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Highland Excursions
Written By: Jenny King | Issue: 2016/12 - December | Photograph By: Marjorie Christiansen Photography
There is something special about Justin Kingsland, owner of Highland Excursions.
His life is all about giving back. As a former member of the British Army Special Forces, Kingsland has experienced first-hand the trauma of combat. He understands what veterans face upon returning to civilian life and that’s why he established Overland Unlimited Bridge of Hope, which takes veterans into the mountains so they can find balance, all at no charge to them.
Warrior Survival School is a year-round endeavor that delivers unique experiences aimed to educate service members and veterans about combat and operational stress and its long-term effects. Bridge of Hope, a 501 (c)(3) organization, is funded only by grants, donations, and any profits made from Kingsland’s Overland Unlimited Highland Excursions. It is a mission of the heart for this soft-spoken native of Wales, and one he hopes to grow.
While the non-profit side of things operates with a board of directors, Highland Excursions is, at this point, a one-man show. His goal is to expand his business so he can continue to fund Bridge of Hope.
Why here?
“Topographically, Highlands is very similar to Wales and after visiting for years, I knew I wanted to be a part of this community,” he says. “My daughter and I live here full time and Ashlyn goes to Highlands School. We love it. Everything I purchase for Highland Excursions is bought locally, from the gas to the boxed lunches to the maintenance on the Land Rover we use.”
Highland Excursions specializes in five-hour back country trips with boxed lunches and snacks and he’ll take you to spots most people wouldn’t experience on their own. Safety and comfort are paramount and he is equipped with all the necessary gear for overland travel. Justin is an experienced certified wilderness first responder and an expert in mountain driving. Highland Excursions is a legitimate Outfitter Guide service, having a Federal Permit from the National Forest Service.
His work with veterans is priceless and the Overland Unlimited Warrior Survival School has served over 100 participants thus far, all at no charge. Please consider making a monetary contribution to Bridge of Hope so he might continue to help veterans; and keep Highland Excursions in mind for your next outdoor adventure on The Plateau.
For more information on Highland Excursions, visit OverLandUnlimited.org or call Justin Kingsland at (828) 333-7980.
