ALPINE ADVENTURES
ADVENTURE
Self-Guided 5-Day Mini-Treks
Choosing the Right Trip for You 13 Guide to Selecting Your Next Adventure
Inspired Cuisine
First-Class Accommodations 16 Taking a Closer Look at Huts
17 Five Reasons Why You Should Book a Guided Trek
Self-Guided Travel 19 Guided Travel & Private-Guided Travel
GUIDED: EASY TO MODERATE HIKING
20 Highlights of Switzerland: Engadine, Lago Maggiore, and Zermatt
22 England: The Cotswolds
24 Wales: Countryside, Castles, and Coastline
26 Cornwall England: Cornish Coastal Path
28 Heart of Austria
30 Scotland: Highlands and Islands
32 Montenegro and Croatia: Highlights of the Adriatic Coast
34 Sicily: The Aeolian Islands
36 Sedona, Arizona Trek
38 Highlights of Italy: Courmayeur, Cogne, and Champoluc
GUIDED: MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING
40 Northern Greece: Hike the Epirus Mountains
42 Corsica: French Isle Adventure Trek
44 Italian Dolomites Trek
46 French Alps: Chamonix Mont Blanc to Val d’Isère
48 Portugal: The Southwestern Scenic Coastal Trek
50 Italian Dolomites: Lago di Braies, Fanes Wilderness, and Alta Badia
52 Appenzell to Liechtenstein: Discover the Hidden Alps
54 Italian Lakes District: Varenna, Menaggio, Lenno, Bellagio, and Como
56 High Peaks of Bavaria and Tyrol
58 Argentine Patagonia: The Lakes District
60 Engadine Trek
62 Rocky Mountain High Life: Aspen to Telluride
64 Peru: The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
66 Morocco: Atlas Mountains Trek
68 Hiker’s Haute Route
70 Haute Pyrénées Mountain Trek: From France to Spain
72 Tour du Mont Blanc
GUIDED: CHALLENGING HIKING
74 Iceland: The Remote Westfjords
76 Eiger Trail
78 Norway: The Islands of Lofoten
80 Matterhorn Trek
TRAVEL OPTIONS
82 Tried-and-True: Favorite Self-Guided Treks
85 Self-Guided 5-Day Mini-Treks and Easygoing Treks Schedules
86 Guided and Self-Guided Schedules
88 Choosing the Best Hiking Shoe Guide and Packing List
90 Wander Wise: A Guide to Safety on Trails and in Lightning Storms
MEET OUR TEAM
PETER WALKER – Founder : Peter founded RyderWalker in 1984 after guiding hiking trips in the Alps for seven years. He is an AMGA Legacy Guide, a PSIA Certified Level 3 alpine, telemark and snowboard instructor and, most importantly, the man that keeps everything moving forward at Ryder-Walker.
SUZANNE FRIEDMAN – Lead Operations Specialist: Suzanne loves to travel, experience different cultures, and see the gorgeous natural wonders that this planet has to offer. Her experience working for a safari and Kilimanjaro tour operator prepared her for the Ryder-Walker team. When Suzanne is not working, she can be found hiking with her dog Fritzel, kayaking, playing ice hockey, and performing her original music at local open mic nights.
CHARLOTTE MANIER – Operations Specialist: Charlotte was born and raised around the Alps. The mountains have been her playground since early on, shaping her love for the outdoors. She has traveled and lived in many countries. Telluride has been her home for 10 years. She enjoys skiing, playing hockey, hiking, biking, and fly fishing with her son and dog. She also enjoys a good dance party! Big Pasta Lover!
BARBARA (BABSI) GLANZNIG – Production/Guide:
Babsi’s love for the outdoors began in her homeland of Austria. When she is not traveling to teach or practice Ashtanga Yoga, she loves exploring the wilderness of south-western Colorado together with her husband and precious dog JoJo. In 2021, she started Glânz Ghee in Telluride.
BRANFORD WALKER – Customer Service Specialist/ Staff Writer: Since the age of three, Branford has either participated in the development of or been on most of the treks Ryder-Walker has to offer. He works in customer service and as a staff writer, and spent seven years co-guiding trips. Branford currently lives in New York.
ALLEY RUBADEAU – Digital Marketing: Alley is a marketing pro with over 10 years of experience, diving deep into analytics to help businesses make smart decisions and keeping their websites running smoothly. She lives in Boulder, where she spends her free time trail running, skiing, doing yoga, traveling, and hanging out with her husband, two kids, and their golden retriever.
KRISTAL FRANKLIN – Graphic Artist : Kristal was born in Telluride and has lived in multiple areas throughout Colorado for most of her life. She began designing for Ryder-Walker in 2014. In her free time, she and her husband Jon love to travel, play golf, go camping and hiking and spend time with their two pups, Sophie and Ruby.
EILEEN BURNS – VP Marketing & Operations:
Eileen joined Ryder-Walker over a decade ago and has lived in Telluride over 25 years. With a lifetime devoted to sports and adventure travel, she enjoys blending creative thinking with marketing expertise and operational efficiency. She loves to mountain bike, skate ski, hike and camp with her family, and when possible, her dog Delilah (16 yrs) is always at her side.
JULIET WHITFIELD – Operations Specialist: Juliet lived in Telluride for 25 years then Durango, CO for 8, and has been full-time RVing since 2015, exploring the US. She travels with her pup Junie. Being in nature is her #1 priority each day; she loves to hike, bike, and explore new places with Junie. Not all who wander are lost!
KAREN JAMES – Lead Production Specialist : Karen’s idea of a perfect vacation is an all-day hike somewhere spectacular followed by a hot shower, locally authentic meal, and a cozy night’s sleep – all while someone else deals with her luggage! So she’s beyond thrilled to be helping others do the same with Ryder-Walker. In her down time she can be found skiing or hiking with her family on the trails around Telluride.
TERESE BRODERICK – Lead Customer Service Specialist: Born and raised in Telluride, Colorado, Terese’s love of the outdoors was innate. At 15 years old she spent a year abroad in Austria and gained a love for the German language and homemade strudel. Terese is currently based in Breckenridge, where she enjoys yoga, going for backcountry ski laps with her partner and boy, as well as the occasional happy hour.
MELANIE EGGERS – Customer Service Specialist: Guided by a former career in resort property marketing, Melanie freelances for various businesses including Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventures. She co-founded an heirloom orchard restoration project on the Western Slope of Colorado called the Apple Core Project. She loves to ski, mountain bike, and climb with her family and dog Frank.
HEIDI LAUTERBACH – Digital Marketing: Heidi Lauterbach founded Mountain Air Media in 2014 and has been immersed in the complex world of marketing ever since. Her love for adventuring in the mountains aligns perfectly with helping outdoor brands dominate their marketing initiatives. Her mantra? Work hard, play hard.
MELANIE KRANZ – Finance: Melanie has been working for Ryder-Walker since 2016. When she is not “running the books” she can be found running the trails, her household of three teenagers, three cats, two dogs and a mouse. Melanie alongside her husband Sam and family reside in Bluff, Utah.
MEET OUR GUIDES
KEN FUHRER – LEAD GUIDE: Ken has been leading hiking trips in Europe since 1996. He is certified in Wilderness First Responder and is a fully certified ski and snowboard instructor. He teaches skiing and guides trips in the backcountry at Telluride ski resort and in his free time climbs big alpine peaks and skis down them with Wiener Schnitzel in his back pocket. He has an uncanny ability to meet local people wherever he travels.
NIKOLA MARKOVIČ – LEAD GUIDE: Nikola is a wellrounded and well-versed guide with more than ten years of experience in adventure sports. Growing up in unsettling times in the Balkans, he enjoyed mountaineering and taking part in expeditions to trail mark the vast and less known range of the Southern, Dinaric Alps. He speaks impeccable English and German and is the father of two adorable children.
MADDIE CROWELL: Maddie was born and raised in Telluride, CO. Growing up with the San Juans in her backyard, she has always had a work hard, play hard mentality. In the winters Maddie guides locally as a cat-skiing guide for the Cimarron Mountain Club and in the backcountry for Mountain Trip. Whether it’s finding the best local snack shop or sharing a mountain picnic, Maddie is excited to adventure with you!
DEANNA CYRAN: Deanna grew up in the Appalachia mountains of Pennsylvania. She relocated to Telluride Colorado for bigger mountains and more sunshine. An adventurer by day, and a certified sommelier by night, she enjoys skiing, meandering through the forest, and climbing peaks. No matter where she is, Deanna aims to provide people with worldly experiences through food and wine, friendly locals and above all, nature.
WILLI GLANZNIG: This Powder 8 ski champion hails from a small country hamlet in Austria. Guided by his love for the outdoors, Willi traveled the world, hiking, skiing, and climbing before landing at RyderWalker. He brings an infectious passion and humor to the team. Willi has also just acquired Ryder-Walker subsidiary Telluride Mountain Guides.
ACE KVALE: As one of the world’s top adventure photographers, Ace has traveled to more than 60 countries. He has participated in 26 expeditions to Asia and the Himalaya. His work has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Sports Illustrated, and Climbing. Ace is a longtime friend of the Ryder-Walker family, and is available to guide private treks to Markha Valley, Nepal, and Bhutan.
ROGAN O’HERLIHY: Rogan hails from the quaint countryside of the Cotswolds, England. His childhood amongst its oak trees and quiet villages provided him with a love for England and its outdoors. Now a seasoned pro, Rogan is looking forward to sharing this love for his homeland with guests who join us on the new Cornwall, England: Cornish Coastal Path, Cotswolds and Rob Roy Way tours.
DAVE GRUSS – LEAD GUIDE: Whether on Denali, Aconcagua, in the American West or the heart of Europe, Dave (aka “the nicest guy on earth”) makes guiding his lifetime career. When not leading hiking treks for RyderWalker, he is busy with Global Gravel Adventures, his international gravel bike touring company. A jack of all trades, Dave is equally comfortable on a lofty summit, in the saddle, or standing thigh deep in water luring cutthroat.
DAVE NESIS – LEAD GUIDE: Dave lives in the small historic mining town of Rico, just south of Telluride, where he enjoys the mountain trails straight from his front door. You will find him trail running, climbing, and skiing 5-days a week. Dave also leads groups of high school students internationally throughout Central and South America, and is a mountain guide on Denali in Alaska.
JULIE HODSON: Julie, a Telluride Colorado resident with over 20 years of guiding experience, grew up in Wisconsin enjoying family ski trips and outdoor adventures. She’s has spent significant time in the Alaska mountains, and has guided Denali. She volunteers with San Miguel Search and Rescue as a certified EMT. Her passions include global travel, dogs, and connecting with people.
ELSA GIUMELLI: Elsa was born in a small Italian village at the foot of the Central Alps. She has hiked and climbed in the Central Alps, Dolomites, France and South America. In 2017, Elsa became a certified hiking guide of Collegio Guide Alpine della Lombardia converting her passion to a career. Elsa looks forward to helping you discover the beauty and magic of the Alps!
LYN GRUSS: Hailing from the Bay Area and being an ex-collegiate soccer player, Lyn has always been an athlete. She is a 25+ year Telluride area local and is well acquainted with hitting the high mountain trails. Over the years she has been a partner in many Gruss family exploits with her husband Dave, also a RyderWalker guide.
ERIK LARSEN: A native of the Pacific Northwest, Erik shared both parents’ passions of gardening, hiking, and skiing. These days, summers are spent on the trails and in the garden, while winters he is a safety manager and avalanche dog handler on the Telluride Ski Patrol. His excitement for the mountains keeps him busy year-round by guiding clients locally and internationally, whether that be on skis or on foot.
ASTRID RENET: Astrid lives in Passy, France and is very passionate about nature and sports. She loves to share her passions with others, and pushes her own limits through trail racing, and mountain climbing. A graduate of busiess school in Paris, she worked six years for International Trail Associates. Her free time is spent exploring new trails and peaks along with cooking, dancing, music and culture.
AWARD WINNING
Travel + Leisure named us a “Stand Out Specialist” for hiking. National Geographic named us one of the “Top Ten Best Outfitters on the Planet.” Telluride Magazine named us “Telluride’s Ultimate Adventure Company,” and we’ve received numerous mentions in the New York Times, USA Today, the Washington Post and Outside Magazine, just to name a few.
TREKKING SPECIALISTS
Since 1984, Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventures has crafted personalized hiking treks through stunning landscapes. Whether private, small group, or selfguided tours, we bring your dream adventures to life.
METICULOUS
DETAIL
We take care of everything, from lodging to luggage transfers to providing the perfect hikes. You simply walk with a daypack and leave your cares behind.
FIRST CLASS ACCOMMODATIONS
We choose inns that capture the character of a village, from charming chalets to historic grand hotels. Whether it’s luxurious accommodations or secluded mountain huts, we have a personal connection with every property.
INSPIRED CUISINE
Cuisine is key at our accommodations, offering the finest in regional and gourmet dishes with creative menus, local wines, and beverages served up by acclaimed chefs including Gault Millau and Michelin.
CELEBRATING MOUNTAINS, MILESTONES, AND LIFELONG FRIENDSHIPS
This September, as we trekked alongside glacial rivers, the stories and champagne flowed just as freely! On Ryder-Walker’s 40th Jubiläum Trek, we celebrated not only the stunning peaks but also the incredible friendships we’ve built along the way. It was an unforgettable adventure in every sense!
As we kicked off our 40th Anniversary Trek, I had the amazing opportunity to join Peter Walker and long-time lead guide Ken Fuhrer in welcoming 28 wonderful guests—along with our two incredible Ryder-Walker guides, Dave Gruss and Julie Hodson! Together, we set off on an unforgettable adventure in the Engadine region of Switzerland. For those who couldn’t join us, we hope this recap offers a glimpse into our celebratory journey and sparks your own wanderlust for future adventures with Ryder-Walker. Remember, our next Jubiläum Trek is only five years away!
This past September, we gathered in the enchanting village of Klosters, Switzerland, where we spent our first two nights at the charming Chesa Grischuna. This beautiful hotel, a perfect blend of local craftsmanship and 1930s flair, set the tone for an amazing week ahead. With smiles and rain gear in tow, everyone eagerly hit the trails, embracing the thrill of our first two hikes in the region, even amidst the intermittent showers. Afterward, we made our way to the historic lower Engadine village of Guarda and the unforgettable Hotel Meisser, where the owners and longtime Ryder-Walker friends, Benno and Maya Meisser, threw us a party for the ages—complete with cakes, sparklers, balloons, and champagne! Our evenings there were filled with laughter, memories, and several toasts to 40 incredible years of trekking adventures, while our days were spent enjoying the pristine trails and surrounding mountains. A highlight was waking up to see the Silvretta range dusted with snow and then navigating the foot-plus drifts along our trek that blustery day.
We then transferred to the stunning upper Engadine valley, and just when we thought the week couldn’t get any more memorable, something magical happened. Right below the Segantini Hut, at 8,960 feet above Pontresina, one of our guests strolled out to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking St. Moritz with his girlfriend and got down on one knee— she said yes! Amid cheers and tears, the champagne flowed again!
After the grand proposal, we spent the night at the aptly named Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl. It was serene, overlooking the Pontresina Valley with views of the Bernina Massif. The starlit sky above made it feel as though we were on top of the world.
Ending our special trek with two nights at the 5-star, Grand Hotel Kronenhof was intentional, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Originally built in 1848, the hotel boasts a grand facade and elegant architecture that showcases classic Alpine style. Nestled in the charming village of Pontresina and surrounded by majestic mountains, including the iconic Piz Bernina, it offers breathtaking views of the Alps and a world-class spa. On our final day, some of our group ventured to the majestic Morteratsch Glacier, while others enjoyed a more leisurely day exploring the ritzy village of St. Moritz and the laid-back, charming village of Sils Maria.
This Anniversary Trek was special in so many ways, but the most important aspect was our honored guests—many of whom we now call friends and family. A few have been hiking with us since the very beginning, and many more have participated in countless trips over the years, while some were completely new to Ryder-Walker, embarking on their inaugural trek. The blend of charming villages, outstanding accommodations, adventure, celebration, and romance made this journey unforgettable in countless ways.
For a final toast, we say, “Here’s to many more anniversaries, milestones, and memories for our guests on the trails ahead! Thank you all for your support.”
Written by: Eileen Burns
NEW TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR 2025
PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS
You will need a valid passport for international travel. Please ensure that your passport expiration date is at least 6 months after your date of return. Contact your local post office for details on how to acquire or renew a passport.
NEW ETIAS MANDATORY REQUIREMENT
FOR EUROPEAN TRAVEL IN 2025
Starting in 2025, European travelers will need to obtain what is called ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System).*
WHAT IS ETIAS?
ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization system, for travelers on short-term stays, from visaexempt countries, including the U.S., entering the Schengen Area of Europe.
WHO NEEDS ETIAS?
All non-EU nationals from visa-exempt countries, including U.S. citizens, traveling to the Schengen Zone for short stays (up to 90 days) will need an approved ETIAS before their trip.
COUNTRIES REQUIRING ETIAS:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
HOW TO APPLY?
Visit ETIAS official website etias.com/etiasapplication. The application process is simple, requiring personal, travel, and security-related information.
COST AND VALIDITY
ETIAS will cost 7 Euros or approximately $8 per person, and once approved, it will be valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, allowing for multiple trips to Europe during its validity period.
PROCESSING TIME
Most ETIAS applications will be processed within minutes, but it’s advised to apply at least 72 hours before departure to avoid any delays.
NEW ETA MANDATORY REQUIREMENT FOR TRAVEL TO THE UNITED KINGDOM IN 2025 Starting in 2025, all travelers who enter or transit through the United Kingdom will need to obtain what is called an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization).*
WHAT IS ETA?
The UK’s ETA scheme will require some people to apply in advance for a digital permission to travel to the UK. It is similar to the USA’s ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
WHO NEEDS ETAS?
Non-visa nationals who are transitioning or traveling to the UK (including Northern Ireland) without a visa will need an ETA. Non-visa nationals include U.S. citizens, EU/EEA/Swiss, Australian and Canadian nationals. Non-visa national children of any age must have their own ETA before traveling to the UK.
HOW TO APPLY?
Visit ETA official website gov.uk/guidance/applyfor-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta. The application process is simple, requiring personal, travel, and security-related information. There is a YouTube video with instructions on how to apply: youtube.com/watch?v=uG1zaOMl63M
COST AND VALIDITY
ETA will cost £10 or approximately $12.75 per person, and once approved, it will be valid for two years or to the expiry date of the applicant’s passport, whichever is sooner. The ETA is valid for multiple visits to the UK.
PROCESSING TIME
It will normally take up to three working days. In many cases it will be quicker. If further checks are needed it could take longer.
GENERAL INFORMATION
EARLY REGISTRATION
Early registration is recommended since many preferred inns fill up early. All tours are subject to availability. Last minute booking fees will apply.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
• Guided and Self-Guided tours require a $500 deposit per person.
• PRIVATE-GUIDED tours require 25% of the total cost as a deposit per person.
• Final payment is due 90 days prior to the start date of your trip.
• Bookings within 90 days of the tour’s starting date must pay deposit upon signing up, and final balance once accommodations are confirmed.
• Prices are quoted in U.S. Dollars and all payments must be made as such. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, checks, and wire transfers.
• Late arrivals and early departures from any trip are not refundable.
• Upon receipt of your deposit, you will receive a confirmation email and invoice receipt along with a portal website link containing mandatory waivers and releases for you to sign, and travel insurance information.
• Final payment is due 90 days prior to your start date. A final balance invoice is sent prior to the due date.
FINAL PACKAGE
• Final trek information is sent approximately 30 days prior to departure.
• All travelers receive daily itineraries, gateway travel instructions, cultural information, packing/ equipment list and more.
• Self-Guided travelers receive additional on the trail information with daily hike descriptions and GPX map files, as well as transfer information when applicable.
• Last minute registrations follow an expedited timeline and additional charges including FedEx charges may apply.
HOW DO I BOOK A TRIP
• Visit the Ryder-Walker website at ryderwalker. com/booking and sign up directly by choosing the trek you are interested in and click on Book Now, or call +1 970-728-6481 / 888-586-8365 for assistance.
CHANGE FEES
• Every amendment/change requested within 90 days of the tour start date is subject to an additional minimum cost of $50 per person, whether or not the request is fulfilled (i.e. hotel change, room change, taxi change, etc.).
• Requests to alter our standard itineraries will incur a larger fee calculated on a case-by-case basis.
• There is a $125 per person late booking fee for signing up 60 days or less from departure.
• There is a $125 fee to cancel a guest and transfer that booking to a new guest.
• There is a $125 per person fee to change the tour start date after accommodations are confirmed; this fee changes to 10% of the tour cost if requested within 90 days of the existing tour start date.
• Any additional changes requested within 90 days of the trip start date will incur an additional fee of $50 per person. This fee applies regardless of whether we can fulfill your request or not. (i.e. hotel change, room change, etc.).
• Requests that alter our standard itineraries will incur a larger fee calculated on a case-bycase basis.
RESCHEDULING
We are happy to help you reschedule a guided, private-guided or independent tour. If rescheduling is not an option then please refer to our cancellation policies.
CANCELLATIONS / POSTPONEMENT AND REFUND POLICY
Guided and Self-Guided Trips
• Ryder-Walker must receive a written notice of cancellation sent by mail or email. Your cancellation is effective when you receive a written receipt from Ryder-Walker confirming cancellation.
• Cancellation / Postponements within 15 days after booking receive full refund unless booked within 90 days of start date.
• Cancellation / Postponements made between 16 days after booking and 90 days before the trip start date will result in a $125 cancellation fee per person. The remaining balance will be converted into a travel credit for a future booking with RyderWalker and must be applied to a Ryder-Walker trip within two years after the original trip date. This credit is non-refundable (use it or lose it).
• Cancellation / Postponements between 90 and 46 days prior to trip start date forfeit 25% of amount paid to date. The remaining balance paid to date will be converted to a travel credit and must be applied to a Ryder-Walker trip within 2 years after the original trip date. This credit is non-refundable (use it or lose it).
• Cancellation / Postponements 45 days or less before the tour start date forfeit 100% of amount paid to date
Private-Guided Trips
• Cancellation / Postponements up to 90 days prior to trip departure: forfeit deposit amount equal to 25% of the trip cost. The remaining balance will be converted into a travel credit for a future booking with Ryder-Walker and must be applied to a Ryder-Walker trip within 2 years after the original trip date. This credit is nonrefundable (use it or lose it).
• Cancellation / Postponements within 90 days of tour departure: forfeit 100% of the total cost.
CANCELLATION DUE TO FORCE MAJEURE*
Certain circumstances may require Ryder-Walker to cancel a trip. We will not cancel less than 45 days prior to departure except due to Force Majeure, unusual or unforeseen circumstances outside Ryder-Walker’s control. If Ryder-Walker cancels a trip for any reason other than at the client’s request, clients will have either of the following options:
• Transfer the booking to another trip and pay any difference in price between the originally purchased trip and that of a more expensive trip; or receive a refund of the difference if the originally purchased trip is more expensive than the one transferred to.
• Receive a travel credit for any money paid to be used for a future booking with Ryder-Walker and must be applied to a Ryder-Walker trip within 2 years after the original trip date. This credit is non-refundable (use it or lose it).
Ryder-Walker is not responsible or liable for any incidental costs, expenses or consequential losses incurred because of cancellation or postponement.
All refunds and credits are conditioned on Ryder-Walker’s receipt of a refund or credit for expenses of your trip that Ryder-Walker has prepaid (to hotels and other third-party vendors). In cases where Ryder-Walker receives no refund or credit, or only a partial refund or credit, from one or more third party vendor(s), your refund or credit will be reduced proportionately.
*“Force Majeure” means any circumstances beyond Ryder-Walker’s reasonable control including, but not limited to, acts of God or nature, war, curtailment or interruption of transportation, facilities, strikes and/or labor dispute or the imminent threat thereof, threats or acts of terrorism or similar acts, disease, shelter at home orders, quarantine orders, global health emergencies, viruses, epidemics, pandemics, travel restrictions or limitations, government or regulatory actions, significant change in economic conditions, mandatory office and business closures, full or partial lock-downs of cities, towns or other areas, governmental or international agency travel advisory or warning, airline or other travel restrictions, widespread public fear and panic that impacts travel, civil disturbance or unrest, host destination partner’s cancellation or inability or refusal to implement the trip as agreed to with Ryder-Walker, or any other event or circumstances beyond Ryder-Walker’s control, whether similar or dissimilar, which, in Ryder-Walker’s reasonable and sole judgment, would tend to make it commercially or otherwise impracticable (from a safety, health, logistical, economic, or financial standpoint), inadvisable, difficult or onerous, illegal or impossible for Ryder-Walker or its partners to perform their obligations under this agreement or have a significant adverse impact on Ryder-Walker.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GUIDED AND SELF-GUIDED
If you’re looking for a stress-free adventure where every detail is taken care of, a guided trek is the perfect choice. From arranging luggage transfers and securing dinner reservations to selecting the ideal trail based on weather conditions, our guides handle it all. On the trail, they share their local expertise, from cultural insights to hidden gems like secluded picnic spots, secret trails, or charming restaurants off the beaten path. You can simply enjoy the journey without worrying about logistics.
Our self-guided trips offer the flexibility to explore at your own pace while still benefiting from our seamless planning. You’ll have detailed itineraries and everything you need for a smooth experience. With no group schedules to follow, you can tailor your adventure to your preferences, as long as you reach your reserved accommodations each night. However, keep in mind that Ryder-Walker staff will not be physically present in the area during your self-guided trek, so you’ll need to navigate independently.
ARE THERE RESTRICTIONS FOR CHOOSING A START DATE FOR MY SELF-GUIDED TRIP?
You have the flexibility to start your self-guided trip on nearly any date within the hiking season. The only exceptions are:
• Your start date cannot overlap with the departure of our guided group for the same itinerary.
• If the itinerary offers only pre-booked dates, your options will be limited to those specific dates.
Otherwise, it’s entirely up to you to pick a start date that works best for your schedule. Be sure to check the Guided Trek dates and prereserved dates for certain trips on our website at ryderwalker.com.
HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD I BOOK MY TRIP?
We strongly recommend booking your trip as early as possible! Popular destinations and accommodations fill up quickly, and in some cases, reservations may need to be made up to a year in advance. Booking early gives us the best chance to secure premium accommodations and private rooms in huts. While we occasionally accommodate last-minute bookings, it’s becoming increasingly difficult, especially for popular destinations and in smaller villages/towns during the peak summer season. Planning ahead ensures a seamless and stress-free experience!
SHOULD I GET TRIP INSURANCE? DO YOU RECOMMEND A PROVIDER?
Absolutely! We strongly encourage purchasing trip insurance. Even if you don’t anticipate needing it, unexpected events like illness, injury, or family emergencies can disrupt your travel plans. To provide peace of mind, we partner with Redpoint Travel Protection, though you’re welcome to choose any insurance company that fits your needs.
WHAT IF THE TRIP IS CANCELLED DUE TO A BAN ON NON-ESSENTIAL TRAVEL OR FORCE MAJEURE?
Certain circumstances may require RyderWalker to cancel a trip. We will not cancel less than 45 days prior to departure except due to Force Majeure, unusual or unforeseen circumstances outside Ryder-Walker’s control. See our cancellation policy on page 8 for details.
WHAT TYPE OF ROOM WILL I GET?
We typically book the standard version of the room type you select:
• Double: 1 double bed
• Twin: 2 separate single beds
• Single: 1 single bed
If you’re interested in alternative room options, such as accommodations for three or four people, or if you’d like to request an upgrade, availability will depend on the trip and the specific hotel.
While many hotels offer amenities like hairdryers and toiletries, it’s always a good idea to pack travel-sized essentials just in case. WiFi is commonly available in most accommodations, and cell service is accessible on many hiking trails. However, keep in mind that mountain huts may not have WiFi or cell service.
WHAT IS A ROOM UPGRADE?
Upgrades allow you to customize your accommodations to better suit your preferences. Whether you’d like a room with mountain views, a balcony, a larger bed, a suite, or space for three people, we can explore these options for you. Once you’ve signed up and booked your trip, we’ll inquire about availability and provide you with a quote. Please note that most upgrades come at an additional cost.
WHAT IS HALF BOARD?
Half board means your accommodation includes both breakfast and dinner. Breakfast is typically served as a buffet, while dinner is usually a set menu or offers a selection of limited options. Please note that dinner is not à la carte.
CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE MY DIETARY RESTRICTIONS?
Yes! If you inform us of your dietary restrictions when you sign up, we’ll communicate your needs to all your accommodations. For highly specific diets, we recommend bringing supplemental items, along with your favorite snacks, bars, or nuts to ensure you have everything you need.
ARE THERE LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS?
Specific information about luggage restrictions will be provided in your final package. Our luggage partners only allow for one piece of luggage in addition to your hiking backpack. For most treks, luggage can weigh up to 50 lbs, but some treks have a weight limit of 33 lbs. If you need to bring additional luggage, please notify our office in advance and we will get you a quote for the additional luggage. If you have other travels before/after your trek, plan on storing luggage.
WHAT
HAPPENS IF I CAN’T COMPLETE A HIKE?
If you’re unable to hike due to injury, or another reason, you can transfer between towns by bus, train, or taxi. Detailed instructions on how to do this will be provided in your final package. In the event of bad weather, you may not be able to complete the entire hike. Most daily hike descriptions include shorter or easier alternatives, but you may need to use public transportation or a private taxi to reach your next destination. Please note that you will be responsible for any costs related to transportation or taxi services.
WHAT SIZE BACKPACK SHOULD I BRING?
For trips where you have access to your luggage throughout, we recommend a 20 to 30-liter backpack. If you’ll have nights without luggage access, pack light or consider a slightly larger pack to accommodate everything you need. While it’s best to keep your packing to the essentials, it’s better to have a bit of extra space than to not have enough room for your items.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR HUT STAYS?
For treks that include one or two nights in a hut or bunk, we recommend bringing a larger backpack, ideally around 2400 cubic inches (40L). This extra space allows you to pack essentials for your overnight stay, such as an extra pair of socks, underwear, a towel, toiletries, medications, and hut slippers. Many hikers also prefer to bring a book or journal, a small headlamp, earplugs, and a travel sheet or sleeping bag liner for added comfort.
DO I NEED A FIRST AID KIT?
If you are on a self-guided trip it is essential you carry a first aid kit with you while you are hiking.
CAN I TRAVEL ON A PLANE WITH TREKKING POLES?
TSA and airport security generally prohibit hiking poles in carry-on luggage. However, some collapsible poles may be allowed if they can be broken down and fit within the size limits of your carry-on. Keep in mind that airlines may have their own rules about what’s allowed in a carry-on bag, and if you’re changing flights or passing through security in other cities or countries, you may encounter issues with your poles. The final decision rests with the TSA officer, who will determine whether your poles can be brought through security. If in doubt, or to avoid complications, we recommend packing them in checked luggage.
SELF-GUIDED 5-DAY MINI TREKS
SHORT ON TIME? WE HAVE THE TRIP FOR YOU!
Add adventure into your business trip or romantic getaway with Ryder-Walker’s 5-day mini treks. Choose from six favorite destinations, perfect for those with limited time seeking an adventurous add-on.
HEART OF AUSTRIA
GATEWAY:
SALZBURG
Available Mid June – September
Scenic valleys, countless lakes, and rolling hills typify the Salzkammergut – the mountain region above Salzburg and home to our Heart of Austria trek. The Salzkammergut is dotted with historic spa towns that lie along the landmark salt road that descends from the UNESCO World Heritage village of Hallstatt. Steeped in medieval lore, the Salzkammergut will satisfy your hunger for adventure and history. The jewel of the Salzkammergut is its stunning alpine lakes, which stretch across the entirety of the valleys below and support the area’s whimsical, fairy-tale-like mood. The hiking has something for everyone, and you will thoroughly enjoy the Austrian hospitality.
Itinerary 4 nights/3 hikes:
Bad Goisern to Hallstatt
Hallstatt to Gosau
Gamsfeld summit Gosau
n Comfort 3 / Effort 2+ / Terrain 2
Moderate: up to 8 miles, ascents up to 1850 ft.
$1820 (single +$250)
SWISS ENGADINE
GATEWAY: ZÜRICH
Available Mid June – Mid October
The Engadine is an enchanted valley in southeastern Switzerland that has something for everyone. The entire region is supported by a network of railways, trams, and funiculars that can take you to the base of any peak and let you finish your day early with a train ride home. Medieval villages sit aside mirrorlike mountain lakes, fields of wildflowers, and largely undisturbed ancient forests of larch and stone pine. For our shortened stopover trek, we have focused on the Upper Engadine, between the villages of Zuoz and Soglio. We feel that the southern half of the valley represents its cultural heart, while offering some of the most flexible and stunning hiking in the region.
Itinerary 4 nights/3 hikes:
Zuoz to Pontresina
Pontresina to Sils Maria
Sils Maria to Soglio
n Comfort 4 / Effort 2+ / Terrain 2
Moderate: up to 10.5 miles, ascents up to 2500 ft.
$2150 (single +$250)
BERNER
OBERLAND
GATEWAY: BERN OR ZÜRICH
Available July – Early September
The peaks of the Berner Oberland are a Swiss natural treasure - boasting such world-famous names as the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. A person passionate about hiking could spend their entire life exploring the depth and quality of the Berner Oberland trekking, where the trails are immaculately maintained, and reach essentially any point of interest you could hope to visit in the region. For this shortened expedition, we have focused on the villages surrounding the Lauterbrunnen, a valley that is so beautiful it is almost spiritual. Here, hundreds of waterfalls roar down the many thousand-foot cliffs that hem in the valley, with the glaciated faces of the Mönch and Jungfrau looming overhead.
Itinerary 4 nights/3 hikes:
Meiringen to Grindelwald
Grindelwald to Wengen
Wengen to Mürren
n Comfort 3.5 / Effort 3 / Terrain 3
Moderate: up to 9 miles, ascents up to 3500 ft.
$1825 (single +$300)
OUR FAVORITE DESTINATIONS FROM THE ALPS TO THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS
The destinations chosen for our shorter treks are easily accessible from major international airports, and they possess all the hallmark features found in our favorite treks in mountain ranges in Europe and America.
ITALIAN DOLOMITES
GATEWAY: VENICE
Available Late June – Mid September
The valleys above Venice, Italy run quickly into the Italian Dolomites and the Italian Tyrol, a series of precipitous limestone peaks that jut out of the earth. It is a region that boasts some of the best hiking and hotels in the world. In the Italian Dolomites, we have focused on the journey between the Alp Siusi, the largest meadow in the Alps, and the Alta Badia, the mountainous heart of the Dolomites, and the historical center of the conflict between Austria and Italy in the First World War. The Dolomites strike the perfect balance between staggeringly beautiful hiking and excellent accommodations. The villages in the region are not only quaint and historic, but also surprisingly quiet.
Itinerary 4 nights/3 hikes:
Völs am Schlern to Rifugio Alpe di Tires
Rifugio Alpe di Tires to Sëlva Sëlva to Corvara
n Comfort 3 / Effort 3 / Terrain 3
Moderate: up to 9 miles, ascents up to 3100 ft.
$2625 (single +$475)
CHAMONIX TO CHAMPEX
GATEWAY: GENEVA
Available Late June – Mid September
The French Savoie is the mountainous heart of the Alps where the queen of the Alps herself, the Mont Blanc, rises high above the other towering peaks. Our shortened itinerary has you experiencing the first three hikes along the famous Hiker’s Haute Route. Traveling eastward, begin in the bustling alpine center of Chamonix, with its fabulous views of the Mer de Glace and the Aiguille du Midi; move on to Argentière, gateway to the Grand Montets; then cross the border into Switzerland to the tiny hamlet of Trient. After enjoying breathtaking views of the Rhone Valley, reach the sleepy village of Champex, a Swiss lakeside resort with a quiet atmosphere and lovely location.
Itinerary 4 nights/3 hikes:
Chamonix to Argentière
Argentière to Trient Trient to Champex
n Comfort 3 / Effort 3.5 / Terrain 3
Moderate: up to 8 miles, ascents up to 3500 ft.
$1670 (single +$210)
TELLURIDE TREK
GATEWAY: MONTROSE, COLORADO
Available Late June – Early October
Majestic snow-capped peaks, expansive alpine meadows, tumbling waterfalls, and more beckon hikers to explore the San Juan Mountains of Southwestern Colorado: home of Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventures. This popular trek is centered around the former Victorian mining town of Telluride. Tucked away in a box canyon surrounded by summits, Telluride is also a National Historic Landmark District. Trekking in the Rocky Mountains offers a mother-lode of scenic hikes that take you from remote valleys to high alpine lakes and passes replete with endless views, hiking beneath the shadows of 14,000 ft. peaks. There are easier hiking options for this trip as well. (Note: No July 4 start date.)
Itinerary 4 nights/3 hikes:
Telluride Hope Lake Hike
Telluride Ajax Summit Hike
Telluride Wasatch Trail Hike
n Comfort 3.5 / Effort 2-3+ / Terrain 2-3
Moderate: 5 – 10 miles, ascents up to 2800 ft.
$1750 (single +$680)
CHOOSING THE RIGHT TRIP FOR YOU
Each Ryder-Walker trip offers a unique blend of elements, including adventure, physical challenge, and comfort. Our trip rating system assigns a number between 1 and 4 to each of the three elements by rating them for Comfort, Effort and Terrain, so that you can best choose the trek that matches your level of intensity and comfort. When browsing the catalog you will see our tours begin with our easy to moderate trips, progress to moderate to challenging and end with our most challenging treks. We have also color coordinated each section accordingly so it is easy to locate the type of trip you desire based on the level of difficulty.
COMFORT
1. Primarily simple accommodations, including berghauses, huts and inns.
2. A mix of simple accommodations and charming country inns or first class inns.
3. Primarily charming country inns and first class inns with best accommodations available in remote locations.
4. All superior country inns and first class accommodations.
EFFORT
1. Gentle hikes up to 8 miles with 1500 feet of elevation gain.
2. Moderate hikes up to 10 miles with up to 2700 feet of elevation gain.
3. Moderately strenuous hikes up to 12 miles with up to 4000 feet of elevation gain.
4. Strenuous hikes exceeding 4000 feet of elevation gain.
TERRAIN
1. Well maintained and graded mountain paths.
2. Steeper, well maintained mountain paths possibly with rough footing.
3. Steeper, occasionally maintained mountain paths possibly with rough footing and/or exposure.
4. Steep, rarely maintained mountain paths with exposure and rough footing. 1 2 3 4
A note regarding our rating system: Our rating system provides insights into the difficulty and comfort levels of each trip, helping you select the best option.
RYDER-WALKER’S GUIDE TO SELECTING YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
Below is a list of all our Guided and Self-Guided tours based on difficulty. The catalog is also color coded: green represents easy to moderate hiking trips, purple, moderate to challenging and orange, challenging
EASY TO MODERATE HIKING
*Guided trips also offered self-guided.
EUROPE
Austria: Mozart Alpine Lakes Walk (self-guided, page 85)
Allegra Engadine (self-guided, page 85)
Highlights of Switzerland (guided, page 20)
England: The Cotswolds (guided, page 22)
Wales: Countryside, Castles and Coastline (guided, page 24)
Cornwall England: Cornish Coastal Path (guided, page 26)
Heart of Austria* (guided, page 28)
Ambiance Italian Dolomites (self-guided, page 85)
Provence: Hill Towns of the Luberon (self-guided, page 82)
Cotswolds Way (self-guided, page 82)
Capri and the Amalfi Coast (self-guided, page 82)
Via Ladinia: Pastorale (self-guided, page 85)
Ireland’s Dingle Way (self-guided, page 82)
Scotland: Highlands and Islands (guided, page 30)
Montenegro & Croatia: Highlights of the Adriatic Coast (guided, page 32)
Sicily: The Aeolian Islands (guided, page 34)
Pastoral Berner Oberland (self-guided, page 85)
The Liechtenstein Trail (self-guided, page 82)
Scotland: Rob Roy Way (self-guided, page 82)
Croatia: The Dalmatian Cost (self-guided, page 83)
Jungfrau Loop (self-guided, page 83)
Slovenia: Waterfalls and Gorges (self-guided, page 85)
Highlights of Italy: Courmayeur, Cogne, & Champoluc (guided, page 38)
NORTH AMERICA
Sedona, Arizona Trek: Red Rock Country (guided, page 36)
MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING
*Guided trips also offered self-guided.
AFRICA
Morocco: Atlas Mountains Trek (guided, page 66)
EUROPE
Northern Greece: Agean Sea and Epirus Mountains (guided, page 40)
Austria: Wilder Kaiser Mountain Trek (self-guided, page 83)
Corsica: French Isle Adventure Trek (guided, page 42)
Italian Dolomites Trek* (guided, page 44)
French Alps: Chamonix Mont Blanc to Val d’Isère (guided, page 46)
Portugal: The Southwestern Scenic Coastal Trek* (guided, page 48)
Italian Dolomites: Lago di Braies, Fanes Wilderness & Alta Badia* (guided, page 50)
Appenzell to Liechtenstein: Discover the Hidden Alps (guided, page 52)
Italian Lakes District Hike: Varenna, Menaggio, Lenno, Bellagio, and Como* (guided, page 54)
High Peaks of Bavaria and Tyrol* (guided, page 56)
Tuscany, Italy, Walking Tour: A Path Through History (self-guided, page 83)
Italian Dolomites Rifugio Trek (self-guided, page 83)
Engadine Trek* (guided, page 60)
Berner Oberland Trek (self-guided, page 83)
Berner Oberland Traverse (self-guided, website)
Spanish Mediterranean: Costa Brava (self-guided, page 84)
Ticino: Swiss Lake District (self-guided, page 84)
Hiker’s Haute Route* (guided, page 68)
Haute Pyrénées Mountain Trek: From France to Spain (guided, page 70)
Tour du Mont Blanc Vitesse (self-guided, page 84)
Tour du Mont Blanc* (guided, page 72)
Engadine Summit Series (self-guided, website)
Swiss Haute Route (self-guided, page 84)
NORTH AMERICA
Rocky Mountain High Life: Aspen to Telluride (guided, page 62)
Telluride Trek (self-guided, page 84)
SOUTH AMERICA
Argentine Patagonia: The Lakes District (guided, page 58)
Peru: The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (guided, page 64)
CHALLENGING HIKING
*Guided trips also offered self-guided.
EUROPE
Appenzell Hut Hop (self-guided, page 84)
Iceland: The Remote Westfjords (guided, page 74)
Eiger Trail* (guided, page 76)
Norway: The Islands of Lofoten (guided, page 78)
Matterhorn Trek* (guided, page 80)
The best way to celebrate a memorable day on the trail is with a delicious meal. The accommodations we choose offer some of the best in regional and haute cuisine, with inspired menus and a unique array of local wines and beverages. Many of our chefs enjoy the highest culinary rankings awarded by the Gault Millau and Michelin restaurant guides, with some even earning “Chef of the Year” distinctions for their respective countries. Local and regionally sourced food is offered; whether it’s a fireside meal at a four-star hotel, or a hearty bowl of soup on the sun deck of a mountain hut, we find the best cuisine available in each location.
FIRST-CLASS ACCOMMODATIONS
Our goal is to choose the very best accommodation in every village, hamlet, or high mountain pass we travel through. From cozy, wood - paneled chalets with fluffy down comforters, to grand old-world hotels perfecting the art of hospitality, to converted patrician homes, we seek the inns that exemplify the character of each village and the charm of days gone by. In more remote destinations and on treks we stay up high in hostelries and alpine refuges, wherever we go we strive to provide the perfect balance between comfort, charm, and amenity. Each trip is different, and if superb accommodations are a priority for you, let us know, and we will help you select those trips with the highest levels of comfort.
TAKING A CLOSER LOOK AT HUTS
Alpine huts, rifugios, cabanes, kočas, or husets can be found across the world in the most secluded areas. They provide travelers with shelter, a bed, and a hot meal at strategic points, so great traverses can be accomplished without having to carry camping equipment. In most cases, huts can only be supplied by helicopters, supply lifts, or mules. This means that every supply, from toilet paper to your dinner, has to be transported to and from the hut by these specific means of transport.
Some Ryder-Walker itineraries include stays at huts for one or more nights. The standard of huts varies greatly depending on the trek. Huts can range from simple, rustic buildings with shared bunkrooms, communal bathrooms, limited electricity, and minimal running water, to more luxurious, recently renovated mountain inns featuring private bedrooms and half-bath ensuites.
Hiking in the mountains, whether in the Alps, the Himalayas, or the Atlas Mountains is an adventure, and part of the adventurous experience is to, at times, step out of your comfort zone and embrace the local culture, cuisine and traditions.
LEVEL 1 HUT:
This is the most basic of mountain huts, without any private bedrooms or bathrooms. All guests are accommodated in dorm-style sleeping quarters; there are no showers and running water is sometimes limited. In rare instances, guests will need to use an outhouse. The only bedding provided are wool blankets and simple pillows that are shared. Guests must bring sleep sheets, toiletries and towels as well as a headlamp as electricity is limited.
LEVEL 2 HUT:
One step up from the most basic equipped hut, offering shared bedrooms and bathrooms with running water. Sometimes men and women sleep separate and there are separate showers provided. Shared bedroom sizes may vary from 4 to 8 people per room. Showers at some locations are on timers due to the limited amount of water. Bedding may be provided but we recommend bringing your own sleep sheets, toiletries and towels. We also recommend bringing a headlamp.
LEVEL 3 HUT:
These huts offer some private rooms, as well as small shared rooms (up to 4 people). Some private bathrooms and showers as well as communal bathrooms are available. These huts are more like mountain inns in secluded areas. Some of the huts provide bedding yet we still suggest bringing a sleep sheet as mostly you will be sleeping with wool blankets. No towels or toiletries are provided.
LEVEL 4 HUT:
They are rare but they do exist. Some are newly renovated buildings with double, triple and quadruple bedrooms including en suite bathrooms and showers, hotel bedding, duvets and fluffy pillows and towels.
Although we always inquire for private bedrooms, bathrooms and showers, sometimes it’s not possible due to the location and nature of the hut.
5 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD BOOK A GUIDED TREK
Planning the perfect hiking trip involves making numerous decisions. If you would like to take a stressfree trek without having to make all the decisions, a guided trek is for you. Below are five reasons why traveling with a guide will make for an unforgettable experience.
1. EASE OF TRAVEL
Traveling with a guide adds a certain comfort level to your trip. You don’t have to worry about anything — from luggage transfers and dinner reservations to choosing the perfect trails and following the weather. Your guide handles all the details, so you can simply show up and hike.
2. LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
The Ryder-Walker guide team adds a wealth of knowledge to each trek. Some of our guides are European and grew up hiking and guiding in the Alps, while others have been leading hiking expeditions in Europe and other countries around the world for years. On guided treks you learn about the region, culture and the local people. You are taken on trails that are off-the-beaten-path and not included on our self-guided itineraries. Many local treasures are known only to our guides, and they can’t wait to share these with you as they strive to create a unique experience on each trip and for each guest.
3.
OVERCOME LANGUAGE BARRIERS
Most of our guides speak the local languages quite well. Having your own translator can help with communication, both in language and cultural practices. With the assistance of our guides, communication with locals will be uncomplicated.
4.
TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS
On guided treks, whether beginner or expert, our team will tailor each day to meet the group’s needs. All of our larger group trips have two guides so groups can split up according to ability if necessary. Each day your guide will provide an itinerary fit for the group, depending on terrain, weather and hiking conditions. It’s their goal to provide you with a memorable day filled with adventure.
5. PERSONAL CONNECTIONS
Over time, our guides have formed invaluable connections and bonds with the locals in the towns we visit around the world. Often, local staff will go out of their way to contribute to making the RyderWalker Alpine Adventure unique and unforgettable. Guides and guests often form lasting friendships with each other and over the years many guests come back to hike with their favorite guides or schedule Ryder-Walker trips with friends met on the trail.
SELF-GUIDED TRAVEL CHOOSE
YOUR TRIP AND YOUR DATES
Self-guided travel offers you the opportunity to be your own guide, navigate like a pro and pick your own dates. Find a tour that you like, tell us the date that you’d like to begin, and we’ll do the rest.
• We book hotel accommodations, luggage transfers and logistics specific to the tour. Note: some accommodations are unreachable by vehicle and you will not receive luggage at those huts/inns.
• We also offer self-guided easygoing tours with three to four hours of hiking per day on predominantly gentle trails. This format allows more time for sightseeing, exploring villages, and enjoying the comforts of your hotel.
• Our self-guided 5-day mini-treks are a series of shorter, three-hike, fournight treks that focus on bringing you straight to some of our favorite destinations in the world. All of these treks are easily accessed within hours from some of the most romantic and historic European cities. Please visit our website for more details.
• All trip details are downloaded and available offline in the Vamoos app, including:
• Trek itinerary, hotels, and other important trip documents.
• GPX tracks for each day hike.
• Arrival and departure directions.
• Notifications directly from Ryder-Walker with the ability to reply in the app.
• Offline maps with key locations and our local recommendations.
• Up-to-date weather forecasts.
• Digital diary with photo book purchase option.
GUIDED TRAVEL LEAVE IT TO US
Our guides have spent years, in fact decades, exploring alpine regions around the world. They know what makes a region unique, whether it’s savoring the unparalleled Gerstensuppe, a delightful bowl of soup in the enchanting Engadine Valley of eastern Switzerland, or delving into the vibrant tapestry of local markets, exploring iconic ruins, and participating in age-old traditional rituals during our Peru: The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. We’re committed to indulging you in every facet of the journey.
Join a Ryder-Walker guided tour and get ready for an unforgettable experience. Not only is the scenery breathtakingly beautiful, but our trip leaders are also renowned guides who are determined to make sure you return home with plenty of stories to share, and a photo album filled with exceptional memories.
• Spend more time enjoying your vacation and less time worrying about logistics.
• From luggage transfers and hotel reservations, to finding the trailhead and ordering wine, our guides make sure that you have everything you need.
• If you like to know the names of mountain peak along the way, then a guided tour is for you.
• Uncork a surprise bottle of wine at the end of a long hike.
• Take a side trip to watch artisan cheese-making on a French hillside.
• Succumb to the aroma of freshly baked focaccia as your guide unwraps lunch in northern Italy.
• Celebrate life with a group of fellow hikers that love to travel and cherish the great outdoors.
What more can we say? These earthly pleasures offer a small taste of what’s in store for the hiker that chooses a Ryder-Walker guided tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED TRAVEL
THE PERSONAL TOUCH
From birthdays and anniversaries, to reunions and corporate retreats, a private hiking tour is a great way to celebrate any special occasion. We will tailor your trip to meet the interests of your group, and best of all you pick the tour dates.
Our guides will show you the time of your life, and they know just the right personal touches to make your private-guided trip extraordinary.
• We help you design an itinerary that reflects the needs of your group, whether it is a trip for two or twenty.
• Your itinerary can be flexible based on the desires of the group members.
• We are happy to tailor each day’s itinerary to “bag” a peak, ski on a glacier, tandem paraglide or simply sightsee, depending on your desires.
• Private-guided dates are limited so please book early.
• Early registrants may have the option to buy out one of our prescheduled guided tours.
• Groups that purchase a previously prescheduled group trip in its entirety (minimum 8 spots) receive guided pricing.
• Choose from a limitless inventory of standard and customized itineraries.
Visit pages 86 and 87 for pricing on many of our private tours. Prices reflect per person costs with the services of one guide. Prices will increase or decrease depending on group size and the addition of more guides. Trip customization will also affect the cost.
“Superior in every way. Felt safe, guides reacted in real-time to weather, good nightly info, great picnic, wonderful hikes. Great group, great food, and great accommodations.” —Robi Z.
EUROPE
HIGHLIGHTS O F SWITZERLAND ENGADINE, LAGO MAGGIORE, AND ZERMATT
Discover the vast variety of
hiking Switzerland
has to offer!
This trek is designed to provide exceptional hiking with a broad range of physical challenge. This makes it perfect for families and parties with different interests and abilities. It is also designed to please those who prefer to unpack and stay unpacked for a few days at a time.
We begin in Sils Maria, one of the loveliest mountain towns on the planet. Nestled between two lakes at 5905 feet and dominated by high peaks all around, Sils Maria may be the Alps’ most peaceful mountain town.
TRIP RATINGS
Easy to challenging hiking – this trip is designed to accommodate all levels.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
Transfer by van through the Italian Lakes District to the canton of Ticino, and the town of Locarno, the heart of Italian speaking Switzerland. Explore ancient, time-forgotten hill towns and historic pathways from our superb lakeside accommodations.
The final stage has us transfer to Zermatt, the quintessential mountain town nestled at the base of the iconic Matterhorn. Explore the dramatic landscapes of this heavily glaciated pocket of the Alps and each day return to the comforts of our fantastic hotel in its park-like setting beneath the magnificent Matterhorn.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: SILS MARIA
Travel independently to Sils Maria, Switzerland and meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner in our outstanding hotel in the heart of this tiny and quiet village. Note that the hikes on this trip are options only. The guide(s) will tailor each day to the interests and abilities of all individuals in the group.
DAY2: SILS MARIA LOOP HIKE
Cross to the far side of the Silsersee and ascend to the tiny hamlets of Grevasalvas (where the movie Heidi was filmed) and Blaunca before descending to Maloja. Enjoy a lakeshore ramble back to Sils. Or summit the Piz Lunghin for those seeking a bigger day. Distance: up to 7 miles. Elevation gain: 1100 ft. (Harder options available.)
DAY 3: VAL FEX LOOP HIKE
Explore the mystical Val Fex and Muott’Ota, a charming valley that descends into downtown Sils. Hikes in this itinerary are options only. The guides will tailor each day to the interests and abilities of all individuals in the group. Distance: up to 7 miles.
Elevation gain/loss: up to 2200 ft.
DAY 4: SILS MARIA TO LOCARNO
Transfer through Italy and Menaggio on the shores of the Lago di Como, and back into Switzerland and the ancient canton of Ticino. Arrive in Locarno on the shores of Lake Maggiore. This ancient town boasts a vibrant lakeside vibe with colorful cafes and pubs. Intoxicating trails connect antique hill villages offering stunning glimpses into life in times long past. A short afternoon hike will be offered. Distance: 4 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 600 ft.
DAY 5: VALLE VERZASCA GORGE HIKE
Visit the serpentine, water-worn granite valley of the Verzasca. The waters of the river that snake down this glistening valley are alternately emerald green and ultramarine. It is truly visually stunning. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain 1200 ft. (Harder options are available.)
DAY 6: CIMETTA LOOP HIKE
Ascend by funicular, cable car and chairlift to the Cimetta, where a delightful ridge walk offers endless views in all directions. Finish in the charming village of Mergoscia for a transfer back to Locarno. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1100/1300 ft. (Easier and harder options are available.)
DAY 7: LOCARNO TO ZERMATT
What a fun transfer day! Today’s journey through the Vallemaggia to the Italian border town, Domodossola, is truly memorable. In the afternoon, take a funicular up to Sunnega and explore the authentic Walser houses of Findeln. Distance: 4 miles.
Elevation gain/loss: 600/1000 ft.
DAY 8: GORNERGRAT & MONTE ROSA (GORNER) GLACIER
Start with the spectacular cograil crawl up to the Gornergrat for the most inspiring views of the Alps. Our outing takes us to the base of the mighty Monte Rosa glacier. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1000 ft.
DAY 9: ZMUTT/HÖRNLI HUT
Wander to the remote hamlet of Zmutt or hike to the legendary Hörnli Hut at the base of the most popular route up the Matterhorn (for those in need of a touch more adrenaline). Both challenging and gentle options are offered to explore the vast terrain on the flanks of the north face of the Matterhorn. Distance: up to 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1400–3300 ft.
DAY 10: DEPART
SWITZERLAND
Silvaplana See
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
June 30 – July 9
Price: $6,350 (single +$680)
Minimum of four people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
June – September
Price: $7,500 (single +$680)
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 9 nights, 10 days.
• 4-star hotels.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Zurich, Switzerland.
*All ground transportation between Sils Maria and Zermatt included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.
Piz Lunghin
“Rogan was an excellent guide. He was personable, knowledgeable and appropriately flexible in his approach to leading the trip.” —William L.
ENGLAND THE COTSWOLDS
Revel in the beauty and quintessential charm of Southwest England.
One of the most treasured and visited destinations in the United Kingdom, the Cotswolds, is famous for its gently sloping green hills and ancient, picture-perfect towns and villages. Over the course of our 11-day hiking tour we visit old castles, quaint English gardens, country estates, beautiful historic cities, and spa towns bursting with culture. We begin in charming Broadway and end in Bath, with
TRIP RATINGS
Easy to moderate with one day up to 7 miles with an ascent of 1,500 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
its Roman baths and beautiful Royal Crescent being the highlights. Hike through the lush, rolling, green countryside. Enjoy cream teas in charming hidden cafes. Visit Neolithic burial mounds and old hilltop fortifications. Eat in many a lovely English pub. Wander quiet cobbled streets and explore areas off the tourist trail that only your guide could reveal to you.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: BROADWAY
Travel independently to Broadway and meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner. Overnight in a lovely, classic English hotel.
DAY 2: BROADWAY
Today we explore Chipping Campden and its surroundings, eat delicious local food, and then in the afternoon hike to the Broadway Tower, a famous 18th century folly with views over 16 counties, before returning to the hotel. Distance: 3 miles.
DAY 3: BROADWAY – STANTON, SNOWSHILL, AND EDGE LOOP WALK
Our loop hike today has us strolling through two of the most picturesque villages, over hilltops, down valleys and through woodlands. We end with a visit to Snowshill Manor, a National Trust manor house and gardens. Distance: 6 miles.
DAY 4: BROADWAY TO GREAT MALVERN
We embark on the Winchcombe and Belas Knap loop hike today and explore more of the Natural Trail with its history and captivating scenery. We conclude our hike at Sudeley Castle and visit the famous gardens before driving west to the Malvern Hills and our beautiful hotel in Great Malvern. Distance: 4 miles.
DAY 5: GREAT MALVERN – MALVERN HILLS END-TO-END HIKE
This ridge walk is the longest of our tour and enjoys amazing rural views. Worcestershire Beacon, at 1395 ft. above sea level, marks the highest point on this route, and a line drawn due east from it won’t hit a higher point until the Ural Mountains in Russia. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain: 1500 ft.
DAY 6: GREAT MALVERN TO PAINSWICK
We start the day with a quick stop at the Morgan Motor Company Ltd and then onto Blenheim Palace, one of only two UNESCO sites in The Cotswolds (Bath is the other site) and the home and birthplace of the enigmatic Winston Churchill. Distance: 2 miles.
DAY 7: PAINSWICK – CRANHAM COOPERS AND BEECHWOODS LOOP WALK
Our journey starts at the famed Stroud Farmer’s Market followed by our second circular walk, a 4-mile route through Buckholt Wood’s beech woodlands, and leads us to Cooper’s Hill, renowned for the Glouchestershire Cheese Rolling competition. Along the route we will explore the Great Witcombe Roman Villa. Distance: 4 miles.
DAY 8: PAINSWICK – WESTONBIRT ARBORETUM
Our outing today is to Westonbirt Arboretum, home to one of the most treasured and significant plant collections, with 15,000 specimens, and 2,500 tree species of trees from around the world. A stop at Winstone’s Cotswolds Ice Cream follows. Distance: 3 miles.
DAY 9: PAINSWICK TO BATH
Today we begin with a visit to Highgrove and its gardens, the home of King Charles III. After a visit to Beechen Cliff we embark on our Stonehenge tour. Distance: 5 miles.
DAY 10: BATH
Enjoy a walking tour of Bath this morning before embarking on our last walk, Journey’s End: The Walk into Bath, and experience a true sense of pilgrimage ending at Bath Abbey, the southern end of the Cotswolds Way. Distance: 5 miles.
DAY 11: DEPART
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
May 4 – 14
Price: $7,100 (single +$930)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
May – October
$8,990 (single +$930)
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 10 nights, 11 days.
• 10 nights in superior 3 and 4-star hotels.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: London, England.
*All ground transportation between Broadway and Bath included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. Admission to all sightseeing tours. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make the route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.
“I particularly enjoyed the coastal waves splashing against the rugged cliffs, the histories of the castles, and the mountain summits with their breathtaking vistas.” —Guide, Rogan O’H.
WALES
DISCOVER THE COUNTRYSIDE, CASTLES, AND COASTLINE
A lovely mix of empowering landscapes, scenic beaches, and jagged cliffs.
Welcome to Wales, a small country within the United Kingdom, known for its stunning coastline, inspiring National Parks, lovely countryside, Welsh language, Celtic roots and over 600 castles, the most of any country per square mile on Earth. O ur tour begins in the stunning Gower Peninsula, the U.K.’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, designated in 1956. O ver the course of our tour, we walk miles of
TRIP RATINGS
Easy to moderate with one day up to 7 miles with negligible ascent and descent.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
dramatic windswept coastline, visit magical castles, gardens and delightful coastal towns. Explore national nature reserves and parks, summit some of Wales’ most iconic mountains and stay in gorgeous luxury hotels, tucked away beside hidden lakes or in lush parkland. The tour ends in the Welsh capital of Cardiff, famous for its castle located in the very center of the city, and with easy transport links back to London.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: PENMAEN
Transfer from Paddington Train station to Swansea, then taxi to Penmaen. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: THE GOWER
Today’s tour begins with a stunning 5-mile loop hike through the beautiful parklands, to the South Wales coastline with a visit to the lovely Three Cliffs Bay. We explore fascinating bone caves, and the 12th Century ruins of Pennard Castle. A truly delightful day of exploring the Gower, the U.K.’s first AONB (area of outstanding beauty), designated in 1956. Distance: 5 miles.
DAY 3: THE GOWER TO ST DAVIDS
We head to the coast again today for another 5-mile loop hike, which hugs the evocative Pembrokeshire National Park coastline. Along route we visit the 13th Century St Govan’s Chapel, a tiny chapel, steeped in myths and legends. A brief ramble around one of Wales’ wonderful harbor towns, Tenby, completes the day. Distance: 5 miles.
DAY 4: ST DAVIDS – SKOMER ISLAND
A short drive along the coast delivers us to Martins Haven where we catch a ferry to Skomer Island for a day of exploring the National Nature Reserve, famous for its puffins, but boasting an array of wildlife including dolphins, razorbills and much more. Distance: 3 miles.
DAY 5: ST DAVIDS TO PORTMEIRION
Our 3-mile loop takes us along Caerfai Beach to St Non’s Chapel, the reputed birthplace of Wales’ patron saint, Saint David. Return to St Davids for a visit to the medieval ruins of St Davids Bishop’s Palace and the fabulous St Davids Cathedral. Next, we head to North Wales for four days to explore the majestic mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. Distance: 3 miles.
DAY 6: PORTMEIRION – MOUNT SNOWDON AND DOLBADARN CASTLE
Today we take the Traditional Diesel Service train to the summit of Wales’ highest peak, Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon 3,560 ft.), visit the ruins of Dolbadarn Castle, and explore Portmeirion. Distance: 2 miles.
DAY 7: PORTMEIRION – CONWY CASTLE AND BODNANT GARDEN
The imposing Conwy Castle is our first stop today. Built by Edward I in the 1280s as a statement of intent towards the conquering of the Welsh. Next, we visit Bodnant Garden, founded in 1874, and boasting 80 acres of gardens. Distance: 2 miles.
DAY 8: CADAIR IDRIS AND HARLECH CASTLE
We head south towards Cadair Idris, one of Wales’ most brooding and mystical mountains, for what promises to be our hardest, but most rewarding hike of the trip followed by a visit to Harlech Castle. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2384 ft.
DAY 9: PORTMEIRION TO CARDIFF
Depart to the Welsh Capital of Cardiff, or Caerdydd, our final stop. Along route we visit Big Pit National Coal Museum for an underground tour of the old coal mine. At a depth of 300 ft. Distance: 1 mile.
DAY 10: CARDIFF – SIGHTSEEING
Visit St Fagans National Museum of History, Wales, followed by a visit to Cardiff Castle, with its 11th Century Keep. Browse Cardiff’s many food markets, parks, galleries, and museums. Distance: 2 miles.
DAY 11: DEPART
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
May 15 – 25
Price: $6,050 (single +$830)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
March – October
$7,270 (single +$830)
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 10 nights, 11 days.
• All nights are in comfortable hotels and charming bed and breakfasts.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: London, England.
WALES
Mount Snowdon
Portmeirion
“We thoroughly enjoyed the hikes and gardens. Our guide, Rogan, being a foodie kept us feeling like this was a gourmet trip.” —Charles M.
CORNWALL ENGLAND
EXPLORE THE CORNISH COASTAL PATH
Discover England’s rugged southwest coastline and dramatic landscape.
Welcome to Cornwall, Great Britain’s most southwesterly county. Surrounded on all sides by the lashings of the Atlantic Ocean and the warming currents of the Gulf Stream, this peninsula boasts over 400 miles of dramatic cliff-edged coastline complete with lush palm trees, quaint, tucked away fishing villages, pristine beaches and water that reflects the most vibrant turquoise color that you might mistake it
TRIP RATINGS
Easy to moderate with one day up to 7 miles with negligible ascent and descent. (Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
for the Caribbean. Of the 1376 square miles that make up Cornwall, 25% is designated as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The county also boasts a booming gourmet food scene. Cornwall is uniquely famous for its Cornish past ries - traditionally filled with beef, potato, swede (turnip) and onion - its wide-ranging use of freshly caught fish, its ice cream and its delightful Cornish cream teas, a staple of British culture.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: TINTAGEL
Transfer from Paddington Train station to Bodmin Parkway. Ryder-Walker provides a taxi to the hotel in Tintagel. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: TINTAGEL CASTLE
Today begins with a short drive to Boscastle and a visit to the Museum of Witchcraft & Magic before our first Southwest Coastal Path hike. On our way back we stop at Tintagel Castle–inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur. Distance: 6 miles.
DAY 3: TINTAGEL TO PERRANPORTH
Today’s relaxed pace allows us to fully appreciate the stunning Cornish coastline. Along the way, we pass the iconic ruins of the Wheal Coates tin mine, a reminder of the region’s rich mining history. We’ll end the day with an overnight stay in a charming, hotel in Perranporth. Distance: 3 miles.
DAY 4: PERRANPORTH TO MOUSEHOLE
Heading south we make a quick stop at Cambourne Farmers Market before arriving at St. Michael’s Mount, a spectacular island cut off at high tide. We venture onto the island to explore the village, castle, and medieval church before driving to the pleasant fishing village of Mousehole, pronounced “Mowzel.” Distance: 2 miles.
DAY 5: LAND’S END HIKE
Today, we’re off to Porthcurno Beach for the tour’s longest hike. Explore the famous Minack Theatre and Land’s End, the most westerly point in England. Ending in Sennen Cove, delight in a tasty ice cream or Cornish cream tea. Distance: 7 miles.
DAY 6: MOUSEHOLE TO LIZARD
A coastal ramble to the picturesque Botallack Mine and Crown engine houses is followed by a visit to Geevor Tin Mine, a museum and heritage center. Continue on to our hotel in Lizard. Distance: 4 miles.
DAY 7: LIZARD POINT HIKE
Today’s loop hike passes Lizard Point Lighthouse, the most southerly point on the British mainland, and Kynance Cove, with its delightful hidden beach and cafe, before returning to the hotel. Distance: 5 miles.
DAY 8: LIZARD TO MEVAGISSEY
Today begins with a private tour of the Tregothnan Tea Plantation, then on to the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a botanical garden ranked amongst the best in the country. Distance: 4 miles.
DAY 9: MEVAGISSEY TO PLYMOUTH, DEVON
Today we visit the Eden Project, home to two large biomes which house plants from diverse climates and environments throughout the world. Distance: 3 miles.
DAY 10: PLYMOUTH, DEVON
Plymouth was Sir Francis Drake’s launchpad to the Americas. Today we visit The Mayflower Steps, where pilgrims left England in 1620, then ferry to Mt. Edgcumbe House & Country Park, featuring woodlands, coastal walks, and stunning views. Distance: 2 miles
DAY 11: DEPART
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
June 17 – 27
Price: $6,990 (single +$930)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
April – October
$8,900 (single +$930)
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 10 nights, 11 days.
• 10 nights in comfortable hotels and charming bed and breakfasts.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: London, England.
St. Michael’s Mount
Tregothnan
The Mayflower Steps
Bodmin Moore
“One of the best trips we have ever been on. Wonderful guides, beautiful hikes, great lodging and meals, fun group all around.” —Liz B.
HEART
OF
AUS TRIA
Brilliant blue lakes, lush meadowlands, and hundreds of limestone peaks with cascading glaciers are the hallmarks of our eight-day hiking tour through the Salzkammergut region of Salzburg.
Starting out from the historic town of Bad Goisern, we hike to a luxury fourstar estate surrounded by the dramatic walls of the Gosaukamm Mountains. Climb into the rugged Dachstein Mountains, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Alps’ northernmost high limestone range. The finale of the hike leads us to the lakeside hamlet of Hallstatt, a pint-sized jewel of a village lying at the bottom of steep, wooded slopes on the fjord-like Hallstättersee. Spend two nights at our hotel in Hallstatt enjoying the best of two worlds — stunning mountain scenery and a fairytale village on one side, and delicious lakeside views with glacially carved waterways and steep cliffs on the other.
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate terrain, hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 2,600 feet. (Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
Visit the most beautiful lakeside village in Europe. 2 /4
ITINERARY
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN BAD GOISERN
Transfer independently to Bad Goisern, an historic market and spa town recognized by UNESCO for its culture. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: BAD GOISERN TO HALLSTATT
We spend the day exploring the scenic Panoramaweg, a tranquil lakeside trail that hugs the shores of the Hallstättersee and guides us to the postcard-perfect town of Hallstatt. We have options to extend the hike to Obertraun. Alternatively, a shorter route takes us across the lake by ferry to Hallstatt. Tonight, we unwind in a delightful lakeside hotel in Hallstatt. Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: none.
DAY 3: WIESBERGHAUS
Use the Krippenstein cable car to access the high karst terrain below the Hoher Dachstein. This plateau is home to the largest caves in the Alps. Traverse the plateau to the Wiesberghaus on a superb trail with synoptic information stations. Wiesberghaus offers great food and we highly recommend their homemade dumplings (Knödel). Return via the same route or descend to Hallstatt on foot. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: none with lift. By foot is a descent of 4000 ft.
DAY 4: HALLSTATT TO GOSAU
Today, we set off for a scenic wander up the Echern Valley, surrounded by stunning limestone peaks and cascading waterfalls. After returning to town, ascend via a series of informative switchbacks to visit the historic Hallstatt Salt Mine, the oldest in the world, with a history spanning 7,000 years. The days ends with a transfer to our hotel in Gosau.. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1850 ft.
DAY 5: GAMSFELD
Today begins with a transfer by van to the nearby village of Rußbach, located at the foot of the Gamsfeld, which we will hike today. Gamsfeld is an impressive yet accessible summit. For those of us seeking a more moderate outing, we have the option to hike along the flanks of the peak. The Gamsfeld is renowned for its well-preserved and diverse fossil beds, considered the best in the Alps. We spend another night in Gosau. Distance: up to 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1600/3500 ft.
DAY 6: GOSAUSEE
Today’s hike takes us from our hotel to the end of the valley to explore the area around Gosausee, the most famous lake of the region. We circumnavigate the lake and stop for a delicious lakeside lunch, while enjoying views of the imposing Gosaukamm above. Return to Gosau. Distance: up to 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1150 ft.
DAY 7: GOSAU TO BAD GOISERN
Today, we hike through lush mountain pastures and enchanting forests, eventually reaching the Goisererhütte, where we are rewarded with stunning views of the distant Dachstein peaks and Hallstättersee. Afterward, we descend back to where we began this trek, and our charming hotel in Bad Goisern. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2600 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
Gosau
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
September 5 – 12
Price: $5,400 (single +$620)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
Mid - June – September
Price: $6,675 (single +$620)
†Price based on a group of four.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR
Mid - June – September
Price: $3,050 (single +$620)
DETAILS
• 7 nights, 8 days.
• 7 nights in charming hotels and country inns.
• Guided: Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Self-Guided: Breakfast daily and dinner only in Gosau.
• Gateway: Salzburg, Austria, or Munich, Germany.
Gosausee
Gosaukamm Mtns.
Bad Goisern
Hallstättersee
Hallstätt
Wiesberghaus
Hallstättergletscher AUSTRIA
Hoher Dachstein
“The Horns of Alligin trek stands out as one of the most dramatic and epic hikes of my life, an experience truly marked by its astonishing scenery.” —Guide, Rogan O’H
EUROPE
SCOTLAND
HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS
A marvel for hikers, historians, horticulturists, and photographers.
Welcome to Scotland, a country boasting 800 diverse islands, a rugged coastline, thousands of hidden lochs, a captivatingly unique culture, imposing mountains looming stoically against the wilds of the infamous Scottish climate and vast stretches of uncharted trails. Our tour starts in Callander, Loch Lomond, and the Trossachs National Park, located at the southern reaches of the Highlands. Over the course of our tour, we visit historical landmarks, castles and gardens, sample
TRIP RATINGS
Easy to moderate hiking up to 11.5 miles with ascents up to 3,900 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
world - famous whiskey, taste delicious cuisines, meet locals, explore lovely villages hidden away from the world and stay in truly wonderful accommodations, not least our final stop at our hotel in Achnasheen. T hroughout the tour, we traverse countless miles of awe-inspiring mountains and precipitous glens, summit dramatic peaks and ramble through mossy forests, brave the elements and bask in the sunshine of undoubtedly one of the world’s most enchanting and evocative locations.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: CALLANDER
Arrive and transfer independently to Callander, where you meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: CALLANDER – BEN LOMOND SUMMIT
Our tour begins with a memorable circular walk to the summit of Ben Lomond, one of Scotland’s most southerly Munros (a Scottish peak over 3,000 ft.). We hike along the adventurous Ptarmigan Ridge enjoying the 360-degree views before descending to Rowardennan. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3,200 ft.
DAY 3: CALLANDER – BEN LEDI SUMMIT
A brief 10-minute transfer brings us to the base of Ben Ledi, where we climb to the 2,884 ft. summit. Afterward, we follow the northern descent to the valley, finishing our adventure with a leisurely stroll through a mossy forest along a cycle track, leading us back to Callander. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2600 ft.
DAY 4: CALLANDER TO STRONTIAN
Begin the day with a visit to Doune Castle, renowned for its appearances in iconic productions like Monty Python, Outlander, and Game of Thrones. From there, we embark on a scenic drive deeper into the Highlands, with stops en route to uncover the secluded ruins of Finlarig Castle and the breathtaking Glen Coe valley, before reaching our hotel in Strontian. Distance: 1 mile.
DAY 5: STRONTIAN – SGÙRR DHÒMHNUILL SUMMIT
Today’s adventure begins with a walk through the Ariundle Oakwoods, one of the most extensive and well-reserved oak woodlands in Scotland. From there we summit Sgùrr Dhòmhnuill, a dramatic 2,913 ft. peak with stunning panoramic views. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3000 ft.
DAY 6: STRONTIAN TO SKYE
Today we visit the iconic landmarks of Glenfinnan Monument, commemorating the Jacobite Uprisings of the 18th Century, and the famous arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter series. Next, we drive the scenic “Road to the Isles” before taking a ferry from Mallaig to reach the Isle of Skye. Distance: 1 mile.
DAY 7: SKYE LOOP WALK
On Skye, we start the day with a quick visit to the mythical Sligachan Old Bridge before moving on to the Glenbrittle Valley for a walk around Coire Lagan, one of the island’s less explored valleys. Tucked in by majestic peaks on three sides, this is truly an extraordinary place. The day ends with a whiskey tour of the Talisker Distillery. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2000 ft.
Horns of Alligin
Eilean Donan Castle Beinn Eighe
Torridon Skye Strontian
DAY 8: SKYE TO ACHNASHEEN
Today we visit Eilean Donan Castle, the most photographed castle in Scotland. Next, we head north on a scenic route to Achnasheen. Along the way we visit the Attadale Gardens, renowned for its sculptures and rhododendrons. Distance: 2 miles.
DAY 9: ACHNASHEEN – HORNS OF ALLIGIN
Today’s adventure leads us on a traverse of the famous “Horns of Alligin,” a thrilling hike with awe-inspiring vistas. The ridge consists of two peaks, known as the Horns, named Sgùrr Thionail and Sgùrr a’ Bhealaich Dheirg. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/ loss: 3,900 ft.
DAY 10: ACHNASHEEN – BEINN EIGHE
Our final hike takes us to the summit of the Beinn Eighe Massif, treating us to panoramic views of the surrounding jagged peaks, verdant valleys, and pristine lochs. Tonight, we come together to celebrate our unforgettable adventure with a special final dinner. Distance: 11.5 miles. Elevation gain/ loss: 3,700 ft.
DAY 11: DEPART
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
June 1 – 11
Price: $6,000 (single +$830)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
March – October
$7,210 (single +$830)
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 10 nights, 11 days.
• 10 nights in charming inns, B&Bs and superior 4-star hotels.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Glasgow, and Edinburgh, Scotland, arrival and Inverness, Scotland, departure.
Sligachan Old Bridge
Achnasheen
“Niko, our guide, was fabulous and being fluent in the language gave us a cultural context we wouldn’t have had. The Vamoos app was the best! We loved having all the information for each day in one place.”
MONTENEGRO AND CROATIA HIGHLIGHTS
OF THE ADRIATIC
COAST
Trek through sweeping mountain ranges, untamed forests, and cobalt blue waters.
Ryder-Walker’s journey along the Dalmatian Coast is an incredible experience visiting the best of the two countries. Montenegro borders Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Albania, and this fascinating gem of a country beckons with dominating mountain ranges, sapphire colored beaches, deeply cut fjords, and breathtaking wilderness areas.
Croatia is a celebration of azure, cobalt, and indigo skies and waters
TRIP RATINGS
Moderately challenging hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 2,500 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
with immaculate beaches and bustling villages. On this trek we explore Montenegro’s world famous national park before continuing towards the coast where we experience both the liveliest coastal villages of Montenegro and Croatia while taking excursions out to various islands. Highlights are a visit to the Vrmac peninsula to ascend towards one of the most iconic views of the Adriatic and Dalmatian Coast along with a stop in Dubrovnik.
—Dianne E. and Terry P.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: BUDVA, MONTENEGRO
Travel to Podgorica, Montenegro’s beautiful capital. Transfer to Budva by shuttle or taxi. Meet your guides and group at the hotel for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: NATIONAL PARK LOVĆEN
Today we drive through Cetinje, a former capital of Montenegro, to Lovćen National Park. Our hike offers truly captivating views as we climb through the park. The trail leads up through beautiful limestone and into a cool pine forest before cresting out on a high plateau. After a short cable car ride with stunning, panoramic views of Kotor Bay and the Lovćen mountains, meet our taxi and head to the historical town of Kotor. Overnight in Kotor. Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1230/900 ft.
DAY 3: BAY OF KOTOR
Today we hike in the Vrmac peninsula up to the local summit for truly stunning views of the bay. The steep, limestone cliffs of Mt. Lovćen cover more than 4000 vertical feet before plunging into the narrow inlet of the glimmering Adriatic Sea. Here the 1000-foot-wide Strait of Verige connects the narrow coastal inlet of Kotor to an outer bay of Tivat, creating a perfect natural shelter. We take a boat ride back into Kotor. Distance: 6 to 8 miles. Elevation gain: 2100 ft.
DAY 4: KOTOR MONTENEGRO TO KORČULA CROATIA
After a leisurely morning we leave Montenegro and venture into Croatia. It’s an easy, beautiful two-hour drive along the Adriatic coast with several border crossings. The two countries, once part of former Yugoslavia, are culturally very similar. There is time to visit the famous walled city of Dubrovnik before we embark of on a two-hour ferry to Korčula.
DAY 5: KORČULA AND PEAK OF SVETI ILIJA
This medieval walled port town could not be more charismatic or filled with history. Next, we take a short ferry to the Pelješac peninsula, famous for its vineyards. The village of Orebić sets us up for one of the best coastal hikes in Dalmatia. The hike takes in the summit of Sveti Ilija and its grand panorama before descending back to the village on ancient paths past churches, vineyards, and villas. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3000 ft.
DAY 6: ISLAND OF HVAR
More island-hopping today as we embark on a one-hour transfer by ferry to Hvar, Croatia’s island paradise. Today we explore Hvar’s interior, which hides abandoned hamlets, vineyards, and the lavender fields that the island is famous for. In the afternoon explore the 16th century Spanjola Fortress, overlooking the old Hvar Town. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 1500 ft
DAY 7: ISLAND OF HVAR: SVETI NIKOLA
A quick water-taxi brings us to the island’s southern part. Starting from a beautiful seaside village, we aim for Hvar’s highest summit, Sveti Nikola, which is roughly 2000 feet high. It is a scenic hike with views of the nearby islands. Following our hike, we enjoy a 50-minute ferry ride to Split. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 2100 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
*All ground transportation and ferry transfers included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
May 27 – June 3
Price: $5,150 (single +$620)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
May – June, September – October
Price: $6,700 (single +620)
†Price based on a group of four.
DETAILS
• 7 nights, 8 days.
• 7 nights in charming inns and superior 4-star hotels.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Podgorica, Montenegro, arrival, and Split, Croatia, departure.
*Note: We recommend booking a ticket for the flight from Zürich to Podgorica on Montenegro Air.
Dubrovnik Kotor
Budva
Korčula
Adriatic Sea
CROATIA
“I enjoyed exploring the different Islands, and lovely hiking trails, with beautiful views. It was a great mix of culture and outdoor exploration.” —Michelle J.
SICILY
THE AEOLIAN ISLANDS
Seven islands with over 5000 years of history await you.
From across the aquamarine waves, their call can be heard for thousands of leagues. Ulysses surely wasn’t the first to hear their sound as he crossed the Adriatic, Aegean, and Tyrrhenian seas on his Odyssey, but he definitely was a notable visitor of the Aeolian Islands, home of the Sirens. Tour highlights begin with our stay in Taormina, idyllically perched on a rocky promontory high above the sea, followed by a transfer to Lipari
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate hiking up to 8 miles with ascents up to 2,700 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
where we hike to the top of Mote Guardia. Next we explore Santa Marina and hike to the top of the resident volcano. Panarea follows with another peak trek. Volcanoes are the reason people first came to the region, and the soil from their eruptions is why everything grows. Our final visit to a live volcano on the tiny island of Stromboli is as memorable as the breathtaking views, friendly people and outstanding cuisine.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: CATANIA/TAORMINA
Arrive to Catania Airport and meet your prearranged transfer to your hotel in Taormina. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: TAORMINA TO LIPARI
We meet our local historian this morning for a two-hour tour of the ancient Greek Theatre of Taormina and visit local environs. In the afternoon, taxi to Milazzo Port for a 1-hour ferry to Lipari. Lipari is the biggest island and largest town of the Aeolian archipelago. It is a lively and busy place with picturesque streets, an attractive harbor, and a historic citadel. Distance: up to 4 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 500 ft.
DAY 3: LIPARI
Today we hike to the top of Monte Guardia, the old outpost at the southern tip of the island. We hike by luxurious holiday villas built in classical Aeolian style on our way to the Cappero Osservatorio (Volcano Observatory). After the summit we close the loop with a grand view of Lipari and its 16th-century citadel before heading to explore the town’s maritime atmosphere and rich heritage. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain: 1300 ft.
DAY 4: LIPARI TO SANTA MARINA SALINA
Today we enjoy a lovely coastal hike on Lipari beginning with a descent on a good trail towards the coast. Our beautiful trail brings us to one of the most famous viewpoints on Lipari, the Quattrocchi, or Four Eyes. Our afternoon hike follows a gorgeous valley as we make our way back to Lipari proper for a short ferry transfer to Santa Marina Salina. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain: 2700 ft.
DAY 5: LIPARI TO SANTA MARINA SALINA
Our goal today is bagging the peak of the resident volcano before returning for another evening at our excellent hotel, where we will sampling locally grown wines. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain: 2000 ft.
DAY 6: SANTA MARINA SALINA TO PANAREA
Off we go by ferry to the fashionable Panarea. Hike Punta del Corvo, one of the grandest treks in all the islands. This 421 m (1380 ft) peak is the tallest on the island, and its western flank slants sharply out of the sea, while the eastern side slopes more gently as it rises from the pebble beaches below. Overnight in Panarea. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain: 1500 ft.
DAY 7: PANAREA TO STROMBOLI
After a short ferry transfer, we explore this magical island and in the early evening we depart on a guided hike of Stromboli’s active volcano at sunset. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1640 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
We begin today with a brief ferry ride to Milazzo Port where a prearranged transfer will take you to Catania airport or city.
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
May 15 – 22
Price: $4,800 (single +$680)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
May – October
Price: $6,200 (single +$680)
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 7 nights, 8 days.
• 7 nights in excellently appointed hotels.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Catania, Italy.
Santa Marina Salina
*All ground and ferry transports between Taormina and Stromboli are included. Arrival and departure transfers from Catania included. Luggage transfers from/to port/ hotel. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.
“My Ryder-Walker trek in Sedona turned a hike into a journey of a lifetime.”
—Ivy H.
NORTH AMERICA
SEDONA, ARIZONA TREK
Explore the heart of Red Rock Country.
Sedona, Arizona is a town with an established reputation for exquisite dining, inspired art galleries, and numerous outdoor activities. Explore an enchanting desert landscape, hiking many backcountry trails that spiderweb throughout the region.
We’ll enjoy stunning views of sandstone arches, feel the cool breath of hidden canyon walls painted with desert varnish, and delight in the sweet aroma of desert wildflowers warming along the banks of perennial streams. Some of the trails we follow see limited foot traffic while others lead to popular destinations that everyone should see once in a lifetime. Our first three nights are at the lovely Los Abrigados Resort & Spa located in the center of Sedona. Our final three nights are spent at the Enchantment Resort, offering privacy and star-filled night skies.
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate hiking up to 8 miles with ascents up to 2,400 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
ITINERARY
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN SEDONA
Transfer to Sedona and our well-appointed hotel. Sedona’s town center is lively with outdoor cafes, eclectic shops, art galleries and people from all over the world. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: SOLDIER’S PASS TO BRINS MESA
Our goal for the first day’s outing is a stunning loop hike taking us north of town up and over Soldier’s Pass. Today we hike past Sedona’s Seven Sacred Pools with incredible views of the red rock canyons as well as Coffeepot Rock and Capitol Butte. We will return to our hotel by late afternoon for an evening on the town. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 900 ft.
DAY 3: WILSON MOUNTAIN TRAIL
An absolute Sedona classic is on offer today, complete with an option to climb to the top of Wilson Mountain. After a quick shuttle into Oak Creek, our trail climbs through Ponderosa pine forest en route to the ‘first bench.’ A beautiful descent here passes Steamboat Rock and connects all the way back to Sedona itself. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2400 ft.
DAY 4: THE HANGOVER LOOP
Our hike today gives us a little bit of everything and is the loop hike in Sedona not to be missed! The Hangover Trail begins a short distance from our hotel as we start our journey on the Munds Wagon Trail, a famous first-of-its-kind cattle trail from the late 1800s. Soon we are walking along and on the red rock formations that surround the Sedona Valley. This loop hike links up the very best single-track in Sedona and offers some of the best photography for the week. Get ready to test the friction between the rock and your shoes! Following our hike, we will move into the five-star Enchantment Resort for the remainder of our trip. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.
DAY 5: BOYNTON SUBWAY AND THE MESCAL LOOP
Directly from our front door, we will explore the lesser known and secret trail up to the Boynton Subway. Named for its narrow cylindrical walls, the Boynton Subway is an iconic red rock sandstone formation. The site of this narrow tunnel also offers structures and carvings from the Ancestral Puebloans who occupied this area of the Sonoran desert over 1,000 years ago. Following our short hike to the Subway, we will make our way along the trail network to hike around Mescal Mountain, another stunning red rock formation that you can see from our resort hotel. Distance: 4 to 8 mile. Elevation gain/loss: 500/1000 ft.
DAY 6: BEAR MOUNTAIN
Today we climb up Bear Mountain, a steep and rewarding summit hike near the Enchantment Resort. This hike will add a challenge to finish off our week as we climb steeply up through multiple layers of Sedona sandstone rock. The views are absolutely stunning of the surrounding valley as we spend our time at the top of Bear Mountain. We will then descend back to the Enchantment Resort for an evening of relaxation and final group dinner. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2400 ft.
DAY 7: DEPART
SEDONA, ARIZONA
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
May 17 – 23
October 11 – 17
Price: $6,950 (single +$860)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
April – May, September – October
Price: $8,230 (single +$860)
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 6 nights, 7 days.
• 3 nights in a superior hotel and 3 nights in a 4-star resort.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Flagstaff and Phoenix, Arizona.
“ Our guides were incredible. We enjoyed them so much. They had great personalities; found great hikes; pivoted on a dime, and we could not have asked for better. It was a fantastic trip.” —Liza M.
EUROPE
HIGHLIGHTS OF ITALY COURMAYEUR,
COGNE, AND CHAMPOLUC
Experience true Italian authenticity in three regions offering stunning scenery.
The Highlights of Italy Trek was designed to showcase three of our favorite regions in Italy, as well as provide exceptional hiking with a broad range of physical challenge. Courmayeur is located in Northwest Italy, bordering France and Switzerland, and sits directly beneath the imposing south face of Mont Blanc, arguably the most impressive aspect
TRIP RATINGS
Easy to moderate with one day up to 7 miles with an ascent of 1,900 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
of this peak. Cogne, one of the most beautiful villages in the Aosta Valley, is located in the heart of the Gran Paradiso National Park - Italy’s oldest national park. Our final destination is the charming village of Champoluc, where summer visitors experience countless hiking trails around the Monte Rosa massif while enjoying magical views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: COURMAYEUR
Independently transfer to Courmayeur. Overnight in a well-appointed four-star hotel not far from the pedestrian zone. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: CHÉCROUIT/MASION VILLE TO LA VISAILLE
We take Courmayeur’s main tram to Plan Chécrouit, and ascend to a ridge directly opposite some of the most spectacular scenery in all of the Alps of the Mont Blanc South Face (its most impressive side). Next we descend into the Val Veny, a verdant glacier-scoured valley below the French border. Wander gentle WW1 roads to La Visaille for our quick shuttle home. A panoramic start to say the least! Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1200/2000 ft.
DAY 3: SENTIERO BALCONE DELLA VAL FERRET
The balcony path above the Val Ferret is the perfect complement to yesterday’s outing in Val Veny. Still staring up at Mont Blanc, we now get a full view of its most famous face–The Brenva. This Himalayan-scale wall of ice was the setting for many of mountaineering’s most significant developments over the course of generations. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain: 1800/2100 ft.
DAY 4: TRANSFER TO COGNE
Cogne is approximately a 1-hour drive, first down the main valley, Val d’Aosta, and then climbing up to the edge of the Grand Paradiso National Park. The park was established by King Vittorio Emmanuel in the early 19th century. We have the option to enjoy a lovely circumnavigation on the floor of the beautiful Valnontey or a quick ascent to a nearby subsummit for those in need of more challenging terrain. Distance and elevation gain/loss will vary.
DAY 5: LAGO DI LOIE LOOP HIKE
Today’s loop hike in the Cogne area begins in the tiny hamlet of Lillaz and offers stunning views and ever-changing terrain as we hike to the cascading waterfall, “Cascade de Lillaz.” The Lago di Loie is a crystal-clear, emerald-green lake set against the backdrop of Mont Blanc. From here we continue to the upper ridge to complete a circumnavigation of the valley. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2100/3100 ft.
DAY 6: RIFUGIO VITTORIO SELLA
This out and back trail explores the National Park and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, as well as views of the Grand Paradiso mountain. Start wandering along the floor of the Valnontey beside the river or enjoy a jump start by vehicle to the hamlet of Valnontey. An excellent, very broad path takes us into the Lauson Valley below the Petit and Grand Lauson. Enjoy a fabulous hut lunch at the Rifugio Vittorio Sella. Distance: 6 to 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3000 ft.
DAY 7: COGNE TO CHAMPOLUC
Transfer to Champoluc and spend the afternoon hiking above the village. We can take an easygoing loop hike to the Cappella Sarteur or a harder option such as the Mezzalama hut is also available. Champoluc is a startlingly beautiful and elegant Aostan mountain village below the magnificent flanks of the Breithorn and Lyskamm. Distance and elevation gain/loss will vary.
DAY 8: ALPI DI VERRA AND LAGO BLU
Today we experience an excellent loop out of the village of St. Jacques, the highest in the valley. A remarkably charismatic hamlet, St. Jacques is not to be missed! We spend the day under the broad flanks of the Breithorn (the peak that towers above Zermatt, Switzerland, on the opposite side of the ridge). The Lago Blu is a charming byproduct of glacial advances of the early 19th century when the ice was exceptionally active. It now even boasts gentle white sand beaches. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2700 ft.
DAY 9: DEPART
ITALY
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
June 21 – 29
Price: $5,300 (single +$640)
Minimum of four people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
Mid-June – Mid September
$6,350 (single +$640)
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 8 nights 9 days.
• 8 nights in superior 4-star hotels.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Geneva, Switzerland, Milan, Italy.
“A favorite Ryder-Walker trek; the striking views, pristine trails, and villages that felt frozen in time.” —Eileen B.
NORTHERN GREECE HIKE THE EPIRUS MOUNTAINS
A land of enchantment, where every step is a journey into the distant past.
The rolling crags of the Zagori region of the Epirus Mountains are dotted with Byzantine, Ottoman, and Medieval ruins. Lush foliage obscures ancient roads and gorgeous arched bridges built in the early 1800s, while dolomite spires rise above the canopy. The Epirus Mountains run towards the Aegean Sea from Western Macedonia. The
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate terrain, hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 3,500 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
COMFORT
wilds of Northern Greece are the perfect place for your next escape into nature. They are full of ancient history, lively modern Greek culture, and a network of captivating wilderness trails. R yder-Walker’s Northern Greece Trek takes you through pastoral beauty and preserved historic cities to explore Greece’s Epirus Mountains.
2+/-3/4
/-3/4
ITINERARY
DAY 1: THESSALONIKI
Travel independently to Thessaloniki, co-capital of Greece and the second largest city in the country. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: THESSALONIKI TO METEORA
Exploring Thessaloniki with a local guide, we tour the most important city monuments—this is a great introduction to the history of the country. After the city tour, we embark on a 2.5-hour drive along the coast and under Mount Olympus. Our destination is the picturesque village of Kastraki located at the foot of the Meteora complexes. Distance: 4 miles. Elevation gain: 500 ft.
DAY 3: METEORA HIKE (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE)
Today’s hike begins on the ancient footpaths among the mysterious and uniquely shaped mighty pillars of Meteora. We visit one of the cliff’s hanging monasteries—a place of pilgrimage and orthodox spiritual life for the past 10 centuries. In the afternoon, we depart on a 1.25-hour transfer to the alpine town of Metsovo. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.
DAY 4: NORTHERN PINDUS NATIONAL PARK
Metsovo is Greece’s only true mountain town. Our hike starts from a high plateau above the town, crossing over pastures and wandering through the forest up to a local summit for spectacular views of the snowy mountain peaks of North Pindus. We follow the rim of the forest on the newly built Ursu (bear) trail before we make our way back into the town, where we make a stop at the Katogi Averoff museum and winery, one of Greece’s most celebrated local vineyards. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain: 2000 ft.
DAY 5: ZAGORI (EPIRUS REGION)
Following a scenic drive, we arrive to the remote, mountainous region of Zagori, home of the UNESCO-protected Vikos Gorge, known to be the deepest canyon in the world. Today’s gentle “Seven Bridges” hike starts in the village of Dilofo and has us following old stone footpaths and crossing arching stone bridges above mountain streams and rivers connecting to the tranquil villages of Kipi, Koukouli, and Vitsa. We overnight in Vitsa. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1800 ft.
DAY 6: VILLAGES OF ZAGORI AND BELOI VIEWPOINT
After a short drive, we hike up to the remote, picturesque village of Varadeto, the highest of the Zagori villages at 4500 feet. In a 1000 ft ascent, the staircase of Varadeto connects two villages through a series of narrow switchbacks. Our hike continues through upper grasslands to the viewpoint of Beloi, perched on a rocky cliff revealing stunning views of the nearly 3000 feet of vertical cliffs above the Vikos Gorge. Return to Vitsa. A longer option is available. Distance: 5 - 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 - 3000 ft.
DAY 7: VIKOS GORGE HIKE
The gorge of Vikos is one of the most impressive landforms in Europe. We begin with a descent into the depths of the gorge on a spiral staircase. After reaching the riverbed we follow a stream to where it joins the Vodoimatis River. A short, strenuous climb brings us to the hamlet of Vikos for awe-inspiring 360-degree views. A quick transfer takes us to the tiny village of Mikró Pápigo. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.
NORTHERN GREECE
Zagori
Villages Vitsa
Ioannina
Vergina
Metsovo
DAY 8: ASTRAKA TOWERS AND PÁPIGO VILLAGES
Today we explore the tranquil surrounding of the Pápigo villages with both shorter and longer options. For a longer day, we head up to the mountain hut, set on the shoulder of the Astraka towers. After a rest, we descend the back valley to Dragon Lake. For a more modest route, we hike to a popular viewpoint and then tour around the Pápigo villages. Return to Mikró Pápigo. Distance: 5 - 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss 1000 - 3500 ft.
DAY 9: IOÁNNINA TO THESSALONIKI
On our way back to Thessaloniki, we first visit the vibrant lake town of Ioánnina, the cultural and economic capitol of Epirus. Continuing, we stop for a tour at the magical archaeological site of Vergina, set in the vast peach fields at the foot of Mount Olympus. This historic site is known for the discovery of the Royal Tombs where the father of Alexander the Great, King Philip II of Macedon, was laid to rest. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We celebrate our final night in Thessaloniki.
DAY 10: DEPART
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
May 3 – 12
Price: $6,600 (single +$750)
Minimum of four people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
May – October
Price: $7,725 (single +$750) †Price based on a group of four.
DETAILS
• 9 nights, 10 days.
• 9 nights in superior hotels and inns.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Thessaloniki, Greece.
Meteora Thessaloniki
Astraka Papigko
“Corsica is a land of pure magic – our journey hikes a variety of coastal trails that weave in and out of cliff sides, hidden coves, and onto pristine sandy beaches. We also trek high into the mountains above stunning glacial valleys and lakes below.” —Nikola, Lead Guide
CORSICA: FRENCH ISLE ADVENTURE TREK
Explore the island’s craggy mountains, sandy beaches, glacial valleys and more.
Corsica is known for its rugged landscapes and a rich blend of French and Italian influences. The hiking is as varied and unique as the island, with the Balagne Mountains hemmed by the waters of the Mediterranean, and interspersed with dense forests, sandy beaches, medieval villages, and pristine pastureland. We hike diverse biomes, from
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate to challenging hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 2,000 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
the Agriates desert to coastal trails, starting in Bastia, visiting the beaches of Calvi, glacial valleys of Corte, through the Aïtone Forest to the dramatic Spelunca river gorge, and to the remarkable Calanques de Piana cliffs, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We end our trek in the port city of Ajaccio, also the capital of Corsica.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: CALVI
Ryder-Walker will provide a taxi transfer from Bastia Poretta Airport to our charming seaside hotel in Calvi. Meet guide(s) and group for welcome dinner.
DAY 2: FARA DELLA REVELLATA COASTAL HIKE
We begin in Calvi’s historic district, hiking alongside the 13th-century citadel before joining the custom officer’s path to Faro della Revellata. Enjoy views of the Balagne mountains arching above Algajola and Calvi’s beaches, and the Genoese citadel overlooking the bay. We also explore the far side of the peninsula, and the rugged Scandola shoreline. Return to Calvi. Distance: up to 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 700 ft.
DAY 3: CALVI TO GALÉRIA
Our journey takes us to the beautiful Bonifatu Nature Reserve, a summer oasis just 30 minutes from Calvi. Here, crystal-clear rivers and ancient trees create a serene setting. The Fango River, originating at 7,600 feet, carves through the mountains, forming natural pools before reaching the Gulf of Galéria. This stunning valley offers a variety of trails, including the renowned Mare e Monti route. We’ll conclude with a short drive to our hotel in Galéria. Distance: up to 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1800 ft.
DAY 4: GLACIAL VALLEYS OF CORTE
Explore Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans approximately 3.5 square miles of rugged land and nearly 4 square miles of protected marine area, including the remote village of Girolata. With porphyritic rock formations, scrubland vegetation, and clear waters rich with marine life, it’s home to seagulls, cormorants, and sea eagles. We explore the far side of the Scandola peninsula by boat, then hike from Girolata back to our hotel in Galéria. (Note: plans may adjust for inclement weather.) Distance: up to 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2300 ft.
DAY 5: GALÉRIA TO BALAGNE TO CORTE
Our goal today is to reach Corte, the historic capital of Corsica, by hiking through the charming villages of the Balagne region. After a one-hour drive to our trailhead in Algajola, we’ll follow an old mule trail through Corbara and Pigna, arriving in St. Antonino for a terrace lunch with stunning views over Balagne. From there, a onehour transfer takes us into the heart of Corsica for a three-night stay at a lovely riverside hotel. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1100 ft.
DAY 6: GLACIAL VALLEY OF RESTONICA
Today, we explore the stunning glacial valley of Restonica, renowned for its natural beauty. A scenic road winds through the valley, leading to waterfalls and glacial lakes beneath the granite domes of Monte Rotondo, Corsica’s second-highest peak at 8602 feet. We hake a section of the legendary GR20 hiking route that traverses the island from north to south. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3000 ft.
DAY 6: CORTE
Situated in the heart of Corsica and surrounded by the island’s highest peaks, Monte Cinto rises to an elevation of 8,878 feet, offering Corte a prime location for exploring the island’s natural beauty. After visiting the historic town and fortress, we’ll embark on a hike in the surrounding area before returning to the hotel for dinner in the old town. Distance: 6.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
Ryder-Walker provides a taxi transfer from the hotel in Corte to Bastia Poretta Airport.
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
September 23 – 30
Price: $6,700 (single +$720)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
May – October
Price: $7,830 (single +$720) †Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 7 nights, 8 days.
• 7 nights in 4-star hotels.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Bastia, France. Calvi Phare de la Revellata
FRANCE
Bastia
Scandola Natural Reserve Galéria
“Ryder-Walker has given us two of the best trips of our lives in Switzerland and the Dolomites, combining phenomenal hiking, adventure, food and accommodations. We will never forget these trips and can’t wait for our next!”
ITALIAN DOLOMITES TREK
Nourish yourself with the pleasures of Northern Italy.
Nourish yourself with the pleasures of northern Italy. The Dolomites are culturally diverse, and this trip visits the German speaking Tyrolean villages of the Val Gardena, the Ladin speaking center of Corvara in the Alta Badia Valley, and the chic Italian speaking center of Cortina d’Ampezzo, a long-time destination for members of the jet-set crowd.
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate terrain, hiking up to 9 miles with ascents up to 3,100 feet. (Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
Visit Völs Am Schlern, a cobblestoned village beneath the Sciliar. Climb onto the Alpe di Siusi, with views that extend across the Ortler, Stubaier and Zillertaler Alps of Austria. Spend one night in an upscale rifugio above tree line. Hike through the Rosengarten, Sassolungo, Puez and Tofane ranges; the most striking and vertical-looking mountains in the Dolomites.
—Julie G.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: VÖLS
Travel independently by rail to Bolzano. Ryder-Walker provides a taxi transfer to Völs. Overnight in a restored fourteenth century five-star hotel. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: VÖLS
Today we embark on a gentle warm-up hike from Völs through Tuffalm to Hofer Alpl, a picturesque farm house turned restaurant. Enjoy views of the Sciliar before looping back to Völs. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain: 1750 ft.
DAY 3: VÖLS TO RIFUGIO ALPE DI TIRES
Today’s hike begins in the Alpe di Siusi, the largest meadow, or alp, in the Alps. Views extend to the Austrian Alps to the north and to the region’s dominant peaks, the Sassopiatto, Sassolungo and today’s objective, the Sciliar. Have lunch at the Rifugio Bolzano, a quintessential Tyrolean hut / restaurant at 8,059 feet. Traverse to the Rifugio Alpe di Tires. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2600/1300 ft. (With gondola and lift.)
DAY 4: RIFUGIO ALPE DI TIRES TO SËLVA
Hike on the south side of the Sassopiatto on a contouring trail with great views of the Val di Fiemme. Descend to the Passo Sella for transport to the village of Sëlva in Gardena and our welcoming four-star hotel. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain: 3000 ft.
DAY 5: SËLVA TO CORVARA
Ascending the lovely Val Lunga, a pristine glacial valley surrounded by towering limestone walls, we climb through larch and stone pine toward the Rifugio Puez. Have lunch at the hut then traverse to a dramatic pass before descending to the village of Corvara in the Alta Badia Valley. Overnight in a superior five-star hotel. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3100/3300 ft.
DAY 6: CORVARA
Corvara offers a variety of hiking options. We can explore directly from the hotel or ascend to a ridge that separates the Puez and Sella groups, with views of the Marmolada—the highest peak in the Dolomites at 10,692 feet—rising to the west, and the Tofane and Della Croce groups to the east. Your guide(s) will select an outing tailored to the group’s needs and abilities. Distance and elevation gain/loss are variable.
DAY 7: CORVARA TO CORTINA
Hike into a world of rock; the heart of the Tofane Range. Ascend gradually to a striking vantage point before descending to the beautifully situated Rifugio Dibona. Transfer to the alpine center of Cortina d’Ampezzo and the comforts of a five-star hotel. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 200/2400 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
Völs
Sëlva
Rosengartengruppe Langkofel
Piz Boè
Rifugio Alpe di Tires
*Taxi transport between Bolzano and Völs upon arrival included. Luggage transfer all nights except at mountain hut.
NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities. ** Rifugio (hut) has shared toilets in the hall and some private rooms with showers. If full then there are shared bunk rooms. Self-guided trek guests stay 4 nights in 5-star hotels, 2 nights in 4-star hotels, and 1 night in comfortable Rifugio.
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
June 13 – 20
August 25 – September 1
Price: $7,180 (single +$830)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
Mid June – Mid September
Price: $8,250 (single +$830)
†Price based on a group of four.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR
Mid June – Mid September
Price: $4,355 (single +$830)
DETAILS
• Guided: 5 nights in 5-star hotels, 1 nights in 4-star hotels and 1 night in a comfortable Rifugio.**
• Self-Guided: 3 nights in 5-star hotels, 3 nights in 4-star hotels and 1 night in a comfortable Rifugio.**
• Breakfast and dinner daily. (Self guided tours –dinners not included in Cortina.)
• Gateway: Venice and Milan, Italy, and Munich, Germany
Schlern
Cinque Torri
Tofane
Corvara
Cortina
“Ken was the perfect guide for our group. He set the pace for a great week of hiking. Everything was memorable including our picnics with story-book views. What a great trek.” —Susan C.
EUROPE
FRENCH ALPS
MONT BLANC CHAMONIX TO VAL D’IS ÈRE
Hike the Tarentaise Mountains with views of the iconic Mont Blanc.
Mont Blanc is an icon; much more than a mountain. Huge and complex, it has something to offer everyone. Unlike the highlands of the Haute Savoie on the flanks of Mont Blanc, the terrain along the banks of the Isère River offers fantastic walking through perfectlypreserved antique hamlets in astonishingly remote locations.
Arriving in the world-renowned ski town of Chamonix, our trip through
TRIP RATINGS
Easy to moderate hiking up to 12.2 miles (two options offered most days) with ascents up to 4,240 feet. (Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
the Tarentaise Mountains allows us to explore these fascinating valleys virtually alone and at a relaxed pace. We connect the villages of Chamonix, Les Contamines, Séez, tiny Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise, and the bustling winter hotspot of Val d’Isère. The Isère Valley is as well known for its cuisine as for its mountains, and we explore the finest that each village has to offer. Hiking days are moderate to challenging.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC
Travel independently to Chamonix and overnight in a grand, old-world, four-star hotel. Meet the group and your guide(s) for welcome drinks and dinner at 7:00 pm.
DAY 2: CHAMONIX TO LES CONTAMINES
Today’s outing offers extensive views of the Mont Blanc massif and fabulous north face of the Dômes de Miage and the opportunity to visit the lovely little hamlet of the Chalets de Miage. Starting from nearby Les Houches, this hike is an excellent moderate excursion. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2640/4000 ft.
DAY 3: LES CONTAMINES TO SÉEZ
This is a fascinating and historic hike to the remote Refuge du Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. Exit Contamines to the south on an old Roman thoroughfare past the famous Notre Dame de la Gorge. Ascend through farms to the atmospheric Col du Bonhomme. We will pass the venerable Refuge du Col de la Croix du Bonhomme and transfer from la Ville des Glaciers through Bourg St. Maurice and up the Petit San Bernard pass to our hotel. Distance: 12.2 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4200/3100 ft.
DAY 4: SÉEZ TO SAINTE-FOY-TARENTAISE
From our hotel, we begin hiking through high pastures and tiny villages on the north side of the valley. Our trail leads past the wonderfully situated church of Saint Michel with its astonishing views over Mont Pourri, the Mont Blanc of the Tarantaise mountains. After a picnic at Le Falconnier, we descend to Sainte Foy. Distance: up to 6.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1200/2500 ft.
DAY 5: SAINTE-FOY TO REFUGE DE L’ARCHEBOC
A fabulous day hike in the valley takes us to the Refuge de l’Archeboc, weaving our way up through more high alpine pastures and past sparkling lakes. The views get better and better as we climb higher, until we find ourselves just under the Italian border. Return to our Sainte-Foy hotel. Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500/3800 ft.
DAY 6: LE MONAL TO VAL D’ISÈRE
Today’s hike begins through the village of Le Monal, which is classified as a cultural heritage site in France and considered one of the best representations of traditional farming life. We continue into open country following ancient paths high above the main valley. A picnic in the panoramic hamlet of Nantcruet will be a highlight. After lunch in the village, we continue to Lac du Chevril and transfer to Val d’Isère. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2600/1800 ft.
DAY 7: VAL D’ISÈRE DAY HIKE TO COL DE LA BAILLETTA
Our final day begins with a short transfer to our trailhead at the entrance of the Reserve Naturelle de la Grande Sassiere. A perfect hour long warm up brings us to the high and wildly scenic Lac de la Sassiere before our final ascent to the Col de la Bailletta. We picnic at the high point, taking in the most sweeping views of the Isere valley before hiking back to our Val d’Isère hotel. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/ loss: 1800/3300 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
*All ground transportation between Chamonix and Val d’lsère included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.
Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
July 22 – 29
Price: $5,600 (single +$670)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
July – Mid August
Price: $6,600 (single +$670)
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 7 nights, 8 days.
• 7 nights superior 3 and 4-star hotels.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Geneva, Switzerland.
Chamonix
Val d’Isère
FRANCE
Mont Blanc
Mont Pourri
Lac du Chevril
“If you want a guided trip in a beautiful location with interesting guests, a small group, wonderful and quaint accommodations, and terrific guides, look no further than Ryder-Walker.” —Matthew M.
PORTUGAL THE SOUTHWESTERN SCENIC COASTAL TREK
One of the most spectacular coastal hikes in the world.
There are few coastal hikes that offer the pristine beauty of Portugal’s Fishermen’s Trail. Hugging the wild Atlantic Coast, the trail winds through nearly vacant, sandy beaches, across freshwater streams, along rugged cliffs, and into tranquil villages. Our trek begins in the heart of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. We hike to Almograve
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate terrain, hiking up to 11 miles with ascents up to 800 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
beach, with its gentle sand dunes and dotted dramatic black shale rocks. A highlight is the village of Odeceixe, with its river-wrapped beach, jagged cliffs. Heading south to the Algarve region where we stop at Ponta da Piedade, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, golden rock formations, and crystal clear waters. We spend our last three nights in Lagos.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: VILA NOVA DE MILFONTES
Ryder-Walker will provide a transfer from Lisbon to Vila Nova de Milfontes, a lovely, and laid-back coastal village located in the heart of the Alentejo coastline. Meet your guides and group for welcome drinks and dinner.
DAY 2: CERCAL DO ALENTEJO TO PORTO COVO
Today, we hike on a section of the Historical Way of the greater Rota Vicentina leading you to the coastal village of Porto Covo. We end with a bit of transfer back to Milfontes for a second night. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 500/930 ft.
DAY 3: VILA NOVA DE MILFONTES TO ALMOGRAVE
We begin with a short ferry ride to the trailhead. Today’s hike on the Fishermen’s Trail is on a wider path. The scents of pine, eucalyptus, and the hearty coastal vegetation dominate the air. Our hike ends on the lovely beach in Almograve, before a short transfer to our hotel in the tranquil village of Zambujeira do Mar. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 280/380 ft.
DAY 4: ALMOGRAVE TO ZAMBUJEIRA DO MAR
On this hike, we enjoy red-hued sand dunes and cliffs harboring more than 20 species of birds nesting. Passing through the tiny village of Cavaleiro, we eventually stroll back to the charming village of Zambujeira do Mar. Distance: up to 11 miles.
Elevation gain/loss: 350/250 ft.
DAY 5: ZAMBUJEIRA DO MAR TO ODECEIXE TO LAGOS
Continuing along the Fishermen’s Trail, we pass the beautiful beaches of Alteirinhos, Carvalhal, Machados, and Amalia en route to the natural fishing harbor of Azenha do Mar. From one of the finest viewpoints in the region, we look down upon the stunning beach of Odeceixe. Transfer to the historic village of Lagos, located on the very southern tip of the Portuguese coast. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 800/700 ft.
DAY 6: ALGARVE COAST HISTORICAL WAY
This morning begins with a transfer to the small, laid-back surfing/fishing village of Burgau. From here we experience the coastal beauty of the Algarve, with its orange sandstone cliffs and magical grottos. Our hike leads us back to the bustling village of Lagos. Distance: up to 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 700/780 ft.
DAY 7: PONTA DA PIEDADE
Our final journey takes us to the old town of Lagos, with stops at various viewpoints to admire the iconic rock formations of the Algarve. Highlights along the way include Ponta da Piedade and Praia Dona Ana. The hike concludes at the marina, where there’s an option to book a boat tour to explore the sea caves, time and weather permitting. We can extend the hike from the Old Town of Lagos, or opt for a short transfer back to our hotel in Lagos for a final night. Distance: up to 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 475 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
*All ground transportation beginning in Vila Nova de Milfontes and ending in Lagos included in the tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
May 4 – 11
October 5 – 12
Price: $4,950 (single +$590)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
April – November
Price: $6,100 (single +$590)
†Price based on a group of four.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR
April – November
Price: $3,450 (single +$590)
DETAILS
• 7 nights, 8 days.
• 7 nights in first class hotels and charming inns.
• Breakfast and dinner daily guided. Self-guided breakfast only.
• Gateway: Lisbon and Faro, Portugal.
Porto Covo
Milfontes
Cercal do Alentejo
“The Dolomites are truly magical, amazing scenery, great hotels, and such nice people! Thank you Ryder-Walker you exceeded our expectations! We can hardly wait to do another one!” —Mary Lou B.
ITALIAN DOLOMITES:
LAGO DI BRAIES, FANES WILDERNESS, AND ALTA BADIA
Explore the most quiet and remote areas of the Dolomites.
The Pusteria Valley on the Italian/Austrian border is where the Alps morph into the Dolomites. The northern flank of the valley is pastoral with undefined walls of limestone and gentler summits. The southern flank is where the Dolomites find their personality and skyrocket above you as compact and jagged summits of unfathomable verticality. The magnificence of this hiking itinerary lies in its ability to navigate
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate hiking up to 12 miles with ascents up to 4,150 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
these seemingly impenetrable peaks. The route sneaks its way through heavenly lush meadows and links fascinating and remote hamlets, with charming hotels and one superbly appointed rifugio. Adventuresome outings exist in the higher hills and the more rugged ridges of this forgotten section of the Dolomites, often passing the astonishing relics of World War I’s Fronte Italiano.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: SAN CANDIDO
Transfer independently to San Candido. Meet your guide(s) and group for welcome drinks and dinner.
DAY 2: SAN CANDIDO LOOP HIKE
Bus to the Fischleintal Valley and hike into the Sesto Dolomites. After following the Via Alpina trail to the Talschlusshütte and on to the high point today, Rifugio Comici. Return to San Candido. Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2600 ft.
DAY 3: SAN CANDIDO TO SAN VIGILIO
After a quick van transfer to the Lago di Braies, (to many the most beautiful lake in the Dolomites) hike over the Kreuzjoch, with lunch in the agriturismo Ucia de Fejedora, which is outstanding. Hike to San Vigilio, or “Al Plan” in Ladin. Check into our wonderful hotel in this quaint hamlet. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3000 ft.
DAY 4: SAN VIGILIO TO RIFUGIO FANES
Today’s hike from San Vigilio to the Alp Fanes is primarily a dramatic ascent to Passo de San Antonio. Much of the hike is in the Fanes wilderness preserve, along quiet trails through unspoiled forest, hiking over the Ju de St. Antoine. Overnight in the Rifugio Fanes (some private rooms, great kitchen, even has WiFi). Distance: 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4150/1390 ft.
DAY 5: RIFUGIO FANES TO ALTA BADIA, SAN CASSIANO
Today we access the isolated Ciasa Salares in the Valparola above the romantic hamlet of San Cassiano. The Ciasa Salares is a superior four-star hotel with a fantastic kitchen and spa facilities set above endless meadows. Distance: 11 miles.
Elevation gain/loss: 1800/3550 ft.
DAY 6: ALTA BADIA
Today we hike from Abtei back to Armentarola. Ride the ski lift from the village of Pedraces and enjoy a fun-filled hiking day through the famous pastures of the upper Badia Valley. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1000/1400 ft.
DAY 7: ALTA BADIA, SAN CASSIANO TO LIVINALLONGO
Today’s hike climbs up over the historic Col di Lana (or blood mountain) and down into the Livinallongo Valley, the heart of the Ladin culture. This exceptional day takes in the summit of a mountain fought over during World War I. Distance: 10 miles.
Elevation gain/loss: 1400/2800 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
Ryder-Walker provides a taxi to the Belluno train station.
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
September 14 – 21
Price: $5,250 (single +$700)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
Mid June – Mid September
Price: $6,550 (single +$700)
†Price based on a group of four.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR
Mid June – Mid September
Price: $3,150 (single +$700)
DETAILS
• 7 nights, 8 days.
• 6 nights in excellent hotels and 1 night in a well-appointed Rifugio**.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Venice and Milan, Italy.
ITALY
Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park
ground transportation between San Candido and Livinallongo included. Luggage transfer all nights except at mountain hut. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.
San Cassiano Rifugio Fanes
San Candido
San Vigilio
Livinallongo
Piz Boé
Monte Civetta
Lago di Braies
“I’ve hiked from Appenzell to Liechtenstein on several private guided trips, and I’m thrilled we now offer it to everyone! This trek truly feels like stepping into a postcard every day. Join me for an unforgettable adventure!”
EUROPE
APPENZELL TO LIECHTENSTEIN DISCOVER
THE HIDDEN ALPS
Epic hikes, stunning vistas, and the rich culture of neighboring countries.
Our trek begins in a hidden gem of Switzerland, the Appenzell region, where the majestic limestone cliffs of the Alpstein and Säntis ranges rise dramatically above lush pastures. This area offers a well-planned network of huts and Berghaus inns, each comfortably within a day’s walk of one another, making it ideal for trekking. In our opinion, Appenzell represents the last bastion of old Switzerland and offers a unique opportunity to see the country the way that it existed centuries ago. We then cross into the Principality of Liechtenstein, one of Europe’s smallest countries, bordered by Austria’s rugged mountains and the Swiss Rhine Valley. Liechtenstein’s 38,000 residents live across 11 municipalities, sharing a strong cultural heritage with their Swiss neighbors and speaking primarily German. Hikers can expect a week full of exciting hiking, convivial company, and the unique experience of staying in cozy mountain inns and welcoming hotels that cater to hikers from around the globe.
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate terrain, hiking up to 9 miles with ascents up to 3,200 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
—RW Guide, Ken F.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: APPENZELL
Travel independently to Appenzell. Overnight in a charming four-star inn. Meet your guide(s) and group for cocktails and dinner.
DAY 2: APPENZELL DAY HIKE
Our adventure begins with a warm-up hike in the scenic Alpstein mountains. We’ll visit the iconic cliffside Berggasthaus Aescher-Wildkirchli, then continue to Berghaus Schäfler for a panoramic alpine lunch. After a memorable day on the trail, we return to our hotel in Appenzell. Distance: 6.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1200 ft.
DAY 3: BERGGASTHAUS BOLLENWEES
We begin with a scenic tram ride up Hoher Kasten, then hike the ridge-line trail to Berggasthaus Bollenwees, stopping for lunch at Staubern. After crossing the Saxer Lücke, we’re treated to unforgettable views of the Kreuzberg peaks. We end the day at our accommodation above the serene Fählensee lake. We will not have luggage tonight Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain: 1300/1500 ft.
DAY 4: VADUZ
We start the day with a gentle warm-up along Fählensee, then ascend to the rugged peak of Altmann. A shortcut takes us over Zwinglipass, where we’ll enjoy lunch at Zwinglipasshütte. Afterward, we descend to Bergrestaurant Gamplüt for a cable car ride to Wildhaus, followed by a transfer across the Rhine to Vaduz, Liechtenstein’s charming capital, where we’ll spend the night. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3200/2500 ft.
DAY 5: VADUZ
Today, we tackle the Fürstensteig, known as the “Prince’s Climb.” This thrilling trail winds along a stunning limestone ridge above Vaduz, offering up-close views of the dramatic rock formations. Sweeping vistas over the Rhine Valley reveal both Swiss and Austrian landscapes, making this a truly memorable hike. We return to our hotel in Vaduz to unwind after a day on the trail. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2800 ft.
DAY 6: MALBUN
Today’s hike takes us to the charming alpine, ski-resort village of Malbun. After a short transfer to Steg, we follow a trail that ascends the summit of Schönberg, or “beautiful mountain,” before descending into Malbun. On clear days, the views stretch all the way to Lake Constance in southern Germany. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2800/2400 ft.
DAY 7: MALBUN
Our final hike takes us to the Austrian border and up to the summit of Augstenberg. At the peak, a sturdy summit cross and unforgettable panoramic views await before we descend to the Pfälzerhütte, Liechtenstein’s only mountain club hut. We complete the adventure with a loop trail back to our hotel Malbun. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2000/2750 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
SWITZERLAND
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
July 10 – 17
Price: $6,050 (single +$550)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
Late June – October
$7,000 (single +$550)
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED DETAILS
• 7 nights, 8 days.
• 6 nights in first class hotels and 1 night in a charming Berggasthaus.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateways: Zurich, Switzerland.
*All ground transportation beginning in Appenzell, Switzerland and ending in Malbun, Liechtenstein included during tour. Luggage transfer daily except at mountain Berggasthaus. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hiker’s abilities.
LIECHTENSTEIN
“Elsa is a pleasure to hike with. Her being raised in Como and having hiked in and around the lakes district made this trip even more special. Elsa’s professionalism and enthusiasm to share her knowledge of this region’s history was impressive. We highly recommend this trip.” —Darrall H.
ITALIAN LAKES DISTRICT HIKE
VARENNA, MENAGGIO, LENNO, BELLAGIO, AND COMO
Discover lakeside beauty with dramatic views of the Alps.
Lake Como is best known for its lavish Villas, authentic Italian cuisine, and romantic lakeside views, but its best kept secret is the accessible alpine beauty of the dramatic surrounding mountains. Glacially carved over 10,000 years ago and forming the shape of an upside-down Y, Lake Como’s “Middle Lake” offers exquisite accommodations, genuine culture, historical perspective, and surprisingly remote and beautiful day hikes at the
TRIP RATINGS
Easy to moderate hiking up to 8 miles with ascents up to 2,000 feet. Optional extension to 3,000 ft. (Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
foot of the Alps. These mountains are so revered that a little-known hut system exists among the open meadows, Faggi groves, and high ridges that run along either side of the lake, some of which you visit on your daily sojourns from the famous lakeside villages. Our lake-centered point-to-point hiking route begins in Varenna, the northern-most town, and ends in Como. Ramble along ancient Roman paths offering breathtaking views of the lake.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: VARENNA
Travel independently to Varenna. Overnight in a lovely hotel in the center of town. Meet the group and your guide(s) for welcome drinks and dinner at 7:00 pm.
DAY 2: VARENNA
Today’s hike is a pleasant ramble through the high alpine environment of the Gringa Massif. Traverse beneath the Piancaformia ridge to the Rifugio Bietti for lunch and stunning views. For a truly challenging return, we climb to the Bocchetta Guzzi behind the rifugio. We taxi back to our hotel in Varenna. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.
DAY 3: VARENNA TO MENAGGIO
We begin today’s hike with a water ferry ride to Menaggio and a short taxi ride to the small town of Breglia in the hills above Menaggio. Our hike takes us to a rifugio where we enjoy a delicious lunch of regional Italian cuisine served with some of the best views of the lake. Distance: 5 to 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2000 ft. (Optional extension is 3000 ft.)
DAY 4: MENAGGIO TO LENNO
Today’s hike takes us to the heart of the valley, where we hike through pastures and meadows before ascending to the ridge line along the Italian-Swiss border. Our goal is a lookout point on Monte Generoso, the highest mountain peak in the Canton of Ticino, where we enjoy sweeping, panoramic views above Northern Italy. Enjoy views of the lakes region, Gran Paradiso, Monte Rosa, and Matterhorn. Distance: up to 7.4 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2090 ft.
DAY 5: BELLAGIO DAY HIKE TO BELVÉDÈRE MACALLÈ
After a boat transfer to Bellagio, the “Gem of Lake Como,” we stroll through its charming streets, past stone houses and churches, into a lush chestnut forest. As we ascend, enjoy views of Lake Como, Bellagio and the surrounding mountains. After lunch at Trattoria Baita Belvedere, we continue to Belvédère Macallè to take in the stunning panoramic vistas. Return to Bellagio to explore, shop, or relax at a café before boating back to our hotel in Lenno. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1700 ft.
DAY 6: LENNO
TO COMO
Our final hike is a scenic loop from Bocchetta di Orimento, a 40-minute taxi ride away. The trail winds through meadows and forest, offering views of rocky ridges, and possibly wild Bisbino horses. After a gentle ascent, we traverse beneath the impressive rocky walls to the summit of Monte Generoso, where clear days reveal the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, and Monte Rosa. Descend via a gentle path to Orimento, with lunch options at the Swiss hut, Fiore di Pietra near the summit, or the cozy Italian hut in Orimento. Overnight in the picturesque town of Como. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1800/2000 ft.
DAY 7: DEPART
Orimento
Monte
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
May 28 – June 3
Price: $5,750 (single +$730)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
May – October
Price: $6,700 (single +$730)
†Price based on a group of four.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR
May – October
Price: $3,350 (single +$730)
DETAILS
• 6 nights, 7 days.
• 6 nights in upscale hotels and Italian county villas.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Milan, Italy.
Generosa
“I loved every aspect, it’s impossible to choose my favorite part of the trip!”
—Sasha F.
EUROPE
HIGH PEAKS
OF BAVARIA AND TYROL
Germany and Austria’s rugged mountains, deep blue lakes, and picture-perfect scenes.
Our journey begins in Garmisch -Partenkirchen. Directly behind town sits the massive Zugspitze mountain. As part of the Wetterstein mountain range, the Zugspitze is the highest of the peaks that define the border between Germany and Austria.
Our hike makes a complete tour around this stunning range, both
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate terrain, hiking up to 12 miles with ascents up to 3,050 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
starting and finishing in Garmisch. During our journey, we drop into Tyrol, Austria for a few days, then return to Bavaria.
Our accommodations have been carefully selected, focusing on exceptional comfort, food, and service. We can anticipate outstanding hearty regional cuisine, featuring “farm to fork” freshness in which the locals pride themselves
ITINERARY
DAY 1: GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN
Travel independently to Munich and then take the train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Overnight in a classic Bavarian hotel. Meet your guides and group at the hotel for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN TO EHRWALD
We take the classic Zugspitzbahn train from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to the Eibsee lake, at the foot of the Zugspitze. From this famous scenic lake, we hike over the border into Austria, along the dramatic northwest face of the Zugspitze. We make a pleasant stop for lunch at the Hochthörle Hütte before we descend into Ehrwald. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2650/2600 ft.
DAY 3: MIEMINGER KETTE HIKE
Today features a dramatic trek into the Mieminger Kette, the mountain range high above the Inn River Valley. We begin our hike in the Ehrwalder Alm (meadow) above town, before ascending the Ganghofersteig Trail around Taja Peak. This dramatic range features the spire-like limestone peaks such the iconic Sonnenspitze. Distance: 9.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2700 ft.
DAY 4: EHRWALD TO WEIDACH
Leaving Ehrwald, we ascend to a high traversing trail along the southern side of the Wetterstein range, with amazing views over the Leutasch Valley far below. This trail winds along the rocky southern wall of the Wetterstein Range, paralleling the German/Austrian border along the ridge. We overnight in the charming village of Weidach. Distance: 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2900/4050 ft.
DAY 5: WEIDACH TO REINDLAU
We leave the valley floor heading uphill to the north towards Scharnitzjoch (pass), high above the Leutasch Valley. The views are simply stunning of Germany, Austria, and into Italy to the south. After a picnic lunch atop the pass, we descend into the hamlet of Reindlau. Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3050/3300 ft.
DAY 6: THE KARWENDELSPITZE AND MITTENWALD
Today we return from Austria into Germany, and begin by ascending the north side of the dramatic Karwendelspitze massif high above the idyllic town of Mittenwald (“Middle of the Forest”). After a morning filled with stunning views, we pause for a delicious repast at the Dammkar Hut, perched on the north flank of the massif. We continue the “Rundweg” round trip back into the valley and our hotel in Mittenwald. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2700 ft.
DAY 7: MITTENWALD TO GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN
A short transfer from Mittenwald takes us to the Ferchensee, where we begin our final traverse north of the dramatic Wettersteinwand (Wetterstein Wall). After a gourmet picnic lunch, we begin our final descent into the famous Partnachklamm (Partnach River Gorge), which leads directly to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Tonight we celebrate our hiking tour around the entire Zugspitze massif. Distance: 9.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 600/2150 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
August 28 – September 4
Price: $5,250 (single +$580)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
June – September
Price: $6,465 (single +$580)
†Price based on a group of four.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR
June – September
Price: $2,700 (single +$580)
DETAILS
• 7 nights 8 days.
• 7 nights in charming inns and local boutique hotels.
• Breakfast daily, dinner all nights except on self-guided tours in Mittenwald.
• Gateway: Munich, Germany.
“I enjoyed the grandeur of mountains, pristine waters, and exquisite Patagonian cuisines. Llao Llao Hotel was the epitome of luxury, and the hike to Refugio Frey was my favorite.” —Theresa B.
SOUTH AMERICA
ARGENTINE PATAGONIA THE
LAKES DISTRICT
Visit Argentina: Lush, ancient forests, brilliant blue lakes and volcanoes.
This diverse land covers some 400,000 square miles. In geographical terms Argentine Patagonia is roughly the size of Texas, blessed with vast steppe grasslands, a rugged and beautiful Atlantic coastline, endless foothills and forests of indigenous trees, spectacular lakes and rivers, and the massive volcanoes and peaks of the mighty Andean Cordillera. Patagonia’s waterways are of seemingly infinite colors of blue, and the massive volcanoes and jagged granite peaks of the Andean Cordillera rise up abruptly against the skyline. As vast as Patagonia is, we concentrate our tour discovering the mountain trails, refugios, and lakes of what is known as the “Lakes District” and the towns tucked in along the infamous Ruta 40. This trek enjoys various terrain and experiences, including summiting a peak, strolling through Los Arrayanes National Park, and visiting an island beach.
TRIP RATINGS
Moderately challenging, hiking up to 10.5 miles with ascents up to 2,530 feet. Hikers should be in good condition.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
ITINERARY
DAY 1: SAN CARLOS DE BARILOCHE
Arrive in Bariloche, the gateway to the Northern Patagonian Lakes District. Meet the group and guide(s) for welcome drinks and dinner at 7 pm.
DAY 2: BARILOCHE TO EL BOLSÓN
Transfer by van 1.5-2 hrs south to the laid back village of El Bolsón, its name translating literally to “handbag” as it sits tucked between two high ranges. We hike up the Rio Azul en route to the Cajon de Azul, or Blue Canyon, encountering amazingly clear blue water, multiple bridge crossings, and quaint refugios. Distance: 9.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.
DAY 3: EL BOLSÓN TO PILTRI
Today we drive south to the outskirts of Bolsón and up to the trailhead to Cerro Piltriquitron, or Piltri, as the locals call it. After an hour of ascent we arrive at the refugio for a quick break. From the refugio we continue our ascent to the upper slopes of Piltri and on to the summit for amazing 360 degree views of the Patagonian Andes. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3800 ft.
DAY 4: EL BOLSÓN TO LLAO LLAO
This morning we head north to the Llao Llao Peninsula and our trailhead for Cerro López. We climb through the forest to Roca Negra, or Black Rock, a small hut, to enjoy a coffee or tea break. We continue our climb to Refugio López with unmatched views of the Llao Llao peninsula and Lago Nahuel Haupi. The day ends with a quick transport. Tonight we stay at a lovely hotel in Llao Llao. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2400 ft.
DAY 5: LLAO LLAO - REFUGIO FREY
A little elevation boost via gondola and lift at Cerro Catedral ski area takes us to our trailhead where we start our classic hike. After a short climb to Punto Paradiso, we begin the long traverse enjoying spectacular views into the Rucoca Valley and to the glaciated mighty Monte Tronador in the distance. From the Cancha de Futbol, Football Pitch Col, we drop down to Laguna Schmoll and on to Refugio Frey on the eastern shores of Laguna Toncek. Our easy descent is through the forest, passing Refugio Piedras. Return to our hotel in Llao Llao. Distance: 10.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 640/3800 ft.
DAY 6: LLAO LLAO - SAN MARTIN DE LOS ANDES
After a transfer around Lago Nahuel Huapi we disembark at the northern tip of the Quetrihue Peninsula and Los Arrayanes National Park. The park was founded in 1971 to protect its forest of rare cinnamon colored Arrayan trees. Today’s hike is a casual out and back stroll through the forest offering great views of the Cordillera de los Andes and Bahia Brava. We end with a 2 hour drive to one of our favorite villages in Argentina, San Martin de los Andes. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 250/400 ft.
DAY 7: MAPUCHE SETTLEMENT TO LAGO LÁCAR
We hike from our hotel in San Martin around the bay up to the Mapuche settlement of Curruhinca, and on down to a lovely little beach on the shores of Lago Lácar named La Islita, meaning little island. Following a beach lunch we wander back up through Curruhinca to a fantastic overlook named Mirador Bandurrias, overlooking Lago Lácar. Retracing our steps we hike back towards San Martin via a series of singletrack trails weaving down through the hillside overlooking the idyllic little bay, on which San Martin sits. Once back to town we should have ample time to explore this lovely little village. Distance: 6.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1200 ft.
DAY 8: CERRO
COLORADO
Today we hike the 5,833-foot peak of Cerro Colorado (Mount Red), an extinct volcano with breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding Andes Mountains and Lácar basin below, with its crystal-clear lakes including Lácar and Lolog. We return to our hotel for another relaxing night. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2530 ft.
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
March 6 – 15
Price: $7,300 (single +$1,400)
Minimum of four people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
Late December – Mid March
Price: $10,900 (single +$1,400)
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
D ETAILS
• 9 nights, 10 days.
• 9 nights in charming 3-star inns and superior 4-star hotels.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateways: Bariloche, Argentina.
DAY
9: SAN MARTIN DE LOS ANDES TO BARILOCHE
Today is somewhat of a travel day as we drive south back to Bariloche via the famously beautiful Ruta 40. We should arrive back in Bariloche by mid-day and have the option of a half-day hike, or you can take a walking tour of Bariloche’s Centro Civico and its main commercial shopping streets. We overnight in Bariloche and enjoy a final dinner celebration.
DAY 10: DEPART
El Bolsón
Bariloche
Llao Llao
Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi
El Foyel
San Martin de Los Andes
“We celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary with this trip. It was absolutely amazing. Ryder-Walker made our special occasion extra special with personal attention. The accommodations, food and hiking were incredible. We could not be happier with our choice! ” —Gary B.
ENGADINE TREK
Our inn-to-inn hiking tour covers the length of the Inn River Valley from Scuol, an ancient spa town just a stone’s throw from Austria, to Soglio, a historic hillside village on the Italian border. Staying in incredibly picturesque villages and quaint inns, we pass from the gentler terrain of the Lower Engadine Valley to the rugged Upper Engadine, with its majestic,
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate hiking up to 12 miles with ascents up to 3,540 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
glaciated peaks. We finish in the Val Bregaglia, a wild and sparsely populated valley that boasts imposing granite spires and the rugged Sciora Mountains. From pint-sized historic towns like Guarda and Zuoz, to well-appointed hot spots like Sils Maria and Pontresina, we lead you along ancient footpaths to the most beautiful mountains of the range.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: SCUOL
Transfer from Zurich by train to the ancient Roman spa village of Scuol. Relax in the curative thermal mineral baths before meeting your guides and group for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: SCUOL TO GUARDA
Ride the Motta Naluns cable car and enjoy a level walk to a beautiful summer alp called Prui. Descend into the Val Tasna and enjoy a picnic surrounded by stunning larch pine and majestic peaks. Continue to the ancient hill town turned artist colony, Guarda. Distance: up to 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1300/2970 ft.
DAY 3: GUARDA LOOP HIKE
A short train and van transfer takes us to the tiny whistle stop S-chanf. Enter the mysterious Val Trupchun as we climb deep into the only Swiss National Park. Our high point and picnic spot is a secluded and protected wildlife viewing station where we watch the majestic steinbock and fanciful chamois play. Return to S-chanf for a quick transfer back to Guarda. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1800 ft.
DAY 4: GUARDA TO PONTRESINA
Climb to the Segantini hut and enjoy the finest views of the Engadine. Overnight in Pontresina, home of the 12th century mountain church, Santa Maria, adorned with frescoes dating from the 13th century. Distance: up to 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 1500/3300 ft.
DAY 5: PONTRESINA TO SILS MARIA
A moderately strenuous day through larch forests and high meadows provides a sensational opportunity to view the sparkling lakes of the Engadine. Have lunch at an alpine lake, the Hahnensee, followed by a spectacular lakeside walk to Sils Maria. Overnight in a grand, old-world hotel. Distance: 10.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500 ft.
DAY 6: PIZ LUNGHIN
The most strenuous day of the trek is to the Piz Lunghin (summit optional). The lake below the summit is one of the finest viewpoints of the steep terrain of the Bregaglia. Return to Sils and our memorable accommodations. Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3540/3400 ft.
DAY 7: SILS TO SOGLIO
Strike out on a rough- hewn Roman road; an ancient path connecting long- deserted farming hamlets of the Val Bregaglia. The magnificent granite spires of the Bregaglia tower all around as we wind our way into Italian-speaking Soglio, one of the most beautiful and well- preserved historic villages located anywhere in the Alps. Distance: 7.25 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1170/2290 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
SWITZERLAND
Moritz
Lunghin
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
June 20 – 27, Women’s Only Trek
July 15 – 22
September 12 – 19
Price: $5,400 (single +$640)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
June – October
Price: $6,745 (single +$640)
†Price based on a group of four.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR
June – October
Price: $3,460 (single +$640)
DETAILS
• 7 nights, 8 days.
• 7 nights in charming country inns and old-world hotels.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Zurich, Switzerland.
Scuol Guarda
Sils Maria Soglio
“At times we felt like we were back in Switzerland. The scenery was gorgeous, the fall colors spectacular, the weather cooperative. Given the location of the towns and the hikes, there is absolutely no way we could have done this without guides and support.”
—Susan W.
NORTH AMERICA
ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH LIFE
ASPEN TO TELLURIDE
Enjoy snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, tumbling waterfalls, and the golden glow of aspen trees in the crisp autumn air.
Snow capped peaks, expansive alpine meadows, tumbling waterfalls, golden aspen trees and charming hotels beckon you to explore the Maroon Bells, Elk Range, and San Juan Mountains of Southwestern Colorado.
The Rocky Mountain High Life trek starts in the cosmopolitan town of Aspen and continues across the Maroon Bells to Gothic, Crested Butte, and into Ouray, home to a variety of world-famous hot spring pools and a
TRIP RATINGS
Challenging hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 3,265 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
backdrop of gorgeous scenery that earned Ouray the title, the “Switzerland of America.” Our trek ends in Telluride, one of the most beautiful towns in the Rocky Mountains and home to Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventures.
Along this trek, enjoy endless views across the Continental Divide as we ascend Independence Pass (elevation 12,096 feet). Hike beneath the imposing, snowcapped faces of Mount Sneffels and Mendota, and enjoy views of the iconic 14ers – Mt. Wilson, El Diente, and Wilson Peak.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: ASPEN
Arrive in Aspen and overnight in one of Aspen’s finest hotels, located in the center of this bustling former mining town. Meet your guides and group at the hotel for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: ASPEN LOOP HIKE
Today your guides will choose an appropriate itinerary to meet the group needs and interests. Aspen has an endless array of options from gentle to very challenging hikes. Distance: variable. Elevation gain/loss: variable.
DAY 3: ASPEN TO CRESTED BUTTE
Transfer to the trailhead and hike above treeline into a pristine, high alpine environment. On your way to Gothic, a small town outside of Crested Butte, historians will enjoy countless examples of 19th and 20th century mining architecture. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain: 3275 ft.
DAY 4: RED LADY SUMMIT
Hike through a lush forest of spruce and fir before reaching the summit of Red Lady, or Mt. Emmons, where 360-degree views back towards Crested Butte, the town and peak, are simply breathtaking. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2910 ft.
DAY 5: CRESTED BUTTE TO OURAY - PERIMETER TRAIL
After a transfer to Ouray we hike the Perimeter Trail, which leads us above and around the charming, historic mining town of Ouray, also known as the Switzerland of America. Along the trail we visit several waterfalls and cross five bridges all beneath soaring snow-capped mountains. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1600 ft.
DAY 6: OURAY TO TELLURIDE
Today we take a jeep ride to our trailhead and then head straight down into the town of Telluride via Imogene Pass. Enjoy incredible views of the San Juan Mountains all day. The high point is over 13,000 ft. When finished, we head to Telluride’s historic district where our hotel is situated. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1600 ft.
DAY 7: TELLURIDE
The last day of the trek is spent hiking in the Telluride region. The majestic San Juan Mountains offer the greatest concentration of 14,000 ft. peaks in the contiguous United States. They are also the most rugged, making for a very dramatic skyline and backdrop. There are countless hiking trails for all levels. This is your guides’ backyard, so they will choose a favorite hike to share with you. Distance: up to 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 2000 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
September 22 – 29
Price: $5,900 (single +$800)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
Late June – September
Price: $7,170 (single +$800)
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 7 nights, 8 days.
• 7 nights in charming bed and breakfasts and 4-star hotels.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Aspen and Grand Junction, Colorado (inbound), and Aspen, Grand Junction and Telluride, Colorado (outbound).
Crested Butte
“Peru is a magical country filled with history and culture. The trek was well-planned, and the lodges exceeded my expectations.” —Patsy T.
SOUTH AMERICA
PERU
THE SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU
Discover the mysterious origins of the royal Inca.
Come explore the unique ancient history of the Land of the Incas. Our 10-day Peruvian adventure begins in the beautiful and bustling city of Cusco, which is perfectly tucked into the hillsides at an elevation of 11,200 feet and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Our lodge-to-lodge trekking experience takes you on a historic section
TRIP RATINGS
Moderately challenging, hiking up to 9 miles with ascents up to 2,500 feet. Hikers should be in good condition – this trek reaches elevations up to 15,213 feet. (Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
of Inca trail through 15 different eco-systems, while you traverse a mountain pass over 15,000 feet, explore villages where locals still maintain age-old traditions, and re-discover the mystical beauty of Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca Empire. Each day’s trek ends at a deluxe lodge followed by a gourmet meal with select wines.
DAY 8: LLACTAPATA PASS TO AGUAS CALIENTES
ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO
Arrive in Cusco, the once capital of the Inca Empire. Ryder-Walker will provide a transfer to the hotel. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: CUSCO WALKING TOUR
Today’s walking tour of the city includes the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, the Cathedral Basilica, and the historic Plaza de Armas. In the afternoon relax at the hotel or wander around the city exploring its many nooks and crannies.
DAY 3: CUSCO TO SORAYPAMPA
Our first stop will be a visit to the Inca ruins at Quillarumiyok, then a stop for lunch in the mountain town of Mollepata before ascending a winding mountain road to Challacancha. Here we begin our hike to Soraypampa along a picturesque path called the “Camino Real” (Royal Path). Our lodge for tonight sits under the glacial peak of Mt. Salkantay, among the most sacred in Inca mythology and the highest in the region (20,600 ft). Distance: 4 miles. Elevation gain: 800 ft.
DAY 4: HUMANTAY LAKE
Today we continue our slow and steady acclimation with a half-day hike up to Lake Humantay and its amazingly turquoise blue waters. Relax at the lake, at an elevation of 13,845 ft and wonder at the Humantay glacier looming above. You will have the afternoon to yourself. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1150 ft.
DAY 5: CROSSING THE SALKANTAY PASS
We embark on our longest and most strenuous, but arguably the most magical, day of the trek. Our hike begins up the Rio Blanco valley, circling Humantay Peak, where we encounter expansive plateaus dotted with boulders of varying sizes. The final and most challenging part of today’s ascent is conquering the mountain switchbacks that take us to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point on the trek (15,213 ft). What follows is a dramatic descent through fields of giant boulders, often shrouded in fog. We stay at the remote Wayra Lodge at Wayraccmachay. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500/2400 ft.
DAY 6: WAYRA LODGE TO COLPA LODGE
We descend along the banks of the Salkantay River into the lower elevations of the cloud forest and the warmer air of the jungle below en route to the Colpa Lodge located on a promontory above the confluence of three rivers. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 400/3400 ft.
DAY 7: COLPA LODGE TO LUCMA LODGE
Today’s hike winds us down through the Santa Teresa River valley. We cross waterfall-fed streams and orchards. A van takes us to the start of the Llactapata Inca Trail that leads us shortly to the Lucma Lodge (elevation 7000 ft). Distance: 9 miles. Elevation loss: 2400 ft.
Humantay Peak
Humantay Lake
Challacancha
Salkantay Pass Salkantay Lodge
Lucma Lodge Colpa Lodge
Wayra Lodge
Salkantay Peak
Tarawasi
Cusco
Picchu
Aguas Calientes Lodge Hydroelectric Train Station Llactapata Pass
Today we leave the last of our lodges and hike for several hours under the jungle canopy, treading on original Inca steps to the ruins at the Llactapata Pass (elevation 8975 ft). From the Llactapata Pass you get your first glimpse of the “back” side of Machu Picchu. After we explore the ruins at the pass our hike ends with a steep descent through bamboo forest. Enjoy a one-hour train ride to the village of Aguas Calientes. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1900/3100 ft.
DAY 9: MACHU PICCHU
At dawn we begin our journey to the sanctuary of Machu Picchu, where we enjoy a 2-3 hour guided tour of the grounds plus a Huayna Picchu hike. Prepare to be awed by the supremely skilled architecture of the Temple of the Sun, the Watchtower, and the many beautiful royal Inca residences. This afternoon we transfer by train to our hotel in Ollantaytambo.
DAY 10: OLLANTAYTAMBO RUINS
We enjoy a morning tour of the Ollantaytambo Ruins, gateway to the Antisuyo (the Amazon corner of the Inca Empire) and located at the northern end of the Sacred Valley. From there we stop at the Chinchero Archaeological site before transferring to Cusco for our final night.
DAY 11: DEPART
Ryder-Walker provides a transfer to the airport.
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
May 3 – 13 November 3 – 13
Price: $7,350* (single + $875 up to $1,870**)
*Minimum of four people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
May – November Call for pricing.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 10 nights, 11 days.
• 5 nights in superior lodges and 5 nights in 4 and 5-star hotels.
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Cusco via Lima, Peru.
Machu
Ollantaytambo
“Hiking Jbel Toubkal was exhilarating and the panoramic views were outstanding. This was an adventure in so many ways including the cultural aspect. Guides were amazing!” —Alex C.
AFRICA
MOROCCO ATLAS MOUNTAINS TREK
Climb the highest mountain in North Africa.
In Morocco, the Atlas Mountains rise against wide desert plateaus and the pastel medieval buildings of Marrakesh. As you walk across the busy markets bustling with wild sounds, colors, and smells and through small mountain hamlets seemingly carved into the peaks, you can feel the antiquity of the land beneath your feet.
The Atlas Mountains Trek begins in the walled imperial city of Marrakesh, founded in the eleventh century. Next, you’re off to the mountain hamlet of Imlil, and then on to ascend Jbel Toubkal (13,671 feet), the highest mountain in North Africa. Afterwards, you travel to Essaouira for two nights of pure bliss, watching the sunset over the Atlantic and the western shores of Africa before traveling back to Marrakesh for your departure.
TRIP RATINGS
Challenging hiking up to 9 miles with ascents up to 3,500 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
ITINERARY
DAY 1: MARRAKESH
A Ryder-Walker representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. Meet your guides and group for a brief orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: MARRAKESH TO IMLIL
Transfer to the picturesque village of Imlil. Along the way, the scenery transitions from city to country. Enjoy an easy acclimatization hike before returning to our hotel in Imlil for dinner. Distance: up to 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 1500 ft.
DAY 3: IMLIL
Today we head east and cross the mountain pass which connects the valley of Imlil to Tacheddirt, the highest settlement in the Atlas Mountains. After a refreshing drink at the pass, we continue up on a mountain path to the summit of Tamalroute. Enjoy the stunning views of the high Toubkal range shaped by long river valleys, which feed the desert fields of Marrakesh with fresh water. Descend on the country road for a deliciously prepared lunch at the Toubkal Guide headquarters - locally known as Jamal’s place. Distance: Up to 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2400 ft.
DAY 4: IMLIL TO REFUGE AZIB TAMSOULT
Today we hike through a gorgeous mountain pass close to the summit of Tasserimoute. When we arrive for lunch, the porters and mules, as well as a local cook, will already be there with an elaborate spread of local produce served up and ready for our enjoyment. Continue on for a night at the Refuge Azib Tamsoult. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain: 2700 ft.
DAY 5: REFUGE AZIB TAMSOULT TO REFUGE LES MOUFLONS
Our journey continues through the mountains until arriving at the Refuge Les Mouflons, named after the bighorn sheep that are native to the region. Les Mouflons is a rustic refuge on the flanks of Toubkal. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain: 5000 ft.
DAY 6: JBEL TOUBKAL
Ascend Jbel Toubkal (13,671 feet), the highest mountain in North Africa. This is a non-technical ascent on a good, but rocky, trail the entire way, and we are truly on top of the world at the summit. Return to the Refuge. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3150 ft.
DAY 7: LES MOUFLONS TO IMLIL
We begin our descent from the high country by following a scenic trail along the Isougouane River. We stop for tea at the Sidi Chamarouch before continuing to Imlil where we enjoy a final lunch with our porters and cooks. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation loss: 4600 ft.
DAY 8: IMLIL TO ESSAOUIRA
Transfer by van through the desert to the port city of Essaouira. The atmosphere of Essaouira is truly spellbinding. The breeze along the Atlantic shore is invigorating, and the shopping is the best of the trip. We dine in a superb local restaurant. Overnight in a four-star hotel.
DAY 9: ESSAOUIRA
Enjoy a morning beach walk and spend the afternoon relaxing or shopping at the markets. Although not as big as Marrakesh, you will find the same popular merchandise.
DAY 10: DEPART
Ryder-Walker will provide one shuttle transfer in the morning to Marrakesh.
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
October 9 – 18
Price: $5,700 * (single +$740)
No single rooms in refuges.
*Minimum of four people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
April – May, September – October
Price $6,600 (single +$740)
No single rooms in refuges.
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 9 nights, 10 days.
• 2 nights in 4-star hotels, 4 nights in 3 and 4-star riads (traditional Moroccan homes turned into hotels), 3 nights in rugged refuges with limited electricity, shared facilities, and no guarantee of hot water.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Marrakesh, Morocco.
Tamsoult Refuge Les Mouflons
Essaouira Marrakesh
“The guides were nice and low key, yet totally safe, and the trek was perfectly planned. Makes it easy for us overworked souls, to just pick up and go!” –Margot G.
EUROPE
HIKER’S HAUTE ROUTE
Walk the “high level path” from Chamonix to Zermatt.
The world famous Haute Route crosses the highest mountain range in Western Europe, the Pennine Alps, and links the Mont Blanc region in France with the rugged Canton Valais in southwestern Switzerland. Starting in the bustling alpine center of Chamonix, France, beneath the mighty massif of Europe’s highest summit, Mont Blanc (15,781 feet), the trail crosses eastward into Switzerland and finishes in the famous resort village of Zermatt, set beneath the soaring pyramidal flanks of the Matterhorn.
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate hiking up to 11 miles with ascents up to 4,800 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
First walked in 1903 the Haute Route also passes beneath Europe’s highest glaciated mountains, Mont Blanc, the Grand Combin, Obergabelhorn, Weisshorn, Dent Blanche, Zinalrothorn, and the Matterhorn, just to name a few. A network of trail systems connects sleepy little villages, with their lush pastures, blackened timber houses with slate roofs while lonely mountain passes lead to a stunning world of glaciers, aiguilles (rock needles), and sparkling tarns.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: CHAMONIX
Arrive and transfer to Chamonix, France, located at the base of Mont Blanc (15,781 feet). Meet your guides and group at the hotel for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: CHAMONIX TO ARGENTIÈRE
Enjoy a gentle introductory hike with spectacular views over the Mont Blanc range. Our hike along the Grand Balcon Sud offers some of the best photo opportunities of Mont Blanc, the Mer de Glace, and the Aiguilles, or rock needles, of the Chamonix Valley. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1000/3500 ft.
DAY 3: ARGENTIÈRE TO TRIENT
Today we climb to the border between Switzerland and France. Overnight in the tiny hamlet of Trient. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3500/3000 ft.
DAY 4: TRIENT TO CHAMPEX
Enjoy awesome views of the Rhone Valley as we find our way through high alpine meadows. Descend through a gorgeous side valley to the lovely little resort village of Champex and our Swiss chalet. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2300/4000 ft.
DAY 5: CHAMPEX TO CABANE DU MONT-FORT **
Transfer to Verbier. Hike to the Cabane du Mont-Fort (8,061 feet). Distance: 4 miles. Elevation gain: 860 ft.
DAY 6: VERBIER TO PRAFLEURI HUT**
Hike through a remote alpine environment to the base of the Rosablanche (10,945 feet). Overnight at the Cabane Prafleuri (8,734 feet). Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3000/2340 ft.
DAY 7: PRAFLEURI HUT TO AROLLA**
A short trip up to the Col de Roux offers great views of the terrain to follow. Descend to the banks of the Lac Des Dix, where we follow a new trail to the Col Reidmatten, or Pas des Chevres. Climb to the Col and enjoy a relatively gentle descent into the tiny village of Arolla. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500/4450 ft.
DAY 8: AROLLA TO LA SAGE
A spectacular hike lies ahead with views of Mont Collon, L’Evêque, the Pigne d’Arolla, and the Aiguilles Rouges. Descend to the little village of La Sage with its blackened timber homes. Overnight in an antique hotel. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2800/3200 ft.
DAY 9: LA SAGE TO ST. LUC
Descend to the head of the Val d’Anniviers and transfer to St. Luc. Overnight in a special country inn filled with antiques and old-world charm. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4800/4500 ft.
DAY 10: ST. LUC TO GRUBEN
Enjoy views back to the Aiguilles Rouges and the Dent d’Hérens, and forward to the peaks above Zermatt: the Matterhorn, Obergabelhorn, Dent Blanche, and Weisshorn. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3000/3200 ft.
DAY 11: GRUBEN TO ZERMATT
Follow a medieval trading route with views of the Mischabel range and the peaks of the Berner Oberland. Transfer to Zermatt beneath the Matterhorn. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3500/3200 ft.
DAY 12: DEPART
Mer de Glace SWITZERLAND FRANCE
Mont Blanc
Verbier
Cabane du Mont-Fort
Lac des Dix
Cabane Prafleuri Gruben
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
July 3 – 14
Price: $6,800 (single +$700)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
July – Mid September
Price: $8,065 (single +$700)
†Price based on a group of four.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR
July – Mid September
Price: $3,280 (single +$700)
DETAILS
• 11 nights, 12 days guided. **
• 9 nights, 10 days self-guided.
• 4 nights in first-class hotels, 2 nights in charming country inns, 2 nights in simple inns, 1 night in a simple berghaus with shared hall showers, and for guided trips only, 2 nights in mountain huts.
• Breakfast and dinner daily on guided tour. Self-guided tour, no dinner in Chamonix.
• Luggage transfers Guided only, SelfGuided extra charge for luggage transfers.
• Gateway: Geneva, Switzerland.
ITALY
*All ground transportation between Chamonix and Zermatt included during Guided tour. Guided tour offers luggage transfer daily except at berghaus and huts. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.**Self-Guided tours do not go to Cabane du Mont-Fort or Cabane Prafleuri. We offer limited luggage transfers at an extra cost on Self-Guided tours and there is no dinner in Chamonix on Self-Guided treks.
“Our guides were knowledgeable, easy going and accommodating. Our hike to the Cirque du Gavarnie was spectacular. This was my fourth trip with Ryder-Walker and not the last for sure.” —Mojdeh T.
HAUTE PYRÉNÉES MOUNTAIN TREK
FROM FRANCE TO SPAIN
The central and high Pyrénées have peaks that rival the finest in the Alps.
Our week-long trip to the high peaks of the Pyrénées offers an opportunity to visit the stunning mountain range that defines the border between France and Spain and enjoy the unique cultural heritage of this enchanting region. We begin our journey in the French mountain hamlet of Cauterets, nestled on the north side of the Parc National Des Pyrénées Occidentales. Over the course of the following week, we
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 4,100 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
trek through some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe, ending our journey in the Spanish village of Torla, gateway to Parque Nacional Ordesa y Monte Perdido. These two neighboring national parks offer dramatic backdrops to the distinctive cultures that evolved throughout the centuries on either side of the Pyrénées During the highest point on our trek, one night is spent in a traditional mountain refuge in the central Pyrénées
ITINERARY
DAY 1: CAUTERETS
Fly into Toulouse and transfer independently to Lourdes where Ryder-Walker provides a taxi to Cauterets. Meet guides and group for a brief orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: REFUGE WALLON MARCADAU
Explore the breathtaking Vallée du Marcadau beginning at Pont d’Espagne where we hike to the picturesque Lac du Pourtet, then descend to Refuge Wallon Marcadau for a delicious French lunch. Return to our Cauterets hotel for the night. Distance: up to 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3150 ft.
DAY 3: CAUTERETS TO REFUGE DE BAYSSELLANCE
Exit over the Pont d’Espagne as we ascend toward the Vignemale, the highest peak in the French Pyrénées. The most challenging ascent of the trip follows to the flanks of the Petit Vignemale and over the pass to the Refuge de Bayssellance, the highest refuge in the Pyrénées. Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4100/270 ft.
DAY 4: REFUGE DE BAYSSELLANCE TO GAVARNIE
After an early morning hut breakfast, we begin our traverse and descent into the Cirque du Gavarnie, one of the most impressive mountain features in Europe. Ringed by massive rock walls and huge waterfalls, we enter the hamlet of Gavarnie and our excellent, castle-like hotel. Distance: 9.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: none/4200 ft.
DAY 5: CIRQUE DU GAVARNIE
We have a variety of easy hikes to choose from today ranging from 2 to 5 hours with different points of view of the cirque and the waterfall. This is a great day to relax between two longer days of hiking. Distance: up to 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 900 ft.
DAY 6: GAVARNIE TO TORLA, SPAIN
We cross over from France into Spain, and from Parc National des Pyrénées Occidentales into Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido. We hike over the Port de Boucharo (Puerto de Bujaruelo in Spanish), the international boundary, and descend to the San Nicolas de Bujaruelo Refugio. From here we hike to our splendid hotel in Torla. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 250/4200 ft.
DAY 7: VALLE DE ORDESA
Today we enjoy the change of geology, geography, flora and fauna, as we hike through the Valle de Ordesa. From the high peaks and glaciers of the central range, we have descended into the carved sandstone canyons that flank the Spanish side. We return from our hike in the Parque Nacional for another evening in Torla. Distance: up to 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 2300 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
Ryder-Walker provides a departure transfer to Zaragoza airport/train station.
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
July 24 – 31
Price: $6,100 (single +$670)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
June – September
$6,650 (single +$670)
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 7 nights, 8 days.
• 6 nights in classic mountain hotels and family run inns. 1 night in a traditional refuge.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateways: Toulouse, France (inbound); Zaragoza, Madrid, and Barcelona, Spain (outbound).
Vallee du Marcadeau
Refuge de Bayssellance
Grand Pic de Deterneille Vignemale Peak
*Luggage transfer included everywhere except refuge. Transportation between Lourdes and Zaragoza included. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hiker’s abilities.
de Boucharo
Monte Perdido
Cauterets
Gavarnie
Port
Cirque de Gavarnie
Valle de Ordesa
“This trek was a little piece of heaven. The scenery is stunning, and the air so fresh and you can smell the wildflowers throughout. It was exciting to wake each morning knowing we were going to see more magnificent views.”
EUROPE
TOUR DU MONT BLANC
Circumnavigate the highest mountain in Western Europe.
Mont Blanc (15,781 feet) rises more than 12,000 vertical feet above the famous resort village of Chamonix, France. The epitome of everything that is “alpine” in the Alps, this walk around the entire circumference of Western Europe’s tallest peak is incomparable and infinitely special. Hike across the borders of France, Italy, and Switzerland during our ten-day
TRIP RATINGS
Moderate to challenging hiking up to 12 miles and ascents up to 4,300 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
hiking tour. We lead you from the mountain-chic cafés of Chamonix, to remote mountain hamlets en route to Courmayeur, Italy, and we cross into Switzerland before heading back into France on the Grand Balcon Sud, one of the most beautiful hiking trails in all of France. This itinerary is a wonderful reward for the physically fit.
—Miriam Q.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: CHAMONIX
Arrive and transfer to Chamonix, France, located at the base of Western Europe’s tallest peak, Mont Blanc (15,781 feet).
DAY 2: CHAMONIX TO LES CONTAMINES
Start with a journey beneath the Bionnassay Glacier on the western flanks of the Mont Blanc massif. Hike past old ruins and settlements, and then over the Col de Tricot while the glaciers glisten and sparkle above. Descend through a splendid forest to Les Contamines. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain: 2000 ft.
DAY 3: LES CONTAMINES TO VILLE DES GLACIERS
Ascend past waterfalls on an ancient Roman road to the dramatically situated Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme. A delightful descent through high alpine meadows offers the opportunity to spy the elusive steinbock. Distance: 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4300/2950 ft.
DAY 4: VILLE DES GLACIERS TO COURMAYEUR
The greetings change to Italian today as we cross the border to Italy at the Col de la Seigne. We enjoy staggering views of the glaciated peaks on the Italian side of Mont Blanc. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain: 2400 ft. Option to hike 13 miles with total elevation gain/loss: 3250/2870 ft.
DAY 5: COURMAYEUR TO LAVACHEY
Today we are treated to ever-improving views of the Brenva face of Mont Blanc, its most impressive and imposing aspect on our remote, rarely traveled variation. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3300/2100 ft.
DAY 6: LAVACHEY TO CHAMPEX
The language changes to French as we ascend the Grand Col Ferret into Switzerland. Stunning views of the Grand Combin make this a spectacular hike. Descend through pristine meadows to the Swiss Val Ferret. Transfer to the idyllic lakeside town, Champex, and our Swiss chalet. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2800/2600 ft.
DAY 7: CHAMPEX TO TRIENT
Today’s hike takes us through the town of Champex and up to one of our favorite lunch spots, the Bovine, a lovely family-run farm serving up fantastic food and beverages. Following lunch, it is a short climb to the day’s highpoint and down to the Col de la Forclaz. From the Forclaz it’s a quick descent into the sleepy hamlet of Trient, with its signature Iglesia Rosada, or pink church. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2400 ft. Alternate hiking route distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss 4450 ft.
DAY 8: TRIENT TO ARGENTIÈRE
Hike out of the tiny hamlet of Trient before climbing back into France on a pleasant variant of the TMB. Overnight at a traditional chalet style hotel in Argentière Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500/2700 ft.
DAY 9: ARGENTIÈRE TO CHAMONIX
Our hike along the Grand Balcon Sud offers some of the best and most spectacular views of Mont Blanc and the Aiguilles, or rock needles, of Chamonix. Distance: up to 7 miles. Elevation gain: 2500 ft.
DAY 10: DEPART
FRANCE
*All ground transportation beginning and ending in Chamonix included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. Guided trek itineraries are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.**Self-Guided: Day two morning ground transportation included. You must pay for any bus, lift or additional not pre-booked transfers.
Contamines
SWITZERLAND
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
June 18 – 27
July 21 – 30
August 21 – 30
Price: $6,000 (single +$670)
Minimum of two people required to run tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
Mid June – Mid September
Price: $7,400 (single +$670)
†Price based on a group of four.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR**
Mid June – Mid September
Only selling pre-booked dates for 2025. Visit our website for tour dates.
Price: $3,615 (single +$670)
DETAILS
• 9 nights, 10 days.
• 4 nights in first-class hotels, 3 nights in charming inns, and 1 night in a simple mountain hostel. On day 3, stay in either a nice refuge (hut) or a charming inn (based on availability). The hut and hostel have shared bathrooms. Private rooms are requested but not guaranteed.
• Breakfast and dinner daily. (Self-guided tours – dinners not included in Chamonix.)
• Gateway: Geneva, Switzerland.
Mont
Mer de Glace
Aiguille du Midi
Col de la Seigne
Grand Col Ferret
Aiguilles Rouges Trient
Ville des Glaciers
“Spending eight days in a new environment with all the birds, flowers, geology, and wildlife was our favorite part of the trip. And all the locals were welcoming.”—Mark S.
EUROPE
ICELAND THE REMOTE WESTFJORDS
Lose yourself in the unspoiled wilderness of Western Iceland.
Iceland’s beauty is simply overwhelming with its immense glaciers and endless fjords, unspoiled wilderness areas waiting to be explored, clean icy seas where whales surface, volcanic cliffs with one of the biggest bird colonies in the northern hemisphere, geysers, active volcanoes, and ancient fishing villages.
Beginning in Iceland’s progressive capital Reykjavik, our trip leaders whisk you away to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, which is known for its lush fjords, crackling sulfur lava fields, wild sand-strewn beaches, and haunting volcanic peaks. Expect to hike beneath the ice-capped
TRIP RATINGS
Hiking in the arctic tundra and the lack of well traveled footpaths make this a challenging trek with hikes up to 13 miles with ascents of up to 3,500 ft. (Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.) COMFORT 3/4
Snæfellsjökull, a glacier that was immortalized in Jules Verne’s tale, Journey to the Center of the Earth. Cross Breidafjörður by ferry and fill up your cameras while hiking along Látrabjarg, a 14 km long, volcanic cliff, one of Iceland’s natural wonders and home to thousands of sea birds, including puffins. Our adventure in Iceland would not be complete without exploring the now deserted Hornstrandir peninsula, famous for subarctic hiking. As one of Europe’s last true wilderness areas, it provides the perfect destination for spotting arctic foxes, seals, whales, and teeming bird life.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: REYKJAVIK TO SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA
Meet your trip leaders in Reykjavik and transfer by van to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the setting for Jules Verne’s, Journey to the Center of the Earth Shuttle ride: approximately 3.5 hours.
DAY 2: SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA
Snæfellsjökull National Park offers a variety of trails for every level hiker. Expect to hike beneath the glacier peak of Snæfellsjökull and enjoy endless views over black lava beaches. Shuttle: approximately 30 minutes each way. Distance: up to 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3500 ft.
DAY 3: SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA TO WESTFJORDS
Connect by van and ferry to the famous Westfjords, Iceland’s most spectacular region. The ferry across from Stykkishólmur to Brjánslækur is a great opportunity to spot wildlife while enjoying glimpses of Snæfellsjökull in the south. From Brjánslækur, shuttle to Rauðasandur, a remote beach which is famous for its striking reddish-sand. Hike from there to Keflavìk following the cliff band at Brekkuhlìð. Meet the van for a short transfer to Patreksfjörður. Shuttle: morning ride 2 hours by van and ferry. Distance: up to 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 1300/600 ft.
DAY 4: LÁTRABJARG CLIFF
Shuttle by van to Látravatn and begin your approach to the Látrabjarg cliff, one of Iceland’s natural wonders. Extending for approximately 9 miles along the coast and ranging from 131 ft. to 1312 ft., the dramatic cliffs are mobbed by nesting sea birds. We come into arm’s reach of puffins, razorbills, guillemots, cormorants, and gulls. Return to Patreksfjörður. Shuttle: 1.5 hours each way. Distance: up to 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1750/1840 ft.
DAY 5: PATREKSFJÖRÐUR TO ÍSAFJÖRÐUR
Start today with a drive across the Westfjords to Ísafjörður, the gateway town for the famous Hornstrandir Peninsula. We stop at natural hot springs as well as Dynjandi, the biggest waterfall in northwestern Iceland. Shuttle: 3.5 hours. Distance: up to 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1200 ft.
DAY 6: HORNSTRANDIR PENINSULA
Transfer by boat across the gorgeous Ísafjördur fjord to Hesteyri, a hamlet on the deserted Hornstrandir Peninsula. Enjoy a stunning hike to the northern shore of Hornstrandir. We spend the night at the Old Doctor’s House. No luggage tonight. Expect shared accommodations/bathrooms. Shuttle: 1 hour ferry. Distance: up to 13 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2100 ft.
DAY 7: HORNSTRANDIR PENINSULA TO ÍSAFJÖRÐUR
Today we venture out and explore the farthest northwest point of Hornstrandir. Enjoy vast views of sheer endless fjords and the Drangajökull glacier. Look for seals, whales, arctic foxes, and many different types of birds. Return to Ísafjörður by ferry in the afternoon and celebrate the last evening in Iceland. Shuttle: 1 hour ferry. Distance: up to 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1650 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
We recommend a flight from Ísafjörður to Reykjavik. There are usually two connections each day.
Patreksfjörður
*All ground transportation and boat transfers between Reykjavik and Ísafjörður included during tour. Luggage transfer daily except for night six. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities. Please be aware that due to Iceland’s vastness and lack of public transportation, daily van and/or ferry rides occur. Times stated above are estimates.
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
July 4 – 11
Price: $6,050* (single +$810)
Minimum of four people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
June – September
Price: $7,800 (single +$810)
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 7 nights, 8 days.
• 6 nights in bed-and-breakfasts and hotels in fishing villages, plus 1 night in a simple hut with shared bedrooms and bathrooms.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Reykjavik, Iceland.
Hellnar
Hesteyri
Ísafjörður
ICELAND
Reykjavik
“We are hikers but have never done anything like this before. The trip was unbelievably well organized, hiking was amazing, accommodations were excellent and varied, and we never could have put something like this together ourselves.” —Jenna G.
EUROPE
EIGER TRAIL
Wander beneath the 6,000-foot wall of the Eiger.
The Bernese Oberland in central Switzerland is one of the most stunning mountain ranges on earth. High, glaciated peaks and vertical rock walls ascend thousands of feet above tumbling waterfalls, pristine valleys, and flower-filled meadows.
Our nine-day hiking tour begins on the west side of the Berner Oberland in the fashionable resort village of Gstaad. Hike over airy mountain ridgelines, like the Wasserngrat and Ammertenpass. Cross the lofty Hohtürli Pass and drop into the remote and mysterious Kiental. Climb over the Sefinenfurgge with views over Europe’s most famous mountains, the Eiger (13,025 feet), Mönch (13,474 feet), and Jungfrau (13,642 feet). Hike beneath the Eigernordwand, the vertical north face of the Eiger, with close up views of its dramatic face.
TRIP RATINGS
Challenging hiking up to 10.5 miles with ascents up to 4,150 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
ITINERARY
DAY 1: GSTAAD
Meet your guides and group for dinner in a lovely, four-star hotel in Gstaad.
DAY 2: GSTAAD TO LENK
Begin the morning with a boost to the fabulous Wasserngrat. Wander through enchanting meadows and limestone outcrops with superb views of the emerging glaciated peaks of the Oberland. Descend to idyllic Lenk by cable car. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3700/3310 ft. (without lift). Distance: 7.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1890/1500 ft. (with lifts).
DAY 3: LENK TO ENGSTLIGENALP
We begin today’s hike by the raging headwaters of the Simme as we climb to the remote Ammertenpass. After an airy crossing, we descend into the hanging valley of Engstligenalp to our berghaus for the night. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/ loss: 3400/1600 ft.
DAY 4: ENGSTLIGENALP TO KANDERSTEG
Our journey today begins with a hike to a lovely ridge beside the Tschingellochtighorn. We descend to the Schwärtzgratli and continue to the atmospheric Berghotel Schwarenbach. An afternoon ride on the Sunnbüehl cable car is one option for our descent or we follow pleasant carriage roads to Kandersteg. Distance 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3000 ft.
DAY 5: KANDERSTEG TO GRIESALP
This morning we enter the very heart of the high peaks of the Oberland with a scenic gondola ride out of Kandersteg to the Oeschinensee. Pass through the spectacular Hothürli, meaning “high little door” in Swiss German, to enter into the remote and lush Kiental Valley. Distance 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3900/4445 ft. (with lift).
DAY 6: GRIESALP TO MÜRREN
Today we ascend out of the remote and lovely Kiental, a pastoral gem beneath the impressive walls of the Blümlisalp massif, then cross the challenging Sefinenfurgge. Here begin glorious views of the Eiger as we descend toward the Lauterbrunnen Valley and our stay in Mürren. Distance: 10.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4150/3400 ft.
DAY 7: MÜRREN TO WENGEN
We enjoy a long ramble down the Lauterbrunnen Valley and view the thundering falls and the vestiges of pastoral culture in this picture-perfect valley. Ascend a remote and beautiful valley to Wengen, perched opposite Mürren. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 1800/3200 ft.
DAY 8: WENGEN TO GRINDELWALD
A most classic ramble lies before us today as we cross the Kleine Scheidegg, the saddle beneath the infamous Eiger Nordwand (north wall). Descend into Grindelwald beneath the 5900 ft. north face of the Eiger. Distance: 10.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3860/2800 ft.
DAY 9: DEPART
Gstaad
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
August 14 – 22
Price: $6,450 (single +$800)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
July – Mid September
Price: $7,750 (single +$800)
†Price based on a group of four.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR
July – Mid September
Price: $4,050 (single +$800)
DETAILS
• 8 nights, 9 days.
• 7 nights in charming country inns and firstclass hotels, plus 1 night in a simple berghaus with shared hall showers.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Zurich, Switzerland.
SWITZERLAND
Lenk
Wengen
Mürren
Griesalp
Kandersteg
Engstligenalp
Wildstrubel
Eiger Interlaken
Doldenhorn Schilthorn Breithorn
Oeschinensee
Grindelwald
Jungfrau Mönch
Aletschgletscher
“Hiking with our group was a fantastic experience. The stunning landscapes and shared laughter made every step memorable and the guides did an amazing job.”—Janie G.
EUROPE
NORWAY
THE ISLANDS OF LOFOTEN
Unlock the treasures of Norway’s mountains and fjords.
Escape from the crowds as you explore the Lofoten archipelago, a rugged island chain lying 122 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Bathed by the light of the midnight sun and rising out of the Norwegian Sea like a fortress wall, the 4,000-foot granite peaks of Lofoten will mesmerize you with their craggy summits, lovely jade meadows, and unforgettable views of Norway’s sparkling fjords.
Beginning in Henningsvær, our eight-day hiking tour of Norway connects tiny villages on the islands of Moskenesøya, Flakstadøya and
TRIP RATINGS
Challenging hiking and technically challenging terrain, hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 3,000 feet. (Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.) COMFORT
Austvågøya. Traveling by sea kayak (no experience necessary) and by foot, we paddle to secluded beaches, hike across remote mountain tops, and walk through tiny hamlets with colorful wooden fishing cottages perched at the water’s edge.
Whether it’s hiking across the summits of Kollfjellet, Merraflestinden and Munken, or whale watching from the harbor in Reine, one of the most beautiful seaside villages in the world, we witness the most revered landscapes in all of Norway.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: HENNINGSVÆR
Travel independently to Oslo and then fly to Svolvær. There is one afternoon RyderWalker shuttle offered from Svolvær to the hotel in Henningsvær. Other arrivals will Independently transfer by taxi to the hotel. Meet the group and your guide(s) in the hotel lobby at 7 pm for cocktails, orientation, and dinner.
DAY 2: HENNINGSVÆR
Depending on weather, the guides pick a suitable warm-up hike for the group near Henningsvær. Enjoy a refreshment at the climber’s cafe after the hike and then return to the hotel. Distance: up to 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 1600 ft.
DAY 3: HENNINGSVÆR TO NUSFJORD
Shuttle to the trailhead near Saupstad and hike to Unstad, a stunning village famous for its cinnamon buns and Arctic surfing. Enjoy views of Lofoten’s dramatic landscapes. Transfer to Nusfjord, one of most picturesque and best preserved fishing villages in Lofoten. Spend the next three nights in refurbished nineteenth century seaside rorbuer cottages. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2000 ft.
DAY 4: RYTEN AND KVALVIKA BEACH
An iconic day awaits as we ascend Ryten peak, offering dramatic views of Moskenesøya. We’ll then descend to the turquoise waters of Kvalvika Beach, where towering cliffs rise straight from the sea. Up for a swim? Afterward, return to Nusfjord and our cozy, waterfront rorbuer cottages. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3000 ft.
DAY 5: KJERKFJORDEN
Transfer by van to Reine, then enjoy a scenic boat ride into Kjerkfjorden, where we’ll hike to Horseidvika, a stunning beach on the north shore of the archipelago. If conditions allow, we may extend the hike to a mountain saddle with panoramic views across the fjords. Return via the same route and settle in for another relaxing night in Nusfjord. Distance: up to 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 2500 ft.
DAY 6: MUNKEBU – REINE
After a short transfer to Sørvågen, we’ll hike over three peaks to reach our lunch spot at Munkebu, where you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of Lofoten’s fjords and peaks. Afterward, we return to Sørvågen before a short drive to Reine, where we’ll settle into one of Norway’s classic hotels. Distance: up to 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3000 ft.
DAY 7: REINE – HELLSEGGA PEAK
Transfer by private boat to the very south-western tip of the archipelago and hike from sea level to Hellsegga at 1,950 feet. Hellsegga is the highest peak on the southwest end of Lofoten, and it gives us the chance to view the most southern islands of the Norwegian archipelago, Værøy and Røstlandet. Return to Reine to celebrate the last night in Lofoten. Distance: 4 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2200 ft.
DAY 8: DEPART
The closest airport with connections to Bodø/Oslo is Leknes. There will be one RyderWalker shuttle for those catching noon to early afternoon departures from Leknes. It’s a 45-minute drive. Other departures will independently taxi transfer to Leknes airport.
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
June 18 – 25
Price: $7,150* (single +$980)
Minimum of four people required to run this tour
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
June – September
Price: $9,200 (single +$980)
†Price based on a group of four.
NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED
DETAILS
• 7 nights, 8 days.
• 4 nights in charming inns and hotels, 3 nights in historic fishing cottages.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
Merraflestinden
Kollfjellet
• Gateways: Arrival, Oslo to Bodø to Svolvær. Departure, Leknes to Bodø to Oslo. *All ground transportation
Norwegian Sea
Nordtotinden
Hellsegga
Reine
Munken
“The trails and scenery were just ideal. Each day we had perfect postcard weather too. Lakes, glaciers, Roman cart paths, fields full of grazing cows and wildflowers were just some of the things we passed as we walked along each day.” —Kathryn L.
EUROPE
MATTERHORN TREK
Ascend the rugged border country of Italy and Switzerland.
The highest mountains in Western Europe, the Pennine Alps, offer hikers an opportunity to explore a spectacular alpine world. This itinerary starts and finishes beneath the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the world. The tour also circumnavigates the Monte Rosa massif, the Alps’ second highest peak.
In Macugnaga, Italy, we are treated to perhaps the Alps’ most spectacular
TRIP RATINGS
Challenging hiking up to 12 miles with ascents up to 4,700 feet.
(Trip rating descriptions found on page 12.)
/4
mountain view, the east face of the Monte Rosa, which is truly Himalayan in proportion rising 10,000 vertical feet above the valley floor.
Ryder-Walker offers the Matterhorn Trek from Cervinia, Italy, to Zermatt, Switzerland, in an eight-day trip. We visit five towns in Italy and two in Switzerland, beginning and finishing the tour at the base of the majestic Matterhorn on opposite sides of the Swiss/Italian border.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: BREUIL-CERVINIA
Independently transfer to Chivasso train station where Ryder-Walker will provide a taxi transfer to your hotel in Breuil-Cervinia. Meet your guides and fellow guests for orientation and dinner.
DAY 2: BREUIL-CERVINIA TO AYAS-CHAMPOLUC
Today we ascend to the Col de Nana beneath the Grand Tournalin, and descend to the idyllic hamlet of St. Jacques. We continue on to Champoluc where we overnight in one of the most unique hotels in the Alps. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3000/3560 ft.
DAY 3: AYAS-CHAMPOLUC TO GRESSONEY-LA-TRINITÉ
Climb to the herder’s settlement of Cuneaz and ascend from there to the Pentacol and the Col Pinter. Enter the Walser stronghold of the Val di Gressoney beneath the magnificent Lyskamm, one of the most powerful peaks in the Alps. Walk past ancient Walser farms to the medieval hamlet of Gressoney St. Jean and on to our excellent hotel on the edge of town. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4000/3745 ft.
DAY 4: GRESSONEY-LA-TRINITÉ TO ALAGNA
Ascend to Lake Gabiet and on to the Col d’Olen. At the pass we enter into the magical Val Sesia and look down to Alagna nearly 6,000 feet below. Descend, with help from a cable car, through meadows and ancient Walser villages and farms to a place that time forgot. Overnight in the finest hotel in Alagna. Distance: up to 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4000/up to 5000 ft.
DAY 5: ALAGNA TO MACUGNAGA
Hike over the Turlo Pass, the scene of many a World War I skirmish. Follow a Roman road to the historic village of Macugnaga, nestled beneath the staggering 10,000foot east face of the Monte Rosa. Overnight in a charming three-star hotel in the center of the village. Distance: 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4700/4880 ft.
DAY 6: MACUGNAGA TO SAAS FEE
A cable car aids our ascent to a point near the Swiss border at the Monte Moro pass. Descend through glacier-scoured fields of granite with the occasional cable for help. Continue on foot or by bus to Saas Almagell and then up on foot to Saas Fee. Rest in an outstanding hotel in the center of this charming village. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 900/2180 or 3920 ft.
DAY 7: SAAS FEE TO ZERMATT
Depart Saas Fee on one of the great Höhenwege, high level paths, of the Alps. Travel beneath cascading glaciers and remote, uninhabited valleys as we make our way to Grächen, a sparkling village on a bench high above the Mattertal. Van transfer to Zermatt to celebrate our achievements in one of the town’s finest hotels. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500/2100 ft.
DAY 8: ZERMATT
Your guides choose a day hike for the group today. Sightseeing is another option in the lively town of Zermatt.
DAY 9: DEPART
Tête Blanche
*All ground transportation between Chivasso and Cervinia and Zermatt included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries
DATES & PRICING
GUIDED TOUR*
August 4 – 12
Price: $5,900 (single +$830)
Minimum of two people required to run this tour.
PRIVATE-GUIDED*
July – Early September
Price: $7,650 (single +$830)
†Price based on a group of four
SELF-GUIDED
July – Early September
Price: $3,500 (single +$830)
DETAILS
• 8 nights, 9 days
• 8 nights first-class hotels and charming country inns.
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• Gateway: Milan, Italy.
TRIED-AND-TRUE:
n CAPRI AND THE AMALFI COAST
(April–June and September–October)
Provence, in particular the medieval hill towns of the Luberon Mountains, offers its visitors a taste of ‘âme du terrain’ — the soul of the terrain. Walk amongst the vineyards, olive groves, cherry and apple orchards, as well as the famous lavender fields in Provence’s quintessential historic villages situated in the Vaucluse. 7 nights and 8 days. Easy to moderate walking up to 6 miles and ascents up 1500 ft. Breakfast daily. Dinner day 1 only. $3,500 (single +$795)
n COTSWOLDS WAY
(March–October)
The villages of the Cotswolds are some of the most charming you’ll ever see. Thatch-roofed, golden stone cottages line tiny cobbled streets. The region has been inhabited for at least 6000 years, and there are numerous sites of great archaeological interest along the route. Start/finish villages are Chipping Campden and Bath. 9 nights and 10 days. Easy hiking with negligible ascent/descent, but distances up to 16 miles (can be made shorter). Breakfast only. $3,090 (single +$690)
(March–October)
Walk in the footsteps of Rob Roy MacGregor, one of Scotland’s legendary outlaws, and greatest heroes. Explore the landscapes of Great Britain, traversing waterside, woodland, and moorland ecosystems. Discover ancient ruins, including prehistoric stone circles, Roman bridges, and remnants of the Jacobean era along the trails. Stay in charming inns, B&Bs, and fourstar hotels. Distances up to 12.5 miles, ascents up to 1800 ft. 8 nights and 9 days. Breakfast daily and dinner 4 nights. $3,080 (single +$700)
(Mid April–June and September–October)
Tranquil and enchanting might be the best way to describe this trek. Explore some of the most famous hikes in the region, including the Sentiero del Fortini on the Island of Capri; the Hike of the Gods from Amalfi to Positano, and the Valle dei Mulini above Amalfi where rare ferns and orchids line your path. Enjoy a flex day in Positano. 7 nights and 8 days. Easy to moderate hiking up to 8 miles with ascents up to 2100 ft. Breakfast only. $4,600* (single +$800)
* NOTE: Capri and the Amalfi Coast. Due to high season pricing, an extra $300 per person will be added to trip cost for June bookings.
n IRELAND’S DINGLE WAY
(April–October)
Perhaps Ireland’s best walking tour is found in the very southwest of the country on the Dingle Peninsula. Throughout, the well-marked trail uses a latticework of farm roads, back streets of small villages, tracks across barren coastland and beaches, and trails up remote, rolling hills. A moderate trek averaging 12.5 miles daily with one day up to an optional 17 miles. Ascents are minimal – one day just over 2000 ft. 9 nights and 10 days. Breakfast only. $2,720 (single +$610)
n THE LIECHTENSTEIN TRAIL
(April–October)
The Liechtenstein Trail trek visits Europe’s fourth-smallest country wedged between Austria and Switzerland. This 46.6-mile trail walks you through all 11 of the country’s municipalities. Enjoy hiking below the soaring peaks of the Appenzell Alps as you wind along mountain paths and pristine, village roads. Its rich history shines with hundreds of points of interest along the route, including the capital’s 12th century Vaduz Castle. 7 nights and 8 days. Up to 12 miles, ascents to 1877 ft. Breakfast only, $2,720 (single +$600)
n SCOTLAND: ROB ROY WAY
n PROVENCE: HILL TOWNS OF THE LUBERON
ONLY OFFERED SELF-GUIDED AND PRIVATE GUIDED
(May–June and September–October)
Croatia is a magical place and the culture is one of the most welcoming in the world. This 7 night and 8 day trek has you island hopping, visiting medieval walled cities, exploring Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and touring Diocletian’s Palace in Split. Islands you will hike on are Korčula, Mljet, and Orebić. Enjoy moderate hikes of up to 8 miles with ascents up 2000 ft. Breakfast only. $2,835 (single +$730)
n AUSTRIA: WILDER KAISER MOUNTAIN TREK
(June–Mid October)
Our hike between the charming villages of the Wilder Kaiser mountains and the Kitzbuhel Alps focuses on gentler daily itineraries and four-star hotels. Vibrant Austrian meadows link fairytale hamlets offering the most magnificent mix of idyllic wandering with delicious cuisine, and the very finest accommodations. Visit the picturesque villages of Scheffau and Ellmau showcasing traditional Austrian character. 7 nights and 8 days. Up to 8 miles and ascents up to 2260 ft. $2,850 (single +$540)
n ITALIAN DOLOMITES RIFUGIO TREK
(Late June–Mid September)
Our point-to-point hiking route through the region traverses from west to east and links not only the most spectacular mountain scenery in the Sciliar, Sassolungo, Puez, and Tofane ranges, but also the most atmospheric and authentic villages and huts along the way. Hike the Sella Pass and ascend to the Forcella Sassolungo, one of the most dramatic passes in the Dolomites. 7 nights and 8 days. Moderate hikes up to 9 miles and ascents up to 3000 ft. $3,800 (single +$600)
(Mid June–Mid September)
See the best highlights of the Berner Oberland in six days. Picture postcard views surround you in every direction, and the fabulous system of lifts, cable cars, and funiculars makes hiking in this lofty region accessible for families and those wishing a more moderate hiking experience without sacrificing big mountain views, as well as for more ambitious hikers. 5 nights and 6 days. Moderate hiking – up to 9 miles with ascents up 2500 ft. $2,375 (single +$500)
n TUSCANY, ITALY WALKING TOUR
(April—October)
The Tuscan sun has nurtured one of the most vibrant landscapes on earth. Our route primarily follows the most remote and walkable section of the Via Francigena, one of the great, historic pilgrims’ routes. Beginning in San Gimignano, fondly referred to as the Manhattan of the Middle Ages, we walk to Colle di Val d’Elsa with multiple landmarks, to the medieval castle of Monteriggioni and finally, the historic city of Siena. 5 nights and 6 days. Easy terrain with distances up to 12 miles. $2,110 (single +$620)
(July–Mid September)
Classic scenery is the hallmark of the Berner Oberland where the famous trio, the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, dominate not only the landscape, but also the imagination of the traveler. As you link the region’s villages, you traverse high ridges, follow valleys, and climb to a number of high and lonely passes separating the deep and dramatic valleys cutting through the range. 6 nights and 7 days. This is a more strenuous trek with up to 9 miles and ascents up to 4500 ft. $2,900 (single +$560)
n JUNGFRAU LOOP
n BERNER OBERLAND TREK
n CROATIA: THE DALMATIAN COAST
n SPANISH MEDITERRANEAN: COSTA BRAVA
(May–June and September–October)
This Ryder-Walker exclusive itinerary explores the undiscovered gems of the Spanish Costa Brava. The variety is incredible and the quality of accommodation and cuisine, exceptional. The trek is a mixture of trails through hidden fishermen’s villages, ancient ruined Iberian settlements, remote beaches and mountainous terrain. 8 nights and 9 days. Moderate hiking with distances up to 9 miles and ascents up to 2800 ft. Dinner all but 3 nights. $3,650 (single +$990)
n TICINO: SWISS LAKE DISTRICT
(May–October)
While it is predominantly Italian, Ticino still offers quintessential Swiss landscapes with many valleys, centuries old stone villages, and historic mountain pastures. With multiple summits to bag, your trek encounters the most spectacular mountain scenery, including numerous lake-view sightings as well as snow-dusted peak backdrops. 7 nights and 8 days. Moderate hiking up to 8 miles with ascents up to 2600 ft. $3,215 (single +$630)
n TOUR DU MONT BLANC VITESSE
(Mid June–Mid September)
If you are limited on time but want to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc, we offer the TMB Vitesse (speed in French) which is a shorter version that covers the highlights of our standard tour in five hikes instead of eight. We begin in Courmayeur, Italy and hike around the east side of Mont Blanc, finishing in Chamonix, France. 7 nights and 8 days. Moderate to challenging hiking with up to 11.5 miles with ascents up to 4500 ft. $2,780 (single +$450) Selling pre-booked dates only. Visit website for dates.
n SWISS HAUTE ROUTE
(July–Mid September)
Explore a spectacular alpine world that takes you from Arolla, beneath the shadow of Mont Collon with its vertical rock walls and snowy summit, across the western Valais to Saas Fee with its tumbling glaciers and towering peaks. The route lies along quiet mountain trails with some rough and remote sections. Enjoy spectacular views of peaks and glaciers. 6 nights and 7 days. A challenging trek with up to 11 miles and ascents up to 4500 ft. Luggage transfers at some locations for an extra cost. $2,600 (single +$700)
n TELLURIDE TREK
(Mid June–Early October) Majestic snow capped peaks, expansive alpine meadows, tumbling waterfalls, and charming Victorian hotels beckon hikers to explore the San Juan Mountains of Southwestern Colorado; home of Ryder-Walker. From remote valleys to high alpine passes with endless views, you hike beneath the shadows of the resident 14,000 ft. peaks. 7 nights and 8 days. We offer easy, moderate and challenging treks – from 5 miles up to 9 miles with ascents from 1500 ft. up to 3800 ft. Breakfast only. $2,655 (single +$1,250)
n APPENZELL HUT HOP
(Late June–October)
Exciting hiking characterizes this unusual corner of Switzerland where the trails, punctuated by steel cables, cut steps, and iron pegs to aid the hiker, are carved in the rock. The mountains feature a system of huts and berghauses, all situated within a day of walking from each other. This is a point-to-point circumnavigation of the range known as the Säntis/Churfirsten. 5 nights and 6 days. Challenging hiking and terrain: exposure, drop-offs, chains. Up to 8 miles with ascents up to 3000 ft. No luggage transfers. $1,700 (single +$380)
2025 SELF-GUIDED, 5-DAY MINI-TREKS
n = Easy to Moderate Hiking n = Moderate to Challenging Hiking n = Challenging Hiking
EUROPE
n Berner Oberland Trek (page 10) Late June – Early Oct.
n Chamonix to Champex (page 11) Late June – Mid Sept.
n Swiss Engadine Trek (page 10)
n Heart of Austria (page 10)
n Italian Dolomites Trek (page 11)
– Mid Oct.
$1,825 (single +$300) Switzerland
$1,670 (single +$210) France, Switzerland
$2,150 (single +$250) Switzerland
June – Sept. $1,820 (single +$220) Austria
(single +$474) Italy NORTH AMERICA
n Telluride Trek (page 11)
June – Early Oct. $1,750 (single +$680) USA
2025 SELF-GUIDED, EASYGOING TREKS
n = Easy to Moderate Hiking
n Allegra Engadine 8 Days (page 85)
n Ambiance Italian Dolomites 7 Days (page 85)
n Austria: Mozart Alpine Lakes Walk 6 days (page 85)
n Pastoral Berner Oberland 7 Days (page 85)
n Slovenia: Waterfalls and Gorges 8 Days (page 85)
n Via Ladinia Pastorale 8 Days (page 85)
n ALLEGRA ENGADINE
(June–October)
June – Mid Oct.
Stay in charming villages. Follow the gentle paths of the upper and lower Engadine with flowery meadows and glaciated peaks. 7 nights/8 days. Up to 8 miles with ascents up to 2000 ft.
$3,395 (single +$640)
$3,395 (single
(single +$420)
(single +$670)
n PASTORAL BERNER OBERLAND
(Mid June–Early October)
The Jungfrau region is the very heart of the Swiss Alps, and we hike beneath the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau with picture perfect views. 7 nights/8 days. 8.5 up to 10 miles with ascents up to 1800 ft.
$2,655 (single +$530)
(June–September)
The Dolomites are one of the most dramatic ranges soaring above rolling meadows, ruins, and onion-domed churches.
A paradise for hikers. 6 nights/7 days. Up to 9 miles and ascents up to 2600 ft.
$3,370 (single +$690)
n AUSTRIA: MOZART ALPINE LAKES WALK
(Late May–Mid October)
Much of the hiking will follow the shores of the Wolfgangsee and Hallstättersee, as well as a charming section out of Bad Ischl along the river Traun.
5 nights/6 days. 8 miles and one ascent up to 1100 ft.
$2,860 (single +$420)
(Mid June–Mid September)
The Pusteria Valley sits on the Italian/Austrian border. The northern flank is pastoral with walls of limestone. The southern flank is jagged summits. 7 nights/8 days. Up to 8 miles and ascents up to 1600 ft.
$3,150 (single +$700)
(Late June–Mid September)
From the tranquil shores of Lake Bohinj, to the shores of Lake Bled, and on to Kranjska Gora, it is Slovenia’s finest week of walking. 7 nights/ 8 days. Up to 8 miles with ascents up 2000 ft.
$3,025 (single +$670)
n SLOVENIA: WATERFALLS AND GORGES
n AMBIANCE ITALIAN DOLOMITES
n VIA LADINIA PASTORALE
2025 GUIDED TREKS
n = Easy to Moderate Hiking n = Moderate to Challenging Hiking n = Challenging Hiking
GUIDED TRIPS
MARCH
n Argentine Patagonia: The Lakes District (page 58) March 6 – 15
MAY
n Peru: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 1 (page 64) May 3 – 13
n Northern Greece: Hike the Epirus Mountains (page 40) May 3 – 12
n Portugal: The Southwestern Scenic Coastal Trek 1 (page 48) May 4 – 11
n England: The Cotswolds (page 22) May 4 – 14
n Sicily: The Aeolian Islands (page 34) May 15 – 22
n Wales: Countryside, Castles and Coastline (page 24) May 15 – 25
n Sedona, Arizona Trek (page 36) May 17 – 23
n Montenegro and Croatia: Highlights of the Adriatic Coast (page 32)
n Italian Lakes District: Varenna, Menaggio, Lenno, Bellagio, and Como (page 54)
JUNE
n Scotland: Highlands and Islands (page 30)
n Italian Dolomites Trek 1 (page 44)
$7,300 * (single +$1,400) $10,900† (single +$1,400) Argentina
$7,350* (single +$875 up to $1,870**) Call for pricing. Peru
$6,600* (single +$750)
$4,950 (single +$590)
$7,100 (single +$930)
$4,800 (single +$680)
$6,050 (single +$830)
May 27 – June 3
May 28 – June 3
June 1 – 11
$7,725 (single +$750) Greece
$6,100 (single +$590) Portugal
$8,990 (single +$930) England
$6,200 (single +$680) Italy
$7,270 (single +$830) Wales
$6,950 (single +$860) $8,230 (single +$860) USA
$5,150 (single +$620)
$5,750 (single +$730)
$6,700 (single +$730) Montenegro, Croatia
$6,700 (single +$730) Italy
$6,000 (single +$830) $7,210 (single +$830) Scotland
June 13 – 20 $7,180 (single +$830) $8,250 (single +$830) Italy
n Cornwall England: Cornish Coastal Path (page 26) June 17 – 27
$6,990 (single +$930) $8,900 (single +$930) England
n Norway: The Islands of Lofoten (page 78) June 18 – 25 $7,150 * (single +$980) $9,200 (single +$980) Norway
n Tour du Mont Blanc 1 (page 72) June 18 – 27
n Engadine Women’s Trek (page 60)
n Highlights of Italy: Courmayeur, Cogne, and Champoluc (page 38)
n Highlights of Switzerland: Engadine, Lago Maggori, and Zermatt (page 20)
JULY
n Hiker’s Haute Route (page 68)
n Iceland: The Remote Westfjords (page 74)
n Appenzell to Liechtenstein: Discover the Hidden Alps (page 52)
n Engadine Trek 1 (page 60)
n Tour du Mont Blanc 2 (page 72)
n French Alps: Chamonix Mont Blanc to Val d’Isère (page 46)
n Haute Pyrénées Mountain Trek: France to Spain (page 70)
n Matterhorn Trek (page 80)
n Eiger Trail (page 76)
n Tour du Mont Blanc 3 (page 72)
n Italian Dolomites Trek 2 (page 44)
n High Peaks of Bavaria and Tyrol (page 56)
n Heart of Austria (page 28)
n Engadine Trek 2 (page 60)
n Italian Dolomites: Lago di Braies, Fanes Wilderness, and Alta Badia (page 50)
n Rocky Mountain High Life: Aspen to Telluride (page
n Corsica: French Isle Adventure Trek (page 42)
n Portugal: The Southwestern Scenic Coastal Trek 2 (page 48)
n Morocco: Atlas Mountains Trek (page 66)
n Sedona, Arizona Trek 2 (page 36)
n Peru: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 2 (page 64)
20 – 27
(single +$670)
(single +$640)
(single +$670) France, Italy, Switzerland
(single +$640) Switzerland
3 – 14
15 –
24 –
–
2025 SELF-GUIDED & PRIVATE-GUIDED
TREKS
EUROPE AND UK
n Appenzell Hut Hop (page 84) 6 Days
Late June – Oct.
n Austria: Wilder Kaiser Mountain Trek (page 83) 8 Days June – Mid Oct.
n Berner Oberland Traverse (Website) 9 Days July – Mid Sept.
n Berner Oberland Trek (page 83) 7 Days
n Capri and The Amalfi Coast (page 82) 8 Days
n Cotswold Way (page 82) 10 Days
July – Mid Sept.
Mid April – June, and Sept. – Oct.
March – Oct.
n Croatia: The Dalmatian Coast (page 83) 8 Days May – June and Sept. – Oct.
n Eiger Trail (page 76) 9 Days
n Engadine Summit Series (Website) 8 Days
n Engadine Trek (page 60) 8 Days
n Heart of Austria (page 28) 8 Days
July – Mid Sept.
Late June – Mid Sept.
Mid June – Mid Oct.
Mid June – Sept.
n High Peaks of Bavaria and Tyrol (page 56) 8 Days June – Sept.
n Hiker’s Haute Route (page 68) 10 Days
July – Mid Sept.
n Ireland’s Dingle Way (page 82) 10 Days April – Oct.
n Italian Dolomites: Lago di Braies, Fanes Wilderness, and Alta Badia (page 50) 8 Days
n Italian Dolomites Rifugio Trek (page 83) 8 Days
Mid June – Mid Sept.
Late June – Mid Sept
$1,700 (single +$380)
$2,850 (single +$540)
$3,400 (single +$720)
$2,900 (single +$560)
$4,600 (single +$800)
$3,090 (single +$690)
$2,835 (single +$730)
$4,050 (single +$800)
$3,395 (single +$640)
$3,460 (single +$640)
$3,050 (single +$620)
$2,700 (single +$580)
$3,280 (single +$700)
$2,720 (single +$610)
$3,890 (single +$380) Switzerland
$6,585 (single +$540) Austria
$7,350 (single +$720) Switzerland
$6,850 (single +$560) Switzerland
$8,360 (single +$800) Italy
$6,060 (single +$690) England
$5,770 (single +$730) Croatia
$7,750 (single +$800) Switzerland
$6,540 (single +$640) Switzerland
$6,745 (single +$640) Switzerland
$6,675 (single +$620) Austria
$6,465 (single +$580) Germany, Austria
$8,065 (single +$700) France, Switzerland
$5,635 (single +$610) Ireland
$3,150 (single +$700) $6,550 (single +$700) Italy
$3,800 (single +$600) N/A Italy
n Italian Dolomites Trek (page 44) 8 Days Mid June – Mid Sept. $4,355 (single +$830) $8,250 (single +$830) Italy
n Italian Lakes District: Varenna, Menaggio, Lenno, Bellagio, and Como (page 54) 8 Days May – Oct.
n Jungfrau Loop (page 83) 6 Days
Mid June – Mid Sept.
n The Liechtenstein Trail (page 82) 8 Days April – Oct.
n Matterhorn Trek (page 80) 9 Days July – Early Sept.
n Portugal: The Southwestern Scenic Coastal Trek (page 48) 8 Days
April – Nov.
n Provence: Hill Towns of the Luberon (page 82) 8 Days April – June, and Sept. – Oct.
n Scotland: Rob Roy Way (page 82) 9 Days March – Oct.
(single +$730) $6,700 (single +$730) Italy
$2,375 (single +$500) $4,900 (single +$500) Switzerland
$2,720 (single +$600)
$3,500 (single +$830**)
$3,450 (single +$590)
$6,500 (single +$600) Liechtenstein
$7,650 (single +$830) Italy, Switzerland
$6,100 (single +$590) Portugal
$3,500 (single +$795) N/A France
(single +$700)
(single +$700) Scotland
n Spanish Mediterranean: Costa Brava (page 84) 8 Days May – June and Sept. – Oct. $3,650 (single +$990) N/A Spain
n Swiss Haute Route (page 84) 7 Days Late June – Mid Sept.
n Ticino: Swiss Lake District (page 84) 8 Days
n Tour du Mont Blanc (page 72) 10 Days
n Tour du Mont Blanc Vitesse (page 84) 7 Days
n Tuscany,
Telluride Trek: The
–
(single +$700)
(single +$700) Switzerland
A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO CHOOSING THE BEST HIKING SHOES FOR YOUR TREK
Selecting the ideal footwear for your hike is crucial, whether trekking in the European Alps, exploring Moroccan markets, or traversing mountain paths in South America. The right shoes mean the difference between a miserable day with blisters and a joyful journey through breathtaking landscapes. That’s why proper footwear tops our list of essential gear for a Ryder Walker trek. It’s a personalized process, requiring time and consideration for your specific activities. Components, padding, and materials matter, and finding the perfect fit is crucial. Once you’re happily trekking in the right shoes, you’ll realize the effort was worthwhile.
Let’s explore footwear types, materials, support, and we’ll give you tips to help you discover your perfect fit.
PICK YOUR STYLE
When packing for a hiking trip, making sure that you have the correct shoes or boots. When it comes to hiking footwear, options run the gamut — from superlight breathable trail runners to heavy-duty thick-soled, overthe-ankle boots. The pair you end up with should reflect the activities you plan to do in them.
Lightweight
Shoes in this category are low-cut, breathable and more flexible — designed for day hikes, training runs or short overnight jaunts. Since RyderWalker’s village-to-village tours consist of a series of day hikes that don’t require carrying heavy overnight packs, lightweight hiking shoes or trail runners are appropriate for many of our clients.
Mid-level
Designed for light backpacking or more technical hiking, these mid- to high-cut models come with more support and some flexibility. They can better withstand off-trail hiking or obstacles and are not as hard to break in as their stouter counterparts. These are a great option for hikers who want something sturdier underfoot, are heavier in body type, need extra ankle/ knee support or plan to carry more than a daypack.
Backpackers
Designed for carrying heavy loads on multi-day trips, these hulking highcut boots come with high ankle support, stiffer shells and thick soles. This heavy model is most appropriate for dedicated backpackers heading deep into the backcountry. They can definitely be overkill for our trips, but avid backpackers or mountaineers may prefer them. If you go this route, be sure to break them in thoroughly before your trip.
MATERIAL CONSIDERATIONS
When shopping for shoes, consider what material is most appropriate for your activity needs: waterproof or breathable, leather or synthetic, insulated or not. Here is a glossary to help navigate materials in hiking shoes.
• Full-grain leather. This refers to thick leather that hasn’t undergone processes like sanding to remove imperfections. Most commonly used in heavy-duty backpacking boots, full-grain leather boots are extremely durable and water resistant, but are not terribly light or breathable, and typically require more break-in time.
• Split-grain leather. Split-grain leather, which is leather that has been “split” into thinner layers, is typically paired with nylon or mesh on mid-level hiking boots. The resulting boots are more breathable, flexible and easier to break in, but because they have more seams, are less durable and waterproof.
• Polyester, nylon and synthetic leather materials are found in mid- and light-weight boots. Boots made with synthetics are generally lighter, breathable and faster-drying. But they aren’t as long-lasting.
• Waterproof membranes. This refers to boots made with a shell of waterproof material like Gore-Tex, which keeps them well-sealed. Though they are great in stream-crossings or wet weather, they are less breathable and can be hot.
• Generally, only heavy-duty backpacking or mountaineering boots designed for travel in snow or glaciers come with synthetic insulation.
FINDING YOUR PERFECT FIT
We have arrived at the most important step in your boot-buying process. No matter how durable, flexible or snazzy looking, boots will be worthless if they don’t fit. We recommend you carve out some time to spend at the retailer — you’ll need it to properly test out your shoes.
How do you find the best fit? Seek out boots that are snug without being too tight or too loose. This means that your toes should move freely but shouldn’t be swimming with room. Same goes for your heels: they should sit snugly in the shoe, not move freely when you walk. Pay attention to potential hot spots — places where the shoes rub or press uncomfortably against your foot — they are major blister culprits. And choose a pair with enough padding and arch/ankle support to cushion your joints. Here are some tips to guide you.
• Choose a knowledgeable retailer. For the most informed source of guidance, stick to outdoor gear stores whose salespeople practice what they preach. They’ll be able to measure your feet with expertise and steer you to the styles that match your purpose.
• Wear hiking socks. This will help you get your most precise fit and realistic sense of how the shoes will perform on the trail. (Remember, this means synthetic or wool blend, not cotton.)
• If you wear orthotics, bring them. Insoles can bolster support or comfort. Ask the salesperson if you are interested in trying them.
• Try on boots at the end of the day. Feet generally swell during the day. This will help avoid buying boots that are too small.
• Spend time testing shoes out. Walk around the store, up and down stairs and, if possible, up and down inclined surfaces. Then walk some more. Notice if your feet move too freely or feel scrunched. Notice if your toes rub uncomfortably against the front of the shoe. Notice if your heels feel pinched. Keep walking until you are sure you’ve found the right pair.
BREAK THEM IN
After you’ve done the research, spent the time, and purchased a pair of shoes that perfectly fit both your feet and your activities the work’s not done yet. To adequately prepare for a village-to-village trek or any activity demanding prolonged use of your footwear, a crucial step is breaking them in. There are no shortcuts. Shoes and feet, simply, need time to conform to one another.
To properly break them in, start by wearing them around the house with the socks and insoles you’ll wear on the trail. Spend time standing, pacing and walking in them. Once this feels comfortable, gradually transition to short outings like running errands. Progress to longer walks, followed by trail hikes, and eventually extended trail hikes. When you get to the point where you can spend a long day on the trail in your shoes and your feet are well-supported, comfortable and happy, you’ve broken in your shoes.
Hope this helps you prepare for what shoes to bring on your next adventure, be it wandering the beaches along the Costa Brava trek in Spain, exploring Portuguese cobblestone streets on our Southwestern Scenic Coastal trip, trekking over the Salkantay Pass at over 15,000 ft. on our trek to Machu Picchu, or navigating the varied trails in the Alps ranging from easy strolls to challenging summits. Happy Hiking!
PACKING LIST AND TREKKING POLES
Packing for a hiking trip that lasts for over a week can be a daunting and confusing process. Light is often right when traveling and while missing a crucial item in the mountains can be a critical mistake, this article will help outline the must-have items.
When packing for a hiking trip, making sure that you have the correct essential clothing to succeed in the mountains is crucial. The first rule of thumb is that cotton clothing is the devil. Cotton, when wet, cools your body at a rapid rate through a process of conductive cooling unique to the fabric. Fabrics to consider instead are wool and synthetic fibers. Wool is the best at keeping you warm while synthetic fibers offer a cooler and lighter option. Wool socks, in particular, are a must-have. We even wear wool socks on hot days. The extra padding in the socks combined with the fiber strength and relative comfort when you get your feet wet make wool an unbeatable option. Wool T-shirts are also a consideration. Finally, it is imperative that you bring at least one pair of long pants. Getting caught in a storm in shorts is both miserable and dangerous. We all know how quickly the weather in the mountains can shift, so it is important to make sure you keep your day pack stocked with a set of essential bad weather items.
ESSENTIALS
• Backpack/daypack. Generally, an 1800-cubic-inch pack is adequate to fit the above items as well as a picnic lunch. However, if your itinerary includes overnights away from your luggage, we recommend bringing a 2400-cubic-inch pack. And bring a rain cover for your backpack.
• Hydration system. This could be a water bottle or bladder system for your backpack. Make sure it holds a minimum of one liter.
• Sturdy, hiking boots/trail shoes. These should be comfortable, waterproof, breathable and most critically, well broken in.
• Waterproof and breathable hooded rain jacket and rain pants. Preferably made of Gore-Tex. We also recommend bringing a small umbrella.
• Mid-weight insulating layer: wicking fabric such as fleece, wool, synthetic or you can bring a thin, down sweater.
• Base layer, lightweight top and bottom.
• Hiking pants: synthetic, lightweight, zip off legs. If you don’t have zip off legs, bring hiking shorts or skirt.
• Long-sleeve shirt and T-shirt made from quick-drying synthetic or wool.
• Warm, synthetic or wool hat and wind/water resistant gloves.
• Hiking socks and undergarments. Choose wool blends for socks, and also look for performance materials for items like sports bras or underwear.
• Trekking poles. Trekking poles can significantly reduce knee stress; we recommend each hiker brings one collapsible pair.
• Sun protection. High-altitude sun exposure means that quality sunglasses, a brimmed sun hat and high-SPF 50 sunblock are mandatory.
• Swimsuit if your accommodations have a spa or pool.
• Passport. For tours that cross international borders, identification will be requested.
• Travel Documents. Bring any Eurail, Swiss Pass, etc., that you have purchased for potential reductions on lifts.
• Cash in the currency of the country you are traveling in will come in handy for buying refreshments or meals during the tour.
GEAR
Gear for hiking and trekking is reasonably minimal, and much of it is items you can leave in your suitcase depending on the day. We consider one of the most essential items to be a pair of trekking poles. You can also consider bringing a pair of gaiters and/or rain-pants to keep water and mud out of your boots. Finally, if you have signed up for an early summer or fall trip, it is worth considering bringing a pair of Yak-Trak style boot treads. While these aren’t strictly necessary, there is often lingering snow on the high passes at these times of the year, and if you have any doubts about walking across snowfields, a little extra traction can go a long way in terms of confidence.
SPECIALTY ITEMS
Last but not least, there are some specialty items you can consider bringing with you trekking. The Ryder-Walker packing list recommends an umbrella - this is not a joke. An umbrella can go a long way in keeping you dry and warm on long drizzly days. Put it away if you see lightning though!
A universal adapter is an essential tool to ensure your devices can plug into various outlet types found around the world. These adapters are compact, versatile, and are compatible with multiple plug configurations. Look for one with built-in USB ports to charge multiple devices efficiently.
TREKKING POLES
Trekking poles are truly an incredible asset for long distance hikes and treks. Trekking poles are excellent when hiking in varied terrain with ice, snow, rocks, or even just moments that require a little extra balance. Being able to use your poles to maintain extra points of contact with the ground allows you to gain stability in terrain that you might be less comfortable crossing on just your feet, and they are an absolute godsend on sustained descents. Using them while hiking down from a pass or peak takes a significant amount of stress off of your knees. Trust us, your knees will thank you.
WHAT TREKKING POLES TO BUY
Typically, we recommend any style of collapsible pole because they are easier to assemble/disassemble and will fit into your backpack. Find a pair of collapsible poles that fits your height rather than adjustable ones - the right height for a trekking pole should leave your arms resting comfortably at around a 90-degree angle in front of you. If you find you have to strain to reach them or need to crunch your arms up into an acute angle to use them, the poles are probably the wrong size - try to buy them in a brick and mortar store where a sales assistant can help you get the right ones unless you are confident purchasing them online. The next most important factor in buying trekking poles is weight. You want these poles to be LIGHT; the lighter the pole, the less the fatigue from using it. Poles with a carbon shaft are often extremely light as well as durable.
WANDER
WISE: A GUIDE TO SAFETY ON THE TRAILS AND IN A LIGHTNING STORM
If you’re hiking this season, whether with Ryder-Walker or on your own, we have tips to enhance your experience. Two key aspects to consider are: handling unexpected situations like bad weather or injuries and being a respectful hiker.
PREPARATION AND SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RYDER-WALKER HIKES:
1. Every night before your hike and again in the morning we recommend you check weather and trail conditions. If you are on a Ryder-Walker trek, weather information can be found on your Vamoos app. If bad weather is in the forecast, plan not only for rain or a snow squall but for any obstacles or hazards that may exist. You may need to ask the hotel front desk or hut warden for a lower route recommendation if severe storms or lightning is forecasted.
• Ryder-Walker provides alternate route options on many of our hikes in case of inclement weather. If lightning storms are going to persist all day, the best decision may be to investigate public transportation or private taxi transfers.
• We also provide alternate transfer options on most of our hikes should weather or injury prohibit hiking for the day.
• You may also inquire with the luggage transfer company for a ride if public transportation is problematic.
2. Knowing when to cut your hike short is crucial. Signs like worsening weather, altitude sickness, or injuries in your group should prompt you to descend, take an easier trail, or turn back. Look out for darkening skies, temperature drops, strong winds, heavy rain or snow, and fog as indicators of an approaching storm.
3. Always prioritize safety over completing the hike. It’s better to turn around and try again another day than to risk injury or worse due to inclement weather.
4. If you find yourself in an emergency where you can’t find assistance from another hiker on the trail or at a hut or Rifugio along the route, please call 112. This is the European emergency phone number, available everywhere in the EU, free of charge. Operators will speak English.
5. Before the trek, review your packing list to ensure you have layers for changing weather and always carry rain gear in your pack. Most highend, newer backpacks come with a rain cover tucked in the bottom. If your pack doesn’t have one, you can purchase them online or at sporting goods stores. A dry pack is essential for multi-day hikes.
6. We recommend trekking poles, they are saviors when it comes to slippery rocks and trails when hiking in the rain and when descending long distances, the amount of stress they absorb from your knees is remarkable.
7. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and lunch if you are planning on a trailside picnic. You’ll want to stay hydrated and keep your energy levels high throughout the hike.
HOW LIGHTNING WORKS
What’s going on when a storm builds and produces lightning and thunder? Basically, warm air from the earth’s surface is rising and interacting with ice forming in the clouds above, creating static electricity, which the atmosphere discharges. A negative charge in the sky seeks to connect with a positive charge from the ground, and the connection point often is a tall solitary object, such as a big tree or a pointy peak.
The result is a spectacular flash of electricity. That, in turn, creates a shockwave of sound we hear as thunder.
Here’s the good news: very few people are hit by direct lightning strikes— the kind of strike that zaps the top of a tree or touches a summit. Few people are killed by lightning. In the United States, an average of 28 people die annually due to lightning, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The bad news: Lightning injures are severe. And you can be seriously injured or killed by ground current, which is voltage traveling through the ground from the strike point to where you’re standing or sitting. You also can be hurt or killed by “splash lighting” (a.k.a. a side flash), which is electricity jumping from one object (such as a tree or boulder) to you.
5 RULES TO FOLLOW IN A LIGHTNING STORM
Mountain weather is known to change quickly and dramatically. One hour you’re hiking toward a summit in strong high-altitude sunshine, then the next, you’re zipping up a waterproof outer layer as ominous gray clouds converge and produce a clap or boom of thunder.
When you hear thunder, don’t wait for visual proof of forked lighting splitting the sky overhead to manage the risk of being struck. You can minimize the chance of a lightning injury by following these “rules” during alpine excursions:
1. PLAN AHEAD TO AVOID THUNDERSTORM RISKS
Lightning hits people when they’re in the wrong place at the wrong time. So, learn about the region’s weather patterns, check the forecast, and then time your hikes to ascend peaks or traverse exposed ridges during good-weather windows, which usually occur early in the day. Also consider alternate routes to take at lower elevation if a storm develops.
If you’re stymied by a threatening storm, don’t let ego overrule good judgment—turn back and wait to tackle that stretch of trail. If you’re on an inn-to-inn hiking tour and the weather forecast looks questionable, talk to the lodge manager before you depart to see if you could return later that day in the event of dangerous weather.
Always pack warm, waterproof layers in case you must wait out a storm. If you must shelter in a grove of trees during a downpour and thunderstorm, for example, you could get soaked to the skin, and your body temperature would drop precipitously from lack of movement. Pack an emergency space blanket, an extra wool base layer, a lightweight poncho/rain jacket, hat and gloves, and perhaps hand warmers to prevent hypothermia.
2. SEEK
SAFER TERRAIN
There’s a saying, “When thunder roars, go indoors,” because being outside is not safe in a thunderstorm. It’s best to seek shelter in an enclosed building or hard-topped vehicle with the windows up. (Open structures like porches don’t provide protection from lightning.)
If you’re hiking, you likely don’t have the option of closed shelters, so let’s review safer areas to go when thunder roars.
If you’re high on an exposed ridge or summit and see a storm building, alter your route, or turn back on the trail to get to lower, more protected elevation, such as in a grove of trees or in a low point between hills. A depression in the ground is a good spot, as is a dry ravine unless flash flooding is possible.
Avoid taking shelter near tall, solitary objects (such as under a single big tree). Also stay clear of standing water, such as ponds and puddles.
3. MINIMIZE GROUND CONTACT
If you’re stuck in an exposed, high area, and all your senses detect electricity in the air—your hair may even start rising from static electricity—then you’re in danger of being struck, and you must manage this worst-case scenario.
Don’t lie down! Instead, assume the lightning position described below.
The most important aspects of the lightning position involve keeping your feet close together and keeping your hands from touching the ground. If you can balance on your forefeet with heels off the ground, that’s even better. Crouch down rather than stand (to reduce the chance that a direct strike or slide flash of current will hit you) and make your body into a small ball with head lowered. Clasp your hands over your ears to protect your hearing from thunder and to give you a place to put your hands.
If you become too fatigued to maintain the lightning position, then sit on your butt and hug your knees to your chest, with your feet and hands off the ground.
Staying in a crouched position with feet close together won’t protect you from a strike, but it will minimize the amount of ground current that flows through your body and can significantly reduce the severity of injury. By contrast, if you lie down and stretch out, with your limbs extending and touching different parts of the ground (as some people mistakenly do while taking shelter), then more electrical current will travel through your body, causing greater injury or even death.
4. DROP TREKKING POLES AND OTHER METAL OBJECTS
When assuming the lightning position, you don’t need to chuck your metal trekking poles far away, but you should set them down a good distance from you in the worst-case scenario described above. The same goes with your backpack if it has a metal frame, and anything else metal, such as your smart watch and phone. Metal from poles, personal accessories, and fence wiring all can conduct ground current, so don’t touch these objects when lightning threatens to strike.
As unpleasant as it is to visualize, metal jewelry or belt buckles can burn your skin if lightning travels through you, so remove these objects too if time allows.
5. SPREAD OUT FROM OTHERS
If you’re with others, you should spread out from each other out to improve the odds that one or more of you will remain unharmed and be able to help if lightning hits the ground and the ground current travels to strike individuals.
“Like the lightning position, spreading a group out is a last-ditch move in a dangerous situation,” says Liza Howard, a wilderness safety expert who teaches wilderness medicine for the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS). She says how far you spread out depends on the terrain and the group’s ability to manage themselves.
“If someone doesn’t have rain gear, and splitting up means that person is going to become hypothermic, it makes more sense to stay together and share an emergency blanket. You do want to keep within hearing distance of everyone. If you can get 20 feet from the next person, great. Spreading out doesn’t make you more safe, it just makes it more likely that someone will be able to take care of someone else if they get hurt.”
If one of your buddies gets hit by lightning, he or she may suffer burns, seizures, hearing loss, or sudden cardiac arrest. It’s a myth that this person is full of electrical current and therefore unsafe to touch. A person shocked by lightning will not retain the charge, so give that person aid as soon as possible, such as warmth, wound care, or CPR if necessary.
Meanwhile, monitor the storm. Ideally, you should wait 30 minutes after the last thunderclap to start moving again on the trail. To stay warm, try exercises such as marching in place. If you’re with someone who’s injured, however, you may need to get moving to lower ground sooner and to call for help.
Written by: Sarah Lavender Smith
1. Please stay on the trail or designated path to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems.
2. When descending narrow trails, yield to uphill hikers, who have the right of way. Also, on narrow trails, step aside to let faster people pass.
3. Please keep noise levels down and be mindful of your surroundings and avoid loud conversations that can disturb wildlife and other hikers.
4. Maintain the trail’s natural beauty by leaving no trace. Remember to pick up after yourself, including all paper products.
TRAIL ETIQUETTE GUIDELINES FOR RESPONSIBLE HIKING:
