Nope! Our trips are designed specifically for beginners and first-time backpackers. We’ll teach you how to filter water, pitch your tent, pack your gear, and resupply food — all in a supportive, encouraging environment. You don’t need to be “outdoorsy” to start.

• A guided group backpacking trip led by an experienced long-distance hiker

• First night of accommodation before the trek

• Transportation to and from the trailhead

• All necessary trail permits

• Campground reservations (if applicable)

• Trail education: how to resupply, filter water, pitch your tent, manage gear, etc.

• A supportive group environment and on-trail mentorship

Not included:

• Flights to/from San Diego

• Meals (we go to the grocery store together to resupply!)

• Backpacking gear (we’ll send a full list with budget-friendly options)

You should feel comfortable walking 8–12 miles a day with a 25–35 lb backpack. We’ll build in breaks and go at a group-friendly pace. If you’re active and can do some cardio/hiking in the months before the trek, you’ll be in great shape!

Yes — and you won’t be alone! Many of our participants are total beginners. Our goal is to meet you where you are, answer all your questions, and help you feel confident and capable on trail. You'll learn as you go.

We’ve designed our treks to meet you where you are.
Here’s a quick guide:

• Beginner: You’ve never backpacked or camped before. You’re curious and excited but might feel nervous — we’ll teach you everything.

• Intermediate: You’ve done a night or two in the backcountry and want to gain confidence and mileage on longer hikes.

• Advanced: You’re preparing for a long-distance trail (like the PCT or CDT) and want to simulate real trail life with higher mileage and fewer amenities.

Still not sure? Reach out and we’ll help you choose the right fit!

We currently guide trips along the Pacific Crest Trail — with treks in California, Oregon, and Washington. Each year we rotate through different scenic sections, including desert, alpine, and forested terrain.

In 2025, most trips will take place in Southern California, near the start of the PCT. Starting in 2026, we’ll expand into Oregon and Washington and eventually include all three Triple Crown trails.

We’ll send you a complete packing list well in advance with links to both budget and top-brand gear. You don’t need to buy everything new — we’ll show you what’s worth renting, borrowing, or thrifting.

We hike 8–12 miles a day, take breaks, eat lunch in beautiful places, and set up camp before sunset. You’ll learn real trail routines like filtering water and managing your pack weight.

Some light prep is a great idea! We recommend walking or hiking a few times a week and slowly building up mileage with a backpack. We’ll share a simple prep guide once you're signed up.

No problem! Since you’re choosing and carrying your own food, you’ll be able to tailor meals to your preferences and needs. We’ll give you tips on what to bring based on your restrictions.

Some are! We offer both women-only and co-ed treks. You'll see which type each trip is when you view our upcoming schedule.

Expect limited or no service on most days. We carry a GPS communicator for emergencies, and you’ll have a chance to let loved ones know your plans ahead of time.

Your safety and comfort come first. We build check-in points into each trek, and we’ll always help you arrange an early exit if needed. You’ll never be pressured to push beyond your limits.

We’ll outline our full policy on each trek page, but in general:

• Deposits are non-refundable

• Final payments are refundable up to 45 days before the trek