I’m in my late 50s —not a gym rat but just a casual weekend hiker — was in the area for a conference by myself, and not familiar enough with the Rockies to hike alone. I wanted a guided hike with a small group. This was perfect. Two short stops on the way gave us a chance to get extra snacks and buy/rent any gear we were missing (even coats, gloves, hats, and hiking boots).
Ryan, our guide, was a deeply experienced and highly qualified naturalist who not only knew the geology, birds, mammals, plants and trees of the area, but was able to convey information with enthusiasm and terrific story-telling skills that kept everyone entertained on the drive from Denver and on our (thankfully) frequent rest stops on the trail. (Ask him about his Peace Corps experience in Ecuador, or about how he rescued Bald Eagle eggs harmed by DDT, or about living in Panama, or about training guides in Patagonia.)
On the way, we had amazing mountain views framed by stands of aspen, Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and Lodge Pole pines. The mountain weather is so local and variable that we drove through falling snow and brilliant sun. Ryan also was confident enough to make the call that his original choice of trails would not be safe and appropriate given the weather conditions and an unforeseen equipment shortage, and so he quickly pivoted and drove us to another more suitable trail — something I would never have known to do on my own. He put safety first, which was awesome. And instead of hiking in the snow, he found a trail in the sun!
The Gem Lake trail at Lumpy Ridge was absolutely lovely with spectacular views all the way, and just challenging enough for a middle-aged casual-hiker flat-lander unused to the altitude. (It is a 1.7 mile uphill switchback trail with lots of steps and rocks, but no scary exposure). Lunch (the tour provided a great sandwich from Legrain Market in Lyman) at the lake brought a chance to absorb the calm and beauty and ever-changing light.
On our return to Denver, Ryan gave us great information about local bars and restaurants. Throughout the day, he also made genuine efforts to connect with each of us, creating an easy sense of community in our little group of 9 strangers.
We spotted prairie dogs, mule deer, several species of mountain birds (pygmy nuthatch, Townsend’s Solitaire, Mountain Chickadee, ravens) and the highlight of the day: an amazing display of elk at very close range practicing their fencing skills for the spring rut. It was a fabulous day and a great break from the conference hotel!