What It’s Like to Take a Guided Hike

In wilderness areas, the Forest Service provides no signage beyond the trailhead, no trail markings.

Are you beginning to think “guided hike” yet?

Guided hiking trips and backpacking trips led by seasoned professionals — including all-women’s guided hikes designed for connection and comfort — are a great way to fully experience our wild lands. You can pack light for a guided hike – all the top-of-the-line gear, cooking equipment, and shelter will be provided. There is never any question about whether or not you have what is required for the hike, and your packs will be fitted and prepared according to your height and weight for optimum comfort on the trail. Your pre-hike preparation load is lightened as well. With a guided hike there is no need to apply for permits, develop a menu, research routes, or map out directions to the trailhead.

“These are special places where nature still calls the shots.” That is how the United States Forest Service describes 109 million acres of wilderness under its guidance – a swath of land greater than the size of California. There are questions the Forest Service poses in preparation to visiting these “special places”: How reliant are you on motorized or mechanized vehicles for your transportation needs? How long has it been since you’ve been without an outlet to charge your smartphone? How able are you to thrive in the absence of grocery stores and permanent shelter? Are skills like these even relevant in your daily routine?

Why Choose a Guided Adventure?

Along the way, guides will dispense local knowledge and stories. You will see noted flora and fauna that can easily go unnoticed if you don’t know where to look while you are trying to follow a trail for the first time, yourself. You can often expect off-trail adventures with guides who know secret spots and side trips that do not find their way into guidebooks. On multi-day hikes, like self-guided hiking trips, all-inclusive hiking trips, or supported hiking trips, guides will take care of any and all food preparation. Good eats and plenty of liquid refreshment are always a part of the guided hike.

The biggest benefit of a guided hike is safety. Guides will keep you from over-stepping your capabilities in unfamiliar terrain. There is no worrying about getting lost or making it to a safe spot for the night. Should anything unexpected arise, on a guided hike you are supported on the trail and off.

A guide cannot do everything. You still have to do the walking yourself. But those steps go by a lot easier when all the details of the trip are checked off and accounted for.

Types of Hiking Adventures

Beginner-Friendly Options

Not all adventures are extreme. There are beginner hiking tours, and even group hiking trips for beginners. These trips are perfect for those new to trekking but eager to experience the outdoors.

Specialized Hiking

Travelers can enjoy guided walking holidays. Other options include family hiking tours, couples hiking trips, adult hiking trips, wilderness adventures for adults, and senior hiking trips.

Custom and Last-Minute Adventures

For the spontaneous traveler, there are last minute hiking trips, cheap hiking trips, and even hiking weekend getaways. More adventurous hikers might opt for trekking outdoors, trekking a mountain, or exploring with a professional hiker or hiking instructor.

Explore With FS Guides

At FS Guides, we specialize in guided hikes that bring you closer to nature. Our expert guides ensure safety, comfort, and adventure on every trail. Join us today and let FS Guides plan your perfect adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trek. The trail is waiting.

Still deciding? Explore our Google Business Profile Reviews to see why guests love FS Guides’ all-women’s adventures, basecamp experiences, and hiking and yoga retreats.