Overview
Type
Multi-Day Hike
Duration
2 days, 1 night
Distance
8-10 kms/day
Elevation
Up to 500 m
Difficulty
Moderate
Price
$399 per person
STill HAVE Questions?
Before you book
Note: This is a general outline of what your day could look like — the specific trail and pace could be customized for your group and the day’s conditions.
Details
Is this hike for me?
Yes, if you're a strong day hiker ready to try your first overnight backpacking trip, this program is designed just for you. First Steps: Intro to Backpacking is ideal for those with good fitness and a sense of adventure, but no prior backpacking experience is necessary. If you’ve ever wondered how to take your love of hiking to the next level, this is your chance to do it with support, guidance, and a great group.
Hike Difficulty: Moderate Hike
What is included?
Pre-trip Zoom session with your guide (1–2 hours)
Professional ACMG-certified guide
Small group experience for personalized support
Group gear (tents, stoves, fuel, water treatment, bear hang system, etc.)
Trail meals (dinner, breakfast, snacks, and coffee/tea)
Emergency communication device
First aid kit and bear safety gear
Tech talks and hands-on instruction throughout the trip
Support from trailhead to tent – every step of the way
Note: A detailed gear list will be provided. You’ll need to bring your personal gear (sleeping bag, backpack, etc.), but we’re happy to help you rent or borrow what you need.
What do I bring?
Every multi-day trip is a bit different. Figuring out what to pack for a beginner can be daunting. Often times people “pack for their fears”…We’ve seen shower caps and volleyball knee pads…seriously. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We will send you a full and detailed list of what to pack with your booking making sure you are comfortable for you trip.
Don’t have the gear you need? Guess what, we do. Playwest has a fully equipped rental fleet ready to help you fill the need. This is a great way to “Try before you buy”. Like we said…we’ve got you covered.
How many people are in the group?
This program is capped at 6 participants to ensure a supportive, personalized, and low-impact learning experience.
Are there age restrictions?
Most of our hikes are designed for ages 12 and up due to the duration and terrain. We welcome younger adventurers on private or custom tours. Just reach out to discuss the best fit for your group.
How do I sign up?
You can reserve your spot for First Steps: Intro to Backpacking through our online booking system, and we’ll guide you through the rest!
If you don’t see an available date for a hike you are interested in. Please contact us as we may be able to arrange an alternative date for you.
Making the shift from day hiking to backpacking and backcountry camping can be intimidating. Trust us we know. We all have to start somewhere. First Steps: Intro to Backpacking is a great place to start, where our guides will help you with everything from trailhead to tent. This program is jam-packed with information and instruction to help set you up for success and give you the fundamentals to planning and executing a successful multi-day backpacking trip. You will learn the following and more:
Small groups – We make sure you get personalized service!
Pre-Trip Planning & Organization – How to plan for a trip.
What gear you will need and how to use it.
Leave No Trace – Learn ways to keep your impact to a minimum.
Food – What should we eat? How do we cook it?
Intro to navigation – map reading, etc.
Tech talks – Let's chat gear!
and so much more!
Part of the program is a pre-trip info session to help you prepare for the trip. This is a 1-2 hour Zoom call with your guide to go over packing, pre-trip planning and a few other key pieces of info to set you up for success.
Jump into the next faze of your hiking adventures with Playwest, you won’t be sorry!
First Steps: Backpacking for Beginners
Ready to level up from day hikes to your first multi-day backpacking adventure? First Steps: Intro to Backpacking is the perfect way to get started. With small groups, expert guides, and hands-on learning from trailhead to tent, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to take your first overnight backcountry hiking trips – without the guesswork.
What the Playwest Adventurers Say
Testimonials
Rated 5 stars on Google
Chris led us through some stunning hikes around the Invermere area. I really appreciated all of the guidance and tips on how to navigate more challenging terrain, including steep slopes and icy paths. Chris is extremely knowledgeable about the area and its geology, flora and fauna, so we learned a lot on each hike. He is a fabulous guide and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Playwest!
Michelle K
Google - 5 Stars
Chris guided us on our Sunsets & Fondue experience on Mt. Sansea. It exceeded our expectations!!!!! We met Chris at the lower parking lot & he drove us up to the upper lot in his Yukon--somewhat bumpy at times but still comfortable. He expertly shared hiking strategies & encouragement for steep sections going up & coming down with headlamps in the dark--2 78 year olds & a 64 year old with vision limitations. The sunset & the fondue was spectacular. We toasted 56 years of marriage!! Thanks, Chris for your expertise & hospitality. Excellent fondue!!
Marilyn W
Google - 5 Stars
My husband and I had an epic day hiking Pedley Pass with Chris! I was a bit nervous leading up to the trailhead, and appreciated being checked in on. We felt super safe on the trail and definitely jived with Chris’ sense of humour. He really gave us confidence on the trail and made it a memorable day! We’ll for sure be booking a guided hike with Chris again in the future.
Cindy L
Google - 5 Stars
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