FAQ
What are the age requirements?
How old do I have to be to participate in a CMV trip?
Crazy Mountain Ventures trips are designed for Middle School and High School students. The minimum age to participate is twelve (12).
Do I need prior hiking or backpacking experience to participate in a CMV trip?
No! We will teach you everything you need to know about how to hike and camp in the backcountry.
What do I need to bring with me on the trip?
Do I need to have all of my own gear to participate in a CMV trip?
With the exception of hiking boots, clothing, and rain gear, Crazy Mountain Ventures can provide all of the necessary camping gear. However, if you would like to bring your own camping gear, that is great.
Personal Gear ListWhat footwear should I wear when backpacking?
Sturdy hiking boots are required for hiking in the Crazies.
See our gear list for more info here:
Personal Gear ListCan I take my cellphone on my CMV trip? Camera?
Cell phones are not allowed on Crazy Mountain Ventures trips. There is no service in the mountains, and one of our goals is to escape the distractions of regular life while out on the trail.
Cameras will be allowed, but they must be lightweight and packable — remember, you will have to carry them with you at all times on the trail.
Can I contact my family while I am on the trip?
There will be direct communication with your family once the trip is over. However, your guides will send out daily updates via Garmin InReach.
Where will I go to the bathroom?
There are no toilets in the backcountry; you will learn to go to the bathroom outside, following the Leave No Trace principles.
Who are the
instructors / staff / guides?
The Crazy Mountain Ventures guides are a team of experienced outdoor leaders who will ensure that your trip in the Crazies is a fun, educational, and safe adventure.
Meet the staff here:
Staff / GuidesWhat if I get injured or sick on the trip?
Depending on the specific issue, we will either treat it in the field or evacuate you from the field to get treatment from doctors in town. All instructors are highly trained in backcountry medicine and decision-making in emergency scenarios.
Please see our Safety Page for detailed information on how we stay safe in the backcountry:
SafetyWhat if it rains or snows?
While the weather is beautiful most days in the Crazies, intermittent rain is not uncommon during the summer. We will have all the gear necessary to hike and camp in the rain. It can get chilly at night, but snow is unlikely during July and August
What will we eat on our trip?
On all Crazy Mountain Ventures trips, participants have the tools, ingredients, and instruction to cook delicious, hearty backcountry meals. Some examples are burritos, mac and cheese, cinnamon rolls, and pizza!
What if I have food allergies or am gluten-free?
Each participant will fill out a medical form before their trip to alert us to any dietary restrictions. We will make whatever accommodations are necessary to eat delicious and safe meals while in the backcountry.
How is food stored in the backcountry?
In the backcountry, we use a "critter hang" to store our food overnight. Essentially, this means we hang it up in a tree, away from camp, to keep it out of reach of any hungry animals.
How far in advance do I need to book a trip?
We require trips to be booked two weeks before the start date. This allows us time to ensure we have all the necessary information to best serve you and for participants to acquire the gear they might want before a trip.
What's your cancellation policy?
What if I get injured or sick before the trip?
A trip must be canceled (10) days before its start date for a full refund. Any trip canceled within (10) days of the start date will be refunded 50% of the total price.
Can I send my kids with their friends?
Absolutely! A backcountry adventure is a great way to strengthen friendships.