Frequently Asked Questions
“I cannot say enough good things about our guest expert and our camp cook/support guides from CFI. Coordinating, packing, unpacking, delicious meals, superb guiding and driving and in spite of long and early hours. They remained pleasant, humble, always aware of client needs… and shared a wealth of interesting knowledge.”
Susan, Montrose, CO
Some people say food is the most important part of the adventure. On all our overnight trips, CFI will provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner, a morning and afternoon snack, and an appetizer before dinner. If you have a dietary restriction or food allergy, note it on your medical form so we can best prepare.
Depends on the trip. As a general rule, CFI provides all group gear related to fully outfitting your trip. Specialized gear like PFDs, wetsuits, dry bags, educational materials are all provided by CFI. Additionally, we take care of all kitchen and dishware needs.
Most importantly, a willingness to slow down, connect to your surroundings, and experience the moment. Additionally, participants are required to bring a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, personal clothing, medication, and other essential personal items. Many gear items are available for rent. Reach out to us if you are interested in seeing a trip specific packing list, or learn more about trip specific packing here.
CFI provides options to rent gear:
- Two person tent: $30 / trip
- Sleeping bag: $20 / trip
- Kid sleeping pad: $7 / trip
- Adult sleeping pad (paco pad): $15 / trip
- Package deal: Sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and one tent per two people: $40 / trip
For any CFI summer camp, gear rentals are free!
Every CFI guide has either a Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certification. Your trip leader will have a Wilderness First Responder certification. Anyone working with youth has passed a background check, and shuttle drivers are insured with clean driving records. Backcountry trips carry In-Reach satellite communication devices for emergencies. All guides have been evaluated by Canyonlands Field Institute as possessing the judgement, skills, and disposition required for mitigating risk in the field.
As technology grows more and more invasive by the day, CFI promotes connection to what matters. To achieve this, all school and youth programs are unplugged and students are not permitted to bring electronic devices. Not only is there rarely cell service, devices are a distraction to our ability to connect to the present moment. On Private Group Trips or Adult Seminars, the use of devices is permitted but discouraged.
CFI works hard to ensure a positive experience for all guides and participants. Because of the unpredictable nature of outfitting, we have created a series of policies so maintain our ability to manage risk in the outdoors.
For critical information regarding cancellations, deposits, and other participant responsibilities, please view our trip policies page or contact us with any questions.
Thanks for asking...We know this can be an awkward subject. The fact is, our guides work extremely hard and appreciate getting tipped!
On school trips tips are greatly appreciated.
On an adult or private trip, an industry standard is for each customer to tip $25 per day.
If you wish to include a gratuity, cash is preferred, but sending a check or a payment to CFI's Venmo: @canyonlandsfieldinstitute is also a great way to thank your guides for their hard work. Tips are always pooled and distributed.