LLAMA TREKKING IN UTAH APRIL 14-20, 2019 TRIP SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS Exploring the stunning geology of the high desert canyons of Grand Staircase - Escalante National Monument Walking off trail on slickrock and through canyons Combining hiking and camping in remote wilderness with carrying light daypacks Getting to know our llamas and the freedom they give us Unplugging from the modern world Phone: 877-439-4042 Outside the US: 410-435-1965 Fax: 410-435-3084 Email: info@goodadventure.com
TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Apr 14-20, 2019 Location: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, UT Cost: $2425 Activities: Hiking Arrive: Meet at 1pm at the Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) on April 14 Depart: We'll be back at SLC by 1pm on April 20 and you can plan a flight for anytime after 3pm TRIP OVERVIEW Immerse yourself in the wilderness of the incomparable Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in southern Utah. This largely roadless area, one of the last regions in the U.S. to be mapped and explored, is known for its sculpted slickrock, countless spectacular high desert canyons, hidden oases, and mazes and mesas. We'll go off-trail into remote wilderness, over slickrock, across streams, and through canyons. We'll each lead our own llama, who will carry all the heavy stuff to basecamp, so our daypacks weigh 15 pounds or less. After establishing a basecamp, we'll spend each day exploring new areas and return every afternoon to camp where we feast on as much fresh food as we can carry in. We have been awestruck by the beauty of the area while driving through it on our Utah trips for the past 10 years. This year we're going to explore it! Max group size: 9 RATING This trip is designed for women with hiking and camping experience, who have good balance and are comfortable with off-trail hiking on uneven terrain and primitive camping. Hiking is generally 3-6 hours; because of the off-trail nature will be more strenuous than simple mileage suggests. This is at the upper end of our 3 rating and requires aerobic conditioning, such as walking vigorously up hills, jogging, cross country skiing or stair stepping for 45 minutes at least 4 times a week. Rating: 1 2 [3] 4 5. WHAT'S INCLUDED Two experienced llama guides and an AGC guide Two nights hotel lodging and four nights tent camping All meals from dinner on Sunday to breakfast on Saturday Shuttles to and from the Salt Lake City airport to the trail head Llamas to carry the gear Tents, sleeping bags and pads, group camping and cooking equipment Llama guide gratuities Not included: Transportation to and from Salt Lake City, alcoholic beverages (not permitted on the trail), AGC guide gratuity, and travel insurance
OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. DAY 1 A P R IL 1 4, S U N D A Y We'll meet at the Salt Lake City airport at 1 pm. After brief introductions we'll get in our van for the four-hour drive to Torrey, in southern Utah. Torrey is a small and charming oasis, situated between Capitol Reef National Park and the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. Tonight, we stay at a motel in Torrey, Utah. We'll share a welcome dinner as we continue getting to know each other. DAY 2 A P R IL 1 5, M O N D A Y After a hearty breakfast, we drive for about 1.5 hours into the heart of red rock country. We'll meet our llamas and pack guides at their headquarters in the small town of Boulder, UT. After organizing gear and loading llamas on trailers, we drive to the trailhead at Red Breaks. Arriving at the trailhead we'll help load personal gear we won't need until camp, camping gear, and food onto the llama into special panniers. Carrying only what we need for the day in our daypacks, we'll lead our own llama for the six-mile hike across-country over red slickrock and sand, to our base camp. We will have plenty of time to stop and soak in the breathtaking colors and sculptured rock all around. Our wilderness base camp, with kitchen, dining area, latrine, and backpacking tents (and spectacular views) will be home for the next four nights. DAY 3 A P R IL 1 6, T U E S D A Y After waking up to peace and solitude of the wilderness (and possibly some llama humming) and enjoying breakfast, we leave our llamas in camp and set out for our hike today. Hiking where there are no trails, up and down canyons and rock, our destination today will depend on conditions and will be between 5 and 8 miles. Two possible destinations, depending on conditions, are "The Cosmic Ashtray", a fascinating and bizarre sandstone formation filled with orange sand (the reason for this will become apparent); or possibly to the Cathedral, a great, domed pouroff from upper Neon Canyon, where the water has dug three separate pothole arches into the overhang. We'll return to camp for a dinner that will and made with the freshest ingredients possible for back country cooking, thanks to our llamas!
DAY 4 APRIL 17, WEDNESDAY It may be surprising to learn that some of the early visitors were silver miners but they left a number of trails that are still in hiking condition today. Today we will travel on some of them to a side canyon appropriately named Wall Street. This is a loop hike today, and we will be climbing up and out of the canyon on our way back, before returning to camp and another hearty dinner. DAY 5 APRIL 18, THURSDAY Today we will experience the life force that rivers bring to these canyon lands, as we hike along the main Escalante River. This lush riparian community of willows and cottonwoods stands out in the otherwise arid desert surrounding, and sightings and signs of wildlife, such as a river otter, are not uncommon. Our path switches back and forth between the sides of the river, so we'll get excellent practice in learning how to safely cross rivers. Returning to camp for our final dinner in the wilderness, we'll let the quiet seep into our bones. DAY 6 APRIL 19, FRIDAY This is always a bittersweet day: on the one hand, we're not sure we're ready to leave the peace and quiet of wilderness. On the other hand, hot showers and a soft bed will both be welcome. In any case, whether we're ready or not, after breakfast we will pack up gear, load up the llamas, and hike out to the trailhead, retracing the route we entered. This will likely be the most challenging day of the trip, as it is mostly uphill, over slickrock and loose sand. We say goodbye to our llama pals and guides at the trailhead, and then return to Torrey where we enjoy those hot showers before sharing our final good-bye dinner.
DAY 7 APRIL 20, SATURDAY After breakfast, we'll drive back to the Salt Lake City airport. We'll arrive by 1pm and you can plan to fly out after 3pm. ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE If you are flying, plan to arrive at the Salt Lake City airport (SLC) by 12:30pm to make the 1:00 PM meeting. If you are driving to Torrey, Utah to meet the group there, plan to arrive at our lodging not later than 5pm. You will be able to leave your car at the hotel. ACCOMMODATIONS We'll spend the first and last night in Torrey, Utah. In between we'll spend 4 nights camping in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, UT. This is primitive camping: we'll be sleeping in two-person backpacking tents (everyone will have their own tent). This is not a permanent basecamp and facilities are limited. Vegetarian options for this trip are available. Other types of dietary needs cannot be accommodated unless supplemental food is brought. WEATHER The weather in April in Escalante is typically dry and sunny, although you will need to be prepared for rain. The temperatures will range from the mid-60s to the low 70s. Due to the aridity and high elevation, it is significantly cooler at night with temperatures in the 40s and possibly even the 30s. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use 20-0016 as your location number on the Get A Quote page.
PACKING LIST FOOTWEAR 1 pair of lightweight hiking boots/shoes 1 pair shoes that can get wet (for water crossings) & be hiked in, ie.teva-type sandals with socks or old running shoes. 1 pair camp shoes like Crocs or Teva/Chaco sandals (optional) 2 pair thin liner socks: silk or synthetic equivalent (optional) 3 pair hiking socks: wool or synthetic equivalent (Thorlo, Smartwool or Teko) CLOTHING 1-2 pair comfortable, lightweight, supplex/nylon hiking pants zip-offs work well 1 pair shorts: nylon quick-drying 3 synthetic T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts (synthetic is preferable for wicking and faster drying) 1 lightweight, long-sleeved shirt for hiking and sun protection 1 pair lightweight long underwear top and bottoms: silk, wool, synthetic equivalent. 1 medium-weight top layer: wool shirt/pull-over or synthetic equivalent ( expedition-weight Capilene, or microfleece). A fleece or wool vest works well for this layer. 1 warm fleece or lightweight down jacket 1 rain jacket and rain pants waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex underwear / nightwear 1 lightweight (warm) hat and gloves (wool, fleece or synthetic) 1 wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap for sun/rain 1 set of comfortable clothes for your travel and town days TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, hand sanitizer, shampoo, contact lens paraphernalia, (blowing sand can be a problem) sanitary supplies & zip-lock plastics bags. Sunscreen and lip protection with sunblock of at least SPF 15 Personal first aid/patch kit - Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, Compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen, any personal medications Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide. EQUIPMENT/ESSENTIALS 1 pair trekking poles (highly recommended) 1 daypack large enough to carry your water, lunch, raingear, etc. see notes on packing list Capability to waterproof your backpack. Either a rain cover or a heavy plastic bag to line your pack. Capacity to carry 2 -liters of water (Please see Notes on Packing List) Sunglasses (100% UV blocking) with retention strap Small headlamp or flashlight (spare batteries & bulb) Ear plugs (for a good night s sleep) 1-2 bandannas/buff 2 heavy duty garbage bags Your favorite snack snacks will be provided but if you have a personal preference it s best to bring it OPTIONAL PERSONAL GEAR (if you want it, bring it personal preference and not required for the trip) small journal and pen a down vest camera and film/memory card a good book to read antibacterial cleaner (Purel) short gaiters fingerless gloves hand lotion a small water bottle (if you use a hydration system, it s good for in camp)
NOTES ON PACKING Adventures in Good Company's packing list covers everything you need to assure your safety and comfort. You may not use everything you bring; however, you need to come prepared for all possible weather conditions. There will be a secure area for you to keep items at the outfitters. You should plan to pack your day pack with items you need during the day. A small duffel with items, ie. night-wear, change of clothes etc. that the llamas will carry. For this a small duffel or gym bag works best. Daypacks: Your daypack should be large enough to hold the following items: 2 liters of water, rain gear, lunch (for the day), sun screen, warm layer (fleece pullover or vest), personal first aid kit, lightweight gloves, warm hat and personal items such as camera,etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 1800 and 2400 cubic inches with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and lifters. Line your daypack with a durable plastic bag to keep your belongings dry, or have an elasticized pack cover that fits snuggly over it. Before you leave home check to be sure that it is comfortable to wear all day and has sufficient space for all of your items. Note: Fanny-packs and hydration packs are not large enough to hold all of the items you will need for the day. Footwear: Well-fitting, sturdy boots or trail shoes are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new boots, break them in by wearing them around town and taking some short hikes before your trip. For general hiking, lightweight or midweight cordura or leather boots with a Vibram sole work well. If you have weak ankles or are recovering from an ankle injury, get boots that come above the ankle you ll find that this will give you more support in uneven or slippery terrain. Remember to waterproof your boots before the trip. Even boots billed as waterproof need to be treated with a waterproofing product. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea. Clothing: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your active wear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick Layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. Rain Gear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? Your wind/rain pants should be comfortable, allow enough room for your layers, and permit free movement of your legs (for example, can you crouch comfortably?). Partial or full-length leg zippers are useful for easily putting your pants on over your boots. An inexpensive plastic poncho will both leak and tear easily and is not recommended. Hydration: Being able to easily access your water without assistance, so that you can drink frequently, is important to your safety and enjoyment. One method is to have a water bottle attached to your waist strap. Another option is to use a HYDRATION SYSTEM such as CamelBak, Platypus, and MSR bladder bags, which are collapsible water bags with a hose attachment that you drink from. The bags fit inside or outside your pack with the hose positioned over your shoulder so that you can access your water as you hike. Bladder bags can hold 1-3 liters of water. Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are highly recommended for this trip. Trekking poles contribute to your safety by improving your balance and stability, and to your health by saving stress on your hips and knees. If you are not familiar with trekking poles, read this blog post that addresses the most commonly asked questions: http://blog.adventuresingoodcompany.com/blog-women-travel/bid/154714/trekking-poles-for-hiking-trips-the-4-mostcommon-questions.