Guided Llama Pack Trips and Treks
These trips emphasize enjoying the general wilderness experience,
learning to understand and appreciate the unique aspects of a
particular area, and minimizing
the impacts of our
presence in the wilderness. The use of llamas facilitates
our ability to realize these goals. The llamas bear the
weight of supplies and equipment that otherwise limit the
scope and enjoyment of a wilderness outing. Because of
their natural adaptation to the regions we explore, they
are easily maintained with minimal impact on the
environment. Their packing ability lessens the restrictions
imposed by wilderness regulations on those who are
physically limited by age, injury, or handicap. Working
with, and relating to the llamas adds another dimension to
the total experience.
Our treks are formulated on basic wilderness principles, but tailored to individual needs regarding area, distance, pace, interests, activities, and menu. Buckhorn provides all the equipment, food and supplies necessary for the trip except sleeping bags and personal items (toiletries, clothing, daypack, etc.) If more equipment or supplies are required for focus activities (photography, climbing, geology, etc.), additional llamas can be provided. A basic equipment list is available for participants and sleeping bag rental can be arranged.
All trips will be led by a mature and experienced guide. We
typically keep a
ratio of one guide for six participants. We add wranglers and
resource guides to assist the head guide if the ratio grows
greater or special activities are planned. Guides employ low
impact techniques in all phases of the treks and clients will
be expected to follow their example and direction. We
emphasize leaving the wilderness resource in a condition that
will be enjoyable for those who follow us. Guides are
responsible for food preparation, camp setup and camp
maintenance. Participants are free to join in this activity
or relax and watch. Our menus are planned to provide fresh,
wholesome foods that take into consideration activity level,
special needs, health conditions, or preferences. Activities
such as day hikes, climbing, and photography fill the time
not spent on the trail or in camp. These activities as well
as special educational programs can be incorporated into the
trip format.
It should be noted that even though llamas lessen the physical
effort required for these trips; altitude, temperature
extremes, moisture, and unfamiliar exercise make physical
conditioning and preparation prior to the trip advisable. Any
physical limitations or medical problems should be made known
in the early stages of trip preparations so appropriate
routes, trip lengths, and pace may be incorporated into the
itinerary.
The varying geography of the areas we operate in allows us to run a nine month season (March-Nov.) and a variety of formats. The S.E. Utah area offers spring and fall trips that are quite pleasant and enjoyable. The spring season is perfect for the outdoorsman with cabin fever needing a physical and emotional respite from winter’s reign, while the fall desert is the perfect place to absorb the last warm rays of the pack season in solitude. Temperatures above 100 degrees and scarce water sources from July through mid-September dictate moving to the high reaches of the plateau or the high altitude terrain of our Colorado locations during the heart of summer. At timberline, this short interlude between melt out and new snow is the only window of hospitality offered in these high reaches. They are a flurry of plant and animal activity as the many species of both populations flower, reproduce, and feed before the imminent and enduring winter that dominates the alpine landscape most of the year. Our areas of operation are dictated by the land and the weather it endures, as were the activities and migrations of our ancient predecessors. It helps to understand the significance of the cultural ruins in evidence in each area. They bear testimony to recognition or ignorance of these undeniable forces.
Buckhorn Llama Company, Inc. provides guided trips under permits issued by the Arapahoe / Roosevelt, San Juan - Rio Grande, Manti - La Sal, and Kaibab National Forests, the San Juan Resource Area of the Bureau of Land Management, and the Navajo Nation.