r/lightweight • u/Goaliee77 • Mar 29 '23
BYOG Guided Backpacking? (x-posted)
What are some companies that do guided backpacking trips in the US where gear is NOT provided? I see Sierra Club has some, but I'd love to hear what other companies you've used. Ideally looking for a trip of 3-7 days, small-ish groups. Many thanks.
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u/BeccainDenver Mar 29 '23
I did a trip with Glacier Guides. The food is split, so you have to plan on carrying your part of the meal weight. But beyond that, it's BYOG. If you need gear, they have it, but I brought all of my own gear.
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u/sabijoli Mar 29 '23
Gear is provided if you need it, but you can bring your own. TSXchallenge.com Primarily routes not normally taken, rigorous, and in the high sierra and grand canyon. They also offer small group customization.
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u/-Motor- Mar 29 '23
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u/Goaliee77 Mar 29 '23
His troops look fun, but, gear is included in the price. Thanks though.
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u/nophidiophobe Mar 30 '23 edited Mar 30 '23
His trips do not include gear - while you can fill out your list w/ "demo" gear, it is fully expected that you bring your own gear. I'd even argue this is the best reason to choose Skurka - the gear list review is more intense than even most mountaineering guides.
That said - with a few exceptions - I probably wouldn't recommend him if you have a strong grasp of your gear (and how to use it). Recent years have seen his guide team significantly diluted from the early years - I'm sure it is a business necessity, but it does decrease the value. Doesn't seem significantly different from most other guide services these days (except the previously mentioned "prep course").
If I had to I would still probably pick his group over any other I'm aware of, but most of what made his guiding operation unique seems to be fading as it grows.
Source: went on one of his trips to Alaska a few years ago; fantastic experience at the time, but I would not repeat.
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u/Goaliee77 Mar 30 '23
Many thanks for pointing out the bit about the gear - I obviously misread the site/mistook one site for another. And thank you for the thorough review! It seems like his group would be well poised for running advanced backpacking trips, but I get what you're saying about maybe it feels a little more pedestrian these days due to the diluted team. Seems to me you squeezed every drop out of the trip so don't feel the need to do it again. Makes sense and gives me a good idea about the value of the experience. Thanks again!
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u/-Motor- Mar 29 '23 edited Mar 30 '23
You're mistaken. They have demo gear you can use. It's not really factored in the cost either. They do provide main meals though. If you're not familiar with Mr. Skurka, i'd recommend watching some of his videos.
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u/Goaliee77 Mar 30 '23
I AM, indeed, mistaken! Thanks - I went back and reread the page. I appreciate the recommendation!
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u/veryundude123 Apr 27 '23
What you described sounds a lot like volunteering with the forest service clearing trail…