Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking

What Should I Wear?

When considering clothing, you have to think in layers. You should be able to wear every layer that you bring at the same time. Hiking boots or sturdy trail-runners are acceptable footwear. Dressing in layers is a valid practice. You will need: lightweight wool socks, trekking pants, wicking t-shirt, wicking long sleeve shirt, light down or synthetic jacket, waterproof hard-shell jacket, waterproof hard shell pants (for rainy and windy days), lightweight gloves, warm hat and sunglasses. For time spent at camp, you may want to include synthetic base-layers.

What Size Backpack Should I Use?

Please bring a 55L-65L pack. Your pack must have a waist strap and chest strap and designed for backpacking.

Will kind of footwear should I wear?

Hiking Boots or Trail Runners.

Do I need any prior experience?

You do not need prior experience to join us! We will be sure to take your experience level into consideration when planning which route we will attempt.

Can you recommend backpacking routes for me?

We would be happy to recommend the appropriate route for you based on your goals, comfort level and experience level. Feel free to contact us for a recommendation.

Do we hike in bad weather?

We usually will go out in the rain. Lightning will reschedule or end our adventure. Please plan for all weather conditions. We may just alter the plan based on the weather forecast.

Will we need traction?

We should not see any snow or ice on our backpacking routes. If Microspikes are needed, we will provide them.

How Long are the hikes?

Completely up to you! We can arrange a backpack with 4 hour days or 8 hour days. The difficulty can be modified accordingly.

What if our route ends in a different place than it started?

We will utilize the cars of our guides and your car and place a car at the finish point. This is usually done the night before your adventure.

Am I supposed to tip my guide(s)?

Tips are never expected, however if you think your guide did a great job, tips are welcomed and appreciated. A normal tip is 20% of the guide fees or $20 per guide per day.

What happens if I damage my rental gear?

We offer rental gear insurance for $10. This covers any damage or loss that may occur to your rental gear. Without the insurance, you are responsible for the lost or damaged item(s).

How can I pay for Rental Gear?

We accept all forms of payment including cash, personal check, credit and debit cards. Rentals must be paid for beforehand or on the day of the climb.

Where should I stay the night before/after my adventure?

We recommend The Bunkhouse at Northeast Mountaineering. For your convenience, we offer co-ed, hostel-style accommodations on site. The cost is $30 per person. To maximize your outdoor experience, we recommend that you stay in the area the night before your trip.

Is there a deposit to reserve my spot on an adventure??

Due to the nature of our business, we require payment in full upon booking. Large groups are encouraged to contact us prior to booking as deposits are accepted. You will also need to complete a health form and liability waiver to participate.

Will there be people that I do not know on my adventure?

Unless you book a private climb, you will most likely be climbing with others. Don’t worry though…climbing creates bonds and friendships.

Where and when do we meet?

All NEM hiking and backpacking programs meet at 8AM sharp at The Bunkhouse at Northeast Mountaineering, which is 1 mile north of Storyland on Rt. 16 in Glen, NH.