FAQ
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Guides will have functioned in such a role with another outfitter and/or have participated in WayForward's two-week guide training program to thoroughly cover hard skills (navigation, safety, cooking) and soft skills (content, counseling, group dynamics).
Guides have prior knowledge of the trek’s destination or will review a route’s itinerary with Guide Team Leader, including topo maps, route, camping sites and route specific instructions.
Guides maintain compliance with Leave No Trace ethics.
Guides are certified in Wilderness First Aid (or higher) and CPR.
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No. Most of the people we take on a WayForward trip are putting on a backpack for the very first time. We will teach you everything you need to know for a successful trip.
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There is no minimum physical ability to complete a week on the trail. Trips can be modified to suit the abilities of the group. All that is required is good health, which means your doctor would approve of you going for a 6 day walk at altitude.
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After taking hundreds of people on the trail, we are confident of this: everyone can make it, but everyone will struggle. It is uncomfortable and hard at times, yet the reward is worth the price.
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Please contact us in advance with any dietary needs. We will accommodate those who have dietary needs, but will not alter the menu for dietary preferences.
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You will need to bring clothing that includes hiking clothes and warm layers, boots, and a rain jacket. Check out our packing guide.
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No, but every trip does include spiritual content.
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Guides lead groups through life stories and Bible studies. Each trip takes on a unique personality of its own, but the basic format remains the same .
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No. Trips may be all male, all female, or co-ed.
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The trail and pace can be adjusted to fit the needs of the group. The guides are well trained and experienced at making decisions that will most benefit the group.
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No. Rock climbing is not a part of the experience.
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Mosquitos and flies can be present on the trail, especially at lower elevations near water. We recommend that you bring bug spray, especially if you are one of the select few with sweet skin that is attractive to the bugs.
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At this time we only operate from May-August.
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No. Camping or backpacking is not a prerequisite and you will not hold the group back. Part of the experience is working together as a group throughout the week. The most physically fit at home are not always the best hikers, and vice versa.
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WayForward guides are medically trained for wilderness emergency scenarios. Based on the severity of the situation, your guide(s) will handle it accordingly.
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Alternative dates from those on our website may be reserved, if available. Trips may also be extended if desired. Please contact us with your preferences.Item description
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We recommend that you create a group with your friends. We believe the impact of the experience is greater and more sustained when you arrive, hike, and go home with the group.
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Each trip fee is broken down into three payments. Should more payments be necessary, please ask and we will try to accommodate. Financial aid is available through our form. Click here for more info.
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Due to the limited number of trips offered per season and number of participants per trip, all payments made are non refundable. WayForward reserves the right to issue refunds for extenuating circumstances regarding trip cancellations at its discretion. A trip must be at it’s maximum capacity before a refund would be considered. In the event that a refund is not issued, all monies will go towards trip scholarships. As a result, your original payments will make a WayForward trip a possibility for someone else. A charitable contribution receipt will be provided.