WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE TRAIL

Daily Routine:

In addition to the Gryphon there will be one local Guide Alpina for every four to five clients. Since we will be staying in mountain lodges, there is no need for us to carry camping gear and our day packs will be relatively light.

We will get up each morning to breakfast (colazione) in the mountain lodge. This is usually a continental style meal, served cold, except for café or hot chocolate. Then we set off on our hike, we have about four to six hours of walking to cover each day. We will either stop at a mountain lodge along the way for lunch, or take a box lunch with us from our lodge.

Most days we will travel with the assistance of Via Ferrate, or Iron Roads. We will wear climbing harnesses and use two carabineers attached to rabbit ears, to attach ourselves to the via ferrata. This will allow us to ascend steel ladders to climb cliffs, and safely walk along exposed trails high in the mountains. We will arrive at our nightly accommodation late in the afternoon with enough time to relax and watch the sunsets before dinner.

As much as possible on the trip we like to take a leisurely pace. We allow plenty of time to stop and take photos or explore some of the side trails. In consideration of the safety of the group as a whole and for your own safety, we ask that you stay with the group at all times unless otherwise advised by your guide.

Weather

Weather conditions during the summer in the Dolomites are relatively stable. Temperatures during the day are between 60-80F, and 45-60F at night. However, as with any alpine environment sudden weather changes are possible and you will be much more exposed to storm conditions.

We will be hiking each day rain or shine, unless the guides decide that the weather conditions make it unsafe.

Fitness Level

This trip can be enjoyed by almost anyone! If you regularly engage in some sort of physical labor or aerobic exercise at work or play, then this trip is possible for you.

You will be expected to load and unload your own gear, carry a full daypack, containing all your clothes and personal items, and participate in long day-hikes. We will not be covering large distances each day, but the terrain is uneven and will include climbing up and down long ladders.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your physical ability and the demands of this trip please contact us and we will be glad to help you out.

Conservation

It has always been our motto that "we take only photographs and leave only footprints", and we hope that you will try to help us achieve our goal of keeping our impact to a minimum. Each environment that we travel in has specific environmental concerns and your guides will discuss these local issues and minimal impact practices on the trip. Fortunately for us, the mountain lodges will take care of disposing of most of our waste for us.

Guide Alpinas

The Italian Guides we use are certified to European standards that American mountain guides are still aspiring too. Most of them speak English, and/or German, as well as Italian. They have many years of experience in the areas of the Dolomites that we will be visiting, and an exemplary safety record.

Eating and Drinking

The mountain lodges in which we stay host some of the best restaurants in Italy. Breakfast usually consists of sliced meat and cheese, fresh fruit, and occasionally muesli (cereal). Lunches will be sandwiches most days, with a large dinner consisting of two courses; soup or pasta, followed by an entree (usually meat or fish).

Most dietary considerations can be met, and vegetarians are easily accommodated with tasty fare.

Alcohol

Hard alcohol, and beer where available, are not included in the price of the trip. Wine, which no Italian meal is complete without, is included.

Medical Matters

Your guides will carry a comprehensive medical kit for any accidents that may occur. It is your responsibility to bring sufficient quantities of any specific medications you require.

Please advise the guides of medications you will be carrying. Advise us of any side effects of any medication you take and of any dietary requirements related to taking them. Be sure to let your group leader know of any drugs to which you are allergic. You will be isolated from modern medical facilities, so attention to medical matters is vital.

Vaccinations

Generally speaking, there are no specific vaccinations required for travel to Italy, however it is always wise to consult your doctor or Travelers Medical Center with any questions or concerns. Due to the chance of cuts and scratches on the trail, we strongly advise that you be up to date with your Tetanus vaccine.

Dental

Due to the remoteness of our trips it is advisable to have a check-up before departure.