FAQ’s and Packing
Are my donations to Love Hope Strength tax deductible?
Yes, Love Hope Strength is a registered 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible.
What hotel is everyone staying in?
The Sebastian – Vail will be the hub for all things Love Hope Strength! Trust us when we say that you do not want to miss out on staying here!
What if it rains?
We are hiking rain or shine. If weather or winds get to strong we will move the activities to an indoor celebration. But be prepared for wind and rain.
Is breakfast provided?
Light breakfast snacks will be available at the check in point at the Gondola along with coffee. But we recommend filling up on a full breakfast if you can!
Where can I park?
Both parking garages in Lionshead and Vail Village are free in the summer.
What footwear should I wear?
The trail is muddy and snow is still on the ground in a few spots. We highly recommend boots with a good tread rather than sneakers. They do not need to be ankle boots but DO expect mud along the way. You can always pick a pair up in Vail.
Can I bring dogs on the trail?
Yes! Dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed and friendly with others. Please keep in mind that we may be returning via the gondola. Dogs are welcome on the download only.
Are kids welcome on the hike?
Yes, many people hike with babies. Kids are welcome as well. The trail is intermediate and reasonable for people of all ages. But, please keep in mind this is still a hike! Kids under 10 are FREE.
Do we hike down?
If you like, you are welcome to. Otherwise we will hike from Wildwood to Eagle Next (about a mile) where you can take the Eagle Bahn gondola back down to Lionshead. Lionshead is a short walk from Vail Village and shuttles are available.
When/where is check in?
You may check in Friday or Saturday. We recommend Friday if possible to avoid the crowd.
Friday night: 5-8PM at The Sebastian Vail Hotel.
Saturday morning: 7-8AM at the New Vail Village Gondola in Vail Village.
What is the cut off date for fundraising?
We encourage you to fundraise right up until the hike and beyond! Your page will stay active. All donations received prior to June 14 will be counted towards your fundraising goals. Donations received on or after June 14 will not count towards the fundraising goals.
What is the elevation and which trail will we be hiking?
We will be hiking Berrypicker to Mi-Vail. Conditions permitting. (Trail has been revised due to frozen water pipes at Wildwood)
3.5 miles one way – you can return via the Vail “One” gondola to Vail Village.
What if I cannot complete the hike?
You can return to the base and hop aboard the Vail Gondola “One” to meet the hikers at the summit. A lift ticket fee of $26 will apply.
What should I pack?
- Get hydrated! Especially those of you arriving from sea level. Drink PLENTY of water. 2 water fill up stations will be located along the hike. 1 at the base and 1 along the trail. Plenty of drinks will be available at the summit.
- Fuel up the night before.
- Get a good night sleep.
- Have breakfast.
- Pack light and smart.• Pack light and smart.
• Light backpack
• Personal snacks
• Sunscreen
• Water bottle – one will be provided but many like an extra
• Sunglasses
• Boots – trail is muddy and rocky
• Lightweight socks to avoid blisters.
• Blister care for after the hike just in case
• Shade hat
• Wind/rain jacket. Weather has been unpredictable and we will hike rain or shine, ponchos are great but do not breath. Rain jackets are better.
• Extra base layer, in case you wish to change at the summit.
• Thermal or fleece, in case the wind kicks in or the sun disappears
• Trekking poles. Optional.
• Tissues
• Small plastic bag – pack it in, pack it out!
• i.d. in case of emergency
• Trail map – will be in your gift bag