FrequentLy Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about our tours, rentals, courses, and other offerings. Whether you’re planning your first adventure with us or are a returning guest, this section aims to provide you with all the essential information you need for an unforgettable experience.
What level of fitness do I need to go on the tours?
We have offerings for a variety of fitness levels. A high level of fitness is recommended for our Day Tour, medium for our Overnight Tour, and nearly all fitness levels can accommodate our Rentals and Courses. Please explore the tour pages for further details on the fitness requirements present for each.
Can I bring my children on the tours?
Yes, children 14 and older who are comfortable with the physical requirements of the trip are welcome on our tours!
Can I bring my phone, GoPro, or camera?
Yes, feel free to bring a phone or small camera, but nothing too large. Also, do not pack any drones for, per restriction, they are not allowed in Designated Wilderness Areas.
Will I have cell phone service?
Providing an extra element to the wilderness aspect of our tours, clients will be without service not only on the tour, but also an hour’s drive either direction outside of the trailhead. Clients will be reminded of this and should act accordingly.
What does the bathroom situation look like?
Tour clients are encouraged to use the bathroom before the attending the tour, although there is a vault toilet at the trailhead and pit toilets at the lake and campsite. All clients will be briefed in further detail about this topic at the trailhead.
Is alcohol permitted?
No alcohol or drug use is permitted during the tours.
Do we need water bottles?
Yes. It is imperative all guests bring water bottles or a hydration bladder capable of carrying 2L of water for the tours.
Can I bring my own pack/tent/sleeping bag, etc.?
Clients interested in using their gear for tours need to contact us as soon as possible to confirm the gear is acceptable for the tour. Please note that this will not change the pricing for the tour.
What are the meals like and can you accommodate my restrictive diet?
All meals on our trip our plant-based and accommodating to almost every diet. If you’re gluten-free or have other dietary restrictions, please contact us as so we can make a plan to accommodate. Clients are also welcome to bring their own food, if necessary.
Can I book a private trip for just me and my friends/family/co-workers?
Definitely! For those interested in booking a private trip, please contact us and we can get it all set up for your party.
How does transportation work?
We meet all clients at the trailhead to start our tours. The drive is about an hour’s drive from Darrington or Granite Falls, WA. Cars will encounter unpaved, yet maintained forest roads en route to the trailhead.
Should I tip my guide guide?
While in the United States it is typical practice to tip your guide on any tour, at Optimum Adventures we factor in gratuities to our tour cost for easier pricing. So for our tours, tipping your guide is not necessary.
I've never hiked or backpacked before - is that a problem?
Not at all! Many of our clients have had limited to no hiking experience before our tours. As long as you are capable of meeting or training for the physical requirements of the tour, anyone is welcome and will be expertly guided and instructed by our guides!
Do I need travel protection?
Ultimately it is up to the client to determine if travel insurance makes sense, but generally travel insurance might make sense for those booking Overnight Tours and extended, group packrafting rentals. We at Optimum Adventures do not provide travel insurance, but please do your own research, if interested, to find a plan that works for you.
If I can't come, or I make another plan, will you refund me?
Please see our Cancellation Policy page for details.
What if it’s hot, cold, rainy, snowy, smoky, etc.?
Please see our Cancellation Policy page for details.
Do you accommodate solo travelers?
Yes, many of our clients are solo travelers! Simply book your trip with us and we will reach out to you soon after!
Can you tell me about the other hikers on a trip I'm on or interested in?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide anyone with any personal information about our clients. But if you’re concerned, please contact us and we figure out a date that works for you or align you with a private tour.
If you didn’t find the information you were looking for, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly. Visit our Contact Page to get in touch, and we’ll be happy to assist you with any additional questions or concerns.