I just want to answer a few questions as many of you have booked a hike and now have some questions.... Or still deciding because you are not sure about the details.
All this information comes in a email 7 or so days before your hike. Please check junk mail before reaching out about the email. Also please reference the date and name of your hike, when reaching out for details.
Carpooling/ Transportation- Transportation is not included.
For some hikes we are arranging carpooling from Olds as that is where your guide is from. If you are attending but live elsewhere, you will be given a detailed map and meet up times in an email 7-10 days before we go. Let me know if you want to carpool, many people came from all over the province last year and I can connect you if you want. Generally speaking plan on meeting at the trailhead. (Dont drive from Calgary to Olds for carpooling to Kananaskis)
Weather Conditions: Unless it is dangerous conditions we go in most weather. I cancel if safety is a concern or if the trail is closed. That being said we went on a hike last year with terrible rain storms predicted, it misted and we got fantastic misty photos. Another hike was +25 and a random thunder shower just about washed us away- We still had so much fun and a soggy but fun ride home. If hiking in May, plan for snow or rain, if hiking in June count on rain. Come prepared!! Dress in layers, bring dry clothing for the car ride home. No refunds will be given due to bad weather.
What do I need to bring?
Hiking boots or shoes. Break them in before the day of the hike.
A backpack to put the gear into
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Bug spray if needed
A hat (optional)
Lipchap with sunscreen
Extra clothing- layers, layers, layers! Alberta weather can do ANYTHING.
Extra socks
Rain coat
Extra food- Plan on more than usual, you will be hungry.
Water. At least 1-2 liters per adult minimum
A camera or phone to take pictures
HIking poles (optional)
ANY and all medications you might need. I need to know of major medical conditions before we hit the trail.
DONT bring; (I will be taking care of these items for you.)
A map of the trail- I will have copies if you would like one.
Emergency supplies
Fire starers
First aid kit
Bear Spray
Loud radios or speakers-Just don't be "that guy"
What about bears and other wildlife?
Your guide has training and will include you a quick bear safety talk before our hike. The plan is avoidance. All trail reports will be checked and your safety will be top priority.
Why cant I bring bear spray?
A few reasons... the biggest one being... Do you want to hike with nervous people carrying pepper spray? me either!! The best prevention is to travel in a group and be loud. With 4 or more women- we should have that covered! If you are 100% confident carrying bear spray and know how to use it- Just let me know.
Am I fit enough for this hike?
Please reach out if you are unsure. You must be cleared by a doctor for this type of activity if you have a major medical condition. Please train for the hikes. Don't expect to get off the couch and a hike feel easy if you have done no exercise or walking all winter. I am a personal trainer and if you reach out and ask I should be able to help you decide on a suitable hike.
It says 10 am start time? What does that mean?
You will get a map and instructions on where to meet. Be there at the meet up time. Your email will be very clear. Make sure you have plenty of time from where you live to get to the trailhead. Plan ahead. Take a paper map print out if you do not have maps on your phone or if the hike is out of cell service.
Why join me for a guided hike...
I am going to take care of all the details.
I am familiar with the trail.
I will take care of all safety concerns
I have my yearly updated First aid and CPR
I am certified as a hiking guide. I carry the proper permits and business license for the parks.
I hold a certificate as a Interpretive guide and will be sharing all the nerdy stuff about the area.
It is JUST more Fun with a group.
Hope you can join me!
Here is a link to my events page with all upcoming hikes