Booking and Reservations

1. Who can join your backpacking trips?
   • Everyone is welcome! Whether it’s your first hike or your hundredth, our trips are made for all skill levels. We’re here to guide, teach, and support you every step of the way.
2. What’s included in the trip cost?
   • Your adventure includes:
     ✔ All backpacking gear (tents, sleeping bags, packs, etc.)
     ✔ Permits & park fees
     ✔ Custom planning & logistics
     ✔ Guided instruction in outdoor skills
3. What is not included in the trip cost?
   • Meals and snacks (We will give a list of great options for eating well while backpacking.)
   • Hiking boots or trail shoes
   • Personal items
4. Where do your trips take place?
   • Our adventures span Georgia and the Southeast, from lush forests to mountain ridgelines. Want to go beyond? Let’s design a custom trip anywhere in the U.S.!
5. Can I create a custom, private trip?
   • Absolutely. We specialize in creating personalized trips for individuals, families, or groups. Whether it’s a weekend reset or a multi-day challenge, we’ll make it yours.
6. What’s the maximum group size ?
   • We keep groups small and intentional—usually 8 to 12 people—to make sure everyone gets guidance, connection, and a deeper experience.
7. How do I book a trip or get started?
   • Head over to our Join a Trip to book a trip. Or, go to the Contact Us page and we’ll connect with you directly to understand what you're looking for and match you with the perfect trip.
8. Can I bring my own gear? Is there a discount in price if I do?
   • Yes. You’re welcome to bring your own if you have gear you love—we’ll help you check it! There is no discount for bringing partial gear needed. If you have a complete set of backpacking gear, contact us and we can see if it meets the requirements of the trip. If so, a discount will be provided. Contact us for details. 
9. Can I join solo?
   • Absolutely. Many of our guests come alone—and leave with new friends. Our small group trips foster community and connection while giving you space for personal reflection.
10. Do trips run year-round?
    • Yes! We offer trips in all seasons, and each one has its own unique charm. Whether you're drawn to cool autumn hikes, spring wildflowers, or winter stillness, we’ll help you prepare for seasonal conditions.
11. What’s the age range for participants?
    • Most of our trips are open to ages 13 and up. We also offer family-friendly trips and can create private experiences tailored to younger kids or multi-generational groups. Reach out and we’ll match you with the right fit.

Preparation

1. Do I need to be in top physical shape?
   • Nope! We offer trips ranging from easy to challenging. We’ll help you choose the right trip for your comfort level—and even help you prep if you'd like to train a bit beforehand.
2. I’ve never backpacked or camped before. Is that okay?
   • Yes! In fact, that’s our specialty. We’ll walk you through everything, from packing your backpack to setting up your tent. No experience? No problem.
3. What should I bring?
   • We’ll provide a packing list, and since we supply most of the gear, you’ll only need your meals, snacks, a good pair of hiking boots or trail shoes, and personal essentials. We’re happy to help you pick the right clothes or shoes.

During the Trip

1. Is it safe out in the wilderness?
   • Yes. Your safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and emergency response. We’ll teach you how to stay safe, calm, and confident in the wild.
2. What kinds of wilderness skills will I learn?
   • Each trip includes hands-on learning, such as:
     🔥 Fire making & shelter building
     💧 Water purification
     🧭 Map & compass navigation
     🍲 Camp cooking
     🐻 Animal safety
     🚑 Emergency preparedness
3. What kind of gear do you provide?
   • We provide high-quality, trail-tested gear, including:
     • Backpacks
     • Tents
     • Sleeping bags & pads
     • Cooking equipment
     • Water filtration systems
     • Camp chair
     • Trekking poles (if needed)
4. How do your trips support wellness?
   • We believe time in nature is powerful. Our trips are a chance to unplug, slow down, and reconnect—not just with nature, but with yourself. Adventure is just the beginning.
5. Can I bring my dog?
   • For most group trips, we ask that pets stay home due to logistics and safety. However, we can sometimes allow dogs on private/custom trips—especially if they’re trail-ready. Let’s talk about it!
6. What if the weather is bad?
   • Backpacking is all about adapting to nature—but safety comes first. If conditions are dangerous (lightning, flooding, etc.), or rain is expected to be heavy, we’ll reschedule or modify the route. Light rain or cold? That’s part of the adventure, and we’ll teach you how to thrive in it!
7. What’s the bathroom situation in the backcountry?
   • Great question! In most locations, we follow Leave No Trace principles, which may mean digging a cathole. Some sites may have designated pit toilets. Don’t worry—we teach you how to do it right and respectfully!
8. What if I have a medical condition or injury?
   • We take health seriously. If you have any medical concerns, injuries, or limitations, let us know when booking. Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid, and we can often adapt plans for your needs—or recommend an easier route.
9. Is there cell service on the trail?
   • Usually not—and that’s part of the beauty! Most of our trips take place in remote areas without service, giving you a chance to fully unplug.
10. How do you handle food storage and wildlife safety?
    • We follow strict food storage practices using bear bags, bear cans, or bear hangs—depending on local regulations. You'll also learn how to manage your gear, food, and campsite to avoid attracting animals.
11. Do I need to tip my guide?
    • Tips are not expected. The cost of the trip includes all you need to have a fantastic adventure.
12. What happens if I need to leave the trip early?
    • If a participant needs to exit due to injury, illness, or other issues, our guides are trained to manage field evacuations and coordinate assistance. While it’s rare, we’re fully prepared and prioritize your well-being above all.

Cancellations/Group Reservations

1. What’s your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
   • We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy offers flexible rescheduling and partial refunds depending on how close to the trip you cancel. Full details are available when booking.
2. Do you offer group discounts?
   • Yes! We offer discounts for group bookings, especially for birthdays, celebrations, or team-building events. Contact us for details.
3. Do you offer trips for corporate teams, retreats, or wellness groups?
   • Yes! We love working with corporate teams, wellness coaches, therapists, and other groups looking to reconnect and reset. We can design custom retreats focused on team-building, mindfulness, or leadership—in nature’s best classroom
4. Is there a minimum number of people required to run a trip?
   • Most trips require at least 4 participants to run. If a trip doesn’t reach the minimum, we’ll offer you the option to reschedule, receive a refund, or upgrade to a private experience at a discounted rate.