Capture the Thrill of Adventure.
Capture the vastness of dark starry Colorado skies and conquer new heights with like-minded adventurers on an unforgettable overnight trip under the stars.
SUMMIT TO THE STARS
3-Day Backpacking & Astrophotography Adventure
Capture the vastness of the dark starry sky in the Colorado Rockies, and summit to 14,000+ feet for the sunrise–alongside a group of like-minded adventurers to encourage and learn with you every step of the way.
SUMMIT TO THE STARS:
3-Day Backpacking, Summit & Astrophotography Adventure
Capture the vastness of the dark starry Colorado sky and conquer new heights with
like-minded adventurers on an unforgettable overnight trip under the stars.
Step Into the Great Outdoors and Take Your Photography Skills to New Altitudes.
Embark on an incredible 3-day journey designed for photographers eager to expand their skillset in the great outdoors, with a side of adventure!
This adventure includes an overnight backpacking trip with a mountain summit tacked on. Perfect for those with a foundation in photography basics, some hiking experience, along with a desire to deepen your adventure photography techniques in the great outdoors.
Only 5 spots available!
Friday, August 22 – Sunday August 24, 2025
Location:
📍 Buena Vista, Colorado
🌲 San Isabel National Forest
What’s Included:
✔️ All backpacking gear including tent, sleeping pad & sleeping bag, backpack, trekking poles, and more! [Camera gear can be rented for an additional fee]
✔️ All meals including dessert and snacks to fuel your summit adventure. 😋
✔️ Transportation to and from the trailhead.
✔️ 3-5 professional photos from our adventure.
✔️ Learn from a seasoned astrophotographer to gain insights & techniques for creating visually striking night sky images.
✔️ Essential knowledge and safety tips for hiking/backpacking outdoors, and best practices for camping in the backcountry.
✔️ Advanced instruction on backpacking in high elevation, and safe summits. (plus tackling one of Colorado’s infamous 14ers!)
✔️ Learn detailed knowledge on hiking in the dark and managing wildlife encounters in the night from a seasoned hiking guide.
✔️ A welcoming & inclusive space where everyone can grow their skills.
✔️ Both group time and 1:1 time with your guides to answer any specific questions or work on your personal photography & adventure goals.
✔️ An unforgettable journey, invaluable skills that will help you grow as a photographer and empower a lifetime of adventures.
❗️Only 5 Spots Available – Act Fast!❗️
Take your photography to the next level—whether it’s the Milky Way stretching across the night sky or blue hour on the summit.
Keep reading to learn more 👇
TESTIMONIALS
“I had so much fun on this hike! Frankie did a great job of making me feel comfortable from start to finish. Throughout the hike, they took as many breaks as I felt I needed and were necessary and were super motivating in helping me reach the peak. Make sure you invest in a pair of hiking boots to protect your feet! All in all, I enjoyed it!“
“We had an absolutely incredible experience with Ground Up Adventures, all thanks to our amazing guide, Shelby Mann! After a few failed attempts to summit a 14er on our own, we decided we needed some expert help, and Shelby was the perfect choice. When summit day came, we learned so much from her. She taught us about different hiking techniques to save energy, and how to find the best routes.
Shelby’s passion for the outdoors and her dedication to helping others shine through in everything she does. 10/10 recommend Ground Up Adventures. Thanks for guiding us to our first successful 14er summit!”
CAPTURE THE MEMORY OF HIGH-ALTITUDE ADVENTURE UNDER STARRY SKIES.
Immerse yourself in the wild and rocky beauty of Colorado’s backcountry on a multi-day backpacking trip designed for photographers and adventure seekers. This guided experience blends rugged exploration with hands-on landscape and adventure photography lessons, giving you the skills to capture stunning, scroll-stopping imagery in some of the most breathtaking alpine environments.
No need to worry about logistics—we provide all the backpacking gear (except personal camera equipment) so you can focus on your craft and the big adventure ahead. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or a seasoned shooter looking to refine your skills, this trip will push your creativity while taking you to new heights, surrounded by jaw-dropping peaks.
Only 5 spots available!
What Makes this Experience Unique?
-
Multi-Day Immersion: Spend multiple days in remote alpine landscapes, giving you the chance to capture different lighting conditions, different elevations, weather changes, and epic golden & blue hour moments that most day hikers miss.
-
Hands-On Learning: Unlike a traditional workshop, this is a fully immersive experience where you’ll actively shoot, receive real-time coaching, and refine your skills in the field. This is more than just a photography trip—it’s an opportunity to push your creativity, explore remote wilderness, redefine what you’re capable of, and come home with portfolio-worthy images from an unforgettable adventure.
- Connect & Empower: Build lasting friendships with like-minded adventurers who share your passion for the outdoors and adventure.
Some of the skills you’ll learn:
- Planning, researching, and scouting locations for photographing epic Colorado dark skies with breathtaking stars
- Understand how to track the moon phases and weather conditions for the perfect shots
- Learn how to identify different constellations and the Milky Way’s position
- Identify the ideal camera settings for capturing the vast night sky and celestial landscapes
- How to enhance nighttime shots with the power of storytelling, including adding elements such as a glowing tent, a human subject, or a reflective alpine lake to create dramatic and engaging photos
- What to bring & the best camera equipment/lenses for astrophotography
- Tips for hiking in the dark
- How to get great sunrise shots
- Basic alpine navigation skills & proper pacing, hydration, and nutrition for high-altitude hiking
- How to pack your bag correctly so you can adventure pain-free
- Injury Prevention on and off the trail
- Leave no trace in the backcountry
- Tips for managing wildlife encounters, especially at night
- AND SO much more!
Trip Itinerary:
- Day 1: Meet your group, gear up, and hike a few miles to a scenic basecamp. Enjoy a relaxing evening under the stars with your new adventure crew. We will have a mini workshop discussing tips and tricks for the best shots, then will spend the rest of the night capturing the stars and all their glory.
-
Day 2: Rise early to tackle the 5th tallest 14er summit in the Sawatch Range and capture the journey along the way! Learn strategies for hiking at elevation, pace yourself, and celebrate as you reach the summit. Return to basecamp for a well-deserved afternoon of rest and camaraderie, with another opportunity to capture the night sky after dinner.
-
Day 3: Enjoy breakfast before packing up and enjoying a leisurely hike back to the trailhead, reflecting on your accomplishments and newfound skills. You’ll take home memories, confidence, and the tools to take on future epic astrophotography adventures!
❗️Only 5 Spots Available – Act Fast!❗️
Conquer Your Mountain Together
With only 10 spots available, Summit to the Stars offers a unique opportunity to challenge yourself, connect with other adventurers, and experience the beauty of Colorado’s high country.
Secure your spot now by filling out the form below so we can contact you to confirm your booking.
Please email Shelby at shelby@groundupadventuresco.com with any questions or call 970-219-8983.
Only 5 spots available!
$825 USD
💥 A $2000+ value for an investment of $825!
Or 4 payments of $206.25 if you book with
TESTIMONIALS
“This was a great experience I’m so glad we were able to book while visiting Colorado. Frankie was a great host throughout our time together and tailored the hike to our needs. The pictures we got back were
beautiful and so glad we didn’t have to worry about capturing them ourselves! Looking forward to making it back
to plan another hiking trip with these two!”
“Shelby was a knowledgeable, insightful & generous guide. She helped me push to the top of the TALLEST mountain in Colorado! The experience was life changing and I can’t wait to plan another guided trip with her.”
Ready to Capture the Thrill of Adventure?
Don’t wait—secure your spot for Summit to the Stars and get ready for an empowering journey
filled with fun, challenge, and awe-inspiring views.
MEET YOUR GUIDES
SHELBY MANN | OWNER, HEAD GUIDE
Hi, I’m Shelby! I’m an outdoor educator and professional hiking & backpacking guide in beautiful Buena Vista, Colorado. As a skilled outdoor enthusiast and wilderness advocate, I am extremely passionate about sharing my love for adventure with you. Nature is a special place, and I believe the great outdoors is the best teacher of all. I’ve dedicated a lot of my life to learning how to experience the wild safely, and I find joy sharing this knowledge so you can feel empowered on your own adventures.
I started Ground Up Adventures to inspire you to climb your mountain from the ground UP. To show you how healing nature and the mountains can be, how much they can teach you about yourself, and of course, to educate you with the tools you need to get outside and do it on your own. The great outdoors has led me on numerous unforgettable experiences that have enriched my life, and I know it can do the same for you.
Certifications:
- Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
- Wilderness Anaphylaxis Trained (WAT)
- CPR
- AIARE 1
FRANKIE SPONTELLI | ADVENTURE GUIDE & PHOTOGRAPHER
Hi there, I’m Frankie! I’m an experienced outdoor guide, adventurer, and landscape photographer based in Buena Vista, Colorado. I’ve spent over a decade exploring Colorado’s breathtaking parks, rugged wilderness, and hidden gems, capturing the beauty of the outdoors and creating unforgettable experiences along the way.
My journey in the great outdoors began as a passion for adventure, chasing golden light and photography. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with renowned brands and tourism boards, including National Geographic, Outside Magazine, Backpacker Magazine, Visit Colorado, REI, and more. My camera has taken me across some of the most incredible landscapes, but my heart always leads me back to Colorado’s iconic mountain ranges, serene alpine lakes, and sweeping valleys.
My goal as a guide is to not only help you navigate these awe-inspiring places but also to share the healing and transformative power of the outdoors. Whether it’s your first adventure or your hundredth, I’m here to make sure you feel safe, inspired, and equipped with the knowledge and confidence to explore on your own.
Certifications:
- Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
- Wilderness Anaphylaxis Trained (WAT)
- CPR
CAPTURE THE MEMORY OF HIGH-ALTITUDE ADVENTURE UNDER STARRY SKIES.
Immerse yourself in the wild and rocky beauty of Colorado’s backcountry on a multi-day backpacking trip designed for photographers and adventure seekers. This guided experience blends rugged exploration with hands-on landscape and adventure photography lessons, giving you the skills to capture stunning, scroll-stopping imagery in some of the most breathtaking alpine environments.
No need to worry about logistics—we provide all the backpacking gear (except personal camera equipment) so you can focus on your craft and the big adventure ahead. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or a seasoned shooter looking to refine your skills, this trip will push your creativity while taking you to new heights, surrounded by jaw-dropping peaks.
Only 5 spots available!
TESTIMONIALS
“I had so much fun on this hike! Frankie did a great job of making me feel comfortable from start to finish. Throughout the hike, they took as many breaks as I felt I needed and were necessary and were super motivating in helping me reach the peak. Make sure you invest in a pair of hiking boots to protect your feet! All in all, I enjoyed it!“
“We had an absolutely incredible experience with Ground Up Adventures, all thanks to our amazing guide, Shelby Mann! After a few failed attempts to summit a 14er on our own, we decided we needed some expert help, and Shelby was the perfect choice. When summit day came, we learned so much from her. She taught us about different hiking techniques to save energy, and how to find the best routes.
Shelby’s passion for the outdoors and her dedication to helping others shine through in everything she does. 10/10 recommend Ground Up Adventures. Thanks for guiding us to our first successful 14er summit!”
Summit to the Stars: 3-Day Guided Astro Photography Trip + 14er Summit
Step Into the Great Outdoors and Elevate Your Skills
Under the Stars.
Embark on an incredible 3-day journey designed for photographers eager to expand their skillset in the great outdoors, with a side of adventure! This trip includes an overnight backpacking trip with a Colorado mountain summit tacked on. Perfect for those with a foundation in photography basics, some hiking experience, along with a desire to deepen your adventure photography techniques in the great outdoors.
Trip Dates [3 days, 2 nights]:
Friday, August 22 – Sunday, August 24 2025
Location:
📍 Buena Vista, Colorado
🌲 San Isabel National Forest
What’s Included:
✔️ All backpacking gear including tent, sleeping pad & sleeping bag, backpack, trekking poles, and more! [Camera gear can be rented for an additional fee]
✔️ All meals including dessert and snacks to fuel your summit adventure. 😋
✔️ Transportation to and from the trailhead.
✔️ 3-5 professional photos from our adventure.
✔️ Learn from a seasoned astrophotographer to gain insights & techniques for creating visually striking night sky images.
✔️ Essential knowledge and safety tips for hiking/backpacking outdoors, and best practices for camping in the backcountry.
✔️ Advanced instruction on backpacking in high elevation, and safe summits. (plus tackling one of Colorado’s infamous 14ers!)
✔️ Learn detailed knowledge on hiking in the dark and managing wildlife encounters in the night from a seasoned hiking guide.
✔️ A welcoming & inclusive space where everyone can grow their skills.
✔️ Both group time and 1:1 time with your guides to answer any specific questions or work on your personal photography & adventure goals.
✔️ An unforgettable journey, invaluable skills that will help you grow as a photographer and empower a lifetime of adventures.
What Makes this Experience Unique?
-
Multi-Day Immersion: Spend multiple days in remote alpine landscapes, giving you the chance to capture different lighting conditions, weather changes, and epic golden & blue hour moments that most day hikers miss.
-
Hands-On Learning: Unlike a traditional workshop, this is a fully immersive experience where you’ll actively shoot, receive real-time coaching, and refine your skills in the field. This is more than just a photography trip—it’s an opportunity to push your creativity, explore remote wilderness, and come home with portfolio-worthy images from an unforgettable adventure.
- Connect & Empower: Build lasting friendships with like-minded adventurers who share your passion for the outdoors.
Some of the skills you’ll learn:
-
- Planning, researching, and scouting locations for photographing epic Colorado dark skies with breathtaking stars
- Understand how to track the moon phases and weather conditions for the perfect shots
- Learn how to identify different constellations and the Milky Way’s position
- Identify the ideal camera settings for capturing the vast night sky and celestial landscapes
- How to enhance nighttime shots with the power of storytelling, including adding elements such as a glowing tent, a human subject, or a reflective alpine lake to create dramatic and engaging photos
- What to bring & the best camera equipment/lenses for astrophotography
- Tips for hiking in the dark
- How to get great sunrise shots
- Basic alpine navigation skills & proper pacing, hydration, and nutrition for high-altitude hiking
- How to pack your bag correctly so you can adventure pain-free
- Injury Prevention on and off the trail
- Leave no trace in the backcountry
- Tips for managing wildlife encounters, especially at night
- AND SO much more!
❗️Only 5 Spots Available – Act Fast!❗️
Trip Itinerary:
- Day 1: Meet your group, gear up, and hike a few miles to a scenic basecamp. Enjoy a relaxing evening under the stars with your new adventure crew. We will have a mini workshop discussing tips and tricks for the best shots, then will spend the rest of the night capturing the stars and all their glory.
-
Day 2: Rise early to tackle the 5th tallest 14er summit in the Sawatch Range and capture the journey along the way! Learn strategies for hiking at elevation, pace yourself, and celebrate as you reach the summit. Return to basecamp for a well-deserved afternoon of rest and camaraderie, with another opportunity to capture the night sky after dinner.
-
Day 3: Enjoy breakfast before packing up and enjoying a leisurely hike back to the trailhead, reflecting on your accomplishments and newfound skills. You’ll take home memories, confidence, and the tools to take on future epic astrophotography adventures!
Conquer the Mountainous Night Sky Together
With only 10 spots available, Summit to the Stars offers a unique opportunity to challenge yourself, connect with other adventurers, and experience the beauty of Colorado’s high country behind the lens.
Secure your spot now by filling out the form below so we can contact you to confirm your booking.
Please email Shelby at shelby@groundupadventuresco.com with any questions or call 970-219-8983.
$825 USD
💥 All this ($3k value) for an investment of $825! 💥
Or 4 payments of $206.25 if you book with
❗️Only 5 Spots Available – Act Fast!❗️
TESTIMONIALS
“We just got back from an absolutely amazing hike with Frankie. He is so knowledgeable and passionate about the outdoors and very accommodating. They catered the hike to what our group wanted to do and we had an incredible time. They went above and beyond to ensure our group had an awesome time, and the photos are unreal. One of our favorite parts of the hike was enjoying a cup of coffee by the water and taking in all the breathtaking views. I highly recommend for anyone looking for a cool way to experience this beauty.“
“Shelby was a knowledgeable, insightful & generous guide. She helped me push to the top of the TALLEST mountain in Colorado! The experience was life changing and I can’t wait to plan another guided trip with her.”
Ready to Capture the Wild?
Don’t wait—secure your spot for Summit to the Stars and get ready for an empowering journey
filled with fun, challenge, and breathtaking views.
MEET YOUR GUIDES
SHELBY MANN | OWNER, HEAD GUIDE
Hi, I’m Shelby! I’m an outdoor educator and professional hiking & backpacking guide in beautiful Buena Vista, Colorado. As a skilled outdoor enthusiast and wilderness advocate, I am extremely passionate about sharing my love for adventure with you. Nature is a special place, and I believe the great outdoors is the best teacher of all. I’ve dedicated a lot of my life to learning how to experience the wild safely, and I find joy sharing this knowledge so you can feel empowered on your own adventures.
I started Ground Up Adventures to inspire you to climb your mountain from the ground UP. To show you how healing nature and the mountains can be, how much they can teach you about yourself, and educate you with the tools you need to get outside and do it on your own. The great outdoors has led me on numerous unforgettable experiences that have enriched my life, and I know it can do the same for you.
Certifications:
- Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
- Wilderness Anaphylaxis Trained (WAT)
- CPR
- AIARE 1
FRANKIE SPONTELLI | ADVENTURE GUIDE & PHOTOGRAPHER
Hi there, I’m Frankie! I’m an experienced outdoor guide, adventurer, and landscape photographer based in Buena Vista, Colorado. I’ve spent over a decade exploring Colorado’s breathtaking parks, rugged wilderness, and hidden gems, capturing the beauty of the outdoors and creating unforgettable experiences along the way.
My journey in the great outdoors began as a passion for adventure, chasing golden light and photography. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with renowned brands and tourism boards, including National Geographic, Outside Magazine, Backpacker Magazine, Visit Colorado, REI, and more. My camera has taken me across some of the most incredible landscapes, but my heart always leads me back to Colorado’s iconic mountain ranges, serene alpine lakes, and sweeping valleys.
My goal as a guide is to not only help you navigate these awe-inspiring places but also to share the healing and transformative power of the outdoors. Whether it’s your first adventure or your hundredth, I’m here to make sure you feel safe, inspired, and equipped with the knowledge and confidence to explore on your own.
Certifications:
- Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
- Wilderness Anaphylaxis Trained (WAT)
- CPR
© 2025 Ground Up Adventures
Ground Up Adventures is an equal opportunity service provider.
GUA operates under a Special Use Permit in PSICC National Forest.