Yes. All guides are professionally trained and hold relevant certifications, including Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) Hiking Guide (Winter) certification, 80-hour Wilderness First Responder, and additional mountain safety training. We operate under established risk-management and safety protocols that are reviewed by the land managers in the areas where we work.

Front Ranges’ Lead guide Adam Mertens has been working in outdoor education and adventure guiding for 10+ years and brings with him a broad knowledge of mountain travel, local terrain, and emergency preparedness.

For programs that exceed the scope of practice of Front Ranges guides, we collaborate with ACMG-certified Mountain and Alpine Guides, ensuring all activities are led by professionals operating within their appropriate certification and scope.

Our guides are trained in wildlife awareness and risk mitigation, including bear safety. We carry appropriate safety equipment and actively adapt routes, timing, and group management practices based on current wildlife activity and conditions.

All guides carry bear spray and are trained in its safe and effective deployment. Depending on group size, trip location, trip type, and time of year, guests may also be required to carry bear spray. When this applies, we provide clear instruction and training on proper use before and during the trip.

Mountain weather can change quickly. Our guides closely monitor forecasts and on-the-ground conditions and may adjust routes, objectives, or timing to ensure group safety. If conditions are unsafe, trips may be modified or cancelled. Please review our cancellation policy for a full understanding of how weather-related cancellations are handled.

One of the best ways to run and hike safely in the Canadian Rockies is to learn directly from professionally accredited guides. Joining a guided hiking or trail running experience with Front Ranges helps you build the skills, judgment, and confidence needed to plan your own adventures in complex mountain terrain. Every trip intentionally includes an educational component that is tailored to your experience level. We will cover topics like terrain assessment, weather awareness, route planning, and risk management. Our goal is that you don’t just have a great day out, but leave with practical knowledge you can apply to your future pursuits.