Trip and Retreat FAQs

Booking Questions

  • Our backpacking, basecamps and retreat packages typically include:

    • Guided hikes and backpacking tours led by expert instructors.

    • Camping accommodations (tents, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, yoga mat, sit pad, backpack and group gear provided)

    • Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks)

    • Access to retreat workshops or mindfulness activities such as yoga and meditation (where applicable)

    • Transportation from meeting points (check the itinerary for specifics)

    For a detailed list of inclusions, please refer to itinerary for that specific retreat or trip.

  • Expedition Courage does not provide travel insurance.

    We strongly recommend that all participants purchase travel insurance. This can help protect you in the event of unforeseen circumstances such as trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. We recommend booking travel insurance as soon as you make your reservation.

    Where to get travel insurance: You can purchase travel insurance through various providers. Some of the most popular companies offering travel insurance include:

    • Travelxinsurance

    • World Nomads

    • Travel Guard

    • Allianz Travel

    • InsureMyTrip

    Make sure to review the policy to ensure it covers hiking or backpacking activities and any specific needs you may have.

  • We understand that life can be unpredictable, and your health and safety are our top priority. If you become injured or sick before the trip, please contact us as soon as possible. We offer flexible options to reschedule or transfer your spot to another retreat, depending on availability. We recommend reviewing your travel insurance options for additional peace of mind. Rest assured, we’ll work with you to find the best solution and ensure you have the opportunity to join us when you're ready!

  • We understand that plans may change, and we strive to provide flexibility. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for a full breakdown of our cancellation, transfer, and refund policy.

    • Cancellation: If you need to cancel your booking, the conditions for refunds or credit depend on the time of cancellation relative to the departure date. Please review our Terms and Conditions for exact timelines and details.

    • Transfer: If you would like to transfer your booking to a different date, this may be possible, subject to availability. Please contact us as soon as possible to request a transfer and refer to our Terms and Conditions for more information.

    Refunds: Refunds are processed in accordance with the conditions outlined in our Terms and Conditions. Please note that some bookings may be non-refundable depending on the time of cancellation or specific circumstances.

  • In the unlikely event that we must cancel a trip or retreat, we will inform you promptly. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for our full policy regarding cancellations by the company. Generally, you will be offered a full refund or the option to transfer to an alternate trip date, depending on availability.

  • In extreme situations beyond our control or yours, we offer 100% trip credits, allowing you to reschedule your trip for a future date. These situations may include government shutdowns, forest fires, floods, earthquakes, public health emergencies, and more. For full details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions.

  • Not at all! Our trips are designed for all skill levels, including beginners. We provide outdoor education, guidance, support, and pre-trip preparation to ensure you feel comfortable and confident on the trail. Whether you're new to hiking or backpacking, we will be there every step of the way to help you have an unforgettable adventure.

    Please review our Essential Eligibility Criteria for further information.

    • For backpacking or basecamp trips, simply follow the booking process on our website for the trip you wish to book. If you'd like, you can schedule a chat with your guides beforehand, though it's completely optional.

    • To book your spot on one of our retreats, please visit our website and follow the online booking process. However, before securing your spot, we require a 30-minute Discovery Call to ensure that this retreat is the right fit for you.

    If you have any questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to contact our team. We're here to help!

  • A Discovery Call is a 30-minute 1-on-1 session with our coaches to help determine if our program is the right fit for you. During this call, you'll receive a mini coaching session and have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

    Please note, a Discovery Call must be completed before you can participate in our retreats; however, it is optional for backpacking trips

  • Yes, we offer custom trips and retreat packages tailored to your needs. Please contact us to discuss your specific requirements and we’ll work with you to create the perfect experience

  • "For our retreats, you must register at least 4 weeks in advance to allow for the coaching portion of the program. However, there are no restrictions on last-minute registrations for our backpacking trips, so feel free to sign up whenever you're ready! In general, you can never register too early—ideally, 3-5 months prior to your trip to give you ample time to train.

  • Absolutely! Many of our participants join solo. Our trips and retreats are a fantastic way to meet like-minded adventurers. Whether you're looking for a solo getaway or a group experience, you'll find a welcoming and supportive community.

  • Our trips and retreats are for adults only, with a minimum age requirement of 18 years old. We do not accept participants under the age of 18.

  • We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature, and we are happy to accommodate individuals with disabilities whenever possible. Please reach out to us before booking so we can discuss your specific needs and ensure the tour is a good fit for you. We’ll work with you to make any necessary adjustments and provide the support you need to have an enjoyable and accessible experience.

  • Our difficulty rating is based on a combination of factors, including the trail’s distance, elevation gain, terrain, and overall physical demands. We classify hikes as easy, moderate, or intermediate to give you a clear idea of what to expect. If you're unsure about which rating is right for you, we’re happy to help you assess your fitness level and match you with the best trip for your experience!

    Easy:

    • Distance: 1-4 miles

    • Elevation Gain: Up to 1,000 feet

    • Terrain: Well-maintained trails, mostly flat with mild inclines.

    • Description: Suitable for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed outdoor experience. Little to no technical skills required.

    Moderate:

    • Distance: 4-8 miles

    • Elevation Gain: 1,000-2,500 feet

    • Terrain: Some uneven or rocky terrain, moderate inclines, and varied surfaces.

    • Description: Requires a bit more stamina and some hiking experience. Suitable for hikers looking to challenge themselves without going overboard.

    Intermediate:

    • Distance: 8-12 miles

    • Elevation Gain: 2,500-3,500 feet or more

    • Terrain: Steeper inclines, possibly rocky or loose footing, higher elevation areas.

    • Description: Ideal for experienced hikers who are comfortable with longer distances and more challenging terrain. May include strenuous sections and requires good physical fitness.

 Trip Experience Questions

    • Basecamp tours and day hikes, backpack weights are usually 10-15 pounds.

    • Backpacking trip packs weigh 25-40 pounds, depending on the length and nature of the trip.

  • Sleeping in the backcountry is an adventure, and while it may not be the same as sleeping in your own bed, it can be incredibly comfortable in its own way. We provide high-quality sleeping pads, sleeping bags, and tents to make your experience as comfortable as possible. You’ll be sleeping under the stars, surrounded by nature’s beauty, which often adds to the experience. While the terrain and weather can influence how restful your night is, most of our guests find it to be a peaceful and refreshing way to reconnect with the outdoors. It’s a chance to embrace simplicity and wake up to a whole new world!

  • There’s a good chance you’ll see wildlife during your trip! Rocky Mountain National Park and the surrounding areas are home to a wide variety of animals, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, marmots, and countless bird species. While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, we take great care to respect their habitats and ensure safety for both you and the animals. We’ll provide tips on how to safely observe wildlife from a distance, so you can fully enjoy the natural beauty around you!

  • The pace of the hike will vary depending on the group and the terrain, but we generally hike at a relaxed, steady pace to ensure everyone is comfortable and can fully enjoy the experience. We take plenty of breaks to hydrate, rest, and soak in the views. If you ever need to adjust your pace, let us know, and we’re happy to accommodate. Our goal is to keep things enjoyable and give everyone time to connect with nature and each other, rather than rushing through the trail!

  • Colorado: The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for a variety of conditions. During the day, you can expect temperatures to range from cool to warm, depending on the time of year and elevation. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially at higher altitudes. Rain showers and thunderstorms are also common, particularly in the afternoon, so it’s important to come prepared with layers, waterproof gear, and sun protection. We’ll provide more specific weather information as your trip approaches, but it’s always a good idea to be ready for changing conditions!

    Utah: During the spring and fall seasons in Coyote Gulch, the weather can be quite variable. Daytime temperatures typically range from 60°F to 80°F, with cooler mornings and evenings, often dipping to 40°F to 50°F. In the spring, you may experience occasional rain showers, while fall tends to be a bit drier, but both seasons can bring quick shifts in weather. Layers are key—bring a mix of lightweight clothing for the daytime warmth, along with a warmer layer for chilly mornings and nights. It’s also wise to prepare for sun exposure, as the desert environment can be quite intense during the day. We’ll keep you updated with more specific forecasts as your trip approaches so you can pack accordingly!

  • At Expedition Courage, we offer a variety of mindfulness practices designed to support mental resilience and personal growth. In addition to traditional mindfulness techniques like breath-work and meditation, we focus on mindset work around key areas such as stress management, overcoming self-sabotage, cultivating self-love, setting healthy boundaries, and mental rehearsal. These practices are integrated into our trips and are designed to help you develop a positive, grounded approach to challenges both on and off the trail.

  • No, you don’t need any yoga experience! We welcome all levels, whether you're a beginner or more experienced. Our focus is on mindfulness and personal growth, so everyone can participate and benefit, regardless of their yoga background.

Travel Questions

  • Utah Trips: Salt Lake City, UT

    Colorado Trips: Estes Park, CO

  • We recommend staying at a hotel or Airbnb within the trip guidelines for easy access to the shuttle. As long as your accommodation is within the specified area, we’ll provide transportation to and from your meeting point, ensuring a smooth and convenient start to your adventure.

    Please refer to your trip page for specific guidelines on where to stay, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about your accommodations

  • For certain trips, we offer airport pick-up services. Full details on whether airport pick-up is available, as well as the specific arrangements, will be outlined in your trip itinerary. Be sure to check the itinerary for complete instructions on how to connect with us upon your arrival. If you have any questions or need assistance with your travel plans, feel free to reach out to us!

  • The answer to this question can vary depending on the destination and trip. For trip-specific details, feel free to email us at info@expeditioncourage.com.

  • For trips that involve pre-trip or post-trip camping, you can leave your vehicle at the campsite or trailhead and store any extra luggage either in your vehicle or in the Expedition Courage vehicle during the trip.

    Please Note: While you may store your belongings in an Expedition Courage vehicle, we are not responsible for the security of these items.

  • Utah Retreat: You can expect to be back in Salt Lake City around 2:00pm.

    Colorado Trips: Typically you can expect to be done between 2:00pm-5:00pm (depending on specific trip and itinerary.)

 Packing Questions

  • When preparing for your trip or retreat experience, it's essential to pack efficiently and thoughtfully. We provide a comprehensive packing list in our Welcome Email once you’ve signed up. This email will include everything you need to bring to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience.

    For any additional questions or concerns regarding your packing, feel free to contact us.

  • Our packing lists are designed to ensure you’re ready for any weather or environmental conditions. While you may not end up using everything on the list, it's always better to be over-prepared than caught without something you might need.

    Before your trip, we’ll reach out to address any questions you have. This is a perfect time to get guidance on what to pack, taking into account the latest weather forecasts and seasonal factors.

  • By following our packing lists, you'll be ready for any weather or environmental conditions. If there's something not on the list that you feel is essential, we recommend reaching out to us during the pre-trip contact or at the orientation meeting to confirm.

 Gear Questions

  • Expedition Courage provides high-quality gear to ensure you have an exceptional experience on your trip. We supply all the essential equipment you'll need, including a backpack, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, tent, sit pad, yoga mat, and all necessary group gear. Our goal is to offer top-notch gear that helps make your adventure memorable, and we hope it inspires you to invest in your own gear for future outdoor journeys

  • While we provide all the essential gear for your trip, it is for use during the adventure and not for keeping. This allows us to ensure everyone has the necessary equipment without the added cost of purchasing it. We’re happy to recommend where to purchase any gear you may want to keep after your trip!

  • Backpack: Deuter Futura Air Trek - adjustable torso - 4.5lbs

    Tent: Featherstone UL Obsidian 1 - 2 lbs 12.5 oz

    Sleeping Bag: Big Agnes Sidewinder 20° - 650 fill down - 2 lbs 4 oz

    Sleeping Pad: Big Agnes Rapids SL - 4.25” thick - 4.8 R-Value - 1.06 lbs

  • Yes, you are welcome to bring your own gear! We provide all necessary equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, yoga mats, backpacks, and necessary group gear as part of the trip. While we don’t offer a price adjustment for using your own gear, we’re happy to support you in ensuring that your equipment is well-suited for the adventure. If you have any questions or need guidance on what to bring, feel free to reach out!

  • For most of our hikes, we recommend wearing sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good ankle support and tread. Depending on the terrain, trail conditions, and your personal preference, you might choose hiking shoes (lower cut) or boots (higher cut). It's important that your shoes are well-broken in to avoid blisters. We also suggest moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and comfortable.

    If you're unsure, feel free to reach out, and we can help guide you in the right direction based on the specific terrain of your trip!

Hygiene Questions

  • Bathroom facilities vary by trip, ranging from backcountry flush toilets to nothing but nature. On all of our trips, we provide outdoor education and implement Leave No Trace (LNT) practices, so you’ll know exactly how to stay clean and respect the environment while in the backcountry. We provide instruction and resources on how to appropriately 'use the bathroom' in the wilderness, and this topic is almost always a non-issue for guests once the trip begins, even if there was initial trepidation.

    The means of staying clean also vary depending on the trip. For backcountry trips, you may have rivers, creeks, or lakes where you can swim and rinse off. Regardless of whether extra water is available, bringing body wipes is a great way to freshen up each day.

  • In general, you can expect backcountry camping trips (backpacking trips and retreats) to not have bathrooms, showers or running water.

    On basecamp tours you can expect to have bathrooms and – on most trips – running water showers.

    Please check with our team for questions about the bathrooms, water and shower situation on the specific trip you’re interested in.

Training Questions

  • Our trips and retreats are designed to accommodate a variety of fitness levels, offering different tiers from beginner to advanced, so you can choose the experience that best matches your abilities. It's important to be in good health and capable of walking long distances with a backpack. The trails and activities are crafted to provide an immersive outdoor experience, and while we strive to maintain a comfortable pace for all participants, you should be prepared for moderate hiking.

    To help you prepare, we offer a comprehensive training program that includes endurance, strength training, mindset practices, and restoration techniques.

    For more details, including specific requirements and guidelines, please refer to our Essential Eligibility Requirements. If you have any concerns about your fitness level or health conditions, feel free to contact us before booking, and we’d be happy to help determine if the trip is a good fit for you.

  • To ensure you're fully prepared for your backpacking trip or retreat, we recommend a well-rounded training approach that incorporates endurance, strength, flexibility, and mindset work. Start with cardio activities like walking, hiking, or cycling to build stamina, aiming for 3-4 sessions per week. Gradually increase the intensity and duration to mirror the distances you'll be hiking.

    Strength training is equally important, particularly for your legs, core, and upper body, as carrying a backpack engages your whole body. Incorporate exercises like squats, lunges, step-ups, and planks to build the necessary strength.

    Additionally, practicing with a loaded backpack will help simulate the weight you'll carry on the trail. Start with a lighter load and progressively increase the weight as you build strength.

    Mindset work is just as crucial as physical training. Backpacking can be mentally and physically challenging, so fostering a positive, resilient mindset is essential. We recommend incorporating mindfulness, visualization techniques, and positive affirmations to build confidence and mental toughness. Our training program also includes mindset practices designed to help you stay focused, empowered, and ready for your journey

    We offer a comprehensive training plan in our Welcome Email to guide you through endurance exercises, strength routines, mindset practices, and recovery strategies. If you have any specific concerns or need personalized advice, don't hesitate to reach out to us!

  • If you're living at sea level, training for a hike at 12,000 feet might not be realistic, but that doesn't put you at a disadvantage. Instead, focus on these two steps:

    1. Boost your physical fitness.
    You can simulate elevation gains and losses by incorporating stairs into your training routine. Climbing flights of stairs helps build strength and stamina, making it easier to adjust to higher altitudes. Each flight of stairs represents about 10 feet of elevation change, so ascending 50 flights is similar to hiking a 500-foot ascent. This approach will prepare your body physically, making it easier to adjust once you're on your trip.

    2. Arrive at Elevation Early.
    Arriving 2 days before your hike begins, either in the town of origin or nearby, can greatly aid in acclimatization. This additional time at elevation allows your body to adjust and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. It's especially beneficial for any trip that takes you over 10,000 feet.

Food Questions

  • Our meals on the trip are designed to fuel you for the adventure while being delicious and satisfying. We’ll provide a variety of nutritious and hearty options, with a focus on simple, easy-to-prepare backcountry meals. Think energy-packed snacks, wholesome breakfasts, filling lunches, and comforting dinners. Our goal is to make sure you’re well-fed and energized throughout the trip, and we’ll take care to provide meals that are both delicious and easy to enjoy in the great outdoors!

  • We’ll accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions, whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or have other special dietary needs. We ask for as much notice as possible to ensure we can provide suitable meals.

  • On a backpacking trip, meals are designed to be lightweight, nutritious, and easy to prepare. For breakfast, you can expect options like oatmeal, granola with dried fruit, or energy bars. Lunches are typically simple and portable—think wraps, trail mix, jerky, or protein-packed snacks to keep you going throughout the day. Dinners are more filling and often include dehydrated meals such as pasta, rice dishes, or stews, which only require adding water to prepare. We also include a variety of snacks to keep your energy levels up, like nuts, fruit, and energy bars. We make sure to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions, so you’ll always have something that suits your needs. It’s all about balance—providing fuel for your body while enjoying the simplicity of outdoor cooking!

 Safety Questions

  • All Expedition Courage guides are certified Wilderness First Responders (WFRs), a certification similar to those held by first responders such as firefighters, police officers, and EMTs, but specifically designed for wilderness settings. This specialized training ensures that our guides are equipped to handle medical emergencies in remote environments and are prepared to act swiftly and effectively.

    In addition, every Expedition Courage trip is equipped with reliable emergency communication devices, including satellite phones and/or GPS locator/texting devices. These tools allow us to maintain contact with emergency services and loved ones, even in the most isolated areas, ensuring that help is always within reach if needed.

    Every trip also includes a carefully crafted emergency action plan. This plan outlines procedures for medical emergencies, evacuations, and coordination with local authorities. In the event of an emergency, we work closely with the National Park Service, local sheriff's departments, county services, and other resources to ensure a swift response and quick access to medical care. Our priority is always your safety, and we are committed to providing peace of mind throughout your adventure.

  • There are inherent dangers in all outdoor environments, and bears are one of the potential hazards in most mountain destinations. If the right precautions are taken this danger can be minimized significantly. We have strict safety protocols when in bear country, which include:

    • Never having anything scented in your tent. This includes food, toiletries, food wrappers…etc.

    • Always storing food and scented items in bear proof containers.

    • Hiking in groups and never having guests go off completely alone.

    • Carrying bear spray. In black bear country it is most often just the guide who carries bear spray.

    • Making noise when hiking through thick foliage. The most important factor when hiking is to avoid surprising a bear, so we make noise to make them aware of us.

Technology Questions

  • While you're out in the backcountry, we focus on immersing ourselves in nature and disconnecting from technology. However, you’re welcome to bring a portable power bank to keep your devices powered up for photos or emergency purposes. We recommend bringing a fully charged power bank at the start of the trip, as options to recharge during the hike will be limited. This is also a great opportunity to unplug and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, but we understand staying connected is important for some, so we’ve got you covered with portable options!

  • Cell phone service is generally limited or unavailable in the backcountry, including most of the hiking areas we’ll be exploring. Depending on the specific location, you might have brief service at certain high points or in more populated areas, but it’s not something we can rely on. We encourage you to embrace this as an opportunity to fully disconnect and enjoy the experience without distractions. If there’s an emergency or important need to stay connected, we’ll have other means of communication with our guides and the group. Rest assured, you’ll be in good hands!