Activity Category: Summer

Camping

Camping

The White River National Forest, the Holy Cross Wilderness, and Eagle’s Nest Wilderness hold so many spectacular places to explore and we have many favorite routes to share with you. Camping allows for greater flexibility on destinations and having our llamas carry the gear allows for bringing a few extra creature comforts.

A great way to summit Mount of the Holy Cross is to plan on making a base camp and summiting the following morning.

Choose between backpacking or using llamas, each have their own benefits. We will then work with you to plan a route designed around your timeframe and goals for the trip. Camping allows you to choose your own dates, experience some amazing trails, and with the llamas you can even make it a little comfy!

Availability

June – Early Sept

Activity

Camping

Difficulty

Beginner to advanced

Trips starting at (USD):

Pricing based on group size and type

  • 1 participant: $820.00/person/day
  • 2 participants: $575.00/person/ day
  • 3-4 participants: $475.00/person/day
  • 5+ participants: $395.00/person/day
  • Fully guided rate includes:  Professional guides, llamas & tack, transportation, all meals, USFS fees, sleeping bags w/ liner, trip prep info including guide connection prior to trip.  Camping includes all tents, kitchen kits and amenities.
  • Trips are custom designed and we will itemize any additional fees such as additional guides, special food, etc.
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what’s included

Gear

Camping is gear intensive!  Tents, sleeping bags, pads, kitchen kits, first-aid, repair, and other gear hold many people back from experiencing camping in the Colorado High Country.  Paragon Guides has all the gear though, provided with our fully guided trips.  Our llamas will carry the main burden, lightening your personal pack. Or we can trim down and backpack, making for a nimble team.

If you have your own gear and need to rent a few pieces, we can work with that as well.  Our guides will work with you to create the route and details for a complete trip plan.

Meals

All meals are provided on our fully guided trips. The guides are mighty cooks as well, keeping you fueled for the trail. Let us know of any dietary or special accommodations or celebrations we can assist with.

Custom trip Planning

We will custom build your trip based on your group’s objectives, experience, and fitness levels. Trips are custom designed and we will itemize any additional fees such as additional guides, special food, etc.

what participants are saying

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Quality outdoor adventure since 1978

Specializing in custom itineraries, we tailor every trip to your unique needs, from your experience level to group size and mountain comfort.

Rock Climbing

Rock Climbing

Challenge yourself physically and mentally in the vertical world of rock climbing. Step outside your comfort zone and find yourself on the edge of the rock with the wind at your back.

Our guides provide expert backcountry navigation, safety support, and local insights. Each climb is customized to your skill level, ensuring a memorable experience exploring Colorado’s unique wilderness landscapes. Participants will receive personalized instruction on climbing technique, belaying, and systems. We welcome beginner, intermediate, and advanced climbers to join our experienced guides for a fun day in the mountains.

Half-day 3-4 hours in length, AM or PM, snacks included.
Full-day climbs are 5-6 hours, lunch and snacks included. 

Availability

May — October

Duration

Half or Full Day Tours Available

Difficulty

Ages 6 and up

Pricing based on group size.

Individuals to groups of up to 40 people.

All tours are customized per group. This is a private day for your family and friends.

When your tour is booked, your guide will be in contact with your group personally to discuss your tour day, gear, food considerations, and special requests.

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Tour Options

Choose one of our tour options for more information.

what’s included

Experienced Guide Services

Paragon has been guiding in the Vail backcountry since 1978.

  • Reputation: The majority of our participants come back year after year.
  • Terrain: We have one of the most extensive permits in the White River National Forest, including both the Holy Cross and Eagle’s Nest Wilderness areas. We utilize several rock climbing sites which can accommodate individuals to large groups.
  • Time: Save time by letting us plan your day. Your vacation has enough going on.
Food and Hydration

Lunch will be provided from one of our local vendors and snacks. Please bring personal water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Please note: Lunch is provided only on full day climbs. Snacks are provided for half-day climbs.

 

Gear

We will provide everything including climbing shoes, helmet, harness, rope systems. Our experienced guides will ensure you have everything needed for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

 

Transportation

Lodging pickup (Vail to Edwards) or trailhead meet-up available.  There are times we have limited vehicles available for transportation.

what participants are saying

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We have been hunting for the freshest tracks for years on resorts and decided to try the Backcountry. Henry H. guided us up to the best views and deep fluffy stuff. He knew the area really well and also catered to our fitness level and equipment (my split board was a bit slower). Henry’s knowledge and tips were very helpful. He also shared some cool details and stories about the area. Our first time in the backcountry was perfect, thanks Henry. We will be back!!

Justin

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Quality outdoor adventure since 1978

Specializing in custom itineraries, we tailor every trip to your unique needs, from your experience level to group size and mountain comfort.

Summer Backcountry Hut Trips

summer-hut-trips

Summer Backcountry Hut Trips

The 10th Mountain Division Memorial Hut System began in 1982 with two huts near Aspen, Colorado, the McNamara and Margy’s Huts. The 10th Mountain Division soldiers who trained in Colorado and fought in WWII, saw the backcountry traveler huts in the Alps and became inspired to establish something similar in Colorado.

Since those early hut trips to today’s 14 10th Mountain Huts and 24 other privately owned huts, the options of routes throughout Colorado are extensive. Paragon Guides has a broad US Forest Service permit for almost all of the 10th Mountain Huts and many of the privately owned huts.

There are many routes and we certainly have some favorite places to take you to! Our trip planners will work with you, the make-up of your group, and trip goals to design a trip that explores deep into the backcountry yet with the comforts of a beautiful log hut. With or without llamas your hut trip will make you want to return to explore more!

Note: The 10th Mountain Division Memorial Hut System does not open until July 1st each summer in order for high country trails to melt and dry out and for elk calving season to complete. Camping options are available if you would like to head out in June, however, routes will still be limited based upon snowcover.

Availability

July 1 – Sept 30

Activity

Hut Trips

Difficulty

All levels

Trips starting at (USD):

Based on group size and number of days

What’s Included:

  • professional guides
  • hut and ranch fees
  • llamas and tack
  • all meals while in the backcountry
  • trailhead transportation with pickup in the VailValley
  • sleeping bag with liner and pillowcase
  • trekking poles, leg gaiters and backpack if needed
  • USFS fees
  • pre-trip preparation 
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Popular Trips

what’s included

Guide Services

Our guides provide expert backcountry navigation, safety support, and local insights. Each tour is customized to your skill level, ensuring a memorable experience exploring Colorado’s unique wilderness landscapes.

Food and Hydration

Lunch and snacks are provided by our local partners. Please bring personal water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Gear

We supply all essential cross-country ski equipment; cross-country skis, boots, poles, and gaiters. Our experienced guides will ensure you have everything needed for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

what participants are saying

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We have been hunting for the freshest tracks for years on resorts and decided to try the Backcountry. Henry H. guided us up to the best views and deep fluffy stuff. He knew the area really well and also catered to our fitness level and equipment (my split board was a bit slower). Henry’s knowledge and tips were very helpful. He also shared some cool details and stories about the area. Our first time in the backcountry was perfect, thanks Henry. We will be back!!

Justin

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Quality outdoor adventure since 1978

Specializing in custom itineraries, we tailor every trip to your unique needs, from your experience level to group size and mountain comfort.

Outfitting

Outfitting

We can help you get your hunting base camp set up with our Llama Drop Camp and Llama Lease programs, as well as arrange for game transport after a successful hunt. We provide Guides / Llamas throughout the Archery and Muzzleloader seasons for carrying your gear to camp or assisting in packing out your game. Vehicle and trailer transportation is included. The one day rate is based on approximately 12 hours from our base to the trailhead and camp. A travel distance of 10 miles is maximum for a day and may change based on elevation gain and trail difficulty.

We are based out of Edwards, CO and our US Forest Service Permit extends to Vail Pass, some of the Eagle’s Nest Wilderness, south to Leadville, west to Aspen and East to Eagle. Our Field Director or another guide would work with you on your exact trail locations to ensure we would be operating within our USFS Permit trails.

Please keep in mind that a llama can carry 60 to 80 pounds each. A field dressed elk can be upwards of 500 pounds to carry out, a deer about 100-200 pounds. The greater the load, the greater the likelihood of more llamas, guides and trips. The rates below are per trip or overnight.
Drop Camp / Game Transport – In the Vail area

Availability

May to October

Activity

Camping Support

Difficulty

All levels

Outfitting Support Service

Paragon Guides offers a variety of outfitting options. Please call with questions and custom quotes.

  • Drop Camp
  • Hunter Support
  • Shuttles


Let Paragon Help with your Backcountry Plans

Choose an option below:

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Quality outdoor adventure since 1978

Specializing in custom itineraries, we tailor every trip to your unique needs, from your experience level to group size and mountain comfort.

Mountaineering & Peak Ascents

Peak Ascents & 14ers

Whether your goal is to summit your first 14,000 foot peak (a 14er) or take in the view above treeline, there are a number of high alpine peak ascents accessible from the Vail area. These all-day, guided adventures call for an early morning start and involve off-trail hiking in uneven and rocky terrain. Perfect for the experienced hiker seeking a new challenge.

Availability

May-September

Mountaineering

Apline Peak Ascents

Difficulty

Intermediate – Advanced

Peak List Below

ALL TRIPS ARE PRIVATE

  • 14ers
    • Mt. Holy Cross
    • Mt.Yale
    • Mt. Princeton
    • Mt. Sherman
  • Many more 13ers
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Select a Peak

Choose from one of our adventures

what’s included

Guide Services
  • Guides: Maximum participant to guide ratio of 3:1 
  • The Climb: Strenuous. 8 to 12 hours with an early morning ‘alpine start’ 
  • Transportation: We will pick you up and drop you off
  • Food: Lunch from one of our local vendors and snacks
  • Gear: Hiking poles included. Your guide will bring all necessary emergency gear and water purification
Food and Hydration

Lunch and snacks are provided by our local partners. Please bring personal hydration packs or water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Gear

We supply all essential peak ascent gear, based on the requirements of the route.  Our experienced guides will ensure you have everything needed for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

what participants are saying

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We have been hunting for the freshest tracks for years on resorts and decided to try the Backcountry. Henry H. guided us up to the best views and deep fluffy stuff. He knew the area really well and also catered to our fitness level and equipment (my split board was a bit slower). Henry’s knowledge and tips were very helpful. He also shared some cool details and stories about the area. Our first time in the backcountry was perfect, thanks Henry. We will be back!!

Justin

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Quality outdoor adventure since 1978

Specializing in custom itineraries, we tailor every trip to your unique needs, from your experience level to group size and mountain comfort.

Backcountry Fly Fishing

Backcountry Fly Fishing

Join us for a backcountry fishing experience unlike what you might find on the bigger rivers. Our guides have been hiking and wade fishing our local small streams, beaver ponds and lakes for many years and are looking forward to sharing these places with you.

There are “drive to” and “hike to” options throughout the Vail area. Come discover “the other side of Vail” fishing.

Small streams provide the angler with less intimidating wading so you can relax and focus on fishing for brookies, browns, and native cutthroat trout. If you are new to fly fishing, our guides can show you the basics. If you are a seasoned “trout bum” come explore the pools, pockets and riffles with us.

Availability

May to October

Activity

Backcountry Fly Fishing

Difficulty

Beginner to Advanced

Trips starting at ($325):

Per person pricing

Note: For groups of 3 participants, an additional guide is often hired to provide for more individual instruction and assistance; the additional cost is $250 for a Half Day and $350 for a Full Day.  If you choose to have just one guide we highly recommend at least one person be an experienced fly fisherman.

For groups of 4+ people we will split into groups of no more than 3 per group.

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Fish Day Options

 

what’s included

Guide Services
  • Guides: Maximum participant to guide ratio of 3:1 (if there are 3 in the group we recommend at least one be a proficient fly fisherman)
  • The Day: Trip length is from lodging pickup to drop-off. Full day is 5-7 hours, Half Day is 4 hours

    • Drive to Options for Half & Full Day trips: Expect a 15-35 minute drive and short walks to the water.

    • Hike to Options: Full Day Trips only: Expect a 20 minute to 1-hour drive. Hiking in ranges from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours (backpack included)

  • Transportation: We will pick you up and drop you off within the Vail Valley.
Gear
  • Gear: Fly rods, waders, and tackle included
  • Rental: We rent rods and waders for self-guided trips
    • $25 each or $50 for both per day
  • Not Included: Colorado Fishing License – one day license available at local shops
Clothing

The weather in the Colorado Rockies can be unpredictable. It is important to be prepared for all conditions. Specific questions can be answered when your guide contacts you.

  • Long or short-sleeved shirt. We recommend long sleeved for sun protection
  • Light or medium layer for colder days
  • Rain jacket
  • Breathable pants or shorts
  • Wool blend or synthetic socks to wear with boots and waders
  • Baseball cap or brimmed hat
  • Polarized sunglasses (a must-have)
  • For colder days, we recommend: Top and Bottom base layers (light to medium long underwear bottoms/pants can be more comfortable with waders).
Food and Hydration
  • Snacks are provided on the Half Day trips
  • Lunch is provided on the Full Day trips

what participants are saying

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Awesome outing fly fishing near Camp Hale with Donny! This is our third fishing trip with him thru Paragon Guides. Wouldn’t recommend anyone else. Hopefully someday I can cast as well as him!! Great lunch to boot.

Trip Advisor Review

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Quality outdoor adventure since 1978

Specializing in custom itineraries, we tailor every trip to your unique needs, from your experience level to group size and mountain comfort.

Rock Climbing – OLD

Why Paragon Guides

  • Experience: Paragon has been guiding in the Vail backcountry since 1978.
  • Reputation: The majority of our participants come back year after year.
  • Terrain: We have one of the most extensive permits in the White River National Forest, including both the Holy Cross and Eagle’s Nest Wilderness areas. We utilize several rock climbing sites which can accommodate individuals to large groups.
  • Time: Save time by letting us plan your day. Your vacation has enough going on.

What You Get

  • The Climb: 4 hours in length for a half day AM or PM, 5-6 hours for a full day. 
  • Transportation: We will pick you up and drop you off, if you are staying in the Vail Valley.
  • Food: Lunch from one of our local vendors and snacks.
  • Gear: We will provide everything including climbing shoes, helmet, harness, rope systems.
  • Guide: You will receive personalized instruction on climbing technique, belaying, and systems.

Please note: Lunch is provided only on full day climbs. Snacks are provided for half-day climbs.

Book Rock Climbing

what participants are saying

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“Our guides were great. They tremendously enhanced the wilderness experience. Both had a good sense of what would maximize the enjoyment of each member of the group. Our first time in the backcountry was perfect, thanks Henry. We will be back!!

John

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Quality outdoor adventure since 1978

Specializing in custom itineraries, we tailor every trip to your unique needs, from your experience level to group size and mountain comfort.

Mountain Biking

Mountain Biking

The Vail Valley offers some of the best mountain biking in the state with its diverse landscapes, access, and vast selection of maintained trails and roads. Your guides will take you to some of their favorite places to ride, planning your day, shuttles, food, and gear, giving you and your group more time to ride.

We offer guided mountain biking outings on mostly single track trails and Forest Service roads located in the White River National Forest surrounding the Vail Valley.

Choose from THREE mountain biking options
1. Loop Ride: Start and end at the same location. Cross-country oriented.
2. Point-to-Point Ride: Start and end at different locations. Downhill oriented.
3. Backcountry Hut Trips – custom multi-day trips exploring the 10th Mountain Huts.

Availability

May – Sept

Activity

Mountain Bike

Difficulty

Intermediate

Pricing USD:

Per person pricing based on group size and route.

Bike is NOT included but rental can be arranged.

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DAY TOUR RESERVATION / CANCELLATION POLICY
Placing a credit card on file will confirm your reservation. Your card will not be charged until after the tour is complete.
We have a 48 hour cancelation policy. If canceling more than 48 hours of your tour there is no fee, within 48 hours you are responsible for the full tour amount.

Biking Options

Half-day, full-day, and multi-day options

what’s included

Custom trip Planning

We will custom build your trip based on your group’s objectives, experience, and fitness levels. Trips are custom designed and we will itemize any additional fees such as additional guides, special food, etc.

Experienced Guide

Maximize your time in the Vail Valley by going with a guide that knows the terrain, trails, and roads that will best match your abilities. Plus, mechanicals and accidents happen. If you’re looking to improve your riding, our guides are happy to offer instructional tips.

Shuttle Service

Enjoy our easy and convenient mountain bike shuttle services, providing transportation to or from the trailhead (or both!). Whether you’re looking to explore iconic singletrack or remote adventure rides, let us handle the logistics.

what participants are saying

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We have been hunting for the freshest tracks for years on resorts and decided to try the Backcountry. Henry H. guided us up to the best views and deep fluffy stuff. He knew the area really well and also catered to our fitness level and equipment (my split board was a bit slower). Henry’s knowledge and tips were very helpful. He also shared some cool details and stories about the area. Our first time in the backcountry was perfect, thanks Henry. We will be back!!

Justin

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I had a wonderful time in the Backcountry with Paragon Guides. Nick, my guide, did a wonderful job teaching, entertaining, and skiing/guiding to my level. This was my first trip into the backcountry to ski, and after this experience, I look forward to many more! If you’re looking for a great company and want to get out of the lift lines and ski untouched snow….look no further!!

Scott Fuller

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Quality outdoor adventure since 1978

Specializing in custom itineraries, we tailor every trip to your unique needs, from your experience level to group size and mountain comfort.

Hiking

Hiking

Explore a variety of classic trails surrounding the Vail Valley on a full or half ­day guided hike. Unplug while you immerse yourself within the beauty and quiet of the Holy Cross or Eagles Nest Wilderness areas. Discover aspen forests painted with wildflowers. Hike to a pristine alpine lake. Gain a ridge or stroll beside a wooded stream. Learn the local flora and fauna. Step out and away from the resort and enjoy the serenity of the mountains.

Availability

June – Early Oct

Activity

Hiking

Difficulty

All Ages

Trips starting at (USD):

$115 – $525 (Click below on "Hikes Half Day" or "Hikes Full Day" for pricing)

Half and Full Day Hike available, prices are per person. Choose 1/2 or Full Day hike below to see pricing.

Our trips are custom designed based on experience. Length and difficulty of hikes will vary.

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Hiking Options

what’s included

Experienced Guide

Avoid the crowds and take a hike that is tailored to your interests, goals, and abilities. Enjoy yourself while your experienced guide navigates the terrain, manages risk, and delivers some natural history.

Food

Snacks are provided on both half day and full day hikes and lunch is available on full day hikes only. Food is provided from one of our local vendors.

Transportation

We will pick you up and drop you off at your residence or hotel.

Gear

Packs, trekking poles, and rain gear provided if needed.

what participants are saying

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“Our guides were great. They tremendously enhanced the wilderness experience. Both had a good sense of what would maximize the enjoyment of each member of the group. Our first time in the backcountry was perfect, thanks Henry. We will be back!!

John

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Quality outdoor adventure since 1978

Specializing in custom itineraries, we tailor every trip to your unique needs, from your experience level to group size and mountain comfort.

Llama Hikes

Llama Hikes

If checking availability within the next 72 hours – please call our office.

Get to know the curious nature of llamas on our llama hikes. The ‘boys’ are wildly popular with children due to their gentle nature. The easy pace and length make llama hikes excellent outings for families, friends, and groups. Llamas make excellent trail companions as pack animals and can carry as much as 80 pounds. However, they do not like being ridden no matter how much grain we feed them.

Availability

June – Early Sept

Activity

Llama Hike

Difficulty

Beginner to advanced

Starting at (USD):

$775 base fee

  • $775.00 base fee includes first 2 people
  • Additional: $95 per person
  • Children 12 and under $65 each, age 3 and under are free.
  • Due to the high demand for this program, a 72-hour cancellation is required
Check Availability

Llama Hike Options

For centuries, llamas have been used as high country pack animals. Their natural curiosity and intelligence will fascinate you along with their gentle, easy going character which makes them highly compatible with children. They will act as your backcountry ‘sherpas’ carrying the food, tentage and most community gear. With a gentle nature and agile abilities the llama leaves little trace that he has passed through on a trail. Their natural inquisitiveness and relentless curiosity displayed in their ears, eyes and ‘hum’ may show you wildlife that you might have otherwise missed.

Llama Badge

what’s included

Pack Llama(s)

Llamas have a curious, gentle and intelligent nature making them an ideal addition for your backcountry adventure. Plus llamas can comfortably carry 60 pounds of supplies for all your backcountry camping needs.

Guide Services

Professional guides, llamas & tack, transportation, all meals, USFS fees, sleeping bags with liner, trip prep info including guide connection prior to trip.  Camping includes all tents, kitchen kits and amenities.

Custom trip Planning

We will custom build your trip based on your group’s objectives, experience, and fitness levels. Trips are custom designed and we will itemize any additional fees such as additional guides, special food, etc.

what participants are saying

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Llama Hiking with our Paragon Guide, Don. During our family trip to Vail, we went on a llama hike with Paragon Guides in Arrowhead. Don, our Paragon Guide was INCREDIBLE!!!! He did an amazing job, & was excellent with children & was very informative!! It was by far our favorite thing we did during our time in Vail. Something we will cherish forever!

Trip Advisor Reveiw

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You haven’t hiked until you trek with sweet llamas. Joe was the coolest guide and the llama boys were the best hiking companions. Joe took us on the most beautiful hike near Minturn and we became instant friends. We miss Joe, Berto and Ringo so much already!

Trip Advisor Review

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Quality outdoor adventure since 1978

Specializing in custom itineraries, we tailor every trip to your unique needs, from your experience level to group size and mountain comfort.