• WHERE WILL WE GO?
  

          That depends on you.  I will tailor the trip as much as possible based on factors such as your physical fitness level, desired difficulty level, time     
          desired on the trail, preference for landscape, preference for how off the beaten path you want to get, geographical logistics to and from.

• HOW OLD DOES A HIKER NEED TO BE?

          It depends on the length of the trip, the abilities of the youth and the goals of your trip.  We can talk about it when you are ready.

• DO I HAVE TO HAVE HIKING EXPERIENCE?

          For a simple hike, not at all.  For a backpack trip experience is preferred but not mandatory.  For a 14er, yes.

• WHAT KIND OF EQUIPMENT/GEAR DO I NEED TO HAVE?

          At minimum a good pair of shoes, preferably hiking shoes or boots.  I will not guide people wearing flip flops or sandals.  A hydration source is
          mandatory, and I can provide hydration packs as well as day packs for anyone wanting to carry extra clothing - which is advisable.  For backpack
          trips a list will be provided to you of "do's and don'ts" to make your trip enjoyable and safe.

• CAN WE HIKE IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK?

          Absolutely!  You will need to pay the National Park fee at the gate for your vehicle.  Back country backpacking is by permit only and takes lots of
          planning very early.  Permits are hard to come by.

• DOES THE TIME OF YEAR MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
  

          Depends on what you want to do.  The snow does not leave many high country areas until late June, and a 14er is best hiked July/August.

• DO YOU RENT SNOW SHOES?

          I do have a few pairs available if interested.

• WHAT ABOUT WEATHER?

          That is a serious topic when in the mountains.  The weather can go from calm and sunny blue skies to black clouds and snow in a heartbeat. 
          Lightening, avalanches and hypothermia are topics I will cover with you in depth to be as safe as possible.  Trips may be weather dependent.

• WHAT ABOUT FIRST AID ON THE TRAIL?

          I will carry a basic first aid kit and will be Wilderness First Aid certified to assist with what can be done on the trail.  I also will have a satellite capable
          GPS unit for emergencies.

• IS THERE AN AVERAGE COST?

          Each trip will be different based on where you want to go, the number in your party and so on.  An individual looking for a 3 hour hike is looking at
          approximately $125

• WHAT ELSE IS PROVIDED TO CLIENTS?

          I can provide a day pack or hydration pack, light snack if desired, some local and mountain history and pointers and tips before the trip.

• DO I NEED TO BE CONCERNED ABOUT THE ALTITUDE?

          Yes you do.  If you are coming from flat land you will need to focus on hydration days before you arrive and while on the trail.  Your need to be
          100% honest with me at all times about your physical condition.  Trips will take place anywhere from a minimum of 5,000 feet all the way up to
          14,000.  Acclimating can be a process for some and for others not an issue at all.

• WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO YOU HAVE?

          My backpacking experiences include the Alaskan wilderness, the Appalachian Trail, Custer State Park and the Black Elk Wilderness.  I've hiked
          numerous places in Colorado and have reached the summit of 6 of the 14er peaks.  I've taken classes on GPS navigation, Avalanche Awareness,
          winter hiking in the mountains, Wilderness First Aid and am a member of the Rocky Mountain Guide Association.  I have camped on trail in
          downpours/sleet/hail/snow storms and loved to tell about it.