Transportation, lunch, snacks, photos, maps and trip tracking, extra layers, and any additional gear that we may need!

You will need a backpack, water bottle, rain jacket, comfortable hiking shoes, and layers as weather in the mountains is extremely variable. In the winter, you will want snow boots and warm clothes to protect you against cold temperatures and high winds.

We will provide transportation for up to 6 people. Larger groups can be accommodated if hikers provide their own transportation.

Altitude can affect anyone regardless of experience or fitness level. The best way to prepare for altitude is to drink plenty of water and rest your body leading up to the hike. Water will oxygenate your body and may give you an advantage while exerting yourself in the mountains. We will have extra water available before, during, and after the hike, but drinking lots of water preemptively is a great way to prepare.

I will provide a variety of delicious lunch options and snacks to keep our energy up throughout the day! Lunches vary seasonally and range anywhere from hot soups to tortilla bowls or veggie packed noodle dishes. Homegrown produce and local items will be utilized when available. We use camp stoves to heat up meals during the colder months as a cozy treat. All food provided will be plant based and can be gluten free or nut free upon request. Look forward to scrumptious cookies or some other sweet treat to top off the day! Questions and requests are welcome.

Typical summer hikes range from 4-9 miles, with about 1000-2000 feet of elevation gain. Most hikes are rated as moderate, but may feel quite challenging due to elevation gain and high altitudes. Winter hikes are a bit shorter and tend to be less challenging. They typically range from 3-6 miles and have an elevation gain of about 500-1000 feet. We will contact you prior to all hikes to gain information on your outdoor experience, desires, and fitness level. Trails are decided based on group responses as well as current weather and trail conditions.

Group day hikes are intended to be accessible for all level hikers. We will communicate before the trip date and determine a trail that will be a great fit for all hikers in the group. That said, most hikes are moderately challenging- and can feel even more challenging since they are at higher altitudes. For those who feel they may need to move at an above or below average rate, private booking options are available!

Every situation in the backcountry is different. Although we will do our best to practice preventative safety measures, there is always a chance that something can happen. All guides are certified Wilderness First Responders trained to handle emergency situations in the backcountry. Satellite communication devices and a full first aid kit are required for any lead adventurer. If a situation arises, we will handle it appropriately based on circumstances. Your safety is of utmost importance, and we will do everything we can to reduce the risk of accidents!

Winter hiking is beautiful and pleasant on a sunny day. Snowy days can be windy and cold, but are still quite gorgeous. In the winter, we usually hike shorter trails that are slightly less challenging than most summer hikes. Colorado usually has snow between November and June, with most snow falling between December and March. On winter adventures, microspikes are provided to help with traction while walking through snow and ice.

Primal Awakening reserves the right to cancel any trip due to inclement weather. Colorado conditions can be highly unpredictable, and safety conditions are a top priority. Reservations canceled due to weather will be refunded or rescheduled at your convenience.

Thoughtful preparation and planning live at the core of every Primal Awakening experience. Canceled reservations within one week of your experience will not be refunded. If you need to reschedule, please give at least one week’s notice to allow time to restructure.