There’s something about the mountains. Some people stand in awe of their majesty and marvel at the splendor as the sun paints the peaks in various hues. While adventurers see the summits beckoning them to climb, explore, and test their mountaineering expertise.
Whichever category you fall into, Fox Mountain Guides (FMG) has adventures, courses, and expeditions for all skill levels. They also lead guided tours in other parts of the country that we’ll discuss shortly. Their headquarters is in the beautiful Pisgah National Forest, which has some of the Southeast’s best rock climbing locations just minutes from their office.
Safety is first and foremost at Fox Mountain Guides. FMG has been operating for over 20 years and prides itself on exceeding established industry safety standards. Not only is every instructor AMGA (American Mountain Guides Association) certified, but FMG only allows guides to lead tours on terrain for which they are certified. Keep in mind that other mountaineering companies may not heed such stringent guidelines.
Instructors at Fox Mountain Guides are passionate about climbing, which spills over onto the tours they lead. While safety is paramount, they also want to instill in you the same vibrant love of the sport they have.
The next impressive point about FMG is its diverse clientele. They’ve led tours for families, homeschool groups, summer camps, scouts, and corporate team-building events. Also, FMG is the only accredited AMGA school in the Southeast, which means it should be at the top of your list if you’re considering a career as a mountain guide.
FMG has also worked with various military units in North Carolina, Colorado, and California. These groups read like a “who’s who” in the military:
- Marines
- Special Forces
- Army Rangers
- 82nd Airborne
Let’s explore some tours at Fox Mountain Guides since most of us aren’t at that level of expertise. FMG offers daily and multi-day trips that can be tailored to meet your climbing ability and budget.
Day trips are ideal for individuals or groups who may not be experienced climbers or are members of the Boy Scouts trying to earn their mountain climbing merit badge. Such trips are perfect for beginners to learn how to climb safely on a single-pitch climb, while experienced mountaineers can request a relentless adventure.
There are two types of day trips to choose from:
- Half Day (4 hours)
- Full Day (8 hours)
FMG offers intermediate/advanced day trips, which will appeal to seasoned climbers or those wanting to learn how to climb multi-pitch rock climbs. Because FMG operates all year, they also offer ice climbing and mountaineering courses at their North Carolina and New Hampshire locations. Be sure to check their website for more details about each exciting opportunity.
The only prerequisites needed for an excursion with FMG are being twelve years or older, somewhat in shape, and dressed for the rigors of mountain climbing. In essence, it’s the perfect outdoor adventure for people of all ages and abilities.
With glowing reviews on TripAdvisor and Yelp and their dedication to exceeding AMGA safety guidelines, we believe you’ll have a safe, thrilling adventure with Fox Mountain Guides.
Insider Tips:
-If you are afraid of heights or the rock cliff looks unsurmountable, FMG instructors are known to be exceptionally patient and encouraging. Stories abound on social media of guides giving such climbers positive instruction on every nook and cranny of their climb.
-The astute guides take pictures of you while climbing should ease those who have any reservations about rock climbing.