FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Global warming may manifest differently based on location, but everywhere you look one thing is clear: this is not something that will happen, it’s happening now. As global temperatures rise, the changes to earth’s climate and consequences for its ecosystems vary. We feel that the opportunity to share our awe-inspiring and rugged backyard with visitors carries with it the responsibility to talk about these changes. There is no better way to illustrate the impacts than use what’s right in front of us: the wildlife behavior patterns, plant communities, and geological shifts like glacial retreat. We hope that with a better understanding of this dynamic place, visitors will feel empowered towards climate action.

Most of the hikes we offer can be completed without a guide. For the most part, they follow established trails and maps of these areas are available. If you just want to get out and hike, go for it! Please be responsible when it comes to carrying extra layers, food, and water as well as bear awareness and safety. Some of our hikes do require access by boat and trails that are unmarked and unmaintained. These hikes are more challenging to do on your own.

If you want a hike with your own private guide, conversation about local climate science and ecology, as well as liberation from the logistics of planning your own trip, come along with the Collective! We want to help you explore the unique fjords and mountains around Seward on a purposeful, fun, and memorable adventure. Perks like snacks, lunch, and transportation from our shop make things easy (after all, you’re on vacation), and we truly love facilitating inspiring experiences in the mountains we call home. You’ll also be supporting a locally-owned company that has chosen to take a stand on climate action.

You will get a trip-specific packing list upon booking, but the basics you should have with you are good hiking shoes, synthetic or wool layers (please, no cotton), a water bottle, and a positive attitude! A day pack and rain jacket/pants are available at our office (free of charge) if you do not have your own.

Although the Kenai Peninsula is technically home to both black and brown bears, we typically see black bears this close to the coast. Bears here are timid as they have not been habituated to humans as a food source, so they tend to avoid any interaction. Our guides have all completed training on bear awareness and travel through bear country. As a precaution, we always carry bear spray, a capsaicin-based deterrent proven effective in the case of an aggressive encounter.

We are located at the northern tip of the world’s largest temperate rainforest. Annually, Seward receives around 72 inches of rain, which is nearly twice the national average. Although June and July are the months with the lowest average precipitation, it is frequently overcast and may drizzle off and on. Visitors often try to make plans around the forecast, but because our weather systems generate from the mixing of air masses over the Gulf of Alaska, their origin is right off the coast. That makes weather forecasting here unpredictable compared with other parts of the country, so we recommend making your plans anyways and preparing for a wide range of conditions (we run our hiking trips rain or shine, or anything between). Having extra layers and good rain gear can make a big difference when you’re out hiking all day.

No, you do not need any experience to join us. However, it’s important to consider the activity level of the tour you are signing up for and decide whether it’s appropriate for your level of fitness. Our tours range from easy and family-friendly walks to strenuous hikes with uneven footing. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you would like help in deciding which option is the best fit for you.

Our guides work in the industry because they love being outdoors, teaching others, and meeting people like you. None of us are in this line of work for the money, but tips can go a long way towards making guiding a feasible long-term career choice. It is an industry standard to tip your guide if you feel they did a good job providing an enjoyable and informative trip.

There are many schools of thought on how much to tip, but a common estimate is between 10% and 20% of the trip cost, like waitstaff in a restaurant. As in any service industry, your tip should be based on the service you feel you received. Please keep this in mind when the time comes. Gratuity is always appreciated!

We run our tours rain or shine. Please read the trip-specific packing list you will receive upon booking and be prepared with quality clothing and rain gear. The only time we cancel due to weather is when the sea conditions are too rough for the water taxi on our boat-accessed hikes. If this happens, we will let you know as soon as we have heard from the captain and will either try to reschedule you (contingent upon water taxi availability) or refund your trip. It can be helpful to plan your ocean-based activities on the front end of your time in Seward in case you need the flexibility to move activities around due to rough seas.

We run only private tours, and we do not combine parties to create a larger group. For this reason, we need payment for at least 2 people in order to make a trip feasible. Most often, this means a 2-person minimum, but we have had solo guests who are willing pay for 2 in order to have the experience.

No, we do not allow drones on any of our tours. Drones have been proven to disrupt marine mammals, such as harbor seals and whales, and alter their behavior. This is costly to these animals from a resource standpoint, because every time we change their course or behavior, they have to work harder to get where they’re going, feed themselves, or care for their young. We prefer to observe the incredible wildlife of this area without altering their natural actions. Disrupting these animals in such a way can be considered a ‘take’ under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, a regulation in place to protect these fragile species. In addition to the possible harm to local wildlife, drones can be disruptive to other visitors looking to enjoy this peaceful place. Instead, we encourage you to soak up the solitude and enjoy the wilderness.