Fatpacking Testimonials - Participants Sound Off

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Upcoming Trips

2013
- Isle Royale National Park, MI
  Jul 9-17, 2013 - $1250, ★★
- Redwood National Park, CA
  Jul 14-22, 2013 - $1225, ★★
- Rocky Mountain National Park, CO
  Only 3 Spots Left
  Aug 3-15, 2013 - $1750, ★★★★
- Crater Lake National Park, OR
  Aug 3-10, 2013 - $1225, ★★
- Sequoia / King's Canyon National Park, CA
  Aug 17-25, 2013 - $1200, ★★★★
- Mt. Rainier National Park, WA
  Aug 31 - Sep 7, 2013 - $1250, ★★★★
- White Mountains Day Hiking / Base Camping, NH
  With Kayaking
  Sep 15-21, 2013 - $1100, ★★
- NYC Commuter Appalachian Trail Primer, NY
  Sep 21-28, 2013 - $925, ★★★
- Foothills Trail, SC
  Oct 19-27, 2013 - $1050, ★★
- Hot Springs / Ouachita Trail, AR
  With Hot Springs
  Nov 2-10, 2013 - $1050, ★★
- Jesus Trail / Israel National Trail, Israel
  Dec 29, 2013 - Jan 11, 2014 - $2250, ★★★
- Difficulty Ratings:
  ★ Easier (but not easy)
  ★★ Moderate (difficult at times)
  ★★★ Moderate to Strenuous
  ★★★★ Strenuous (much of the time)
  ★★★★★ Most Difficult Trip Contact Fatpacking before signing up
- Please note that difficulty ratings are deceptive. The easiest day of a 4 star trip may be less strenuous than the hardest day of a 1 star trip. We have little control over how mountains form, where trails and campsites are located, weather variation and terrain, so difficulty varies from day to day. These ratings just reflect overall impressions.
- All Prices include at least 2 nights in a hotel, all food eaten on the trail, ground transportation to/from trailheads, guides, and permits. Prices quoted are Per Person Double Occupancy (Hotel Sharing), but single supplements are available.

Quick Links

Quotes
"My experience pushed me out of my perceived comfort zone and physical limitations. I would definitely do it again!" -- Val P., Great Smoky Mountains, NC/TN 2005
"That week on the Appalachian Trail will always be on my 'count on one hand' list of best experiences. I learned to slow down and give myself a little slack. The simplicity of the long trudges, as well as the complexity of the climbs fed my soul. I even shed a demon or two along the way. I am more connected to life now because of that hike" -- Julia P., Fall Foliage Trip CT/MA, 2008, Shenandoah National Park, 2010 & 100 Mile Wilderness, ME, 2011.
"My Fatpacking experience was the greatest. Spending time among the buffalo, elk and prairie dogs was amazing. There's no better feeling than the bond you feel with others who have just shared the experience of walking all day through the wilderness. Hot, tired, exhausted and exhilirated."

"I love the experience of "earning" a view. Hiking for miles to get to a place very few people will ever see is something I treasure." -- John M., Mt. Rushmore, SD 2011 & Gila National Forest, NM 2013
"I was surprised just how much fun I had. I thought it would be a higher ratio of misery to fun. Instead, the whole experience was great. I loved the other people, the island was fantastic, and even the heat was bearable. I liked that we had time in camp to swim in the lakes and hang out. I liked the fact that the guides were helpful and supportive." -- Ann S., Isle Royale National Park, MI 2012
"The sense of community, encouragement, compassion, and support that developed is one that is rarely exercised in our daily lives. Perhaps more rewarding than a shift in BMI is the courage, confidence, and strength of character that was developed on the trail." -- Shirley C., Arizona Trail, AZ 2006
"I emerged from Arizona's Four Peaks Wilderness with improved confidence, lighter, stronger (mentally and physically), and with memories that will be with me forever. I can't wait to go on my next trip!" -- Amanda B., Arizona Trail, AZ 2010
"I've been on two trips with Fatpacking, and I intend to take them all. It's that good." -- Giselle H., Great Smoky Mountains, NC/TN 2007 & Ocala National Forest, FL, 2010
"I came away feeling proud of myself. I had accomplished something worthwhile." -- Kindra W., Foothills Trail, SC 2006 and Shenandoah National Park, VA 2011
"Exploring the majestic wilderness while losing weight, forming friendships, and learning survival skills is part of the experience, but self-discovery, personal introspection, increased self-esteem and just plain old self satisfaction are added benefits." -- Paula S., Redwood National Park 2006 & Highway2Health, FL 2007
"Three days in it hits. Body, mind and spirit find harmony somewhere during your 7000th stride. Can it be I'm really in America? Do these places really exist? What day is it?" -- Dave W., Foothills Trail, SC 2006
"There were significant spiritual rewards as well: the contemplation of remoteness, timelessness, natural beauty, fragility and self-sufficiency." -- Marc D., Arizona Trail 2006 & Adirondacks, NY 2006
"I could not have choosen a better way to spend quality time with my son. The experience was life changing. Go Fatpacking!!!." -- Jim H., Crater Lake National Park, OR 2010
"I lost 22lbs in a week, I completed one of the most dangerous hikes in the USA, I had a great time, I forgot about work and proved to myself it is never to late to get started. I so much look forward to my next trip." -- Dave K., Canyonlands National Park, UT 2011 & Gila National Forest, NM 2013
"The Fatpacking guides made the hike from Monson to Mt. Kathadin into an incredibly memorable experience. If I had hiked by myself, I would have driven myself insane with over-thinking all the little details like "where should I stop for the night?" and "how much water should I carry?" Having experienced guides who could answer these and many other questions allowed me to focus on the natural beauty, the fun of hiking, and the more important questions, like "What kind of bar do I want for a snack?" -- Tracy E., 100 Mile Wilderness, ME 2011
"This was my first experience ever backpacking It was one of the hardest things I've ever done since we don't have mountains (or even hills) in Florida. [The Guide] was amazing. He could definitely write multiple books about The Smokies. I would do it again and recommend Fatpacking to others." -- Tina F., Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC/TN 2012
"I would recommend Fatpacking for anyone who wants to experience the outdoors, challenge themselves, yet have the rewards of having another cook for you & losing weight/getting fit along the way."

"Our guides were just fantastic. They kept us going, kept our feet going through an onslaught of blisters and just made the trip enjoyable. The food was excellent, accomodating a variety of dietary wants/needs." -- Cindy M., Florida Trail, FL 2012
"Love [the guides] who did so much and with such grace! [They] fed me and made sure I was tucked in at bedtime! Hot coffee to wake me up, Advil for my pains, and a pat on the back every night! ... Thanks for everything, I will never forget this trip!"

"I knew this hike would be a challenge, but I wanted to push myself, and I did it! It was tough, but such a rewarding experience! I'm doing it again!" -- Cat T., Florida Trail, FL 2013 & Shenandoah National Park, VA 2013
"[The Guides] were great. Thorough, knowledgable, accomodating, and I definitely got my money's worth. Almost 60 miles in 7 days with awesome views and a thorough workout, plus plenty of good food to eat." -- Ryon G., Joshua Tree National Park, CA 2013
"The Sedona Fatpacking experience allowed me to check off one of the items on my bucket list. I enjoyed the hikes and the overall camping experience. I'm looking forward to my next Fatpacking hike." -- Cheryl T., 100 Mile Wilderness, ME 2011 & Sedona, AZ 2013
"At age 63 I have accomplished much in my life. This is high on my list." -- Terrence R., Florida Trail, FL 2010
"It was one of the best things I've recently done in my life." -- Jim E., Redwood National Park, 2006, Florida Trail, 2007, & Shenandoah National Park, VA, 2008 & 2009
"Fatpacking was just what I was looking for. I plan to take several solo hikes in the Smokies this year and now I feel more confident in doing that." -- Steve R., Great Smoky Mountains 2007
"I came ... expecting to ... maybe be left in the dust because I'd be too slow; I experienced none of that" -- Joi S., Cumberland Island GA 2013
" I would book with Fatpacking again and would recommend it to my friends."

"This is my 4th trip with Fatpacking and it will not be my last, great guides, great locations and get to see the great American outdoors."

"This is my 5th Fatpacking trip, yes there were days that were hard, yet meeting great people and seeing amazing sights makes it worth it. I look forward to doing another trip, hopefully with [names of guides]. They are inspirational guides." -- Guido G., Redwood National Park CA, 2010, Shenandoah National Park, VA 2011, Mt. Rushmore, SD 2011, Rocky Mountain National Park, CO 2011 & Gila National Forest, NM 2013
"Lots of pleasure and very little pain" -- John L., Mt. Rainier National Park WA, 2012
"If you've never done this before, you'll wonder why you waited so long to try." -- Hasan G., Joshua Tree National Park CA, 2009

More Quotes
"I passed my fit test for the Air Force on Sunday! I could not have done it without the Fatpacking trip. I lost enough in my waist and improved my Cardio so much my Air Force boss was shocked when I passed." -- Tom D., Olympic National Park, WA 2007
"I signed up to motivate me (a 47 year old, out of shape and burnt out lawyer) to get back in shape and to forget about my headaches. It was the best medicine I have ever taken!"

"Each Fatpacking trip I have done has been an awesome experience. But even better are the friends I've made while sweating miles with people I've never met. For this out-of-shape, 40 something guy (pushing 50), I am hooked. [The Guides] do a great job and I am already thinking about my next adventure."

"This is my 6th year Fatpacking and I am an official member of the 'over the hill club' (well past 50, grey, fat and bald). So now it takes me a little longer to get up and down the mountains, but that just gives me more time to enjoy the views and the experience. The guides are always patient and always first class. I have lost weight and inches on every trip. I have also met lots of great people and made lots of great friends. If you are past your 40's, don't be intimidated. Advil fixes the aches and Fatpacking does wonders for your spirit." -- Roger J., Olympic National Park, WA 2007, Shenandoah National Park, VA 2008 & 2010, North Cascades National Park, WA, 2009, Mt. Rainier National Park, WA 2010, Four Peaks Wilderness, AZ 2011, Appalachian Trail Primer, GA 2011, Pine Barrens, NJ 2012 & Mt. Rushmore, SD 2013
"This is my fist backpacking trip and I can tell you that the guides made the trip. They reduced my fears and took such good care of me, that I now love backpacking. If you want to try hiking or backpacking, Fatpacking is an excellent choice." -- Ambreen L., Florida National Scenic Trail, FL 2013
"Fatpacking is truly an intergrated travel company that provides challenging and rewarding visits into America's backcountry that few folks get to see. Fatpacking excels from affordability, pre-trip communication, and having well prepared trail guides for participants knowledge and safety. I highly recommend this fine group." -- Scott S., Crater Lake National Park, OR 2011 & Yosemite National Park, CA 2012
"Fatpacking is by far the best guide service I have ever used. The guides are excellent and knowledgeable. If I were to go with any guide service again it would be with Fatpacking." -- Alexander H., Crater Lake National Park, OR 2010
"I got everything I wanted out of my Fatpacking hike. Weight loss, an experience out of my comfort zone (in a beautiful environment) and a renewed confidence in my own abilities." -- Deb M., Shenandoah National Park, VA 2008
"Fatpacking provides a unique challenging personal experience that combines personal challenge, group dynamics and personal improvemnt into a vacation experience that will not be forgettable. " -- Gene M., Ocala National Forest, FL 2010
"A really really good time. Lots of laughs + lots of miles. I'll definitely do this again!" -- Cristina T., Olympic National Park, WA, 2007, Yosemite National Park, CA, 2010 and Rocky Mountain National Park, CO 2011
"It's great on the trail. Your mind clears and you forget about that 'To Do' list that constantly nags at your guilty conscience when you are trying to relax at home!"

"I could have stayed longer! I really didn't want to come down off the mountain, the views were amazing!" -- Kim J., Shenandoah National Park, VA 2010, Redwood National Park, CA 2011, Rocky Mountain National Park, CO 2012 and Patagonia, Chile 2012
"I forgot how much I loved being in the mountains. Weight loss, although it did happen, felt secondary." -- Alexandra A., Superstition Wilderness, AZ, 2007, Big Bend National Park, TX, 2008, Canyonlands National Park, UT, 2010, White Mountain National Forest, NH 2011 & Appalachian Trail Primer, GA 2012
"Fatpacking has provided a delightful structure for improving my hiking capabilities and techniques. The guides are fun and very helpful, and the whole experience is very rewarding. Not to mention the awe-inspiring scenery!" -- Leslie K., White Mountain National Forest, NH, 2009 & 2011
"Fatpacking gave me a great incentive to lose weight and get in shape before the Mt. Ranier trip. The trip itself was challenging both physically and mentally. The scenery was beautiful. I will always remember sleeping out under the stars."

"My second Fatpacking trip was every bit as memorable as my first. Joshua Tree was great fun. I could not have had a better or more adventurous time." -- Paul Y., Mt. Rainier National Park, WA, 2011 and Joshua Tree National Park, CA, 2012
"A great experience--beautiful location, good exercise, fine for first-time camping/backpacking because the guides were so knowledgable and helpful." -- Barbara R., Olympic National Park, WA, 2011
"I had fun. Best of all, the Gila Wilderness is a place I would never have considered going on my own. Now I have walked in the footsteps of Geronimo." -- George M., Gila National Forest, NM, 2013
"I enjoyed the trip. It was rewarding in [so] many ways ..." -- Stephen K., Hot Springs / Ouachita Trail, AR, 2011
"I had some back issues prior to the trip, but while on the trip and since, none. Nada. My back never felt better. Also, met a wonderfully diverse group of people which was quite unexpected." -- Douglas J., Redwood National Park CA, 2008
"... an awesome experience. I already miss the woods and the peacefulness that comes with it." -- Dawn A., Shenandoah National Park VA, 2009
"Fatpacking helped me feel ten years younger and stronger!"

"Peak experience! Don't be shy, plus 55's! You can do this!"

"Fatpacking lets me re-connect with nature, make new friends, and get in better shape! Love it!"

"I keep getting stronger and leaner by taking a Fatpacking trip every 6 months to a year. This helps me keep working on my fitness goals as a lifestyle now, and has opened up new levels of strength and energy, as well as new fun activities. Marjie aged 56." -- Marjie F., Redwood National Park CA, 2010, Joshua Tree National Park, CA 2012, Rocky Mountain National Park, CO 2012 & Shenandoah National Park, VA 2013
"It was the perfect combination of fun and a fitness challenge. It was hard and I feel great that I did it."

"This was my second trip with Fatpacking and somehow this experience even outdid my first trip. It just keeps getting better and better!" -- Ann L., Great Smoky Mountains NC/TN, 2008, Redwood National Park CA, 2009 & Yosemite National Park CA, 2011
"I had a great time on the trip and this trip has inspired me to take on much longer and harder trips because I felt like I could do it." -- Stephanie G., Cumberland Island National Seashore, GA 2012
"I spent a week Fatpacking to jump-start my vacation and my exercising. I ended up meeting many great people and hiking a vertical mile up a mountain with them!" -- Nathan L., White Mountain National Forest, NH 2011 and Sedona, AZ 2013
"I achieved my goal of increasing strength and stamina. I can see my waist line.... The hike was was great, and I feel I was successful." -- Theresa D., Florida Trail, FL 2010
"I am sure I will enjoy my next Fitpack trip even more than I did the first!"

"Great people, great scenery, great time!" -- Anne M., 4 State AT Primer, VA/WV/MD/PA 2012 & Sedona, AZ 2013
"My knee became sore/swollen. The guides went out of their way to accomodate my injury, took a different route, and stayed with me til I boarded the Ferry" -- Shirely E., Cumberland Island National Seashore, GA 2012

Even More Quotes
"This trip was the most difficult and challenging thing I have ever done in my life … and it was by far, hands down, absolutely, positively the most fun I have ever had in my life."

Fatpacking has changed my life--turned me on to backpacking and hiking. Even a "bad/hard" day hiking is always better than the best days at the office!" -- Cheryl E., Olympic National Park, WA 2008, Joshua Tree National Park, CA 2009 & Isle Royale National Park, MI 2012
"This was by far the best trip I have ever been on in my whole life ... This adventure trip gave me an opportunity to reflect on my life and my normal day's grind and during that process I re-discovered my own strengths, weaknesses, successes and struggles. " -- Tara Y., Mt. Rainier National Park, WA 2011
"Fatpacking totally got me hooked on hiking. Ever since I have been home all I keep thinking about is wishing I was back on the trail. You can't find a better deal than this." -- Jacqueline S., Appalachian Trail, CT 2010
"The Redwoods hike for me (a novice) proved to be a true adventure wherein I dramatically improved my overall stamina and moved towards my weight goal, while experiencing some deeply beautiful places." -- Jesse W., Redwood National Park, CA 2008
"This was an awesome trip! I was challenged, but not pushed beyond my limits. The guides were fantastic! Looking forward to another trip in the future!"

"My 2nd trip with Fatpacking was just as memorable as the first. I truly feel 'de-stressed'. Although I feel confident with the skills I have learned to do a solo trip, I think I would really miss the cameraderie of the people that Fatpacking attracts. I can hardly wait to sign up for another trip!"

"I think it is so cool that Fatpacking attacts a wide range of participants. It doesn't matter if you are a counter person at McDonald's, or an ortho surgeon. No one asks and no one really cares. Everyone is accepted for who they are. It's fun to have a wide range of ages/backgrounds."

"My third trip with Fatpacking was just as memorable as the first two. I will be back for another trip!" -- Mary K., Mt. Rainier National Park, WA 2011, Appalachian Trail Primer, GA 2012 & Great Smoky Mountains, NC/TN 2013
"I recommend Fatpacking to anyone who needs a change of scenery -- especially what they see in the mirror. I felt so much better about myself after 7 days of hiking, and it got me out of the habit of eating after dinner. Now I tell my husband, 'I can't eat any more tonight. They've already hung up the bear bag.' I've actually been able to keep off the weight I lost on the hike. " -- Sharon B., Ocala National Forest, FL 2010
"Climbing Mount Washington was physically the most difficult thing I have ever done. [The Guides] set the right combination of pushiness and support for me to reach the summit. I would never have been able to achieve it on my own." -- Roger P., White Mountain National Forest, NH 2011
"I really cannot express how impressed I was of [the Guides]. They are very impressive, top notch, cream of the crop people. Would love to have more upbeat positive people like that in my life." -- Kathy G., Ocala National Forest, FL 2013
"[The guides] were extremely helpful, knowlegdeable, and helped me realize that I can do more than I ever thought I could. I left tired, but energized at the same time. I wanted to go out and hike again as soon as I got back home!" -- Felicia C., White Mountain National Forest, NH 2009
"The trip was pure joy and relaxation! If you would like to unplug for few days from your everyday life, that's the way to do it. No stress, no clients, no bills to pay, no judgments - just you and nature."

"After every trip (and countless blisters) I'm coming back for more"

"I'm on my way to the size 6 - Fatpacking is a huge part of that journey - I couldn't do it without you! You made me stronger physically and mentally - Thank you!" -- Kasia B., Four Peaks Wilderness, AZ 2010, Cumberland Island National Seashore, GA 2010 & 2012, Florida Trail, FL 2011 & 2012, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN/NC 2011, Pine Barrens, NJ 2012, Hot Springs, AR 2011 & 2012, & Joshua Tree NP, CA 2013
"I'd originally signed up to please my wife, who'd asked me to accompany her, and was at first a bit skeptical. By the end of the week, however, I was really happy to have been along and would do it again in a minute." -- Wilfred K., White Mountain National Forest, NH 2009
"I chose this trip over going to the Biggest Loser campus for a couple of reasons, the price was right and I wanted to be around like minded, happy people that love the outdoors. This was a fantastic vacation and can't wait to go on the next trip!" -- Shelly W., Redwood National Park, CA 2012 & Mt. Rushmore, SD 2013
"I would highly recommend the experience for anyone who wants to strengthen mind, body and spirit." -- Vicki L., Arizona Trail 2006 & Shenandoah National Park, VA 2008
"I was seeking a change in pace, a healthy experience with the side benefit of weight loss, and to reinstitute a sense of nature into my being. I accomplished all of these goals on the Fatpacking expedition." -- Gary V., Redwood National Park 2006
"In reading and planning for the trip, I seem to have skipped over the fact that the meals would be vegetarian. I hadn't gone without meat for more than two days in my entire adult life, but was pleasantly surprised with the culinary adventure." -- Dan S., Big Bend, TX, 2007 and Florida Trail, FL 2011
"Recipe for a great hiking trip:"
- Start
- - Routes planned completely
- - Gradual increase in distance and intensity
- - Knowledgeable guides
- - Best trails with awesome views
- - Good food
- Finish
-- Meena A., Isle Royale National Park, MI 2012
"I had a wonderful time on the Redwoods trip. I recommend it highly to anyone who wants to get back into backpacking - as I did, after retiring last year - or to try it. Our guide was fantastic, the country covered beautiful, and I thoroughly enjoyed the company of the other hikers." -- Lois T., Redwood National Park, CA, 2011 & Olympic National Park, WA 2012
"[The guides] were wonderful and caring and I had a great time!" -- Joe B., Yosemite National Park, CA, 2010
"Fatpacking is a great way to stay physically, emotionally, and spiritually connected and fit." -- Linda B., Shenandoah National Park VA, 2009
"[This was] my first trip and I look forward to another one! A great way to get outdoors, challenge yourself without anyone putting pressure on you, while experiencing beautiful scenery and meeting friendly people with similar reasons for being there." -- Sue T., Hot Springs / Ouachita Trail, AR 2011
"[The guides] were great ... It was so nice to walk about 43 miles and not see a single cigarette butt." -- Denise C., Isle Royale National Park, MI 2012
"I discovered that there's a whole world of natural beauty that can't be seen from any road." -- Dennis M., Mt. Rainier National Park, WA 2012
"[The Guide] was like a good bartender - around when you need him but still gave you your space."

"I laughed, I cried, It was the best show I've seen in years". -- Dave B., North Cascades National Park WA, 2009, Canyonlands National Park, 2011, and Shenandoah National Park VA, 2012

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