Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Where will I get picked up and dropped off?
Guineafowl will make two designated stops depending on where its clients are located. We will make a stop in Greater Downtown Boston and a stop in one of the northern suburbs directly off I-93 or I-95 depending on the hike destination. We will let you know where specifically the two designated stops will be prior to your trip, at least 48 hours in advance of your trip. If you are a group and you prefer a specific location close to your group, we can prepare for this ahead of time.
What is included in my hiking gear?
A day pack, hydration bladder and tube, water, hiking poles, and other basic safety gear such as bug spray, sunscreen, headlamp, snacks for the hike, and resources for emergency “potty” breaks if necessary.
What do I wear?
The most important thing to have with you is a pair of hiking boots or trail running shoes. If you do not have either of these things, and don’t want to rush out and buy them, a pair of athletic sneakers with reasonable tread will be fine for day hiking. You should review the weather, and dress accordingly, based on your own comfort. It is generally a good idea to carry or wear layers because you will get warm while hiking (even in colder temperatures), but the temperature will drop the higher up you get, so, having layers you can add or remove helps balance your body temperature in varying conditions. A water resistant or waterproof shell layer is always good to carry, and is generally lightweight.
Where do I poop?
At trailheads with restroom facilities, we will arrive early enough so that all clients have the opportunity to use the restroom before heading out on our hike. If the trailhead itself does not have facilities, we will make a stop on our way up, prior to getting to the trailhead. While we will take all measures reasonable to afford this restroom stop, in the event we are on our hike and nature calls in an alarming fashion, we can direct you how to take care of it yourself, and the necessary (ahem) equipment, is provided in your daypack.
On hikes that include access to one of the AMC Huts, restrooms are available there as well.
Do you provide lunch and/or drinks other than water in the hydration bladder?
We generally will not have the ability to provide a full lunch option, however we will provide energy / granola bars, trail mix, beef sticks, and other individually wrapped snacks for clients to keep you satisfied and full of energy during your hike. If you prefer to bring a sandwich, or specific foods or drinks along with you, we will have a large hard cooler with ice that you can store these items in for the trip, and you may carry them along with you on the hike, or eat them after the hike at your discretion. Just be sure you pack out whatever you bring with you on the hike and leave no trace!
On hikes that include access to one of the AMC Huts, baked goods, and other assorted food are also available for purchase
What is your Hike Score and how is it calculated?
We use the National Park Service’s rating calculation to determine the difficulty of hike based on the amount of elevation gain (EG) multiplied by two, multiplied by the total distance (D) of the hike. We then take the square root of that product to determine the rating. Hike Score Formula: EG x 2 x D = PRODUCT, SQRT = SCORE
Why are your more difficult hikes expected to be at a faster pace?
Because Guineafowl Adventure Company offers day hikes exclusively, the longer hikes are expected to be completed at a faster pace, so that we are still off the mountain and back to our transport before we lose daylight. We provide everyone with headlamps, but we don’t intend to use them!
What is the cancellation policy?
Guineafowl Adventure Company guides hikes rain or shine, unless the weather is dangerously inclement. If the weather is dangerously inclement, and we need to cancel our trip, we will let you know within 24 hours of your pick-up, and you can choose to refund your trip or reschedule to another date where the same or a similar hike is offered. If you personally do not want to hike in the rain, (for example) and want to cancel based on a dreary forecast, you can reschedule to another day, but a refund will only be issued in the event of dangerous conditions.
What are my Guide’s qualifications?
Other than thousands of miles hiked and warm, caring personalities, guides all have CPR and First Aid certifications as well as Wilderness First Aid, and in certain cases Wilderness First Responder certificates.
Do you offer private or corporate outings?
Guineafowl Adventure Company can host corporate and private hikes for groups of up to 10 individuals. We can tailor the hike location, distance, difficulty and timing to your needs, and can offer co-branding opportunities for apparel and gear as well to make for a memorable and rewarding experience. Please contact us at info@guineafowl.com or call us at 617-852-0597 to schedule your private outing, or request more information on how we can accommodate you for a perfect day in the mountains!