FAQs

General Information

  • Most scheduled trips are for 2 or 3 nights.

    Additional days may be added to private and customized tours.

  • For our monthly scheduled trips, groups will not exceed more than 4 guests and 1 guide.

    Larger groups can be accommodated for private treks.

  • Freeze-dried breakfasts and dinners are provided by Backpack Arizona. Examples of typical meals include, Biscuits, gravy, & sausage, breakfast skillet, granola, beef stroganoff, chicken & dumpling, fettuccini alfredo with chicken, and more. Vegetarian options are also available.

    Backpack Arizona also provides snacks, usually in the form of fruit, nutrition bars, trail mixes, etc.

  • The guide’s primary job is to transport guests safely to and from the campsite.

    Additionally, we help with setting up camp and preparing meals.

    Beyond this, the guide’s involvement with guests is based on personal preference.

  • Our hikes range from 3 to 10 miles, one way.

    Trekking levels range from moderate and beginner friendly, to very strenuous. However, no trails we guide on require special gear or skills to complete.

    But we’re going to be real - some of our hikes are pretty darn hard! This is for a variety of reasons such as boulder hopping, bushwhacking, water crossings, and steep trails.

  • Yes! The guide is a Wilderness First Responder (WFR) as well as CPR and EpiPen certified.

  • Yes!

    Backpack Arizona operates from the Saguaro covered Sonoran Desert to the high elevation pine forest, and everything in-between. This allows us to provide nature adventures year-round thanks to the range in elevations and climate zones.

  • We visit a lot of aquatic destinations and many activities can be centered around water such as swimming and fishing.

    There are also opportunities for exploration, connecting with other guests, sightseeing, and wildlife viewing.

  • We have permits to guide in the Apache-Sitgreaves, Coconino, and Tonto National Forests.

    Our operating territory is extraordinarily diverse and includes, but is not limited to:

    • Mogollon Rim

    • White Mountains (AZ)

    • Superstition Wilderness

    • Fossil Creek

    • Sonoran Desert and much more!

Packing & Preparation

  • Be aware the weather in and around the canyons and high mountains can change at any time. The elevations we camp in will range from 3,000 ft to 9,000 ft above sea level, so one can expect all four seasons.

    You must be prepared for warm and cold in the spring and fall. In addition to potentially hot temperatures, summer monsoons may also bring heavy thunderstorms, so it’s important to be prepared with raingear.

  • Upon request, we can send you a packing list but always be prepared with raingear.

  • You’ll need traction and support when hiking with us but keep in mind we visit many aquatic locations, so it’s important to be prepared for stream crossings and getting wet.

    There are two important guidelines for footwear: It should have good tread, and it should be broken in. Boots that grip the trail are desirable for obvious reasons. And hiking straight out of the shoe store onto the trail is a great way to get blisters. If you do purchase new footwear, take care to make sure it’s broken in.

  • You’ll want hiking pants, long sleeve shirt (or sun hoodie), and comfortable footwear with good traction on hiking days.

    However, be aware that many of our trips require water crossings and a high likelihood of getting wet. Some guests may find water shoes to be more suitable for such trips.

    But we’re going to be real - some of our hikes are pretty darn hard! This is for a variety of reasons such as boulder hopping, bushwhacking, water crossings, and steep trails.

  • Even when backpacking during warmer months, nighttime can still get cold. In addition to your sleeping bag, wearing a warm base layer with a jacket will help protect you from the elements. Items such as wool socks, thermal underwear and a thermal shirt will go a long way in keeping you comfortable. 

    In addition, your sleeping bag, your pad, and tent will keep you insulated from the cold ground and surroundings.

  • Guests only need to bring enough water for the hike to the campsite. Typically, each person carries 2-3 liters of water. Once at camp, the guide will set up a water station for everyone to enjoy.

  • No. We will be dispersed camping only, so no facilities are available.

  • No!

    We have a very strict no firearms policy at Backpack Arizona.

Costs & Inclusions

  • • A professional, knowledgeable, and medically trained guide

    • Backpacking / camping gear

    • Meals & snacks

    • Filtered drinking water

    • Pre-trip consultation (in-person or digital)

  • • Clothing, raingear, and footwear

    • Personal toiletries, sunscreen, and bug spray

    • Water bottles / hydration bladder

  • Final cost depends on a number of factors, including trip type, duration, and outfitting needs. But a guest can expect to pay between $400 for a scheduled 2-night trip, and up to $1,800 for a private / customized extended backcountry stay (3 to 4-nights).

    We also offer discounted “ride-along” seats for guests who are able to provide their own gear and food. Availability will be dependent on trip occupancy.