Conditioning: Strenuous Trips

These are more expedition style trips and require more conditioning.

We will be hiking most every day with full load packs weighing about 40 lbs. Trips with this rating are generally over more challenging terrain and may include glacier crossings, steep side-hill traverses and significant mileage and/or elevation gain. Do not underestimate the effect of traveling cross country in such rugged country. A six mile hike with a full pack is relatively easy on a trail, but with no trail on rough ground the amount of energy expended rises rapidly.

You should begin your conditioning plan at least three months before your trip and include hiking or walking with a 40-50 lb. pack. Your schedule should include some weekend trips that involve full days of hiking with your pack for at least two consecutive days. Carry the pack, gear and boots on your conditioning hikes that you plan to use on your trip.

The better your level of conditioning, the more you will enjoy your trip.

Please contact us if you have any questions about the physical demands of a trip or your level of fitness.