Kesugi Ridge Multiday Backpacking Tour Review

The Kesugi Ridge Multiday Backpacking Tour promises an unforgettable wilderness adventure in the stunning landscapes of Anchorage, Alaska. With a challenging 29.2-mile trek and significant elevation gain, this guided experience tests the limits of even the most seasoned hikers. But for those willing to push their boundaries, the rewards of breathtaking vistas and a true sense of accomplishment await. Let’s explore what makes this tour a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an exceptional backcountry challenge.

Good To Know

• Challenging 29.2-mile backpacking tour in Anchorage, Alaska, with an elevation gain of 8,000 to 9,000 feet, requiring strong fitness and preparation.
• Guided by certified professionals, the tour includes meals, gear, and transportation, making it a comprehensive and convenient adventure.
• Mandatory questionnaire and waiver ensure participant suitability, while free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour provides flexibility.
• Varied terrain with potential scrambling and limited exposure hazards, making it not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions or pregnant individuals.
• Recommended training regimen of hiking, strength training, cardio, and yoga to maintain a steady pace and energy management for the challenging hike.

Overview of the Kesugi Ridge Multiday Backpacking Tour

The Kesugi Ridge Multiday Backpacking Tour is a challenging adventure that takes hikers through the stunning backcountry of Anchorage, Alaska.

Spanning 29.2 miles with an elevation gain of 8,000 to 9,000 feet, this tour requires a strong fitness level and thorough preparation.

Over the course of 5-8 hours of travel per day, groups of up to 8 travelers will navigate through rugged terrain, including possible scrambling, limited exposure hazards, and harsh weather conditions.

Guided by certified professionals, this tour provides an all-encompassing experience, including meals, gear, and educational support to guarantee a safe and memorable journey.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Hikers meet at The Boardroom – tBR @ Depot, located at 721 Depot Dr, Anchorage, AK 99501.

The tour starts promptly at 6:00 AM. Transportation to and from the trailheads is provided. Hikers return to the same meeting point at the end of the tour.

The guide leads the group and guarantees everyone has the necessary gear. Participants must complete a mandatory questionnaire to assess their suitability for the trip. A participation waiver is also required before departure.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Included Tour Features

The tour includes a meal plan that goes beyond freeze-dried options, providing participants with fresh and nutritious food during the multi-day hike.

Shelters and group gear are supplied, eliminating the need to purchase or rent specialized equipment.

Rental options for backpacks, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads are available for those who don’t own their gear.

Base layers can be purchased, ensuring everyone has the proper clothing for the conditions.

A certified guide with wilderness first aid training leads the group, providing in-depth preparation and education for the multi-day backpacking adventure.

Physical and Health Requirements

Strong fitness levels are required for the Kesugi Ridge Multiday Backpacking Tour. Participants must be in excellent physical condition to handle the 29.2-mile hike with 8,000 to 9,000 feet of elevation gain.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, heart issues, or serious medical conditions. Pregnant individuals should also avoid this strenuous adventure.

The trails can be challenging, with potential scrambling, limited exposure hazards, and harsh weather. Preparedness is key – travelers must train and condition themselves before the hike.

A mandatory questionnaire helps assess each person’s suitability for the trek.

Gear and Clothing Considerations

Although the tour provides shelters and group gear, travelers have the option to rent backpacks, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads. This allows those without their own gear to participate.

The company also offers base layers for purchase, ensuring everyone is properly outfitted. Guided by a certified expert with wilderness training, the tour emphasizes in-depth preparation for multi-day backpacking.

Travelers must complete a mandatory questionnaire to assess their suitability, as the challenging terrain and harsh conditions require a strong fitness level.

With these considerations in mind, the Kesugi Ridge Multiday Backpacking Tour is well-equipped to support adventurous hikers.

Preparation and Training

Prospective hikers must train and condition themselves before starting on the Kesugi Ridge Multiday Backpacking Tour. This strenuous hike requires a strong fitness level. To prepare, participants should engage in a thorough training regimen. The guide provides a suggested training program to help hikers get ready.

Exercise	Frequency	Duration
Hiking	3x/week	2-3 hrs
Strength	2x/week	45 mins
Cardio	2x/week	30 mins
Yoga	1x/week	60 mins
Rest	1x/week	–

Following this plan will guarantee hikers are ready to tackle the challenging terrain and elevation gains of the Kesugi Ridge.

Trail Conditions and Challenges

The Kesugi Ridge Multiday Backpacking Tour presents hikers with a variety of trail conditions that require careful navigation and preparation.

Participants can expect scrambling over rocky terrain, traversing narrow ridgelines with exposure, and dealing with poor trail conditions. Weather is unpredictable and can be harsh, with the potential for high winds, rain, and snow even in summer.

Proper equipment, training, and physical fitness are essential to manage these challenges safely. Hikers must be comfortable with route-finding, crossing streams, and ascending and descending steep slopes.

Maintaining a steady pace and managing energy levels are key to completing this demanding backcountry adventure.

Feedback and Ratings

Reviewers consistently praise the Kesugi Ridge Multiday Backpacking Tour, having rated it a perfect 5.0 out of 5 based on a single review.

The tour operator carefully vets the reviews to ascertain authenticity and high-quality feedback. Travelers commend the knowledgeable and attentive guides who enhance the overall experience.

They highlight the well-organized logistics, delicious meals, and superior gear provided. Despite the physical challenges, hikers feel a profound sense of accomplishment after conquering the ridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The weather can be harsh and unpredictable. Hikers may encounter rain, wind, and even snow during the tour, regardless of the season. Proper preparation and layering of clothing are essential to guarantee comfort and safety throughout the hike.

Can I Bring My Own Personal Items on the Hike?

Yes, travelers can bring their own personal items on the hike. The tour provides a gear list and allows participants to bring their own backpacks, sleeping bags, and other essential items, as long as they meet the specified requirements.

How Experienced Do the Tour Guides Have to Be?

The tour guides must be highly experienced, with certifications in wilderness first response, CPR, and EPI-pen training. They’re tasked with leading the group safely through rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions, so their expertise is essential for a successful and enjoyable trip.

Can I Bring My Own Food or Snacks on the Hike?

Participants can bring their own food and snacks on the hike. The tour includes a provided meal plan, but hikers are welcome to supplement with their own items if desired. It’s a good idea to check with the tour operator about any restrictions or recommendations.

Is There Cell Phone Coverage Throughout the Trail?

There is limited cell phone coverage throughout the trail. The remote wilderness location means coverage may be spotty or unavailable, so hikers should be prepared to disconnect and rely on other navigation and communication methods during the backpacking trip.

The Sum Up

The Kesugi Ridge Multiday Backpacking Tour offers an unforgettable adventure for avid hikers. It’s a challenging 29.2-mile trek with significant elevation gain, but the stunning Alaskan scenery and expert guidance make it an experience worth the effort. Participants must be in excellent physical condition, but the tour’s included features and support guarantee a safe and enjoyable journey through this breathtaking landscape.