OUR MISSION

DISCIPLESHIP IN THE WILDERNESS

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

For years, founders Dan Lapp and Michael Esh helped others realize their outdoor adventure dreams by loaning gear, helping folks make dehydrated backcountry meals, and sharing route-planning, team-building and ministry advice. As their attics and garages bulged with an ever-growing stock of backpacks, tents and canoes, they asked each other, “Why not go all in?” That’s when Trail Blaze Outfitters came into the world, as an official platform from which Dan and Michael could outfit and empower their friends in wilderness ministry.

The Next Chapter

Trail Blaze Outfitters recently celebrated their 10 year anniversary! As Dan and Michael grew increasingly busy with other responsibilities and dreams, they began looking for a successor with a similar vision for discipleship in the wilderness to whom they could hand off the baton. The pieces began falling into place, and Austin Weaver took over the business in 2024. The vision for the business will continue to be about outfitting individuals and groups with everything they need for a successful wilderness adventure, and Austin has a heart for people to experience the wonder, excitement, and transformation that the wilderness can bring.

Our Continuing Mission

Trail Blaze Outfitters exists to provide outdoor gear rentals and wilderness guide services. With 20+ canoes with trailers, 30+ backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, camp kitchen gear, maps, itineraries, and more, Trail Blaze Outfitters is ready to outfit you and your group with everything you need to plan a fun and impactful trip into the wilderness!