FAQs & Trip Ratings
Trip Ratings
(1) Very Straightforward Hike – pretty much open to anyone, no experience required, generally a long walk but with many breaks so basically a beginners hike for all.
(2) Straightforward Hike – open to most people who enjoy the outdoors or want to experience a straightforward hike or mountain climb at a comfortable pace with many breaks.
(3) Moderate Hike – reasonable fitness levels required as typically a longer hike or climb with some breaks, possibly some easy scrambling, maybe tougher conditions but generally open to most people.
(4) Challenging Hike – good level of fitness required, hiking experience preferred but not essential. May include scrambling, some ridges, tougher conditions or against the clock.
(5) Very Challenging Hike – need to have certain experience and good fitness levels to do this. May include use of crampons and ice axe in winter, ridges, scrambling, up against the clock, etc.
FAQs
What are the costs and what is included?
Depending on the type of event there maybe more than one cost option. For example, if it is an overnight trip with hotel including there will be an option to go for a twin or double share room basis or to have your own single occupancy room. Additionally on some events we may offer a transport option from Milton Keynes or Nottingham. This will be effectively a 'car share' with a known and trusted volunteer driver and any additional cost is just to cover fuel costs and no profit is made. This option, when available, helps to cut carbon emissions and allows those people who don't drive an opportunity to take part in the main hiking activities. The primary cost is for the qualified and experienced guiding you receive throughout and the admin/organisation/logisitcs for the chosen event. Food and drink is not included though often an organised group meal will be made available for weekend trips.
Will we be safe?
Safety is always the number one priority. We will never take any unnecessary risks or do anything that would put the group in danger. Risk assessments are carried out along with over 12 years experience leading and managing groups plus a very high dose of common sense ensure your safety. In addition, the Mountain Coach (Charlie Wardle) is a qualified Mountain Leader (ML) and is fully qualified in Outdoor First Aid and there are always additional helpers and support on the trips.
How fit do you need to be?
It depends on which trip and challenge you would like to do. There is a trip ratings guide here (see above) and each trip has been rated. There is a wide range of trips for all levels of ability and most people are very capable of doing most of these trips and challenges. If in doubt please email for more advice.(info@themountaincoach.com)
What clothes and equipment do I need?
This will depend on which trip and the weather and conditions at the time. However, a good pair of comfortable hiking boots is essential plus a small backpack. Waterproofs, base layer, fleece, etc plus hat and gloves. Generally comfortable layers but do not wear jeans! If in doubt please email for specific advice. Plus if you become a member you can get discounts.
Are there any age limits?
In general the trips are for adults, although children may be allowed if accompanied by an adult or with written permission from their parents. There is no official upper age limit. On a typical trip the ages can vary from 20 to 60 and a mix of men and women. However, please email if any specific questions.
Can I get a refund if I pull out?
Only if we can find replacements to fill your place. In some exceptional circumstances a refund or partial refund may be possible but as a general rule the answer is no. Most costs are paid for upfront and there is the opportunity cost so unless we fill the place we will lose money. I try to be as fair as possible so discounts on future trips may be offered. Please also be aware that Paypal do not refund the fees (only Visa & Mastercard do) so any Paypal refunds will be less their fees. Please email info@themountaincoach.com if you have any specific questions.
What if the weather or conditions are really bad?
As stated above, safety is always first priority. So it is possible that routes are changed or hikes shortened but this will only be done if it is the right thing to do based on the conditions. The Lead Guide decision is always final and if anyone ignores this they can no longer be the guide's responsibility. Also, usually a few days before a trip, an updated email is sent out with advice on expected weather and conditions and any changes as to what to wear etc.