Most Inspirational Moment
Waking up everyday to sunshine and knowing that each hike was going be special. Here it was the second week of October and hiking in shorts and a short sleeve shirt. Six weeks earlier I had done the Tour Du Mont Blanc in rain and snow. How exhilarating to actually see mountains at their finest.
Thoughts on Group Leader
We had 24 hikers and 2 guides--that was a first for me on an Exodus trip. It turned out to be a great idea. Our leaders--Jeff Oonk and Jenny Smith--on a daily basis put together 2 separate hikes that offered us an option of scenery and challenge. We would meet up somewhere on the trail and finish out the day together. They put a lot of thought and effort into planning our hikes and it was great to have a choice depending on your hiking mood for the day. They were some of the best leaders I have ever walked with.
Advice for Potential Travellers
I totally agree with my fellow walker, Mala, and her comments. It is a 3+ hike and more so if the trail became wet or muddy. The trails we were on had a lot of up and down portions plus loose scree and slabs of rocks. Poles were a must and if need be could be borrowed from the hotel. Having the right boot and sock combination is always a must. Your feet have to be toughened up for these kind of trips--more blisters than I have ever witnessed.
Suggestions
This was my first Premium Adventure Trip with Exodus. The Hotel Alder was one of the best hotels I have stayed in, period. I opted for a room upgrade and I was blown away by the features and the view. The hotel staff were outstanding and they really looked out for you. We were the last guests of the season and the hotel was going to close down for a period before reopening for the winter but the service never let down.