This is a post for any of you who are looking to go on a guided trip or know anyone who is looking to do the same.
I came across a company today that claims it can guide hikers Rim to Rim or Rim to River to Rim of Grand Canyon in one day.
As an authorized guide service, I know that this is not appropriate for anyone who actually carries an authorization to guide in Grand Canyon National Park.
I will not name names - yet; however, I do feel it necessary to make all who are looking for a guide company to be aware of this. This is not an isolated occurrence. Grand Canyon National Park issued over 20 citations to rogue companies guiding unsuspecting guests just last year.
There are many things to consider when choosing the right guide company; quality of guides, menu, gear they supply, transportation, destinations, etc.
All these things are important to enhance your experience, but there is absolutely one thing you need to be sure your guide company has - authorization to guide trips within the destination you are looking to go. This includes backpacking, hiking, rafting, kayaking, fishing, hunting, etc.
For example, if you are looking to go on a guided trip to Grand Canyon, the Rocky Mountains or Yosemite, be certain you are not going with a rogue company - a company that does not have the authority to do so. The National Park Service, National Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, city parks, preserves, etc. almost always require such authorizations.
What does an authorized guide company have that a rogue company does not? Well I can’t speak for the rogue companies out there, but as an authorized guide company, we are required to maintain certain standards.
National Park Guide Company Requirements
We (and our guides) are required to:
- carry a certain amount of liability insurance
- have extensive knowledge of the area they are guiding
- have Wilderness First Responder (medical) certifications
- be educated in Leave No Trace principles
These authorizations keep guide companies honest by not allowing guides to take guests on trips that can be excessive or dangerous. Most important, authorized guide companies have proven to these entities that we are committed to the safety and security of our guests, as well as the integrity of the destination we are visiting.
Authorized guide companies work hard to meet minimum standards that a rogue company does not. And you have to ask why they cannot or will not even meet said standards.
So, next time you are looking into going on a guided trip anywhere in the United States, be sure to ask about the company’s authorizations. If you want to double check, you can also contact the agency that oversees that area for verification.
Remember, going rogue (which defines a mischievous, dishonest or worthless person) might be good for Sarah Palin, but not for your guide company.
