So, wait, what exactly happens on these hikes?

These are guided hikes, just like any other guided hike you might go on, with a wilderness experienced and medically trained guide who is able to lead the way and keep you safe. As an extra layer, there are intentional moments of introspection and reflection speckled throughout the day.

I am Cosmic Hamlet Hikes-curious, but still not quite sure if it’s for me. What do you recommend?

Great question! I hear you, these hikes are a little more introspective, slower and mindful. That sort of twist on the day is not everyone’s cup of tea. If you are curious and want to dip a toe in, the mini Bishop’s Beach Walking Retreat is a 3-hour experience that would allow you to get a small taste of what I am offering.

What’s the difference between a ‘walk’ and a ‘hike’?

While each of the trips involves walking a certain distance, if something is labeled a ‘hike’, it is typically longer, more remote, and slightly to substantially more challenging than a ‘walk’. The Bishop’s Beach Walking Retreat is fully accessible in town, and is literally a walk on the beach.

What kind of footwear do you recommend?

If you are attended a Bishop’s Beach walk, some kind of waterproof boot is really nice. We will be walking in tidepools, and it’s nice to be able to walk in the water without getting your feet wet. Don’t have a pair? Try Homer Thrift or the Salvation Army in town for a used pair, or Ulmer’s Hardware or the Gear Shed if you want a brand new set of Xtratuffs or Muck boots.

If you are taking a trip across the bay, a comfortable walking/hiking shoe is quite nice. Something you feel comfortable walking in (on even and uneven terrain) is more important than a fancy ‘hiking’ boot. Something that is waterproof/Goretex may also be nice since this part of Alaska is coastal and can be rainy.

Is this a family friendly experience?

In general, I would recommend Cosmic Hamlet Hikes to folks 18 or older as the activities throughout the day were created with an adult person in mind. However, this is also an ‘it depends on your family’ kinda question and I know plenty of teenagers who would probably really dig a Cosmic Hamlet Hike. Please reach out to me and we can chat further: elizabeth@cosmichamlethikes.com