frequently asked questions
Q. Do I need previous experience?
A. Nope, come one come all! Just show up with an attitude to learn and enjoy your day, and know that we’re going to be physically active. Before every trip we’ll go over some safety procedures and teach you the skills necessary to keep everyone safe for the day. If you want to learn more, check out either a custom guided trip or one of our trainings!
Q. Is this dangerous?
A. Hiking, climbing and spending time in the backcountry have inherent risks and dangers, just like driving a car has inherent dangers. Through ongoing training, proper planning and preparation, and using the right equipment for the right job, we seek to manage and mitigate as much of the risk as we can. Group safety and risk management is our highest priority. If you have questions or concerns, we’d be happy to speak with you.
Q. Can I use my own gear?
A. Sure thing. Our only stipulation is that we will inspect your gear to the manufacturers’ standards and our guides’ safety satisfaction when you arrive. If it does not pass these tests, for everyone’s safety, you won’t be allowed to use it on our trip.
Q. What do I need to bring?
A. That depends on what trip you’ve signed up for. What you wear rock climbing in the summer is completely different than what you wear snowshoeing in the winter. Prior to your trip you will receive a gear list and suggested items to bring. In general you are responsible for the soft goods (clothing, daypack etc), snacks and water. We have all the technical gear (harness, helmet, shoes, etc.) for rent if you don’t already have them.
Q. Why should I hire a guide? My friends go out a lot, can’t they just take me?
A. As we said above, there are inherent risks and dangers to climbing and spending time in the backcountry. Your friends could be 100% safe and competent, or, more typically, they learned from someone else who learned from someone else - but they only remember half of the information, or they’ve never been tested, so they think what they’re doing is safe.
With a professional guide you know that we have been through years of training, been tested in assessments, and have been tested through real-life experience.
Our aim is to make sure your trip fits your goals and opens up the door for you to learn solid, safe, basic skills without picking up any bad habits.
Q. Should I tip my guide?
A. Tipping is customary in the guiding industry and lets your guide know they provided you with good service. It is not a requirement but your guide will greatly appreciate it. You can use other service industries like restaurants as a reference.
Q. What is your cancellation policy?
A. We employ an industry standard cancellation policy. If for some reason you need to cancel your trip outside of 30 days you will receive a full refund less service charges to cover our costs incurred. For trips less than $500 this service charge is $50 and for those more than $500 this service charge is $100 or 10% of the trip cost, whichever is greater. If you must cancel within 30 days of the course or trip a refund of 50% will be given. All balances are due before the start of any trip and no refunds will be given once the course or trip commences. In the case of unsafe conditions or weather we will do our best to reschedule. If this isn't possible you will receive a refund less the previously outlined service charges. All gift certificates and credits expire one year from the date issued.
For any other questions, please contact us.