Frequently Asked Questions
What will be provided on this adventure?
Transportation, lunch, snacks, extra layers, and any additional gear that we may need (I will provide traction devices in the winter and extra rain ponchos in the summer)
What do I need to bring?
You should have a backpack, water bottle, comfortable hiking shoes, and layers as weather in the mountains is extremely variable. In the winter, you will want snow boots and lots of warm clothes to protect you against cold temperatures and high winds, and in the summer you will want a rain jacket, as midday showers are extremely common.
How will I get there?
I will provide transportation for up to 6 people. Larger groups are available if any hikers would like to drive themselves. Based on the hike location, I will either pick you up or choose a central meeting location for us to carpool or caravan.
How can I prepare for hiking at higher altitudes?
Altitude can affect anyone regardless of experience or fitness level. The best way to prepare for altitude is to drink plenty of water leading up to the hike. Water will oxygenate your body and give you an advantage while exerting yourself in the mountains. I will have extra water available before, during, and after the hike, but drinking lots of water preemptively is a great way to prepare.
What will we eat?
I will provide a menu of lunch options as well as lots of snacks to keep our energy up! We will usually have camp stoves to heat up lunches during the colder months. All food provided will be plant based and nut free. Feel free to contact me with any questions or requests regarding the lunch menu. A typical menu will look similar to the one linked below.
How challenging are typical hikes?
Typical summer hikes range from 4-9 miles, with about 1000-2000 feet of elevation gain. Most hikes are rated moderate, but may be quite challenging due to elevation gain and high altitudes. Winter hikes are a bit shorter and less challenging. They typically range from 3-6 miles and have an elevation gain of about 500-1000 feet. I will contact you prior to all hikes to see what you are looking for and what your fitness level is. I will make a decision on the trail we will hike based on everyone’s responses as well as the current weather and trail conditions.
Do I need to be in shape?
My hikes are intended to be accessible for all level hikers. We will communicate before the hike and determine everyone’s fitness level so that we can choose a trail that will be a great fit for all hikers. That said, most hikes are moderately challenging and can be even more challenging since they are at higher altitudes. If you are worried about your fitness level, private booking options are available!
What happens if I get hurt?
Every situation in the backcountry is different. Although we will do our best to practice preventative safety measures, there is always a chance that something can happen. I am a certified Wilderness First Responder, and I am trained to handle emergency situations in the backcountry. If there is a situation, we will handle it appropriately based on circumstances. Your safety is of utmost importance to me and we will do everything we can to reduce the risk of accidents!
What is winter hiking like?
Winter hiking is very beautiful and pleasant on a sunny day. Snowy days can be windy and cold, but are still quite gorgeous. In the winter, we usually hike shorter trails that are slightly less challenging than most summer hikes. Colorado usually has quite a bit of snow between November and June, with the most snow usually falling between December and March. On winter adventures, I will provide microspikes to help with traction while walking through snow and ice. At times, we may need to rent snowshoes, and I will let you know if that is the case!