Your first backpacking trip, done right.

Private overnight trips in Southern California. I take care of the logistics — you just show up at the trailhead.

Plan my trip
Plan my trip

Sound Familiar?

You've wanted to try backpacking for a while, but every time you think about it you hit the same wall.

-You don’t know where to start with gear

-You can’t get friends to commit

-You’re not sure you’re fit enough or experienced enough

-You don’t want to spend $1000 on gear for something you might not like

That's not a lack of motivation. That's a lack of a starting point.

That's exactly what I help with.

What This Is

I'm Micah, an experienced backpacker based in San Diego who takes small groups of beginners out on overnight trips in Southern California.

I'm not a huge professional guide service. I'm a trail partner who takes care of the logistics so you can focus on actually enjoying the experience.

I'll arrange the route, handle the permits, bring the gear, and be with you the entire trip. The pace, the breaks, and the decisions on trail are always yours.

No experience necessary. Loaner gear available.

What’s Included

Every trip is kept small and personal. Depending on your trip this includes:

  • A planned route and permit arranged for you

  • Campsite logistics taken care of before the trip

  • A gear checklist so you know exactly what to bring

  • Loaner gear available if you don't own everything yet

  • A trail partner with you the entire trip

  • Safety considerations discussed before and during the trip

  • A starting point for planning your own trips in the future

What Past Hikers are saying

"I had wanted to try backpacking for a long time but didn't feel comfortable figuring it all out alone. Having Micah handle the planning made the whole trip feel way more approachable." — Jonathan H.

"I was nervous about what to pack and whether I'd slow everyone down. The trip felt relaxed and supportive the entire time." — Ana R.

"Backpacking seemed intimidating before this. I had a great experience and came home excited to do more trips." — David C.

About Micah

Most guided trips feel transactional. This one doesn't.

I grew up backpacking in the Pacific Northwest and spent years exploring trails in Washington and Oregon. Since moving to Southern California I've been doing the same thing here: finding the best routes, learning the terrain, and introducing people to backpacking for the first time.

I started taking friends and beginners out on trips because I kept seeing the same thing. People who wanted to try backpacking but couldn't get past the planning, the gear, and the uncertainty of not knowing what they were doing.

Watching someone finish their first overnight trip and realize they're more capable than they thought. That's the part I find most rewarding.

These trips are kept intentionally small because I want every person to feel like a trail partner, not a customer.

Pricing

$300 per person

Here's what's covered: trip logistics, route and permit arrangement, campsite planning, a gear checklist, loaner gear if you need it, and a trail partner with you the entire trip.

No hidden fees. No gear rental costs on top.

Trips are kept very small by design, so availability is limited.

Ready to get started?

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No. These trips are specifically designed for people who have never backpacked before. You don't need any prior experience, just a willingness to get outside.

  • Loaner gear is available for up to 3 people and covers the essentials. The one thing I can't provide is footwear. Sturdy hiking shoes or boots are strongly recommended, your feet will thank you. We'll go over everything else during the planning process.

  • Most trips are beginner-friendly overnight routes matched to your fitness level. When you fill out the form I'll ask about your current activity level and hiking experience so we can find something that feels challenging but not overwhelming.

  • That's entirely up to you. These trips are private, so it's just you and whoever you choose to bring. Most people come solo, with a partner, or with a small group of friends.

  • I'll review your responses and follow up by email within a few days with trip ideas, availability, and pricing details. Submitting the form doesn't commit you to anything.

  • Yes. Safety planning is a core part of every trip. We'll go over what to expect, how to handle common situations, and I'll be there the entire time.

  • Food is taken care of. Here's what's included for a one night trip:

    • Day 1: lunch and snacks on the trail

    • Evening: a hot backpacking dinner at camp (you'll choose from three highly rated options)

    • Morning: a warm breakfast before packing up

    • Hike out: snacks for the return trip

    Before the trip I'll send a simple menu confirmation so you know exactly what to expect. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions just note them on the form and I'll plan accordingly.

    Prefer to bring your own food? That's completely fine too.

Ready to get outside?

If you've been thinking about trying backpacking but haven't known where to start, this is where you start. Fill out the short form below and I'll follow up with trip ideas, availability, and next steps.

No commitment required.

Plan My Trip

Fill out this short form and I'll follow up within a few days with trip ideas, availability, and pricing. No commitment required.