Most people will never see skies like this.

Will you? 

We’ll take you deep into Colorado’s wild backcountry for a night you won’t forget. Under the darkest skies, you’ll learn to capture the stars, even if you’ve never shot at night before. These trips blend guided hiking, hands-on photo instruction, and moments that make you feel small in the best way. Come for the Milky Way, stay for the memories you’ll learn to capture forever. 

NOW BOOKING 2025 TRIPS!

Find Your Next Adventure Under the Stars

From epic night hikes to rugged summit pushes and star-filled nights in the Colorado backcountry, there’s a trip for every explorer.

Choose your adventure below!

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Spring Sale Starts NOW!

$50 off ANY Guided Backpacking Trip!

With Code: GALACTIC

**Guided trips booked for 2025.

Spring Sale

Starts NOW!

$50 off ANY Guided Backpacking Trip!

With Code: GALACTIC

*Guided trips booked for 2025.

Reviews

“I had an absolutely incredible experience hiking a 14er with Shelby at Ground Up Adventures! Her expertise about the mountains was incredible and her enthusiasm for the mountain was infectious, making the trip both fun and educational.

I couldn’t have asked for a better guide to share the fun and adventure of conquering a first 14er. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking an unforgettable hiking experience!”

– Alex M. (Florida)

What Our Clients Say

 

I decided to book my first ever backpacking and camping trip with GUA and it’s one of the best decisions I have made.

Not only did Shelby guide me to the most dreamy camp site, she provided an abundance of knowledge, supplies, made me feel comfortable and safe, and provided some of the yummiest food and warm drinks!

She made me feel empowered and confident that I could take the trail on my own next time! Shelby knows her stuff! Book the trip and make that next adventure happen!

– Hanna K. (Colorado)

 

What Our Clients Say

 

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, my husband and I decided we needed some expert help, and Shelby was the perfect choice. When summit day came, we learned so much from her.

But what really stood out was how Shelby continued to support us after the hike. She gave us tons of resources to help us on future adventures, making us feel confident and excited to tackle more challenges on our own.

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!

– Missy S. (Colorado)

 

What Our Clients Say

 

For my first backpacking and camping trip, I knew I wanted to go with an experienced guide. And Shelby was amazing from start to finish. She provided me with more knowledge than I could ever hoped to learn in a weekend.

I cannot begin to explain how much this trip has given me the confidence to start planning my own backpacking trips safely and responsibly. I highly recommend booking with Ground Up Adventures to anyone who wants learn more.

I can’t wait to book my next trip!”

– Angel Y. (New York)

 

About GUA

We are proud to offer educational guided hikes that equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to explore the outdoors safely and independently long after your trip ends.

Book a Hike

We are currently scheduling guided hikes in the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains for the 2025 spring-fall season. We would love to adventure with you!

© 2025 Ground Up Adventures

Ground Up Adventures is an equal opportunity service provider.
GUA operates under a Special Use Permit in PSICC National Forest.