2024 Scholarship Recipients.
Top Row: Nat Vorel, Ada Jones, Austen Bernier, Jesse Ramos, Shea Freedom.
Bottom Row: Landon Warton, Lorenzo Pernigotti, Nicholas Metz, Orri Sigurjonsson, Shea McCrary

In order to celebrate this great turnout, we’ve decided to award not eight, but ten (10!) scholarships this year!

The recipients are to take courses through the American Mountain Guide Association (AMGA) and the International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA). As you might know, professional guiding courses are expensive, yet vital for every guide’s development. That’s where 57hours Guide Education Fund comes in: to ease some of the financial burden associated with entering the guiding industry, helping guides advance their careers.

Selecting the scholarship recipients was both exciting and difficult. As we reviewed each new application, we took into consideration not only the individual stories but also the potential transformative impact a scholarship could have on their guiding trajectory. With so much passion put into their careers and applications, this was no easy task.

At the end of the process, we would like to thank all the applicants. Your willingness to entrust us with your aspirations not only demonstrates your faith in our partnership but also amplifies the collective call for support within the guiding community.

2024 Guide Education Fund: Scholarship Recipients

And now, let us introduce the 2024 scholarship recipients. Read on to meet Ada, Orri, Jesse, Shea & Shea, Nat, Lorenzo, Austen, Nicholas, and Landon. We are so proud of all of you and wish you luck!

Get to know Ada Jones
Get to know Orri Sigurjónsson

Get to know Jesse Ramos

Get to know Shea Freedom

Get to know Shea McCrary

Get to know Nat Vorel

Get to know Lorenzo Pernigotti

Get to know Austen Bernier

Get to know Nicholas Metz

Follow Along

As we move through 2024, follow each scholarship recipient on their guiding journey through their social channels and stay up to day with all things 57hours by joining us here!

The post The Next Generation of Guides: Announcing Our 2024 Scholarship Recipients appeared first on 57hours - Discover amazing outdoor adventures.

57hours is an adventure platform that works with over 500 guides worldwide, following their development and their personal and professional growth. One thing became clear to us early on: professional courses are expensive. And you need them in order to move forward.

So that’s how our Guide Education Fund came about. Designed to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with both entering the guiding industry and advancing the career, the 1% of our yearly profit goes towards scholarships to help pay for guide courses, certification exams, and travel expenses.

We Are Proud to Offer Up to $8,000 in Scholarship Funding in 2024

The funds are to be used toward American Mountain Guide Association (AMGA) and International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA) certifications. Half of the scholarships are specifically allocated for aspirant female, BIPOC, and LGBTQ guides starting their journey. The other half is for current guides looking to advance their career.

Ready to apply for a scholarship? Head to our Guide Education Fund Application

Guide Education Fund: FAQ

• How many scholarships will 57hours be giving out? To be determined. We will offer up to $8,000 in scholarships in 2024 (individual scholarship amount may vary depending on need). These funds can be used towards programs taking place in 2025 as well.
• When do applications close? Thursday, February 29th at 11:59pm MST
• What can the scholarship be used for? AMGA and IFMGA Mountain Guide Program program fees and associated travel expenses. We aim to help aspiring guides complete their Rock, Ski, or Alpine certifications. At this time, we are not awarding money towards the AMGA Climbing Instructor Program, which includes the Single Pitch Instructor or Climbing Wall Instructor. 
• Do you have scholarships specifically for women, BIPOC, or LGBTQA+ guides? Yes! We have reserved half of our Guide Education Funds for women, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ guides. Read more about our diversity commitment below.   
• When will you offer this scholarship again? Scholarships through the Guide Education Fund are available on an annual basis. Keep your eyes out in December of 2024 for more information on applying for a scholarship in 2025.
• Do I need to be a guide on the 57hours platform? No! Once you start guiding, we would love to help you grow your business through our 57hours online platform. If you are already a guide but have yet to be listed on our platform, you can work with our team to get your guided trips listed.    
• Who can I email with additional questions? You can email us at educationfund@57hours.com with any questions!

Diversity in the Outdoors

Half of our Guide Education Funds are specifically for women, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ guides to support historically underrepresented communities and increase diversity representation in the outdoors. 

The guiding and outdoor industries have long struggled to represent the racial and ethnic diversity of the United States. According to the AMGA and IFMGA, of the 170 certified Mountain Guides in the country, only 16 are women, including just one woman of color, Norie Kizaki. In an AMGA First: Norie Kizaki on Breaking Trail for BIPOC Women, Monserrat Alvarez Matehuala highlights the importance of representation in the outdoors: 

The picture doesn’t look much better for participation in outdoor recreation. According to the Outdoor Industry Association’s 2023 Outdoor Participation Trends Report, 72% of participants are white, while only 9% are black, 5% are Asian, and 11% are Hispanic. 

We Believe It’s Hard To Be What You Can’t See

When women see other women guiding, they can see themselves as guides. Seeing people of color recreating outdoors makes it easier for other people of color to take the first step toward exploring outdoor spaces.

Our first 57hours Guide Education Fund scholarship recipient, Anthony Leong, captures this sentiment perfectly in his recent article, Let the Teaching Be the Guide.

57hours — Passion for Adventure

We at 57hours believe that spending fun time outdoors can have a profoundly positive impact on a person. Therefore, we team people up with trustworthy guides worldwide so they can explore the great outdoors safely and comfortably. By making the adventures accessible to an ever growing number of people we are creating a community of guides and adventurers and raising awareness about the importance of both personal well-being and the environment.

Advance your guiding career and apply to the Guide Education Fund!

The post 57hours Guide Education Fund – Call For Applications appeared first on 57hours - Discover amazing outdoor adventures.

When I moved to Moab in 2017, everything I knew from the forested trails near my hometown of Tampa had to be updated—the mountain biking was so totally different. Gone were the lush glades of the Gulf Coast and in were slick rock trails that turn to peanut butter in rain and delicate cryptobiotic crust susceptible to trampling.

In order to recreate responsibly here, I needed a whole new set of guidelines. That’s what I’m sharing today.

A Long History of Mountain Biking in Moab

The history of mountain biking can be traced to California in the 1970s. Soon after, high-level riders were trekking to the Colorado Plateau in search of difficult terrain to sate their appetite for the new sport. As a result of those early explorations, some of the best mtb spots from Colorado to Utah were “discovered” and Moab has been a premiere destination ever since.

Starting in 1983, a father-sons trio opened Rim Cyclery, Moab’s first bike shop. Once a uranium boom-turned-bust town, the area has transformed from a focus on mining to mountain biking. Things “exploded” in 1985 when the first issue of “Mountain Bike Magazine” launched showcasing the landscape, and today, it sports over 900 rideable miles and a half dozen bike shops, earning Moab the moniker “Adventure Capital of the West”.

After a few Moab rides, it was evident I’d hit the mountain biking jackpot

The panoramic views, close-knit scene, and never-ending trails beckoned me until I eventually opened my own bike shop and tour service in 2020, Bighorn Mountain Biking. Nowadays, I love getting out on guided group tours with riders of all levels to showcase Moab’s impressive offerings.

I was once just a visitor, but thanks to the welcoming community I quickly learned how to acclimate to the terrain. If you’re thinking about making your own pilgrimage out to the desert, the following tips will ensure you navigate the terrain safely, respectfully, and have a fun time in the process.

Etiquette Tip #1: Stay on the Trail and Don’t Bust the Crust

The desert ecosystem is extremely delicate, which means staying on the trail is vital to protect it. Unlike the dense forests of the Southeast, Pacific Northwest, or New England, the desert is way more susceptible to erosion and soil damage (although you should stay on the path no matter where you ride!).

In particular, Moab has a cryptobiotic soil crust which allows nutrients in the earth to stay close to plant root systems. The crust is composed of living organisms such as lichens, fungi, and cyanobacteria which promote carbon fixation and soil stabilization.

Without this essential layer, the desert landscape would turn into sand dunes without any beautiful plants such as cacti, sagebrush, yuccas, and wildflowers. Once the crust layer is broken by recreational disturbances, it can take a very long time for the biological layer to recover and function properly again.

What you should do:

In Moab, we try to prevent erosion of the cryptobiotic crust by “bordering” rocks on the side of trails to indicate where to ride. Sadly, some riders go off route regardless and create “social trails” because they wanted to take a shortcut or see an overlook. All these social trails create a web of paths that damage the soil and plant life. Due to higher visitation, they have become more evident, which means reading trail signs and learning about the ecosystem is more important than ever.

“As locals, we love our cryptobiotic soil. It plays a foundational role to how the desert operates.” – Kenny Gorham

Oftentimes, bikers get tired after a long day and want to beeline to the parking lot once they see their car. While this might seem convenient, it can actually take a longer time. You might land in a mud puddle, get a flat tire from a cactus, or spin out in sand.

It’s important to always follow trail markers, and if by chance you do go off route, stop immediately, identify signs or cairns, then retrace your steps rather than causing continuous damage with more tread marks. Mother Nature will thank you!

Etiquette Tip #2: Avoid Riding Wet Trails

Seeing a glittering layer of white snow cover the orange sandstone mesas of Dead Horse Point State Park, or watching a thunderstorm loom over the La Sal Mountains, are some of the prettiest scenes I’ve witnessed in Moab. Although these weather wonders are quite alluring in the desert, it doesn’t mean you should ride in these conditions.

During the winter season, there’s a 60% chance (based on personal experience) you won’t be able to ride in Moab because of the snowy terrain and muddy trails. There’s a good chance a bike shop won’t even rent you a bike if it’s recently snowed.

In the spring, trails at higher elevation points still might be off-limits because of slush and water runoff. You can likely ride the bottom segments of the trail, but “summiting the trail” might be prohibited until the dryer months of summer and autumn.

Since Moab trails are made of clay, they get very saturated even after a few inches of snow or rain. This remaining wetness makes trails muddy and can escalate erosion and damage if ridden on. Luckily, the desert dries quickly, but you should always call a local bike shop for a weather report because a lot of trail conditions are case-by-case depending on the amount of precipitation, wind, and sun exposure.

What you should do:

One thing I really want to emphasize is how much bike shops love getting calls from riders asking about weather conditions. It shows you care about the desert ecosystem. If you’re ever hesitant about a specific trail summit, or trail status from a recent storm, don’t hesitate and ask local experts for their input!

“Once clay trails get saturated, it’s like riding through peanut butter. You end up creating bigger tracks and divots, and it won’t be a fun experience.” – Kenny Gorham

If you’re a high-elevation enthusiast, the best time to visit is late September to early November. This guarantees any previous winter snow or spring rain is gone—meaning you can relish in La Sal’s dry trailheads as high up as 10,000 feet. At lower elevations where there is less snow, spring and fall are both great seasons for getting out.

Etiquette Tip #3: Respect Other User Groups and Pass with Care

Moab is an outdoor paradise for many enthusiasts including hikers, horseback riders, and rock climbers. This means you need to be mindful of sharing the trails with others. Most BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land trails are mixed-use for any non-motorized users.

Fortunately for riders, most Moab hikers focus their time on hiker-only trails in Arches or Canyonlands National Park. If you are looking for MTB-only trails, Dead Horse Point State Park has designated single track for bikers.

What you should do:

Mountain bikes are relatively quiet on a trail, so it’s good to use a soft but loud voice to give other users a warning when you pass. I typically like to tell them what side I’m passing on too.

One of the main passing rules is yielding to uphill riders and hikers. Another rule of thumb is always yield to a horseback rider. They’ll communicate what they want you to do based on the horse’s demeanor.

“It’s easy to scare people when passing, and it leads to other trail users not liking mountain bikers. That causes trail advocacy groups and organizations to be less prone to support mountain bikers in Moab.” – Kenny Gorham

Common courtesy and politeness can go a long way in a public outdoor space. It might be tempting to whoop and holler at the summit, or blast tunes on the descent, but if you’re on a shared trail consider how these actions might affect others who are enjoying the quietness of nature.

Etiquette Tip #4: Get Involved in a Trail Organization

As I mentioned in Tip #3, Moab trails are used by a lot of different locals, visitors, and outdoor enthusiasts. In order to keep up with the booming demands of each user group and sport, Moab trails need consistent management.

What you should do:

Getting involved in trail days, stewardship projects, and events shows you care for the mountain biking community and the outdoor community at-large. All these events are announced on the social pages of local organizations.

“Our mission, to care for over 200 miles of non-motorized trails, relies on support from people like you – people who love to ride, hike, climb, and run!” – Moab Trail Mix Mission Statement

In Moab, one of the best organizations to volunteer for is Moab Trail Mix. This committee enhances trail opportunities for non-motorized recreation in Moab. Check out MTM’s social media pages to participate in a trail day, go to one of their events, learn about trail ethics, and get updates on weather reports. If you don’t have time to attend a trail day, MTM also accepts donations which are greatly appreciated.

Etiquette Tip #5: Bring the Right Gear and Supplies

Enjoying the panoramic views of the snow-capped La Sal Mountains, exploring the endless ridges of layered russet buttes, and riding atop of the enticing slickrock characteristic of the Entrada Sandstone layer come at a cost. These breathtaking scenes are completely exposed without any shade or protection from the beaming sun and dry climate.

Within 15 minutes, you can go from having a great ride to getting a flat tire and having to hike back without adequate water. That’s why I always tell people to over prepare with plenty of water, sun protection, food, and supplies for your bike. A lot of BLM areas, national parks, and canyons lack cell service, so bring a riding partner, map, and make sure someone knows where you’re going.

Many riders visiting Moab for the first time underestimate the harsh elements of the desert. On average, you’ll be drinking way more water than you would on a wooded trail or region with more humidity. Having a liter per hour (plus a little extra just in case) is my general rule of thumb. Make sure to bring extra electrolyte tablets too.

What you should do:

If you’re on a longer trail, unfamiliar trail, or area without cell service, it’s crucial to know how to fix your bike if you get a flat. I always carry a standard tool kit with a chain breaker, torx, proper hex suite and tire lever, mini pump, spare tube, chain link, C02 canisters, inflator, and multitool.

“There’s nothing worse than seeing someone dehydrated or experiencing signs of exhaustion. This can be very dangerous in the desert.” – Kenny Gorham

If you’re unsure how to service your bike, I recommend hiring a guide for any longer or more technical trails.

Etiquette Tip #6: Follow Leave No Trace Principles

This one is pretty straight forward: the sensitive desert ecosystem requires extra attention regarding Leave No Trace principles.

What you should do:

The trail should be left the same way as you found it, which means packing out everything.

Don’t leave banana peels, orange peels, snack wrappers, toilet paper, or human waste in the desert. Make sure to bring a small trash bag or Ziploc bag with you to dispose of trash and dog poop. If you’re on a longer trail and need to use the facilities, get a WAG Bag from one of the local shops.

“What happens if we leave our toilet paper? It takes longer for things to decompose. It has our waste on it, so it’s tempting for animals. And it visually impairs the hiking experience for others.” – Moab Trail Mix Instagram Page

I tell my mountain biking clients that I don’t even want them to leave footprints in the desert. This might seem silly, but even something as simple as a footprint off an unmarked trail can harm the cryptobiotic soil.

Once you acclimate to the desert conditions and protocol, I guarantee Moab mountain bike trails will help you become a better rider. You’ll be more in-tune with supplies management, sandy and rocky terrain, long rides with sun exposure, and trail navigation. Afterward, forested tracks will seem like a piece of cake!

Etiquette Tip #7: Hire a Guide

This might not seem like an etiquette tip per se, but it can lead to successfully following all the other tips mentioned above.

What you should do:

You’ll always receive huge benefits and gains when hiring a mountain biking guide in a new area—especially places like the high desert. Private mountain biking tours in Moab can teach you about the desert ecosystem, ecological facts, and tips for slickrock riding.

“It’s nice to not have to worry about where you’re going, Moab has well marked trails, but people still get nervous about getting lost and spend a lot of time navigating.” – Kenny Gorham

Plus, you won’t have to waste time reviewing maps and learning the trail, meaning you get to spend more time enjoying the ride! The extra cost of a medically-trained guide also ensures you’re safe in the harsh desert elements, this is especially crucial if you have a family or young ones riding with you.

Come Enjoy the Mountain Biking at Moab, Safely and Responsibly!

While this article might not cover “the whole enchilada” in terms of detailing the high desert trails (you can check out this article about the best Moab mountain bike trails for that), it covers the basics for safety management and navigation. For more information on specific trails, weather conditions, desert biomes, and Leave No Trace principles, I suggest talking to or hiring a guide for your first outing.

I hope to see you out there when the season kicks back into gear this March!

From the classic desert riding of Slickrock to the monstrous and world famous Whole Enchilada, make the most of your trip with a guided mountain biking tour of Moab with Kenny and crew. For more information on what makes Moab one of the best places for mountain biking in the USA, watch Kenny’s webinar, The Local’s Guide to Mountain Biking in Moab, Utah

The post Moab MTB Guide Shares Riding Etiquette for the Utah High Desert appeared first on 57hours - Discover amazing outdoor adventures.

Descending from the lip you are absorbed by interchanging layers of beige and red limestones, sandstones, and shales dripping down the sheer walls like grains in an hourglass. Each band reveals a different chapter of geologic history.

To brush against rock nearly 70 million years old, you have to go down, down, down.

But this is no walk in the park. With over 5,000 feet of elevation loss to the bottom and average temperatures in the summer reaching 100+ ºF on most days, you better be prepared to hike through the sands of time!

What Awaits Inside the Grand Canyon

Six million years ago, the Colorado River started carving the canyon we now explore. 

Today, it is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep (6,093 feet to be exact). While it’s already the largest canyon in America, because the river that created it continues to flow, it keeps getting bigger each year!

Hiking to the base of the Grand Canyon, you pass through three main rock layers: 1) Metamorphic basement rocks, 2) The Precambrian Grand Canyon Supergroup, and 3) Paleozoic strata, each representing vastly different time periods of Earth. For example, the sage-colored Bright Angel Shale near the bottom displays ocean fossils, the Supai Group of redbeds halfway in nods to a shallow sea, and the white Coconino Sandstone near the top features ripple marks from ancient sand dunes. 

In other words, the deeper you get, the older the rock, so a trip to the bottom is literally a walk back through (geologic) time.

Embedded among the walls, you’ll also find a time capsule full of Native American history. Along the Bright Angel Trail, hikers can admire the Pictograph Panel in Mallery’s Grotto or rest in Havasupai Gardens halfway down the Canyon where Ancestral Puebloans and Havasupai lived for millenia.

A vast ecological zone

The size of the canyon supports surprising biodiversity. Because of the extreme range of elevation and a mixture of desert, forest, and aquatic ecosystems, there are thousands of species of plants, including several that are unique to the area, as well as many animals.

Each rocky ridge is dappled with specks of green sagebrush, junipers, ponderosa pine, and mariola. On a special day, hikers may catch a glimpse of a golden eagle, peregrine falcon, or sight the rare California condor flying above the steep-walled corridors. Those with enough preparedness to plunge below the rim will be greeted by the soft trills of canyon wrens and the quizzical cock-eyed gazes of leathery chuckwalla lizards.

Is this enough to convince you to visit? I sure hope so! 

However, before you plan a trip to my stomping grounds I want to share some important factors that you should consider, and prepare for.

Why You Need to Be Prepared to Hike the Grand Canyon

I highly encourage visitors not to treat the Grand Canyon as a drive-through national park (most people only spend between 30 minutes and two hours here), and a day hike to the bottom is a great way to see what most other people don’t. 

However, if you’ve ever been hiking in Arizona, you’ll know to expect heat. Yes, temperatures vary by elevation and season, but in the summer, when most people visit the Grand Canyon, the inner canyon regularly goes above 100 ºF (tipping the scales at 120 ºF or more). This is to say nothing of the 13-14 hours of sunlight, which should not be underestimated.

For those that do head below, there are two trails nearly everyone uses: the South Kaibab and Bright Angel Trails. I’m on these paths all the time both for work and fun as I lead hiking and backpacking trips through the Grand Canyon through my guiding company, Outdoor Professional Treks.

While I’ve seen countless people enjoy their deeper dive, I’ve also seen plenty of others suffer from heat exhaustion and dehydration.

From high heat and a drastic elevation change to a lack of cell service and the importance of Leave No Trace, I cover Grand Canyon hiking tips and considerations to help you prepare for your next visit below.

Map of the Grand Canyon

To help orient you, here is a generalized view of the canyon, from south looking north. It isn’t a highly accurate topo, but it gives a sense of the scale and layout of the park.

Tip #1: Don’t Underestimate the Elevation Change and Sun

As fellow hiker, Liz Thomas, says, the trick most people miss when they come to hike at the Grand Canyon is that the best views aren’t from the top. Simply, the place is so big that you need to head inside the canyon to get the real scope of its size and beauty. 

Before you head out on your hike, there’s two things to be aware of:

1. 1. You have to go downhill and uphill. 
   2. People underestimate how hot it really is. 

 To start, you might be surprised to learn that the Grand Canyon is around 8,000 feet above sea level at the North Rim and 7,000 feet at the South Rim. Since most people who go below-rim aim to make it all the way to the Colorado River—known as a Rim-to-River hike—this means a lot of elevation change. 

(Note: the park service does NOT recommend attempting a hike from the rim to the river and back in one day, especially during the months of May to September.)

The trails are very steep, and the total ascent can vary between 5,000 to 6,400 feet. Depending on the trail, it’s usually 6.5-8 miles to the bottom. This might not seem like a long distance, but the elevation gain going back up can be grueling after a long day in the sun.

“The further down you go, the warmer it gets. It could be 85 degrees on the South Rim during the summer, but when you get to Phantom Ranch it could be 120.”
– Andy Pickreign

Further, the Grand Canyon creates its own weather system, and the temperatures are even hotter below the rim. While it might be 85 ºF with a breeze up top—warm but not overwhelming—temps are typically 30 ºF greater at the bottom. This phenomenon is called adiabatic heating, which occurs when air gets trapped at a lower elevation, becomes compressed, and releases energy causing the temperature to rise. 

Along with the heat, there is little to no shade in other than a few rest houses and campgrounds. According to the National Park Service, the hottest time of day is between 10am to 4pm, which is when the most medical emergencies occur in the summer.

What you should do:

I advise you to start early in the morning in order to avoid hiking during the hottest time of day, wear light, breathable layers with plenty of coverage, and plan to do a shorter distance than you’re typically accustomed to.

It may seem counterintuitive to cover up for your hike, however sun shirts, sunhats, sunglasses, and pants will keep you from exposing too much skin helping you to remain cooler and more comfortable.

Further, I recommend planning for a check-in with yourself and your party: hike 2-3 miles down and evaluate how things are going before deciding whether to continue. Most people speed through the downward trek, but the uphill is the real business, typically requiring double or triple the amount of time as the descent.

Tip #2: Look Out for Signs of Dehydration and Overhydration

Since 2010, 134 people have died in the Grand Canyon (the highest death toll of any national park). Along those lines, over 250 people are rescued from the canyon each year. Most of these occur from medical reasons (dehydration or overheating) or cliff falls. 

While these statistics are intimidating, don’t let this prevent you from exploring. Instead, let it be a lesson for coming prepared, especially when it comes to staying hydrated. 

Dehydration happens when water loss overcomes water and electrolyte intake as a consequence of over exertion or high temperature. In a similar fashion, hyponatremia (overhydration) flushes your system when you consume too much water. Both are very common in the Grand Canyon.

Dehydration and hyponatremia symptoms include paleness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and confusion. If you or someone in your group start to experience these symptoms, find a park ranger immediately. While waiting for them to arrive, sit down and lick a glucose tablet and take small sips of water.

What you should do:

The key is prepping. Eat a hearty meal full of carbs, proteins, and sugars the night before. I also recommend drinking one to two liters of water too.

During the hike, drink electrolytes with your water and pack an emergency stash of glucose tablets (you can usually find over-the-counter ones at outdoor outfitters).

“Don’t force fluids, drink when you are thirsty, rest, and eat often.”
– National Park Service

In the summer, bring a liter of water for every hour that you’re out hiking. Note that Bright Angel Trail is the only trail with water fill stations in the Grand Canyon, so review where all the rest stops and water bottle filling stations are located for other trails you’re interested in. If you’re on another trail, I recommend bringing at least 5 liters of water with you.

Tip #3: Consider the Right Time and Season to Hike the Most Popular Trails

4.5 million visitors per year, and even if only 5% hike below the rim, that’s still 225,000 hikers. Here’s the thing, almost everyone uses two main trails: Bright Angel and South Kaibab. In part, this is because they are the only two consistently maintained paths in the park. 

 Further, most visitors come to the Grand Canyon in the summer (and most national parks in general), which means you are most likely to encounter crowded trails in this season, along with intense heat and sun exposure.

What you should do:

I recommend visiting in the spring (March through May) or fall (September through November)

when the temperatures are a little cooler. Winter is doable, but you risk hiking on icy paths which can be dangerous in the steep canyon. Plus, the North Rim is closed if you are keen on exploring a more remote zone.

No matter the season, weekdays are your best bet for less people on the trail. And if you start earlier in the day, you can beat the traffic into the park as well.

For first-timers, Bright Angel Trail is a good go-to hike because of the water stations and restrooms positioned throughout the route. South Kaibab Trail is maintained as well but does not have water stations. (I repeat, no water stations on South Kaibab!).

“Weekdays are the best time to visit. And the earlier you can get to the national park, the better.”
– Andy Pickreign

The backcountry trails, including the Hermit Trail and Grandview Trek, are a great way to get off the beaten path, but if you aren’t familiar with backpacking, you are much safer going out on a multi-day hiking tour in the Grand Canyon with a guide.

Another Grand Canyon feature you’ll have to be aware of is the mule trains. This is what it sounds like, a line of mules used for tours, trail maintenance, and evacuations. Anytime you see a mule train on the trail, stay to the inside (away from the cliff) and follow the rider’s instructions.

Tip #4: Prepare Ahead of Time with a Plan and Permits

In addition to bringing a first aid kit, plenty of water, snacks, and sun shade, there’s some scheduling and planning you’ll need to arrange ahead of time to give you peace of mind on the trail.

What you should do:

Make sure to look at the map of the trail you plan to hike and note the mileage and elevation gain. Like I mentioned before, a lot of hikers make the mistake of only looking at the mileage and assume the Grand Canyon hikes aren’t difficult due to their rather short distance. 

Further, the steep dropoff alongside the trail and crowds means it can be hard to do your business so plan your restroom stops accordingly. 

If you plan to camp overnight below the Rim, there are limited campsites that require reservations. You’ll want to get backcountry hiking permits and camping permits at least 3 months in advance. Some people book even a year in advance. Also, remember that there is an entrance fee to the park in the summer (advanced reservations are not required).

“If you’re camping without a guide, you need to pay for a permit. Depending on the campground there are maybe only 20 spots, so it’s really hard to get a permit depending on the time of year.”
– Andy Pickreign

One benefit to a Grand Canyon multi-day hiking tour, is the guide service handles all the permits and itineraries for you!

Tip #5: Remember to Leave No Trace: Pack it in, pack it out

Since COVID started, more people are getting outside and using the trails at the Grand Canyon. Unfortunately, this means I’ve seen more trash than ever before.

 The desert ecosystem is sensitive and it takes years for litter (including napkins, tissues, and toilet paper) and human waste to decompose. But some items will last several lifetimes, like food wrappers, water bottles, broken hiking poles, and other common items.

Regular maintenance does occur (on select trails), but the park’s resources are limited. If junk falls to the side of the path—which is often jagged, falls away steeply, or is hard to access—the Park Service can’t always pick up the left behinds. 

Beyond the eyesore, wildlife will pick through debris if it isn’t disposed of properly. A major problem I’ve noticed is people leaving food, belongings, or trash bags out at campsites during the day or overnight. The garbage might be sealed in a plastic bag, but this doesn’t mean bears, raccoons, and birds won’t tear into it. The result is a ransacked campsite with stuff scattered everywhere; no one—visitors or park rangers alike—wants to deal with this.

What you should do:

First and foremost, pack out what you pack in. I always take a trash bag in my pack, and when leading backpacking or hiking trips, I make sure everyone has their own too. No exceptions.

The issue isn’t always negligence on behalf of hikers, or not knowing LNT; I see things falling out of people’s pockets and backpacks all the time. What’s important is to pay attention to where you put your gear, where you are storing trash, and regularly checking on your stuff. On guided trips, whenever we stop for a rest we make sure to check our surroundings so that we’re not leaving anything behind before we leave.

“Litter left in the canyon takes years to decompose. Packing out all of your trash helps to preserve the natural environment. Place your trash in resealable plastic bags that you can carry in your pack.”
– National Park Service

The same principles apply for human waste and food.

1) Always bring a Wag Bag in case you need to go #2. And for peeing outside, make sure to pack out your toilet paper.

2) Never leave food or fragrant items outside overnight. If you’re backcountry camping, leave trash, food, and toiletries in bear-proof boxes.  

Remember, we have a responsibility to leave our national parks pristine, and picking up after yourself is the easiest and most effective way to do your part!

Tip #6: No Cell Service During Emergencies 

There is a very good chance you won’t have cell service below the Rim of the Grand Canyon. At the bottom, no way, but you might be lucky if you’re on a hill and get one bar. This means that in an emergency, getting in touch with the authorities is seriously limited.

“We have found that many of the visitors who request help during an inner canyon hike have underestimated how difficult hiking in the Grand Canyon can be—especially in the heat of the summer months.”
– National Park Service

Inside the canyon, evacuations can only be carried out by mule or helicopter. During daylight hours, the Park Service handles the communication and payment of these procedures. If you or a friend needs to be evacuated during nighttime hours below the rim, a private company needs to be contacted and the caller must cover the fee (which can be thousands of dollars).

What you should do:

As a guide, I always have a Garmin InReach (satellite communication device) with me on guided hiking day tours in the Grand Canyon and overnight trips. If you go in the backcountry, this is especially important.

There are also emergency phones along the main trails (which connect right to the Park Service so they know where you are calling from) and each campground has a medically trained ranger.

Another Grand Canyon hiking tip you should keep in mind is to let the Park Service know where you’re going and when you’re expected to be back. They’re accustomed to these notifications and will follow up if a group isn’t back at a certain time. I suggest telling friends and family too. The more you communicate your whereabouts and itinerary to others, the quicker you’ll get help if something goes wrong.

Tip #7: Nervous? Overwhelmed? Hire a Guide!

If my warnings of intense heat, elevation change, and dehydration scare you, it’s only because I want to make sure you’re safe and ready. But don’t let my cautions dissuade you from visiting the Grand Canyon—the aim is to help you understand what you’re getting yourself into so that you can be prepared.

However, if you’d like to simplify the planning process, want logistics to be taken care of, or want someone who is Wilderness First Responder trained alongside you, consider hiring a guide.

What you should do:

My guiding company does a Grand Canyon South Rim stroll tour which is family friendly, wheelchair accessible, and great for all levels of hikers. During the walk, your guide will teach you about the plants, animals, and cultural history.

“Thank you Andy! This was an amazing experience. You did an amazing job with all the details, from food selection to gear to chats along the trail, all was perfect!”
– Tamara, OP Treks Client

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, we also do Rim-to-Rim guided backcountry and multi-day tours. All of my guides are medically trained to give you peace of mind. Plus, we handle all the backcountry hiking and camping permits.

Take a Step Back Through Time and Hike the Grand Canyon!

I hope these Grand Canyon hiking tips and precautions will ease any nervous feelings you had about exploring one of America’s great natural wonders. If you come prepared with the right food intake, water, emergency plan, and gear, then your experience is sure to be an unforgettable memory full of geological, ecological, and historical marvels.

Want to hike into the Grand Canyon and see what most other visitors don’t? Go with confidence and schedule a guided hiking day tour in the Grand Canyon with Andy and crew. 

The post Tips for Hiking the Grand Canyon from a Local Backpacking Guide appeared first on 57hours - Discover amazing outdoor adventures.

57hours is proud to introduce you to the eight guides selected as our 2023 scholarship recipients through the Guide Education Fund.

They come from a range of backgrounds and disciplines, but one thing rings true, regardless of where they are in their career: guiding is their passion.

In 2023, they will all take courses through the American Mountain Guide Association (AMGA) and the International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA) in pursuit of their career. We are honored to be supporting guides at all different stages in their career, representing all three guiding disciplines: Rock, Alpine, and Ski.  

Identifying a Need: Professional Courses Are Expensive

Here at 57hours, we recognize that professional guiding courses are expensive. That is precisely why we started the Guide Education Fund: to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with entering the guiding industry and career advancement. 

As applications rolled in, we were blown away by each guide. They shared personal stories, their struggles, and successes. In all, we received 55 applications, and over 100,000 dollars in scholarship funds were requested.

This tells us one thing: not only is there a need, but guides are actively searching for financial support from partners like 57hours. 

Narrowing down our application pool to just eight guides was not an easy task. As we reviewed each application, we looked at not only their personal narrative but also assessed the potential impact that a scholarship would have on their guiding career. 

To all the guides who applied: Thank you. 

Thank you for trusting us to be a partner in your journey. By simply applying and making your voice heard, we can show a need for this type of support in the guiding community. 

Celebrating Diversity in the Outdoors

In addition to alleviating some of the financial burdens associated with professional guiding courses, we have one more goal here at 57hours. We aim to support historically underrepresented communities and increase diversity representation in the outdoors, which means half of our Guide Education Funds are specifically for women, BIPOC, and LGBTQA+ guides. 

Of the 170 certified IFMGA Mountain Guides in the U.S., only 16 are women, including just one woman of color: Norie Kizaki. We believe it’s hard to be what you can’t see. 

When women see other women guiding, they can see themselves as guides. When people of color see guides of color, they might take the first step toward exploring outdoor spaces. Or, when an LGBTQA+ climber takes a course led by a fellow LGBTQA+ Rock Guide, they will know that they are welcome in this space.

These underrepresented and marginalized communities showed up in full force for the Guide Education Fund. Of the 55 applications we received, 45% were from women, 15% were from BIPOC guides, and 20% were from the LGBTQA+ community. Our 2022 scholarship recipient, Anthony Leong, highlights the importance of diversity in the outdoors in his article: Let the Teaching Be the Guide.

2023 Guide Education Fund: Scholarship Recipients

Without further ado, it is time to introduce our 2023 scholarship recipients. Read on to meet Anju, Avery, Boaz, Carlin, Ericka, Jack, Julián, and Nate.

Anju Samuelson grew up in the concrete jungle of Berlin, Germany, with her three Turkish brothers. As a young woman, she struggled to be seen as strong and confident in a busy and chaotic world. These formative experiences taught Anju the value of community. Through her mother’s support, she is now pursuing a career as a fully certified IFMGA Mountain Guide and founded the Montana Women’s Climbing Festival. Anju is committed to strengthening and empowering women, genderqueer people, and minorities in the climbing community, and her work continues in 2023 with her AGMA Rock Guide Exam. 

Get to know Anju @anjuuuusa

Avery Stolte found her love for mountaineering and climbing in the Ecuadorian Andes. She also found a love for sharing time in the outdoors with others and is a firm believer in its therapeutic power. Even though Avery is just beginning her journey toward becoming an AMGA Alpine Guide, she is already inspired to create trips and experiences for people who might not feel “welcomed” or like they “belong”. As Avery embarks on her first AMGA Alpine Skills Course this year, she wants to show others that they don’t have to have a specific personality or lifestyle to enjoy the outdoors.  

Get to know Avery @aveeystolte

Boaz Cesaretti is passionate about increasing representation and ease of access to the outdoors. As a queer and gender-nonconforming person, Boaz has survived and even thrived because of other queer people, however, when Boaz entered the outdoor space, they mourned the lack of a supportive queer community—until recently. In 2022, Boaz volunteered at the All In Ice Fest, which focuses on elevating marginalized communities in the climbing world. They also took a first-of-its-kind AMGA affinity course explicitly designed for guides from marginalized backgrounds. These experiences continue to lift Boaz’s spirit because they finally feel connected to a community within the outdoor world. Boaz dreams of becoming a fully certified IFMGA Mountain Guide, and 2023 showcases their commitment to this with an AMGA Ski Guide and Ice Instructor Course already under their belt.

Get to know Boaz @namaspliff

Carlin Reynolds wants to become the first publicly nonbinary AMGA Certified Rock Guide while also building a sustainable guiding career. During Carlin’s first stint as a guide in the Eastern Sierra, their new employer asked Carlin to hide their gender in fear of losing their perfect five-star rating, drilling home, once again, a long battle with impostor syndrome and identity. For Carlin, the light at the end of the tunnel was a Climb OUT Campout in Joshua Tree. It was there when Carlin finally found their community, and their identity was neither a burden nor a diversity token—it was simply witnessed. Today, Carlin is proud to be the Technical Director for OUT in the Wild, and in 2023, they will take their AMGA Advanced Rock Guide Course. 

Get to know Carlin @carlin.trustme

Ericka Johnson is a new guide with big goals. After an all-women’s climb in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca, she became enamored with broadening and sharing these experiences with other women. Growing up in Tennessee, there were distinct expectations around a woman’s lifestyle: get married, buy a house, and raise a family. Because of these stigmas, it wasn’t until later in life that Ericka would find the wildly challenging and fulfilling nature of being in the wilderness. Ericka pursued these passions and has spent the last five years playing and working professionally in the outdoors. In 2023, Ericka is ready to make strides and start her coursework as an aspiring AMGA Alpine Guide.

Get to know Ericka @​​ericka.enroute

Jack Bynum is on a mission to perfect his craft in the mountains, find balance in his life, renew his spiritual energy, and share wild places with as many people as possible. The wilderness has long been Jack’s classroom to explore fear, spirituality, and trauma. His gratitude for these places and experiences radiates from everything he does. To no one’s surprise, Jack loves taking people climbing, and he does so through his guiding business, Indigo Alpine Guides. But what he truly loves is helping people reconnect with their inner spirituality and childlike wonder and, ideally, find a new sense of power in nature. In 2023, Jack will complete coursework toward his AMGA Rock and Ski Guide certifications. 

Get to know Jack @indigo_alpine

Julián Lopez started hiking, climbing, skiing, and mountaineering in Argentina when he was eight. Since then, he’s devoted his entire life to being outdoors, and in 2010, Julián started his guiding career. He spent five years as a trekking guide and six years as a UIMLA (Union of International Mountain Leader Associations) Mountain Guide. Wanting to take things to the next level, Julián started his IFMGA coursework two years ago, and with the support of family, friends, and his partner, he is just one examination away from certification. There’s no doubt that Julián had to work incredibly hard to even begin his IFMGA career; as you may know, these courses are costly and even more so when you live in Argentina. This year, Julián will start operating as Patagonia Mountain Guides and plans to finish his IFMGA coursework, officially becoming an IFMGA Mountain Guide.

Get to know Julián @julianbariloche

Nate Pakula is a life long outdoor educator. As a certified AMGA Rock Guide, Nate’s teaching background shows in his ability to understand his client’s needs and, in turn, provide them with an unforgettable day on the rock. Through his guiding business, High Desert Guiding, Nate is working on getting more young people into Joshua Tree National Park—opening doors to new experiences and opportunities. In 2023, Nate has his eye set on new experiences as he continues his coursework toward becoming an AMGA Alpine Guide. 

Get to know Nate @highdesertguiding 

Follow Along

As we move through 2023, keep your eye on our Magazine for a feature on each scholarship recipient. In the meantime, follow their social channels and stay up to day on all things 57hours by joining us here! 

(Cover photo courtesy of Jack Bynum)

The post Meet the Guides: 2023 Scholarship Recipients appeared first on 57hours - Discover amazing outdoor adventures.

Let that sink in. Three million people leave their footprints (and their waste more often than not) slopped along the wilderness of this monumental, 2,000-mile footpath. 

For millions more, the A.T. has been a source of inspiration for nearly a century. They go for the forest and wild lands, fulfillment and friendship, solitude or any other which reason… but no one goes to see trash or rundown huts along the way. Unfortunately, that’s what happened during the pandemic. Big time.

The most important thing we can all do now is protect and preserve the historic path. If we keep the spirit of the original builders in mind, treat the wilderness kindly, and approach hiking the A.T. with proper trail etiquette, we can ensure others get to enjoy this legacy for centuries to come.

The Real Trail Magic of the A.T. Is Leaving No Trace of Your Visit

Either in my free time or as a professional guide, I’m on the trail a lot. Somehow, it’s already 25 years since my first thru-hike, and I thought I’d seen it all—wrong. I’ve never experienced anything like the onslaught of hikers as the pandemic rolled on.

Sure, it’s your trail as much as anybody else’s, but with usage on the rise, nature suffers. Suddenly we’ve got abandoned coolers, tents, cans and bottles, and a worn path double the size it was a few years ago. When that happens, parts of the trail and surrounding areas have to get closed down to let it heal. 

Keeping the A.T. the A.T. is no easy feat and from the beginning, it has been a community effort: it was built by private citizens and is maintained today through a cooperation of volunteer clubs, non-profits, the National Park Service, United States Forest Service, and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. A real for the people, by the people project. 

I’ll always advocate for spending time in nature, but as a shared space it really only works if folks act responsibly out there. If you’re looking to enjoy time on the A.T., in a sustainable way, here are some tips for hiking the Appalachian Trail and good to know etiquette for when you’re out on it. 

Tip 1: All About the Prep

Being a responsible hiker starts with being well-prepared, and this is what the first rule of Leave No Trace is all about.

So let’s say John, who goes on a hike every now and then, decided to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail. He googled a bit about how to prepare for the A.T., but he’s just going to wing it and go with the flow when he gets there. 

He soon realizes that his backpack is way too heavy and that maybe he doesn’t need four books and three pairs of jeans. John’s phone battery is dead and he has no idea how close the nearest camp is. His brand new hiking shoes aren’t really the perfect fit. And the sleeping bag he took is just not warm enough for those cold Georgia nights.

To enjoy the feeling of adventure and spontaneity don’t necessarily preclude thorough preparation. Afterall, you don’t want to get lost, misplace toenails, starve, or freeze to death. Back in the day, gathering the know-how on the Appalachian Trail was a bit difficult but today all you’ve got to do is google it and let a tsunami of info wash over you. 

What you should do:

Research and prep: Find a format you like the most—borrow books, read blogs, follow vlogs—and soak up everything there is to know before even setting foot on the trail. I’d also recommend taking advice from your peers. For example, if you’re a young woman, find a similar thru-hiker who shared their experience and possible obstacles.

Then it’s time to do some planning. Well, a lot of planning. Start date of the hike, gearing up, having a food plan, physical training, respecting Leave No Trace guidelines, dealing with possible injuries… Being prepared makes way for a more relaxed journey ahead, trust me.

Know yourself and your limits: We’re seeing lots of hikers over 50 thinking they’re 20-year-olds and they push themselves too hard. The Appalachian Trail isn’t a race, so take it easy, watch your heart rate, and take breaks. Make sure you’ve got your meds with you and it’s great to carry aspirin as well. If you want to hike alongside your peers, this guided Appalachian Trail hike for over 50s is a good option.

Understanding the journey ahead: Once you get into the woods, you’ll need to know about upcoming shelters, water sources, road crossings, town stops, crowdsourced updates, trail hazards, and much more. My favorite app for this is the offline-supported Far Out, but just in case technology fails you, having a physical guidebook, such as The A.T. Guide, is a must. And always have some extra money set aside in case of an emergency.

Tip 2: Be Mindful of Your Fellow Thru-Hikers

This one is really simple. Don’t be rude or inconsiderate. Everyone on the Appalachian Trail wants to have the best time without the worst music in the world blasting at full volume, snorers keeping them up at night, or people urinating from the shelter because they’re too lazy to put on their shoes.

What you should do:

Just use your common sense and be kind. 

If you see an aspiring thru-hiker sporting Chuck Taylors and carrying a 60-lb. backpack, try to advise them without being condescending and making them feel bad. There’s also an outfitter in Neels Gap at Mile 30.7 where they give hikers a shakedown and advice.

Don’t bring your boombox on the trail: While you might enjoy striding along pump-up tunes, people venture into the wilderness for quietness and tranquility. No one wants to hear Jon Bon Jovi screaming his lungs out while trying to reach a place of harmony with nature. Use earbuds instead, but for safety reasons, please keep one ear open—otherwise you won’t hear any possible threats, critters coming up behind you, people calling for help, or hikers trying to bypass you.

Be courteous in shared spaces: If you’re taking a trip to Snore City every single night, it might be best to keep away from shelters or at least give other hikers a heads up. In general, don’t do anything too disruptive in shared spaces such as shelters—tired hikers won’t enjoy your calls on loudspeakers, drones buzzing over them, or noise early in the morning and late in the evening.

Ask permission to film and photograph others: You may want to video document the whole thru hike. While it’s great having your journey on film, remember that some people aren’t there to be on camera or social media. In fact, some of them are actively trying to avoid it, so make sure everyone around you is comfortable being on film before whipping out your camera.

Tip 3: Managing Your Waste on the Trail

It’s a very windy day. You walk over to the pile of rocks by the shelter to secure some of your things. You grab the rocks and OH MY GOD there’s a pile of poop underneath. Sure, this particular camp doesn’t have a privy, but that doesn’t excuse leaving unsightly traces for others to uncover.

Other than that, defeating amounts of trash fill up the trail during the bubble in March and April.

Apart from obviously being harmful to the environment, another downside is that leftovers and packaging—even if you burn it—attract animals. And the last thing you need is black bears barging into shelters and mice scurrying around.

What you should do:

Essentially, make sure to dispose of all other waste properly. 

You know the drill — pack it in, pack it out: Carry a trash bag with you and leave the place cleaner than you found it. Likewise, don’t leave any food behind just about anywhere around the shelter. If you brought way too much food or you want to treat some other hikers, use food lockers found at some shelters or bear canisters.

Disposing of waste: While most shelters on the Appalachian Trail have their own privy, don’t always count on it. Sometimes you might not make it to a shelter or a privy might be under maintenance. In this case, make sure you’re at least 200 feet away from the trail, from camp, and from water sources to prevent contamination. Walk those 80 steps, scout out your spot, dig a cathole with a trowel, do your business, and bury it. 

If you’d like to go an extra mile, carry WAG bags. Remember, anything other than poop and toilet paper has to be packed out and thrown into trash—this includes wet wipes and tampons.

This also goes for your four-legged friends. While I really don’t recommend thru-hiking with your dog, if you insist on taking them along: 1) please make sure they’re leashed and 2) pick up after them and throw it in the trash. 

Tip 4: Respect the Wildlife — You’re in Their Home Now

You’re in bear country now, meaning that you have to act in accordance with their rules. You’ll be passing through forests, meadows, rocks, grassy balds, and everything in between possibly for months; meeting animals along the way is just a part of the experience. 

Unfortunately, some people take the liberty of carrying a gun on the trail. They shoot the bears and/or scare them away, after which rangers have to be called to shoot the aggravated and wounded animal. Anything like this or even just bothering the wildlife is an obvious no-go, but let’s talk about…

…What you should do:

Respecting wildlife is one of the key Leave No Trace principles. 

Again, some preparation and common sense are vital here. The most important thing to do is to maintain a safe distance. Don’t feed them, don’t try to get closer, or use flash photography on them. Remember that animals are unpredictable.

Shelters often have permanent tenants: mice. They will nibble on your food, destroy your gear, and there’s even a chance of transmitting disease. If you’re staying in shelters, be extra careful about them and adjust your sleeping arrangements accordingly.

While dangerous animal encounters are rare, in case of an emergency, such as a snake bite, call 911. Also consider carrying an EpiPen if you have a history of severe allergic reactions.

Tip 5: Preserve the A.T. For Upcoming Generations

Back when I started hiking the Appalachian Trail, there were maybe 200 people actually completing a thru-hike each year. Sustainability wasn’t a huge thing back then. Nowadays, with 3 million people yearly on the trail, it’s never been more consequential to abide by Leave No Trace principles.

You’ll find closings on the trail because of trash being left behind. And I’m not just talking about wrappers or wipes, people are actually leaving their tents and chairs out there. How can the vegetation, wildlife, and wildness thrive in these conditions? 

What happens then is that many areas get closed down to let them heal. For example, Max Patch in North Carolina was a favorite of day hikers during the pandemic, but after all the litter and impact, a two-year camping closure was announced.

What should you do?

Stay on trail and in designated areas: If you see an area that’s already a bit more arid, don’t go trampling there back-and-forth for hours on end. Stay on the trail, don’t shortcut switchbacks, and avoid expanding existing trails and campsites. And just some extra info here: not all campsites will be marked in guidebooks, so if you already see a camp there, go ahead and join them. Don’t pitch your tent just about anywhere off the trail, though.

Pack-in, pack-out: I know that I’ve already rambled enough about not leaving anything behind, but I’ll say it again and again: not even that one cigarette butt or your chewing gum. 

Think of water sources as your holy grail on the trail: Wash dishes, clothes, or yourself at least 200 feet away from water sources. Biodegradable soap is alright, but use it sparingly. And if you’ve got layers of bug spray or sunscreen on you—as you should, watch out for those UV rays—rinse it off at a safe distance from water.

Obey one of the 10 Commandments of the Trail: “Don’t go carving into trees or yanking out bouquets of flowers.” Plants have feelings too, you know.

You’re the Biggest Piece of the Puzzle

I’d be lying if I said that’s all, folks! There’s always more to learn and pay attention to, but I think this is a good start for anyone wanting to spend time in the wilderness.

Whether you make the trail your home for a day or a few months, remember that you’re just a guest. And when you’re a guest somewhere, you don’t litter, disturb their peace, or try and agitate your host. Be courteous and generally go above and beyond what you think is expected of you.

Those who live close to the trail often go out and volunteer. You can also visit ATC’s volunteer opportunities, join numerous Facebook groups about maintaining the trail, or contact state clubs and local organizations. Help is always much appreciated! If you’re able to, you can also brighten someone’s day by being a trail angel and treating them to some snacks and drinks. Don’t forget to pick up the waste, though.

If you’re not yet sure you’re ready for thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, the best place to start are shorter guided hiking trips on the Appalachian Trail, known as section hiking.

The post Need to Know Etiquette Tips for Hiking the Appalachian Trail appeared first on 57hours - Discover amazing outdoor adventures.

Whether it’s a dawn patrol Glory lap or a long tour in Grand Teton National Park, chasing the endless backcountry skiing in Jackson Hole is a near-daily routine for the folks who’ve carved out a life here—as well as the tens of thousands of visitors who make the pilgrimage to these iconic slopes. 

These days, however, popular backcountry areas are starting to look more like resort mogul fields. Any time there’s fresh snow it’s a mad dash to the trailhead, and we’re all guilty of getting a little ahead of ourselves when there’s turns on the line. But as trails get backed up like lift lines and classic runs are tracked out before 9 a.m., it’s important to take a step back and figure out how to recreate responsibly on the public lands we are seemingly loving to death. 

While it’s easy to reminisce about quieter times of Teton skiing (admittedly, way before I got here)—or gripe about the present—it’s far more productive to figure out how to work together to coexist in the backcountry, as both locals and visitors, so we can all enjoy the pow safely and respectfully.

Jackson Hole a World Class Skiing Destination…

Like many before me, I arrived in the Tetons enthralled by the easy-access powder turns and classic ski objectives. There’s an allure to the jagged skyline not many other ranges can compete with—massive vertical relief, notoriously high annual snowfall totals, steep, iconic lines and challenging ski mountaineering objectives entice skiers from around the globe. 

But you don’t have to seek out the gnar to appreciate this extraordinary corner of Wyoming. A lifetime of wide open tree skiing with long sustained fall lines, playful meadows, and roadside access makes it easy for skiers of all ability levels to find their place on the skintrack—and it’s a great place to learn if you’re just getting started in backcountry skiing. Not to mention, it feels like you’re living inside a postcard from almost every angle. 

The Tetons have been part of the backcountry conscience for a while: some of the world’s most notorious skiers have cut their teeth on the steep, rugged terrain that Jackson has to offer. Folks like Bill Briggs, Doug Coombs, and Kit DesLauriers have laid the groundwork for those who are pushing the limits of the sport today. 

With Teton Pass, Grand Teton National Park, and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort—including some of the best backcountry skiing around Jackson Hole—all less than 30 minutes from downtown, it’s hard to beat if you’re trying to spend as much time as possible on snow. Hence the popularity.

…With growing visitation to boot

For perspective, we have a population of about 24,000 in this valley, and between 2 to 2.5 million visitors annually. While many of those come for the national park in the summer, that’s still a lot of ski bags hitting the luggage belt at the Jackson Hole Airport. It may feel like a vacation, but it’s also a place where many people call home, and visiting any ski destination has an impact. 

I’ve been on both sides of the equation: living here for just five years—and visiting many times before—I’m part of the influx in this beautiful range. 

If we’re going to tout the incredible ski terrain the Tetons have to offer, it’s part of our collective responsibility to also talk about how to tread lightly and respect the mountainous places we live or are visiting. 

Working Together to Protect Access

Threats to access due to skier-triggered avalanches on Teton Pass, parking congestion, foot traffic on the highway, and dog management have prompted initiatives to help address the increase in recreationalists. That’s what led to the creation of the Teton Backcountry Alliance (TBCA), which was founded by a group of local skiers in 2017. Their aim is to promote safety, education, and conservation in order to preserve access to backcountry skiing in the Tetons. 

In addition to a team of over a dozen volunteer ambassadors, TBCA collaborates with local agencies like the Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF) and the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) to share best practices and develop etiquette solutions to keep everyone safer. 

Sometimes “common knowledge” is in fact, commonly inaccurate, or shifts in community behavior lead to better and safer outcomes for everyone. A few examples of why this work is important: 

• • Some may be surprised to learn that the pull out where most skiers park on top of the Pass isn’t an official parking lot, and the department of transportation could stop plowing it if skier traffic becomes unmanageable. 
  • Skinning back up the snowbank after skiing from Mount Glory, instead of walking on the highway, protects skiers from oncoming traffic and snow plows (which mow right through the shoulder and have a hard time stopping).

There’s a lot that goes into skiing responsibly in the Tetons, so I chatted with Gary Kofinas from the Teton Backcountry Alliance and Kailey Mckenna from Jackson Hole Mountain Guides to put together some etiquette tips for skiing in the Tetons. 

(Of course, this is on top of being properly educated, knowing how to manage risk in the backcountry, and always carrying the proper equipment, which is baseline).

Tip 1: Be Mindful of Crowded Trailheads and Limited Parking

It’s not uncommon to show up on top of Teton Pass to a queue of cars idling in line for a spot. Add in commuter traffic between Jackson and Teton Valley and you’ve got quite the crowd by 7 a.m. each morning. 

“The summit of Teton Pass is a world class destination,” says Kofinas. “But oftentimes the parking is at capacity, and you have to be patient and ‘take a number.’”

What you should do:

If there’s new snow and you’re headed up at a popular time (all day on weekends, 7 a.m. weekday dawn patrols and noon lunch laps) be ready to wait a few minutes or consider parking at another trailhead like Phillips Bench, Coal Creek, or Old Pass Road. Carpool whenever possible (the Stilson Parking Lot in Wilson, also known as the Village Road Transit Center, is a great place to leave a car. Best of all, it’s free), and park tightly once you do get a spot. 

If you pull up and there’s already a handful of cars waiting, respect the line order. Often the volunteer TBCA ambassadors will help direct traffic, but it’s also a good idea to have a passenger in your car hop out and chat with other cars waiting.

Tip 2: Utilize Local Resources

Before visiting a new zone, I like to start following the weather and daily avalanche forecast the weeks before I get there. 

As an intermountain snowpack, the Tetons generally hold deeper snow and on average more stable conditions than neighboring continental regions like the Colorado Rockies. However, we still deal with lingering persistent weak layers throughout the winter and high amounts of wind are always something to take into consideration. At mid-and-high elevations, wind slabs avalanches are common.

Luckily, the Tetons have tons of great resources for trip planning, before and during your trip, such as our local avalanche bulletin and community events.

What you should do:

The Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center posts daily avalanche forecasts, and shares links to useful weather resources and observations from both forecasters and the public. If you want to go deeper, the State of the Snowpack takes place every other Wednesday at Headwall Sports, a free discussion led by forecaster Mike Rheam to paint a picture of what’s going on out there. Guidebooks like Tom Turiano’s Teton Pass Backcountry Guide or Jackson Hole Backcountry Skier’s Guide: South are excellent resources for the area. 

Download the Backcountry Zero app on your phone before you head out, which will streamline your connection to local rescue resources should you get into trouble and need to call for help. 

Tip 3: Be Aware of What (and Who) is Below You

There are lots of ski runs, especially on Teton Pass, that can impact the highway if they slide. Popular (and oh so enticing) runs like Glory Bowl and Twin Slides are major offenders, and there are a handful of other slide paths on Teton Pass to keep an eye out for. With up to 400 people on the Pass on some days, it’s also hard to be sure that you’re not dropping in on top of someone. 

“There’s definitely been a really good culture shift,” says Kofinas. “On higher risk days we’re seeing people (for the most part) stay out of zones that can affect cars and skiers below. We’ve been lucky so far, and we’re really hoping to continue that.”

There have been incidents in year’s past where skier-triggered avalanches have hit cars on the road. Thankfully there haven’t been any fatalities. Again, one of the main goals of the Teton Backcountry Alliance is to promote good stewardship so that skiers don’t lose access to skiing on the Pass—and we all play a part in this.

What you should do:

Kailey Mckenna, a guide and avalanche educator at Jackson Hole Mountain Guide, adds that communication is key to not skiing on top of each other. “Talk to other parties, even if you’re not in really big terrain it can still be stressful if you don’t know who’s dropping first,” she says. “Communication is huge, both within your group and with other parties.”

If you’re heading for a bigger objective in Grand Teton National Park, do your research on the ski line and know that the culture for skiing many of the classic descents is a top-down approach. Avoid booting up popular lines that might have skiers coming in from above, and communicate with other parties at the trailhead so you can get a sense of where other skiers will be.

Sharing is crucial in crowded places like the Tetons. If you arrive at a ski line and see others already there, have a backup plan. For short lines, waiting it out can be an option, or creating a plan B or C when planning your route to keep your options open and avoid getting into trouble. 

Last season, there was an accident in the Silver Couloir on Nez Perce where a solo snowboarder passed a group already climbing the couloir, dropped in on top of them and triggered an avalanche that seriously injured one member of the party. Communication or yielding to the skiers already in the line could have prevented anyone from getting hurt.

Tip 4: Know the Rules about Dogs

Some days it feels like there are more dogs than people on Teton Pass. While skiing with your dog is allowed on Teton Pass, be sure to have your dog on leash in the parking lot (or risk a $200 fine) and don’t forget to scoop the poop!

If you’re skiing with your dog, be mindful not only of the terrain you’re skiing in, but what you’re next to. I’ve been out on the Pass and seen quite a few dogs wander over to steeper slopes and dangerous rollovers, even while their owner and rest of the party is steering clear of avalanche terrain. If you’re skiing more consequential terrain or heading out on a potentially crowded day, consider leaving the dog at home. 

What you should do:

If you do choose to bring your dog, keep it on leash in the parking lot and near the trailhead, and have it under voice control elsewhere. Keep your terrain choice mellow and be respectful of other skiers who might be nervous around dogs. 

Tip 5: Get to Know Wildlife Closures and Guidelines

In an effort to protect wildlife in the Tetons, there are a number of seasonal closures aimed at protecting animals from unintended disturbance, which can be harmful in their fragile winter state. 

Voluntary closures for an endangered herd of bighorn sheep were rolled out in 2022, primarily in Grand Teton National Park as well as some in Bridger-Teton National Forest. Most popular areas aren’t affected, but if you’re someone trying to go deep into the range, definitely be aware of where you’re planning to go. Local skiers are working hard to abide by the most recent closures so as to avoid further closures down the road.  

Seasonal winter closures for elk and mule deer aren’t new, and rarely overlap with backcountry ski terrain, but it’s good to get familiar with all closures before you head out. 

What you should do:

“If you do see wildlife, maybe a moose while skiing down Old Pass Road, give animals time and space,” says Kofinas. “Especially in the winter, their energy balance is quite fragile and we don’t want them to expend extra energy. Stop and wait, don’t try to run them off.”

Tip 6: Hire a Guide

Local ski guides know the ins and outs of the Tetons better than anyone else in this valley. If you want to make the most of your experience in Jackson, there’s no better way to see the Tetons through the eyes of a local. 

While some folks are concerned about overcrowding from guided groups, guide operations in the Tetons all have different permits that keeps their use spread out throughout the range. Some guiding companies, like Teton Backcountry Guides, have more permits for Teton Pass, while operations like Jackson Hole Mountain Guides and Exum are able to operate more in Grand Teton National Park. 

Each operation is different in their allotment of user days on different public lands, keeping skiers dispersed throughout the range. As a recreational skier, I’ve never had a problem with guided parties tracking up the zones I want to ski in. In fact, hiring a guide during your trip is a great way to support local businesses and members from the community. A win-win for everyone. 

What you should do:

Going on a guided backcountry skiing tour in Jackson Hole is a great way to take some of the hassle out of trip planning and make the most out of your time. Even if you’re not someone who typically skis with a guide, when you’re in a new zone, hiring a guide for at least a day can help you get your bearings and learn quite a bit if you want to. 

“You don’t have to hire a guide just to have a good time, although we’ll definitely do that,” adds Mckenna. “If you have specific topics you want to learn about, like navigation or setting skintracks, we can go out and work on that too during a guided day.”

Preserving a Backcountry Experience for Years to Come

“I’m really pleased that people are taking the need to be good stewards seriously, and I hope that continues,” adds Kofinas. 

A lot of this comes down to the golden rule and communication. If you’re unsure about something, ask someone. And if you don’t know, don’t go. TBCA ambassadors are often on top of Teton Pass and happy to answer questions for visitors while chatting with local skiers on the skintrack or at the trailhead about your plan is a simple way to prevent friction early on. 

It takes some effort from all of us to create a sustainable backcountry culture we can all be proud of. By working together to be good stewards of the land, it will ensure that generations to come will be able to enjoy the same magic of backcountry skiing in the Tetons we’ve all fallen in love with.

Does Lily have you stoked to enjoy the classic backcountry skiing in Jackson Hole, respectfully? Book your tour and visit some classic lines and off-the-beaten track gems with a local guide today.

The post How to Ski Responsibly in Jackson Hole: Tips from a Local appeared first on 57hours - Discover amazing outdoor adventures.

There weren’t that many Asians in the climbing world (yet!), and the few friends I had at the time said climbing was crazy and declined going out with me. For meeting other people, my somewhat broken English didn’t help. The good news was that I loved—and still love—teaching. 

If there weren’t partners already out there for me, I would help create some!

Why Don’t You Turn It Into a Career?

As a high school student in Macau, a city on China’s southern coast, I entered a government program in Hong Kong that was promoting rock climbing. We spent a few days in the city learning the how tos, along with strategies for teaching the sport to others. This was by no means a professional certification program, but it taught me the basics, which were enough to get started. When I went home, instead of getting 5 or 10 feet off the ground playing around with my friends, suddenly with the use of bolts, ropes, and anchors we were climbing 50 feet up.

Fast forward to the early days of living in New York and it was hard to progress. I didn’t have a partner, I couldn’t go to the Gunks because I didn’t have a car, and the only climbing gym in the city was not only far away but costly. 

When a gym opened near me in 2008, I convinced my friends to come try it out. Using the same skills from my teenage years, I began teaching them about belaying, building anchors, and more. What started as a mission to find a climbing partner—really just trying to convert my friends—slowly turned into a realization that I enjoy sharing this sport with others.

If you like this so much, why don’t you turn it into a career? A friend of mine asked. 

I don’t know why that thought never crossed my mind, but it was a good suggestion! I started looking into what the AMGA requirements to become a Rock Guide were. One thing that became strikingly clear: how expensive the courses are.

1% for Guide Education: Reducing the Burden

The 57hours Guide Education Fund helps reduce some of the cost burden guides face. Starting in 2021, 57hours began putting aside 1% of their yearly profits for scholarships that can help cover courses, exams, travel, and other expenses. Even more, half of those funds are reserved specifically for new female, BIPOC, and LGBTQ guides—in an effort to support more equal representation in the industry.

Like I hinted at before, a hurdle—well, THE hurdle—that stops a lot of people from even getting started is how costly the process of becoming a guide is. We have to pay for our own education, set time aside to actually complete the courses and exams (which means long periods in the field learning or gaining experience—and not making money), and finally, after completing everything it usually takes years to earn a wage that can fully support you, let alone a family. 

I hope to one day become a full-time guide.

But deep down I know I’m quite far from that. For one, we live in New York City, I have a child, and I’m just not sure I’ll be able to make enough to leave my design job (plus I think my wife would kill me). 

But I love to do this type of education, and if that means working as a part-time guide, volunteering with nonprofit outdoor groups and being a mentor for the BIPOC and Asian community, I’ll do what I can!

The Joy of Learning and Teaching

Just like finding a climbing partner was difficult, so too was meeting a mentor who could help me progress. Now, as I’m going through the complex process towards an AMGA Rock Guide certification, my instructors—Caleb Freese, Joe Vitti, Matt Shove, etc.—have been de facto mentors and teachers who I reach out to from time to time. Still, having someone within your city that you can routinely connect with and learn from—and who looks like you—that is a challenge. 

By becoming a certified Rock Guide, I want to show other Asians that there is a place for them in the climbing community. 

Building the community

A few years ago, I co-founded a group for Asian climbers called “Project iii” in order to develop a community that is committed to helping one another. There are about 200 of us, and out of those, 3 are AMGA Single Pitch Instructors, 10 are SPI Trainees (which means they’ve taken the SPI course but not the exam yet), while about 100 are newbies. It is a way for those of us who are experienced to pass on our knowledge, and those who are just coming into the sport to learn correct techniques and easily find partners.

Luckily, I’ve been able to have a broader impact in the New York and New Jersey community too. In 2019, I became the Education Chair of the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) Climbing Committee for this chapter. We do everything from monthly meetups at The Cliffs, to educational programming and climbing trips. I’m grateful to be able to mentor, pass on the knowledge, and help expand the climbing community. 

The Process of Becoming a Rock Guide Thus Far

I used the money from the 57hours scholarship to take my education to the next level by completing the WFR (Wilderness First Responder) certification with Rise Outside, through their first ever BIPOC program. 

The WFR is a requirement to complete the Rock Guide certification

I’ll say I’m much better at climbing than I am at the medical part. Even though I had taken my WFA (Wilderness First Aid) course before, I was nervous. The specifics of the human body—the bones and the muscles—were still all new to me. 

And at 10 days long, 80 hours, and $900, I was putting pressure on myself to succeed. I didn’t want to lose that time or money. 

As the days went on, I became pleasantly surprised. Our instructor, Chris, gave us a ton of hands-on practice and the pressure to succeed slowly drifted away. The experience became more like a trip where I not only learned valuable information but was also able to find support from a group and talk openly about different challenges many of us face in this field. I came away with a lot of personal growth, and some lasting connections.

Competence and confidence

I still by no means consider myself an expert on the topic, but if an accident were to occur to me or to someone around me, I feel much more confident in assessing and responding to the situation. I can decide if it’s something I can fix or if it requires going to the hospital. And if it does need to go to the hospital, I feel confident in stabilizing that person until more serious help can get to us. Having even just a basic understanding of how to address the problem is incredibly valuable in the backcountry. 

And community too

More than the course, I connected with the group. The make up was different from any other I’d done before—usually it’s something like one woman, four guys and all white. This program was mostly female and all BIPOC, and the conversation, as a result, varied from topics we might not otherwise cover in a climbing course. 

We talked about protecting BIPOC spaces in the climbing community, stepping up as leaders, and overall empowering each other. I hope to find more spaces and experiences like this along the way.

My key takeaways from the course

I can list a million things I learned about safety and about myself during this course, but I don’t think that belongs here. I think it is more valuable for me to share a few things that are important for every climber, especially those who do not have professional guide training.

Basic first aid

Firstly, if you are going out on your own, learn the most basic first aid—MOI Check, ABCDE Primary Assessment, basic splint building, and shelter building. It’s better to be prepared than to find yourself in an unfamiliar situation.

Stay positive

Secondly, if your patient is in a bad situation, do not say negative things. Do not tell them that they are bleeding intensely, or that they look like they are dying. That never helps the situation. Give them comfort, make them feel good, and work on the situation as calmly as possible.

Know what emergency rescuers are looking for

And finally, there is a big difference between Hollywood and Reality. For example, when a helicopter rescue team arrives, don’t wave your hands in the sky. That signals danger and tells them “Do Not Land Here!” This would most often cause the pilot to go back and gather more information before returning. A pilot will never take a risky landing, so do not give them any false impression. 

What’s Next?

I was officially accepted into the Rock Guide Program for 2023. In order to complete that there are a lot of requirements one needs to fulfill. You have to lead ten traditional climbs rated 5.10a or harder on various rock types (single or multi-pitch), lead or share the lead on ten Grade III trad rock routes (the grade corresponds to the level of “commitment”, in this case, meaning a climb takes most of the day), and lead or shared lead 50 multi-pitch rock routes, among other things. 

My next steps are to take the 10-day Rock Guide Course, then the 10-day Advanced Rock Guide Course (plus the exams), and to get time out in the field in places like the Adirondacks and the Whites of New Hampshire in order to fulfill the Grade III requirements. There aren’t many of those in the Northeast, so I might head over to Red Rock on a two week trip. Nonetheless, I’m very much committed to keep pushing this process along until the end!

A Thank You

Before I log off, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to AMGA for all that they do, and specifically my SPI Teacher Joe Vitti and my SPI Examiner Matt Shove. Thank you to Rise Outside and Alexis Krauss for making the WFR course happen, and to my WFR Instructor Chris Broughton Bossong. Thank you to Szu-ting Yi for being a great mentor, and thank you 57hours for the support.

Are you a guide interested in applying for a scholarship through 57hours? Our next application round will be launching this winter, stay tuned for more info!

The post Let the Teaching Be the Guide with Anthony Leong (1% Education Fund Recipient) appeared first on 57hours - Discover amazing outdoor adventures.

I was new to the outdoor industry and my only experience so far had been through an undergraduate outdoor recreation program. After graduating, I started climbing consistently and it quickly became a huge part of my life. While I developed as an outdoor educator, rock climbing was the one thing that continued to call my attention.

Through my career in outdoor ed I began to learn the intricacies of rock climbing. At the time, I had endless questions about the systems, rescue techniques, and all the different aspects of the sport. My employer pushed me to pursue a Single Pitch Instructor certification—otherwise, I would have never gone for it.

My path towards certification began.

The Only One

The whole time I was the only one: the only woman of color at my outdoor program, the only woman on an instructor team, the only person of color at my Wilderness First Response course.

At times, that also came with the title of being the first one. I did not quite understand the impact it had on me early in my career—mostly the feeling of otherness and like I did not belong in the space. But, it also came with the opportunity to break trail for the women of color to come.

When I sought mentorship about the process, I specifically looked for women of color. I spoke with every community member I could find from across the country. By the time I was done, I could count them all on both hands, with fingers to spare.

What did the numbers look like?

• Women of color who were working as full-time AMGA certified Rock Guides: Four
• Women of color who were certified SPI’s: Another four
• Women of color who were working toward their IFMGA certification: Two

And Norie Kizaki was likely to be the first.

You Can’t Be What You Can’t See

It sounds repetitive at this point when discussing the need for representation in the guiding industry—and outdoor industry as a whole—but in the most simple and truest way to express this: you can’t be what you can’t see.

Simply, the outdoor industry lacks diversity and representation from all underrepresented identities.

I think back to the 24 year-old me, who was looking for a little bit of inspiration while I kick-started my guiding path. Seeing women like Azissa Singh, Alejandra Garcés Pozo, Szu-ting Yi, and Norie was comforting and inspiring. They were the first women of color I saw in guiding.

The moment I heard that Norie was officially an American Mountain Guide/IFMGA Guide, I teared up and was overwhelmed with pride. I texted some of the Brown Girls Climb crew and later shared her speech from the pinning ceremony. Norie’s achievement was our achievement because she represents the beautiful intersections of her identities.

Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with her and ask more about her path.

Norie Kizaki: “In the Mountains, I Feel That Is Who I Am”

Norie was first introduced to guiding more than 20 years ago when she took a clinic with Chicks Climbing and Skiing, where Angela Hawse (IFMGA Guide) showed her the ropes. Angela is one of the first women to become an American Mountain Guide and is the current president of the AMGA.

“I was always inspired in the mountains,” Norie (she/her) tells me. When I asked her if there was a moment where she knew she wanted to become a guide, she responded, “right after the course.”

Although Norie’s love for the mountains was instant, she had to navigate her work visa restrictions and did not have the ability to just leave her job without compromising her stay in the U.S. Eventually, a year later, Norie quit her job and began her career in the outdoors.

In pursuit of a pin and parenting

Norie says that being an Asian woman, who had the desire to be a mother and establish a family, was one of the hardest barriers to navigate in her career.

She was just three programs away from her pin—each one a physically and mentally taxing endeavor that takes weeks and months to prepare for—but felt the pressure of her body changing. Completing her guide certifications and starting a family felt at odds.

While it is not uncommon for guides to be parents and have families, most folks will wait until they complete their programs and certifications to have children This is especially true for female guides.

Norie tried to make it work but in the end she paused the pursuit of her IFMGA pin and began a new adventure, becoming a mother in her 40’s.

Navigating this hard choice and the everyday barriers of being a woman of color and an immigrant, she shared how she had to accept that she cannot change the world. Rather, she leans into her tactics to advocate for herself in her role. And at the same time, show up every day as she is: a mom, guide and Japanese-American woman who crushes.

A first for active mothers

Three years later, Norie returned with a toddler at home, determined to acquire her pin. She did.

When I asked Norie to describe the moment she found out she had passed her last exam, I could hear the excitement in her voice. She was driving with her family for an overnight trip when the phone rang—she hesitated. Her husband encouraged her to pick up, and she began to scream with joy. Her son asked what was going on.

She was officially the first Japanese-American and U.S.-based woman of color to be certified as an IFMGA Guide (via the AMGA)—actively going through her programs while being a mother.

Now, Norie’s vision for the future is focused on career sustainability—making sure that everyone has the opportunity to sustain themselves off their dreams of being a guide. Whether it is someone wanting to start a family and guide or historically underrepresented people establishing their careers as guides. She wants everyone to have a choice and control over their own dreams and aspirations.

More Than One

Norie made it really clear that she was not trying to be the first one, and in fact, wished that she was not. She longs for a better world in which there are plenty of mothers and people of color in the guiding world. And it is for that very reason that I admire Norie.

While she never asked to be the first, she took on the responsibility of opening that trail for all of us. I am sure that many women of color in my community will resonate with the dynamic—of not asking to be the first yet taking it on and carrying their communities with them.

Yes, it can be tiring and at times stressful as we navigate new spaces. But this feeling of being the only one can be reclaimed too—as an acknowledgment that not only are we the first ones but we carry the honor of breaking trail.

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The Inca Trail winds through rain forests to cloud-covered peaks, and ultimately, to the highest point known as the Dead Woman’s Pass (at 14,500 feet). On the fourth day, at sunrise, a ramble up-and-down thousands of ancient stone steps eventually takes you to the highlight of the journey, the 15th-century Incan citadel.

Like all tourists on the trail, we were required to hire porters, who carry food, equipment, and even portable bathroom tents for paying clients. While hikers enjoy lighter loads that let them soak in the scenery, porters are lugging 25-plus kilos (55 lbs.) on their backs between campsites. If you’re in search of another iconic trek in South America, where you carry your own gear, check out Torres del Paine W Trek.

Portering is usually performed by the people who are local to the region. In Peru, there are about 8,000 porters working on the Inca Trail, the majority of whom belong to the indigenous Quechua-speaking communities in Cusco. While portering provides income, which at times can be significantly higher than farming or construction work, the question is: at what cost?

For example, as hikers get to dig into prepared meals and warm beds at night, porters are often relegated to tents of poor quality or overcrowding which forces them to sleep outdoors in the cold, in caves, toilets, or any shelter they can find.

Since my first time on the Inca Trail, I have come to discover lesser-talked-about issues within the trekking tourism industry. What I’ve learned prompted a now lifelong commitment to educate tourists on how to advocate for the equitable treatment of mountain expedition workers worldwide.

I Stopped Practicing Civil Rights Law, but the Fight Never Left Me

My love for mountain trekking led me to leave my legal career completely in 2017, after working as a civil rights litigator in DC for 15 years. As I learned more about the systemic labor issues that porters face, I decided to found a mountain trekking enterprise, Equity Global Treks, that offers tours with equitable working conditions and is inclusive of women and indigenous communities. To advocate for change in the trekking tourism industry as a whole, I launched the nonprofit human rights platform, The Porter Voice Collective, which advocates for better working conditions for porters.

In the past few years, I spent time conducting informal field research in Cusco, Peru by interviewing the porters on the Inca Trail as part of our film project, KM 82 (the starting point of the classic trek). I learned that porters have been fighting for better working conditions for the past few decades, including attempting to change the so-called “porter laws.”

La Asociación Regional de Porteadores del Camino Inca (The Regional Association of Inca Trail Porters) is the only porter-run organization, and advocates for the welfare of members in the region. This organization has been instrumental in changing laws and educating the government, tour agencies, and major industry stakeholders about the workforce issues. However, as the pandemic emphasized, changes to the industry are not only desired but a must in order to create a sustainable tourism industry for the long run.

The Global Picture: Inequity and Exploitation Beyond Peru

I expanded my investigation beyond Peru by conducting informal independent research with the help of allies and sources in Nepal and Tanzania. The research shows that porters in all three countries share the same set of problems at their jobs.

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Porters are tasked to carry bags and group gear up the mountains. By virtue of their work, they serve as essential workers in the industry. Without them, tourists who have Peru’s Inca Trail, Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro, Annapurna Circuit Trek, or Nepal’s Himalayan treks on their bucket list would not be able to turn their dreams into reality. Since the beginning, the trekking tourism industry has relied upon the labor-intensive work of porters in order to operate tours successfully in these mountain regions.

In Kilimanjaro, we found out that there are a few member-based and porter-run organizations but with a narrower mission than in Peru—they provide advocacy on an individual basis rather than addressing the systemic labor issues affecting porters as a group. The organizations try to resolve employment issues between a porter and the tour agency with most grievances involving salary disputes—whether the worker is underpaid or unpaid for their work.

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In Nepal, there are no porter-run organizations. Historically, Nepal had foreign-run nonprofit organizations that claimed to advocate for porter rights but in practice they merely provided aid in the form of clothes or food—especially during the height of the pandemic—as opposed to assuming a bigger role in advocating for social and industry changes on behalf of the porters.

Despite the different scenarios that exist in Peru, Nepal, and Tanzania, the working conditions on the ground remain almost entirely the same for all three regions. There is first and foremost the common complaint among all porters: the lack of fair pay, or worse, not being paid at all.

Despite the salary set forth via the porter laws in Peru or through the salary guidelines in Kilimanjaro and Nepal, the porters are often subject to underpayment and nonpayment of wages. This happens because there is a huge supply of workers for the limited number of portering jobs, making it easy for tour operators to hire people who are willing to accept lower pay. At times, tour agencies have taken advantage of tipping culture too, as they reportedly instruct porters that their pay will come solely from the tips they receive from the tourists.

Porters in all three countries also noted the lack of proper accommodations on the trails. Some shared that tour companies provide tents of poor quality and that overcrowding is a common occurrence, forcing porters to sleep wherever they can find shelter, typically outdoors in the cold, in caves, and even outhouses.

Further, porters are often ill-equipped with inadequate clothing and hiking gear, companies frequently place the financial burden on the workers to buy these work-related necessities. During the pandemic, some operators reportedly required porters to buy their own masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer before offering work. Because porters receive meager daily pay, it is a major expense to buy all these work-related items. Accordingly, many porters believe it is only fair for tour agencies to assume these costs.

During the filming of KM 82 in Peru, we learned that portering can be detrimental to one’s health. A common complaint was the lack of proper nutrition on the trail, that at times they do not get any protein in their diet as they only consume rice soup. Sometimes, the porters use their own money to buy bread or other food items so they can eat better, which minimizes the net income they receive.

In the event of illness or accident, porters typically don’t have health or accident insurance by virtue of their status as seasonal workers. Although there have been reports of tour agencies providing some type of insurance or funding for accidents, these tour agencies are the exception to the rule. To this day, tour agencies in all three countries do not have the legal obligation to provide either benefit.

Looking at the big picture, these unfavorable working conditions essentially stem from tour agencies’ desire to cut costs and maximize profits. And yet, in recent years, many tour agencies have launched fundraising initiatives or social campaigns that claim to support porters’ welfare and rights. The philanthropic nature of these campaigns has become the new trend in tourism marketing whereby the struggles of the porters in the trekking tourism industry have become the focal point to catch the attention of consumers. To non-discerning consumers, these are powerful and effective marketing schemes to lure them to invest their tourism dollars without conducting thorough research on the initiative or the tour agency.

What You Can Do as a Concerned Tourist

With the power of the internet and social media, the shift to creating workforce equity for porters lies in the hands of the tourists—they possess the leverage to change the industry through their roles as paying customers.

In recent years, the tourism industry has been aspiring to create a sustainable industry and cultivate a more socially-conscious generation of tourists who value making a positive impact on the environment, the local people, and animals (such as when choosing an ethical safari) in their travels. Hence, for tourists, this is an opportune time to become an educated consumer.

As a number one priority, tourists should ensure that their tourism dollars support and elevate the labor and human rights of porters, and they can start by learning how to be an advocate for workforce equity in the trekking tourism industry.

Important steps to help you evaluate tour operators:

1. Do your research on the workforce issues within the trekking tourism industry
2. Ask the company about their business practices and commitment towards creating fair and equitable working conditions for everyone who is part of the workforce. Here are some questions you can ask: How much do you pay the guide, porter, cook, drivers? What type of sleeping gear do they have on the mountains? How do you ensure that the porters carry no more than the maximum weight limit?
3. Don’t rely on hearsay, observe the conditions first-hand. Many companies on their website or through conversations can paint an image that’s totally different from the reality on the ground. Don’t believe it yet until you see it. When you are on your trek, make sure to take note of the working conditions for the porters. Make time to see where they sleep, what they eat, or what they are wearing on the trek. Speak with porters directly (outside the presence of the guide) to the extent this is feasible

A recent phenomenon is that women are now taking up portering jobs, and their numbers are on the rise. Unfortunately, female porters face sexism and gender discrimination in this process of creating inclusion, jeopardizing their safety and well-being.

For that reason, it is critical for tourists to only choose tour operators that value women in their workforce and who are taking concrete measures to alleviate the challenges that female porters face. The journey towards equitable treatment is filled with safety risks, gender discrimination, and sexism but we can start the process one step at a time by becoming educated about the problems.

Tourists can become allies of porters by advocating for workforce and gender equity while putting pressure on the trekking tourism industry to create much-needed systemic changes. In turn, we can help create a trekking industry that prioritizes and values the humanity, dignity, and irreplaceable contributions of porters.

If Not You, Then Who?

Since that first Inca Trail hike, I have changed how I operate as a tourist: I have become more curious and observant; I ask questions and verify the information I am given more often than before; most importantly, I engage more with the porters directly so I can listen, celebrate, amplify and elevate their voices.

For me, the reason I do this comes down to one simple question: if we don’t speak up for equitable treatment of porters, then, who will?

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