.  We also want to invite men to give financially to our ministry during one evening of the week, our vision night.  There is no obligation to give above the registration fee.
Are these events for men only?

​Yes.  We are trying to give men a chance to escape the typical daily routines, and be authentic and real with each other.  While we love our wives and are thankful for women, this is a "men's retreat".  Note:  there may be women serving at the retreat in various roles such as kitchen cook.
What is Master Plan Ministries?

​Master Plan Ministries is a non-denominational, evangelical, Christian ministry that exists to glorify God by helping fulfill the great commission.  You can learn more at this link.
Is Master Plan Ministries an outfitter?
 No we are not.  The cost to attend the Getaway covers only MPM’s costs involved in conducting the Getaway with no MPM staff receiving any compensation from these events. The hunting and fishing activities are self-directed at each participant’s discretion. MPM is not a licensed “Outfitter” as defined by Colorado law and cannot engage in, nor be compensated for, guiding or supervising hunting and fishing activities nor providing gear for such activities.”
Can I come if I am not a committed Christian or have never been to a men's retreat like this before?
Yes! We think that any natural born man would really enjoy this retreat.  It will also help if you are open minded to the claims of Jesus, and are willing to listen to several men share stories about how God changed their lives and willing to listen to engaging messages from the Bible.  Also note, there will be no alcohol at the Cascade Lodge, and we are aiming to cultivate a God honoring enviorment.
What should I bring?

Please see our packing list here.
Who are the hosts?
Russ Akins and Austin Krokos

​Russ is the president of Master Plan Ministries and grew up in this part of Colorado as an outdoorsman.  He founded Master Plan Ministries in 1985, and has conducted dozens of men's retreats in this area over those 30 years.  Russ has been hunting elk in this area since he was a teenager.

Austin came to Durango from PA in 1997 and has been climbing mountains and enjoying the CO outdoors since then.  Austin has been serving on staff with MPM for since 2002 and has been hunting in SW Colorado for just as long.
Can I come late or leave early?
Yes. Opening day of the season is Saturday.
I heard that you bring horses and butcher animals that are harvested on site. Is that true?

While Russ has historically brought his horse and mule, and a meat grinder, and cutting boards, etc. past history is in no way a promise or guarantee as a part of any future Sportsmen's Getaway. We are not an outfitter or official guides.  All outdoor activities are officially self guided.
Can I bring my ATV, boat, or RV? 

Yes, but we need to be sure that we have enough space to park them.  Call Russ at the number below to confirm.
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Still have a question?  Please call or email Russ at 970-259-5768 or Russ.Akins@MPMStaff.com