Guided Off-Trail Hiking Adventure The Lost Canyons

Wander with confidence with an experienced wilderness guide on an off-trail hiking adventure in a beautiful hidden gem along the Cedar River. Each event is a mix of untouched nature, adventure, social connection, inspiration, and the best secret scenic places the state has to offer. (more pics below)

The Lost Canyons: Hike into a wonderland of canyons, clifftop views, spring fed creeks, spring greenery, and roaring river rapids--the latter viewed at a safe distance, of course. :)
Well worth the drive or carpool for a day into a little-known wildland near Iowa City / Cedar Rapids. More pics below.

Think Ledges State Park without the roads, trails, and people. Plus, there's a cave, rocky wilderness beach, possible Indian mound, and lots of nooks and crannies to explore! This is a spectacular place without trails (or other people) and deserves a full day of discovery as we traverse along the ridges, canyons, creeks, and cliffs.

Much more rewarding than just a typical hike, these events are guided off-trail experiences that rival anything else going on in the outdoors in Iowa. Off-trail travel unlocks a whole new world of natural wonders, and is both safe & fun with just the right amount of challenge! Sometimes the use of hands may be required, navigating over rocks, boulders & downed trees (making things more interesting!). Expect an beautiful place not popularized, and experience Iowa at a whole new level!

Optional early dinner at a local restaurant after the event.

DAY HIKING DONE DIFFERENTLY
Discover What Others Have Been Enjoying For Years--True outdoor adventures in Iowa

• Our fun & safe adventures provide exciting wilderness-like experiences with both on & off-trail travel
• Overcome obstacles with the support of others such as rock hopping over creeks, navigating downed trees, and short hill or rock scrambles
• Enjoy the wonder of exploration, discovering hidden gems, beauty & wildlife most people don't see on Iowa's mostly disappointing trails
• Meet great people
• Connect with nature, not technology
• We take rest stops along the way and nobody is left behind.
• Optional restaurant meal after the event

TRIP ORGANIZER - CHRIS
Born in the mountains of California and raised in the cornfields of Iowa, Chris has led hundreds of trips throughout Iowa and the USA. He is an avid backpacker, rock climber, canyoneer, certified Wilderness First Responder and is educated in "Leave No Trace" practices.

"The members are so friendly and welcoming, and Chris is a fantastic leader. I realized quickly that I could trust him as we ventured off trail and loved how encouraging he is. I can’t wait to try another adventure!"
- Stacy H.

COST: $20 Guided adventure. Event lasts approximately 5 hours and trip leader is providing free poison ivy wipes(see below), though growth will be limited in mid-May. Trip leader is wilderness first responder certified and carries a first aid kit.

REQUIREMENTS: These events are for active people with positive attitudes, who don't mind getting wet or dirty in the thrill of adventure. (you don't need to be an athlete) Be ok with navigating natural obstacles like uneven rocky ground, over downed trees, & some steep hills, necessitating use of hands in places. We will also walk in stream beds, and possibly in shallow water, so bring hiking shoes with a rugged outersole you don't mind getting wet. (waterproof shoes not recommended because they take a long time to dry)

POISON IVY: Much less prevalent off-trail than you'd expect. Poison ivy is much more common where humans have impacted the land like along roads and trails. There will be some in places but the trip leader will point this out. Ivy won't be fully grown in mid-May. Wear long pants if you know you're allergic. Up to 50% of population is immune so if you've spent a lot of time in the outdoors and have never had it, it's likely you're immune too. I will be bringing poison ivy wipes, just in case, for people to use after the event.

WEATHER: We're all-weather explorers so be prepared for rain or shine. We do these events if there is rain but the event may be cancelled, at our discretion, in the event of potentially dangerous weather.

WHAT TO BRING:

• Backpack
• Hiking Shoes, that you don't mind getting wet
• Wool hiking socks (wool insulates when wet)
• Water, snacks
• Hiking stick or trekking pole (loaned to newcomers for free)
• Change of shoes & socks for after the event

WHERE TO MEET
We are meeting near Solon, Iowa but not at the address listed. I will text or message people through meetup the exact location 2 days prior. Please give yourself extra time to find us. Text me at 641-233-1122 if you would like to receive trip updates by text.