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Hiking in the Smokies with llamas.. yes, you read that right!

• Posted on July 18, 2023

Just imagine A hiking experience without a heavy backpack! That can be done, and that is what Smoky Mountain Llama Trek can do! A truly unique way to explore the Great Smoky Mountains, hiking won’t ever be the same without a llama by your side.

Smoky Mountains Llama Treks offer one-hour, half-day, and full-day llama treks and they will take you through some absolutely breathtaking Smoky Mountain scenery. Travel the longest suspension bridge in the United States, take in the sights of a sixty-foot waterfall, see the zip-liners whiz by overhead, and take in spectacular, high-range mountain views, all with the company of your well-trained llama and friends!

Looking for a quiet night away from it all? Check out Smoky Mountain Llama Trek’s overnight trek! This overnight adventure will take you to the Buckeye Ridge Trail and to the top of Max Patch for a beautiful view of the Smoky Mountains. Visit a section of the Appalachian Trail to check out a shelter for dedicated hikers and enjoy an evening under the stars. In the morning, wake up to a tasty breakfast and head back to the farm to meet the rest of the llama herd!

You may be a little wary of llamas if you don’t know much about them. Although llamas are related to camels, these loving, fluffy animals at Smoky Mountain Llama Treks NEVER spit and are clean enough to cuddle up to. The animals are trek-trained to carry your gear and are very easy to lead. The llamas will follow you with no hesitation and will stop and go when you do! They don’t smell, kick or bite and are only trained for packs – not riding!

Llama Farm experience. 

For those who adore llamas but don't enjoy hiking, a visit to Smoky Mountain Llama Treks farm offers the perfect opportunity to get intimately acquainted with these magnificent creatures. During your visit, you will have the chance to meet the llama herd, discover their individual names and learn about their distinctive personalities. Additionally, you will have the delightful experience of feeding them, with their preferred treats being Graham crackers and bananas. Petting our llamas is not only permitted but also encouraged, as some of them even enjoy receiving hugs. If you have a passion for animals, this interactive educational experience is an absolute must!

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Reserve a Trip: 4 Day Llama Trek

4 Day Llama Trek

Our 4-Day Llama Treks run from July through early September, when the high country is accessible. We hike 3 to 8 miles per day, covering a maximum of 25 miles. Our delightful llamas tote our gear with ease as we meander along the Swan Divide of the Flathead National Forest, a spectacular ridgetop trail with endless views of three surrounding wilderness areas, the Continental Divide and Glacier National Park. The typical group size for our hiking vacation packages is 4-7 people, and when necessary, smaller groups may be combined. Larger groups can occasionally be accommodated by special arrangement. Children are welcome, generally ages 7 and up. The Alpine Trail ranges from 6,000 to 7,500′. The hiking on this trip is moderately strenuous given that you follow a ridgetop trail through mountainous terrain. We go at a leisurely pace with plenty of time for rest stops, lunch breaks and marveling at the fantastic panoramic views.   Please note we do not accept online reservations.

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Wildflowers, waterfalls, wildlife, snow fields, alpine lakes ~ see it all in Glacier Country

Answers to frequently asked questions

Group size : 4-7. Smaller groups may be combined. Larger groups can occasionally be accommodated by special arrangement. Children are welcome. Generally kids 7 years and up are capable.

Length/Distance : Most of our trips are Tuesday through Friday (4 days) in July and August when the high country is accessible. We hike 3 to 8 miles a day, covering a maximum of 25 miles. We are able to custom-design shorter or longer trips.

Location : Great Northern Llama Co. is in the scenic Flathead Valley, a world-class vacation land. While you’re here, float the Flathead River bordering Glacier Park, sail or cruise on Flathead Lake (the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi), explore the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, watch Indian dancers at a Pow Wow, take a gondola ride to the top of Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort for a picnic, tour Glacier Park by car or on foot. Catch a jazz show or a rodeo; visit the galleries and restaurants in our quaint lakeside resort communities; attend Arts in the Park craft fair, Alpine Theatre Project, Glacier Symphony or Bigfork Summer Playhouse. Our Alpine Trail pack trips are on the Swan Divide in the Flathead National Forest, which is surrounded by Glacier National Park, and the Bob Marshall, Great Bear and Mission Wilderness Areas. Our trailhead is near Swan Lake, off Hwy. 83.

Difficulty : The hiking is moderately strenuous, on a ridgetop trail with a lot of up and down. We go at a leisurely pace with plenty of time for rest stops, lunch breaks and marveling at the fantastic panoramic views.

You supply : Personal gear (clothing, toiletries, sleeping bag and pad). Most guests bring a day pack for their camera, book, suntan lotion, water bottle, etc. You will receive a “What to Bring” list when we receive your reservation and deposit.

We supply : Delightful llamas, friendly guides, cooking/camping/first aid gear, tents, food, transportation to and from the trailhead if your lodging is en route. We have sleeping bags available for rent.

Meals : Your guides prepare hearty breakfasts and dinners, including huckleberry pancakes with real maple syrup, Italian and wild game specialties, fresh salads and vegetables, homemade coffee cakes and desserts. Lunch is a picnic smorgasbord with sandwich fixings, fresh fruit and homemade cookies. We do our best to accommodate special dietary requests.

Your guides : A lifetime of hiking, fishing and skiing in Montana’s wilderness, plus his background in forestry, environmental and land-use issues, make Steve Rolfing an enthusiastic guide for your Glacier Country llama trekking adventure. He first discovered llamas in 1979 as the ideal trail companion to carry his gear as a professional forester, and has since made numerous trips to their South American homelands. Steve has been licensed by the State of Montana as an outfitter since 1981. He is assisted by his son, Jamie, Mitch Booth, Greg Nelson and others, who will have plenty of time on the trail to tell you about their interesting lives and fascinating backcountry experiences! There are one or two guides on each trip.

2009 Rates : $1050 per person for a four-day trip. For kids 18 and under it’s $930 for four days. (Please ask us if you would like a trip of a different length.) Sleeping bags and liners are $20 for the trip. A $250 per person deposit is required at the time of reservation, with the balance due 60 days before the trip begins.

To make pack trip reservations call us at 406-755-9044 or send email to [email protected]

Make a reservation : To put together just the right llama pack trip for all our guests, we first like to talk with you about the dates you prefer; options for campsites, fishing, hiking; transportation considerations; and special dietary needs. Then we will send a reservation form for you to return with a $250 per person deposit. After receiving this we will send you a confirmation and a “what to bring” list.

Getting here : The Kalispell (FCA) airport is 20 minutes from our ranch with service by Northwest, Horizon, Delta Connection, US Airways and Big Sky. The Whitefish Amtrak depot is also nearby in Whitefish. Download a Glacier Country Travel Guide at www.glaciermt.com or call 800-338-5072. Order a free Montana Vacation Planner at www.travelmt.com or 800-VISITMT. The first day of your pack trip we will pick you up at your hotel if it is on the way to our trailhead, or you can meet us at the ranch.

For online Montana travel information go to:

• Glacier Country/Northwest Montana Information

Steve & Sue Rolfing • Columbia Falls, Montana • 406.755.9044 • [email protected]

© 1979 – 2024 Great Northern Ranch LLC

What in the World is Llama Trekking and How Can You Do It?

You’ve likely heard of or seen mules, horses, camels, and other sturdy animals accompanying hikers and travelers during their treks into the wilderness. But, have you ever seen a Llama walking with them while on a hike? Well, you’re in for a treat!! The activity goes by many names: Llama hiking, Llama trekking, and llama caravanning; but they all refer to our good-natured llama friends joining in on our adventures.

Llama Trekking for Eco-Tourism

Llama trekking is fast becoming a favorite activity among eco-tourists (those who love to visit exotic natural environments) because it is returning to a more natural form of travel assistance for carrying supplies. Throughout the ages, several cultures have utilized llamas for long travels due to their padded-feet. This gives llamas a unique advantage over hooved animals on steep, rocky paths. Horse and mule hooves can tear up the ground as they walk, disturbing the natural environment. Additionally, they have wider bodies that can disturb plant foliage which is not true for llamas.

Llamas are Better Suited for Your Journey

Think of llamas as an extension of your backpack. They are strong like the more common pack animals, and they can carry up to 25% of their weight with no added stress. This means that packing for a longer trip will be no problem for the animals, and helps their human companions immensely. They have actually been bred throughout the thousands of years humans have used them to serve this specific purpose.

They are gentle giants that can grow to be as tall as six feet! They weigh anywhere from 250 to 400 lbs, so a 300 lb llama can comfortably carry 75 lbs of supplies for about 10 miles. If you get a little overzealous in packing, the llama will lie down, and refuse to move until you lighten the burden. Their poop has no odor, so you won’t experience any unpleasant smells on your trek, or if you accidentally step in a “llama bean.”

Another wonderful thing about llama trekking is they have excellent endurance and their stomachs are specially evolved to handle poor quality food, meaning they are very versatile and low-maintenance. But, perhaps the best thing about going on a hike with a llama is they have a naturally gentle nature. The term “stubborn as a mule” exists for a reason! Mules and horses can be headstrong, and that can lead to problems while hiking, perhaps even leading to dangerous scenarios.

Llamas are smart, remain alert, sociable and very curious. By taking them on your adventures, you’re actually doing them a big service! They love to explore, nibbling on grass during rests, and get excited like a dog when you start moving again to explore some more. So, it is a win-win for both humans and llamas.

Hiking with Llamas for Families with Children

Due to their gentle nature, llama trekking is becoming an increasingly popular activity for families with children. They are calm and friendly, which means they rarely become overly-excited around a group of giggling little ones. Touching their wooly topcoats is also a different sensory experience that leads to a very calming environment. Llamas don’t bite, either. They may spit when they are upset, but that is usually at each other.

Where do I get started?

Whether you are looking to experience this magical adventure for just a few hours, or days, there are several local companies that offer llama hikes throughout the region. We recommend Antero Llamas , located right in Salida! With the Sawatch Mt. Range to the Northwest, and the Sangre de Cristo Mt. Range to the South, they offer some of the best outdoor adventures in the state.

For newbies they offer a Llama Packing 101 workshop which will teach you all the basic skills you need to handle llamas on your own in the backcountry. This course is scheduled several times per season, or upon request. Training is provided at the llama farm in Salida, or other locations may be arranged before a trip.

Llama Trekking as a Unique Experience

Llama caravanning is suitable for all ages! Families, couples, and everyone in between are thrilled with this unique, uplifting, and unforgettable experience. The journey will give you hands-on experience that, until now, wasn’t easily accessible without flying around the world to a remote village in the Andes. Of course, experiencing this rewarding journey is better if it can be done closer to home, for many reasons.

If you’re currently planning an event, such as a wedding, corporate retreat or family reunion, why not treat your employees or closest friends and family to an amazing experience? Imagine trekking through the awe-inspiring natural wonder that is the Arkansas Valley, with a wonderful furry friend helping you along.

Creekside Chalets believes wholeheartedly in responsible stewardship of the land we all call home. Our commitment to eco-friendly tourism reflects in our careful consideration of planning llama treks but goes far beyond to extend into everything we do. To book a reservation, contact us today!

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• Trip Styles
• Destinations

• Trip Destinations
• Montana and Wyoming Hikes & Tours
• Wind River Range Hiking Tours

Lakes, Cirques and Towers

Jackson, wy, trip highlights.

• 7-Day Adventure
• Remote Mountain Cirques & Lakes
• Pristine, Remote Campsites
• Abundant Wildlife Habitat
• Views of Cirque of the Towers
• Rejuvenating Solitude & Scenery
• Fantastically Vivid Night Skies

Description

Our Lakes, Cirques and Towers llama trek travels through one of the most stunning parts of the Wind River Range . The regions we hike through are characterized by one fantastically picturesque valley after another. Since the last ice age, the glacial activity left these cirques ringed by massive granite walls and towers.

We approach the Continental Divide from the west, passing serene mountain lakes and rivers, and many towering peaks, enroute. On Day 3 we hike to Texas Pass (11,450 feet on the Divide) for one of the best vantage points from which to really see the impressive nature of the Cirque of the Towers, one of the most famous spots in The Winds. We’ll be able to see all the major peaks and some of the glaciers, as well as the mountain lakes that occupy the bottom of the cirque.

We then continue on through more breathtaking country, paralleling the Continental Divide the whole way. On Day 5 we have the potential for an exciting summit attempt on Pyramid Peak (12,030 feet), the views from which are indescribeable.

The Wildland Trekking Company operates under a permit issued by the Bridger-Teton National Forest, and is an equal opportunity service provider.

$3255 Per Person

DIFFICULTY LEVEL 3

Scale of 1-5. 1 is least difficult; 5 is most difficult

Hiking Distances:

Backpack Weight:

Significantly Rugged

Max Daily Elev. ↑↓:

Heights Exposure:

Significant

Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THIS TRIP

• Hiking uphill or downhill with a 10-20 lb backpack for 6-8 hours
• Maintaining balance and footing on moderately rugged terrain  (significantly rugged on optional day hikes to mountain passes)
• Hiking with significant heights exposure on day hikes to mountain passes
• Crossing creeks and rivers on slippery rocks

SOLITUDE LEVEL 3

1 least solitude, 5 most solitude

We rate this Wind River Llama Trek a solitude 3. You can expect to have hours of solitude at a time, while seeing several other groups of hikers per day.

•   Minimum 2 Guests

MINIMUM OF 2 GUESTS

If a trip does not reach the minimum number of guests, you may choose to transfer to another trip date or another trip, be refunded your payments in full, or you may have the choice to pay a supplemental fee to run the trip with fewer guests. We make the final determination for these trips 4-6 weeks before the departure date, and notify guests of changes and options immediately.

Private Trips

Travel in perfect company by booking a private trip exclusively for your group!

Our sliding scale for private trips is based on the final number of guests in your group. Rates are per person and do not include sales tax, national park fees or guide gratuity. The final rate is based on the actual number of guests on the trip and may adjust based on cancellations or additions.

Please Note: you can also enjoy a private trip at our normal scheduled rates by filling any empty tour to capacity. However, if group members drop from the tour those spots will automatically become available on our website for instant booking. By purchasing a private trip at the rates listed below, your trip will remain exclusive to your group regardless of cancellations. 

Private Rates FOr This Trip

• 2 People: Rate x 2.5
• 3 People: Rate x 1.75
• 4 People: Rate x 1.25
• 5+ People: Rate x 1.15

*all rates are per person

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PRIVATE RATES FOR THIS TRIP

Learn about our private trips.

• Shuttle to Trailhead: 3 hours
• Hiking Mileage: 6 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1000 feet

This Wind River Range Llama Trek begins in Jackson Hole, Wyoming where we’ll pick you up at your hotel for transport to the trailhead. Our hike starts along one of the Wind River Range’s major rivers, the Big Sandy, for a couple miles before we break off into a chain of wildflower-laden meadows rimmed by aspen and fir forests. From the meadows we’ll get our first real glimpses of the high country peaks, our destination on this trip. Our camp is on the shores of Mirror Lake, a majestic mountain lake that offers good fishing. We’ll set up camp and settle in for a cozy campfire and hearty dinner.

• Elevation Gain: 1100 feet
• Elevation Loss: 700 feet

With the massive peaks of the Continental Divide framing our view to the east, we hike past a series of mountain lakes including Dad’s Lake and Marms Lake, to a majestic, fast-flowing creek. More impressive peaks including Pylon Peak, Shark’s Nose, and Overhanging Tower (all over 12,000 feet) begin to take shape and dominate the eastern skyline. We’ll continue hiking to our camp at Shadow Lake, which lies beneath the Overhanging Tower and Bollinger Peak. At this point we are far into the wilderness and the solitude is inspiring. The afternoon is free for relaxation, fishing or light hiking around Shadow Lake.

• Hiking Mileage: 5+ miles
• Elevation Gain/Loss: 1100 feet

Today’s hike takes us onto the spine of the Continental Divide for one of the best views in the Rocky Mountains: a look at Cirque of the Towers from Texas Pass! We’ll get a relatively early start to make the most of our day, which is an unforgettable one. We’ll hike directly up the Divide to Texas Lake, a beautiful high mountain lake tucked beneath massive granite peaks. From the lake we’ll climb up to Texas Pass for an unparalleled view down the east side of the Divide and the Cirque of the Towers. Glaciers, soaring peaks, alpine lakes, and endless granite walls combine to make this one of the most picture-worthy views in America, so be sure and remember your camera!

• Hiking Mileage: 5 miles
• Elevation Gain/Loss: 600 feet

As amazing as Day 3 is, this trip is in some ways just getting started! Day 4 takes us past more mountain lakes and past more impressive Rocky Mountain peaks to our camp at Mae’s Lake. Some of today’s highlights include lunch at Skull Lake, views of Bernard Peak and Mount Washakie, and a myriad of majestic creeks and meadows that provide fantastic opportunities to relish in the wonder of wilderness. Once at camp, we’ll relax in preparation for tomorrow’s big climb up Pyramid Peak.

• Elevation Gain/Loss: 1600 feet

Today is another major gem of this trip! We’ll have a quick breakfast and get an early start to beat potential afternoon thunderstorms, as we’re heading high onto the exposed slopes of Pyramid Peak (12,030 feet). We first hike to Pyramid Lake, an alpine lake hemmed in between Midsummer Dome and Pyramid Peak, two impressive summits. We’ll continue west below Midsummer Dome and work our way up the scree slopes of Pyramid Peak to its summit. The views from up here extend across the entire mountain range. We’re also able to see Gannett Peak, which is the tallest peak in Wyoming.

After we summit we’ll return to camp and have a relaxing evening, hearty dinner and roaring campfire in celebration of our amazing day!

• Elevation Gain: 500 feet
• Elevation Loss: 900 feet

Today begins our loop hike back to our starting point. We’ll hike down the East Fork Valley, which is a broad valley characterized by big meadows and beautiful aspen forests. We’ll cut over to Marm’s Lake, where we’ll camp for the evening. Marm’s Lake provides another great opportunity for any guests interested in fishing.

• Hiking Mileage: 7 miles
• Elevation Gain: 600 feet
• Elevation Loss: 1400 feet
• Shuttle to Jackson Hole: 3 hours

Our final day takes us back to the Big Sandy River and our starting point. We’ll keep our eyes out for moose, as the meadows and wetlands of this area are great moose habitat! A final shuttle ride back to Jackson Hole provides a wonderful opportunity to relax, take in the scenery on this amazing drive, and contemplate the life-changing adventure you’ve just completed.

Please Note : We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however it can change occasionally based on temporary access restrictions, weather, lodging/campground availability, guest ability/injury, natural events like fires and flooding, and other potential causes. Normal  terms and conditions  apply to trips with itinerary changes.

Trip Dates & Booking

Trip dates & booking.

Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.

AVAILABLE TO BOOK

This trip is available and bookable online! Click on the date to register now or contact us online to book through our award-winning customer service team!

This trip has 1 or 2 spots remaining and is bookable online! Click on the date to book now or contact us online to book through customer service.

REQUEST A RESERVATION

This trip is exclusively booked through customer service due to logistics with lodging, permits, staffing, availability, or something else. Please contact us online or call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453) to request a reservation.

Don't see your dates? Call us! We may be able to add new trip dates.

Trip details, what's included.

• Pack llamas to transport the majority of gear and food
• Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See  Guide Bios .
• Top-of-the-line tent, backcountry sleeping pad and multi-day backpack
• High quality, synthetic sleeping bag (professionally laundered after every use) – or  bring your own .
• Use of trekking poles
• All meals are included from breakfast the first day through lunch on the last day
• Roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Jackson Hole, WY; Victor, ID or Driggs, ID
• Bear safety equipment including bear spray cannisters and food-hanging gear
• Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device (InReach Explorer or satellite phone)

What's Not Included

• Clothes, raingear, and footwear ( see recommendations )
• Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
• Waterbottles and a headlamp or flashlight
• Guide gratuity (industry recommendation is 10-15% of trip cost)

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about what to pack.

Meals: What To Expect

All of our hiking and backpacking tours include a diversity of tasty meals packed full of critical carbohydrates, proteins and fats. We carry foods that travel well in the backcountry – rice, pastas, lentils, beans, couscous, packaged meats, nuts, breads, oatmeal, granola, and more.

For optimal taste and energy, we supplement all our meals with spices, herbs, oils, cheeses, butter, sugar, and fruits and vegetables (fresh and dried). In addition, we provide you with with an assortment of trail mix, snacks, and dried fruits to eat at your own discretion.

We regularly accommodate vegan, vegetarian, kosher and non-gluten diets and will make adjustments for food allergies. These and other special dietary requests may require an additional fee.

Gear We Provide

We provide all group gear which includes the following:

• Deuter or Osprey backpacks
• Sierra Designs or Mountain Hardware tents
• Sierra Designs, Big Agnes and Mountain Hardware synthetic-fill sleeping bags (or  bring your own )
• Thermarest or Big Agnes sleeping pads
• Leki trekking poles
• Mountain Safety Research cooking stoves
• Mountain Safety Research cookware
• Bear spray cannisters and food-hanging gear
• Company-issued first-aid kit
• Emergency communication device(s)

Guest Packing List

When you register for this tour you’ll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list specific to this trip ( click here to see it now.) All trips require a sturdy pair of hiking shoes or hiking boots, rain gear, a recommended clothing system, a headlamp or flashlight, a hydration system (water bottles and/or bladder) and other items specific to each trip.

Additionally, some guests choose to bring their own sleeping bag. We supply high quality, synthetic fill bags that are professionally laundered after every trip. Synthetic fill is non-allergenic, insulates when damp and stands up well to repeated washings, but is heavier and bulkier than down. If you’re able to bring your own  down  sleeping bag, there are  multiple benefits . If not, we’ve got you covered!

Trip Logistics

Where do we meet.

At 5:00 PM the evening before Day 1, your guide will conduct a virtual orientation meeting (via conference call) at 5:00 PM to review the packing list, communicate the first day’s logistics and answer any last minute questions you have. Your guide will give you the phone number for this call during the pre-trip contact, approximately 10 days before your trip start date.

Early on the morning of Day 1 your guide will pick you up from your accommodations in Jackson Hole, Wyoming; Driggs, Idaho; or Victor, Idaho.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.

Travel Details

This trip begins and ends in Jackson, WY, with pick-up also available in Driggs and Victor, ID.

You can fly into:

• Jackson Hole – some hotels and A Black Car Service (307-413-2572, advanced reservations recommended) provide airport shuttles. Daily shuttles to Driggs and Victor provided by START Bus (Teton Valley Commuter)
• Idaho Falls – small, more affordable airport; Salt Lake Express (208-656-8824) offers 2 daily shuttles between Idaho Falls and Jackson.
• Salt Lake City – Salt Lake Express (208-656-8824) and Alltrans (800-652-9510) offer daily shuttles (4.5 hours). Advance reservations required.

Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging

We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Jackson, Wyoming as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly to our team to check availability.

Start/End Times

You can expect the first day’s pick-up time to be between 5 and 7 am, although the exact time will depend on current weather and road conditions. We will drop you off at your hotel on the final day no later than 7 PM.

Safety Precautions

Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.

If you have any further questions about safety, please contact us at  1-800-715-HIKE (4453)  for more information.

Essential Eligibility Criteria

Essential Eligibility Criteria (“EEC”)  have been specifically identified to help you understand the skills and abilities necessary to participate on each Wildland trip, and they apply uniformly to all potential trip participants, irrespective of the presence or absence of any disability.

Once you identify a trip in which you may be interested, please carefully review the  EEC  and itinerary details. If after reviewing the EEC that apply to your desired trip, you determine you need an accommodation in order to meet the EEC, please  contact us  prior to registering to discuss your requested accommodation.

The EEC exist for your own safety and the safety and enjoyment of all participants. If you are unable to meet the EEC for the trip, with or without an accommodation, you are not eligible for that trip. If you register and arrive for a trip for which you do not meet the EEC, you will be disqualified from participation on the trip and will be dismissed or evacuated from the trip without a refund.

Hiking with Llamas

Ideally you desire to be on a trip with llamas, by this we mean that a trip with stock animals is different than a backpacking trip in many ways. One big difference is that it takes time for your guide to get all the animals loaded and ready to go in the morning and to unload gear and care for them once we arrive in camp. Also the pace of a llama trip can be a bit slower than you would walk without a pack and you’ll be expected to hike with the group.

On a llama trip the animals tend to take on a focus of the trip. These trips are most rewarding when the clients want to interact with and help out with caring for the llamas. The tradeoff for not having to carry a large backpack is that llamas do require extra work from their guide/handlers. If you are choosing a llama trip solely on the basis of not having to carry a backpack and do not wish to interact with a llama, you need to speak honestly with your Adventure Consultant about this and potentially add another Wildland Guide to your trip to cover the extra workload of caring for the llamas.

Weather Around Yellowstone

Being a Northern mountain environment, the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is prone to sudden temperature and weather shifts. This is an exciting aspect of being in Wyoming’s mountains. On trips in June, snow is a slight possibility, and the rest of the summer you’re likely to get rained on at least once during your trip. To be fully prepared, please follow the recommended clothing list closely (this list comes as part of your trip packet when you register). See below for average summer temperatures around Yellowstone:

Average Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

• Accommodations

BACKCOUNTRY SLEEPING

Tent camping.

Sleeping on this trip is in premier 1-person, 2-person or 4-person backcountry tents. Solo travelers, and anyone else who requests it, are issued single tents. Top-of-the-line self-inflating sleeping pads and synthetic-fill sleeping bags (professionally laundered after every trip) are also provided.

BACKCOUNTRY CUISINE

Fresh & delicious.

Meals from breakfast Day 1 through lunch the last day are fully included and prepared by your guide. We never use dehydrated backpacking meals, instead serving freshly prepared, delicious backcountry cuisine made with a variety of common and specialty ingredients that travel well in the wilderness.

AMAZING CAMPSITES

In the action.

Of course campsites vary tremendously by destination, trip and even by the individual day of a trip. However, you can expect to camp in beautiful areas that put you right in the action to make the most of your backpacking adventure. We carefully design our itineraries with campsites in mind.

Trip Reviews

Average customer ratings:.

• 5.0 (17 reviews)
• Most recent

Truly unforgettable and life-changing experience.

Casey, Rosey, and Robert were excellent guides who kept us safe and well-fed. Their planning, expertise, and focus helped me to move beyond my comfort zone to make for a truly unforgettable and life-changing experience. I was especially appreciative of their efforts to accommodate my personal and dietary needs.

Amazing Journey

Our lama assisted Wind River Range seven day trek did not disappoint! What an amazing adventure we had with Casey, Rosey and Robert leading the way! Rosey is an amazing cook and I appreciated the fresh and delicious food we ate at each meal. I completely fell in love with the lamas and especially my boy Robbie! What a sweet and affectionate lama he is. We had a wonderful group of people who bonded, sang and laughed together during our amazing journey! Thank you Casey, Rosey and Robert! I hope to see you on a future adventure!

It was phenomenal

This was our second year in a row using WT, and once again, it proved to be an excellent choice! The trip as a whole, the hikes, the food, & the guides were phenomenal! Rosey and Casey did a fantastic job-from planning and preparation, to educating us throughout the week on various things. The llamas definitely made the trip even better and was one of the highlights for me personally! Jethro definitely filled the void of not having my 2 dogs for the entire week! Once again, I will have to admit that i was super impressed with everything…from planning/prep, to signing up, to taking the actual trip! I’m already looking into trips for next year! This is becoming an annual thing for us!!! Thanks again WT!

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I'm not sure I've ever heard of a one day let alone 1/2 day activity called a "trek." Could you share a link to what you're considering? Since riding llamas is not something anyone generally sees I don't understand the purpose of having llamas if they're not packing gear and food for an overnight stay. Googled but only found overnight references. Intrigued.

Which company are you thinking going with?

Yellowstone Llamas has a day hiking tour with llamas. The following is their description:

Llama Day Hike *Season: June 1 – October 30

Rate: $290* per person

Rate incudes picnic lunch and beverages.

*based on a minimum of 4 participants. Please ask us for smaller parties or parties over 8. Gratuities are not included.

https://yellowstonellamas.com/llama-treks/details-pricing

*****************

It sounds like it's a hike where you lead llamas that are hauling your lunch and chairs to sit on.

I would probably want to know what trail they go on, specifically what type of terrain the trail goes through. Will you be hiking on a trail that has a big "bang for the buck" feeling that you wouldn't get if you weren't leading a llama on the hike.

I think it would be neat to do a multi-day hiking trip with the llamas carrying everything, but I personally don't know if it would be worth it for me to do it for just a day hike, even with the educational component to it. Whether or not it is worth it for you is subjective and something only you can decide.

If you want to do just a guided day hike without having llamas carrying your lunch and chairs, you can look at Yellowstone Hiking Guides to see if they have a hiking tour that might be more of what you're looking for.

https://www.yellowstonehikingguides.com/hiking-tours

Post #23 has a "review" of the Lamar Valley Safari Hike and post #24 has a "review" of the Upper Geyser Basin Hike that Novatrix took through Yellowstone Hiking Guides during her trip last summer.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g60999-i481-k13597967-o20-July_3rd_to_16th_2021_YNP_GTNP_Trip_Report-Yellowstone_National_Park_Wyoming.html

I actually seriously considered a llama trek near Glacier, but for a multiday back country trip so I didn't have to carry all my gear. Like #2, I'm not sure a half day would be worth it, unless you are just really into llamas, or the hike goes somewhere amazing and hard to do on your own.

Check out hike734.com He has good descriptions, and usually videos, of the different trails so you can get an idea of what you'd like to see.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Daily Llama Treks

Swan Mountain Llama Trekking offers a wide spectrum of things to do near Glacier National Park Montana. Whether you only have half a day and are looking for something novel and different or you have all day, we can accommodate you. We offer several types of llama treks that easily fit into any vacation to the area:

• 1/2-Day Llama Trek plus Lunch
• All Day Llama Trek plus Lunch
• Evening 3-hour Wine & Cheese Llama Trek
• 3-hour  Llama Packing Clinic

Custom Daily Llama Trek Adventure

Half day llama trek plus lunch.

Hikers should arrive at the Swan Mountain Ranch at 9:30 am for their lunch date with a llama. Guests will then follow the guides in their vehicles, taking a 15 minute drive to Upper Bond trail head in the Flathead National Forest. At the trailhead, the guides will load hiking and lunch gear on the llamas, and prepare guests with a safety speech and instruction on how to hike with llamas. Guests can choose to lead or hike with their own llama, or hike without a llama (the guides can lead your llama at any time throughout the hike). The half-day llama trek includes a moderate 2.3 mile hike (4.6 mile round-trip) with an elevation gain of 800 ft to beautiful Bond Falls. After arriving at Bond Falls, guides will prepare a creek side lunch including a wide array of deli meats, cheeses, spreads, bread, veggies, fruits and yummy snacks. On hot summer days, some guests take a dip in the refreshing swim-hole at Bond Falls! After enjoying the sights and sounds of Bond Falls and the respite of nature, hikers, llamas, and guides trek back to the trailhead, concluding the trip around 2:00 pm. If you like to hike with poles, it may be a good idea to bring along them along for the hike back down the steep parts of the trail. During peak season llamas may be shared between 2 hikers. In these cases, each guest will be able to lead the llama for half of the trip.

Check Availability

All Day Llama Trek Plus Lunch

Guests need to arrive at Swan Mountain Ranch at 8:30 am for their all day guided llama trekking adventure. Once everyone has arrived, we will give a llama orientation and trail safety speech. Guests then follow their guide in their own vehicles to the trailhead. We will drive with trailered llamas in tow to the Upper Bond trail in the Flathead National Forest. Upon arrival, we will unload guests and llamas, pack up our lunch provisions and chairs, and head out onto the trail. Guests will trek along this winding trail, crossing bond creek over a charming log bridge. You can’t beat the lush flora and may have a chance to pick some seasonal berries. We take a break to dip our toes in the water and enjoy lunch at the waterfall. Ambitious hikers can make it all the way to bond lake in one day, or you may choose to take it easy and set a relaxed pace. Whichever you choose there is plenty to enjoy along this breathtaking trail. During peak season llamas may be shared between 2 hikers. In these cases, each guest will be able to lead the llama for half of the trip. Don’t forget to stop in and say hi to Joe & Jocelyn at the Swan Trading Post. They serve the famed Huckleberry Ice Cream – a Montana must!

Evening 3 hour Wine & Cheese Llama Trek

Guests arrive at Swan Mountain Ranch at 4:30 pm for their wine and cheese affair with a llama. Guests then follow their guide in their own vehicles taking a 15 minute drive to the Upper Bond Trailhead. There, we will pack the llamas with our goodies, chairs, tables, etc. and then head out into the Flathead National Forest after a briefing on llama facts and safety. Guests will trek along the winding trail, for a short one mile hike, crossing Bond Creek over the charming log bridge. We will dine creekside where we can drink up the beauty of the Swan Valley as the llamas watch us partake in the spoils they were kind enough to pack in for us.  Don’t be shocked if we slip in a little chocolate in our basket to “cleanse” the taste buds before we lead our llamas back to the trailhead. During peak season llamas may be shared between 2 hikers. In these cases, each guest will be able to lead the llama for half of the trip.

3 hour Llama Packing Clinic

We consistently hear from the guests of our trips that they would like to learn more about our animals and how to pack. As a result, Swan Mountain Llama Trekking has designed a very unique and perhaps one-of-a-kind llama packing & trekking clinic. Unlike most of our trips, where our llama guides essentially pack our llamas and go, this special llama excursion emphasizes training our guests on the ins and outs of llama packing and trekking. We will cover a wide array of topics including: history of llamas; behavior of llamas; training llamas-basics for the purpose of packing; llama packing equipment; llama packing dos and don’ts; planning llama treks; safety and first aid on llama treks; llama catching, trailering, storage and feed, and; resources for the do-it-yourself llama trekker. Guests will arrive at Swan Mountain Ranch at a predetermined time where we will teach you how to saddle and pack the llamas followed by a brief walk around the property. For those of you that are interested in the llamas and not so much the hiking this is a great option for you.

Planning a special event, or having a corporate retreat, family reunion, or wedding in Northwest Montana?  Why not work with Swan Mountain Llama Trekking to create a custom llama trek or llama based activity.  We can host groups at Swan Mountain Ranch for your custom llama trek or can trailer llamas to your facility.  We enjoy planning unique events and llama-based adventures, so give us a call and let’s plan a one-of-a-kind llama adventure together! Click here to learn more about Custom Llama Trek Adventures.

Discover why Swan Mountain Llama Trekking is your family’s best choice for things to do near Glacier National Park !

Current trip pricing, llama pack trips & rates.

Group discounts of 10% off are available for groups of 6 or more.

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A1 – Elementary

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Pre-A1 – STARTERS

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Practice FCE (B2) Listening Test 29 with Answers and Audioscripts

• FCE (B2) Listening Tests

Listening Part 1

You will hear people talking in eight different situations. For questions 1-8 , choose the best answer A , B or C .

1   You hear a student talking to her tutor about studying history at university.

      What does the student say about studying history?

      A    It will provide her with some valuable skills.

      B   It is necessary for the career she has chosen.

      C   It wasn’t her first choice of subject.

2   You hear a man talking about poetry.

      What is he doing?

      A    describing differences between poetry and other literature

      B   persuading people to get involved in writing poetry

      C   explaining why a popular belief about poetry is incorrect

3   You hear a young woman talking about having studied abroad.

      What does she say about it?

      A    It helped her get a job in the field she wanted.

      B   It wasn’t an easy thing to have done.

      C   It gave interviewers an incorrect impression of her.

4   You hear two students talking about a lecture on choosing colours for websites.

      What do they agree about?

      A    how important it is to keep a consistent image

      B   how useful it is to adapt websites for different countries

      C   how interesting it is to study the use of colour on websites.

5   You hear a tutor discussing a student’s work with him.

      What is the purpose of their conversation?

      A    to discuss the student’s ideas for an essay he’s working on

      B   to check the student understands the point of some feedback

      C   to help the student think of ways to improve his work

6   You hear a woman talking about a hobby she has taken up.

      What does she think about it?

      A    It isn’t worth the effort required.

      B   It’s harder than she expected it to be.

      C   The teacher’s instructions aren’t always clear.

7   You hear two friends discussing a film adaptation of a book they have read.

      The students agree that the film adaptation

      A    was unnecessarily different from the book.

      B   failed to get the point of the story across.

      C   must have been disappointing for the book’s author.

8   You hear a student talking about giving a presentation to his class.

      How did he feel about it at first?

      A    determined to prepare as well as he could

      B   unwilling to use techniques people had suggested

      C   convinced he wouldn’t be able to do it well

Answer & Audioscript

1 A   2 C   3 B   4 C   5 B   6 B   7 A   8 C

Audioscripts

1    You hear a student talking to her tutor about studying history at university.

A :   So, what are you going to study at university, then?

B :   History. I wasn’t sure whether it’d be useful for a career at first, but you can’t overlook the way history helps us gain an understanding of the world around us – and why it is the way it is today. I mean, if we understand how people have lived through the ages, we can make informed decisions about the present. That doesn’t mean I’m thinking of a career as a world leader, but I’m sure I’ll learn how to make reasoned arguments and other things like that – which is bound to help me, whatever field I work in later .

A :   Definitely!

2    You hear a man talking about poetry.

As a poet, I’m often asked what the value of poetry is. In my experience, quite a few people think it’s limiting and that ideas can be expressed much more easily in prose – you know, ordinary written language. Yet you can convey just as much feeling in poetry and address any subject in as much depth as a work of fiction . It makes no more sense to ask what the point of poetry is than to ask what the point of a story is. It’s simply another form of expression and I love the fact that I can say a lot in just a few words.

3    You hear a young woman talking about having studied abroad.

I studied abroad and when it came to job interviews, it appeared to give me an advantage over other candidates. Employers seemed to be convinced I must be more confident and self-reliant than if I hadn’t done it. I suppose everyone imagines you’re bound to be sure of yourself if you’ve done something many people wouldn’t do. Actually, I was as nervous as anyone else would have been, but I survived on my own for a year in a foreign country with all its challenges . I feel a sense of achievement about that, so perhaps the interviewers were right. I still need to find my perfect career, though!

4    You hear two students talking about a lecture on choosing colours for websites.

A :   What a fascinating lecture! The importance of choosing the right colours for a global website never crossed my mind .

B :   I already knew different colours mean different things in different cultures – so it makes sense to think about how choice of colour affects how successful a website is. I was totally absorbed in the lecturer’s arguments, though .

A :   I thought the approach some companies take was a good solution – you know, changing the colours of their site according to the country they’re marketing products in.

B :   Well, I’d use a universally-safe colour, like blue. It maintains a uniform appearance for the company.

5    You hear a tutor discussing a student’s work with him.

A :   Have you had chance to read through the comments I made on your latest essay?

B :   Yes. I thought what you said was fair, though I wasn’t sure what you meant by working on justifying my arguments.

A :   Well, it’s never enough to make broad statements without backing up what you’re saying – with references to reading you’ve done on a subject.

B :   You mean, providing more evidence for why I think what I’m saying is right?

A :   Precisely . You’re not the only student in the class who needs to work on this a little more, so I’m going to spend a bit of time this week on helping you get your head around it.

6    You hear a woman talking about a hobby she has taken up.

A :   How’s that drumming workshop you’ve been going to?

B :   Well, I’m not that musical as you know – though I’ve always wanted to learn an instrument. I thought learning the drums would be easy enough because there’s no melody to follow and I don’t have to read music. You know what, though? I have trouble keeping up with some of the rhythms the teacher shows us. It isn’t necessarily the speed – it’s remembering the beat patterns that I struggle with, I hadn’t realised there’d be so much effort involved , but the end result is awesome – when the whole group’s in time with each other and we get it right.

A :   I can imagine.

7    You hear two friends discussing a film adaptation of a book they have read.

A :   What did you think of that film adaptation of The Silver Birds ? It’s so frustrating when they take a great story and alter the ending so it’s nothing like the original .

B :   They make the film because the book’s been a bestseller. Surely that would make you question the idea of changing things . If I was the author I’d be pretty annoyed …

A :   Wasn’t he involved in writing the screenplay, though? Anyway, I don’t think the message of the book was interpreted correctly.

B :   That’s one thing I wasn’t disappointed with, actually. Anyway, I guess they change stuff to appeal to the widest audience possible.

8    You hear a student talking about giving a presentation to his class.

When we were told we had to give a presentation as part of a course I was doing, my immediate reaction was that I’d be way too nervous to make a decent job of it . But I couldn’t back out of it – not because I needed to prove anything to myself – but because the teacher gave us no option! People advise you to do all kinds of stuff like practising delivering your speech in front of a mirror and all that – some of it sounds a bit strange. I didn’t want to overwhelm myself getting ready for the presentation, so I just visualised myself making a success of it – which I did.

Listening Part 2

You will hear a weather forecaster called Laura Armstrong talking about her work. For questions 9-18 , complete the sentences with a word or short phrase.

Laura Armstrong: weather forecaster

Laura currently works as a weather forecaster at a ( 9 ) ………………………… station.

Laura refers to what forecasters call weather ( 10 ) ………………………… before she makes a forecast each day.

Part of Laura’s job on ‘big weather days’ is to provide ( 11 ) ………………………… and maintain website information.

Laura’s interest in the weather grew from a fear of ( 12 ) ………………………… when she was younger.

Laura says the most important skill in weather forecasting is deciding what ( 13 ) ………………………… mean.

Laura initially did a ( 14 ) ………………………… course, unlike many other weather forecasters.

Laura says forecasters are often criticised for not being ( 15 ) ………………………… enough in their predictions.

Laura is interested in discovering more about ( 16 ) ………………………… later in her career.

Laura says it is possible to gain work experience in the ( 17 ) ………………………… section of a weather organisation.

Laura has given weather forecasts at important sports events, like a ( 18 ) ………………………… competition last year.

9 (local) television / TV   10 models

11 warnings   12 thunderstorms / thunder storms

13 patterns   14 business

15 accurate   16 climate change

17 membership   18 tennis

I’m a weather forecaster, which means I study what happens in the atmosphere and the weather conditions that this causes on Earth. People are always surprised to learn that forecasters aren’t just involved in weather reporting on TV – although that’s what I do on a local station – but you could work at a radio station, too, or as an advisor to transport services and so on.

On a daily basis, there’s a lot of data collection and observation involved, as well as detailed study of what are known in the field as weather models. These are sophisticated computer programs – without them, forecasters would find it much more difficult to predict the weather. After looking at these and doing a bit of maths, I’m eventually ready to make short and longer-term forecasts .

Things can get hectic on ‘big weather days’ when there’s more serious weather about. Forecasters spend most of their time putting together reports for TV or radio stations and other customers. When there’s something major going on, though, we have to be extra vigilant – I know the public will be checking the weather maps on the station’s website – and it’s vital that I issue warnings for heavy snow, or whatever, as quickly as possible .

I often get asked how I got interested in weather. Believe it or not, as a teenager I became nervous of thunderstorms and I’d often check the forecasts to see if any were coming . However, where we lived was more prone to flooding and strong winds than thunderstorms, so I should have been more nervous about those! Anyway, from there my interest developed .

If you are thinking of going into weather forecasting there are some important skills you’ll need. You have to be good at science, of course, though the key thing is having an ability to interpret patterns . You won’t go too far wrong with that. Another useful skill is being able to translate a forecast into something people at home can understand.

Most weather experts study physics and maths before going on to do a more specialised course in forecasting. My own way in was somewhat different as I did a business degree before getting into television as a researcher . I moved around quite a lot at the station and eventually ended up in the weather department, where I did my training.

People often complain that weather reports aren’t totally accurate – but we aren’t usually too far out on short-term forecasts. Longer-term ones are trickier and that’s where we get criticism. We can only make predictions based on the data available. And no one complains when the weather is better than we predicted!

Besides being reporters, some weather experts carve out a career in research – something I’d like to get involved in later . There are lots of possibilities, such as ocean forecasting, climate change – which is an area I’d like to focus on – investigating specific types of weather and so on.

It’s tough getting a position without experience. If you’re lucky you might get a work experience placement at a weather organisation. The central weather office tends to offer placements in their membership department . Even doing basic administration for them will improve your chances.

I love my work and have been lucky enough to do some interesting things. My team’s often asked to advise on likely weather conditions for things like major sports competitions such as golf or sailing. Twelve months ago I presented the weather forecast during a tennis tournament ! The weather’s different every day, so it’s a rewarding job.

Any questions?

Listening Part 3

You will hear five short extracts in which people are talking about the benefits of volunteering. For questions 19-23 , choose from the list A-H what each speaker says. Use the letters only once. There are three extra letters which you do not need to use.

A    I developed leadership skills.

B    I discovered a natural talent.

C    It made me feel part of the wider community.

D    It opened up a new career opportunity for me.

E   It increased my confidence.

F   It motivated me to improve my own life.

G    I made great friends for life.

H    I understood the importance of teamwork for the first time.

19    Speaker 1

20    Speaker 2

21    Speaker 3

22    Speaker 4

23    Speaker 5

19 D   20 H   21 B   22 A   23 F

I used to volunteer at a community theatre, where I helped out making costumes and preparing scenery. I’d been into sewing all my life and spent most of my spare time making cool clothes for myself and my friends. It’s important to keep your skills up to date and working at the theatre helped me do more of what I already loved. I guess what I didn’t expect was the chance that arose out of it to set myself up as a theatre costume designer . Simply through talking to other professionals in the team, it came to light that there was a real need for someone with my talents in the region.

Volunteering at an animal sanctuary during my student holidays was unforgettable. Not only did I love spending time caring for the animals, which I’d never done before, but I also met people from all walks of life. Sharing tasks and responsibility for the animals made me suddenly grasp the value of pulling together with my new friends to reach a common goal – I hadn’t considered that before . It’s something that I’ll take with me into the professional community after I finish my studies. I’m unlikely to take up an animal-related career or see those people again, but it was a fabulous experience.

It was a childhood friend who got me into volunteering. She loves children and asked me to go and help out at a day nursery with a small team of other volunteers in our town. Although I wouldn’t have said dealing with kids was where my own skills lay, I found that I seemed to instinctively know what they wanted . I wouldn’t say I felt confident enough to do anything professionally in that field, like teaching or whatever, but it got me thinking about what else I could try that I might be good at, and it was a good life skill to learn.

I’ve always thought of myself as a good team player and I enjoy working with others. Since studying psychology at university, I’ve become interested in how different personalities complement and inspire each other within a group. I suppose that’s what made me take on a role guiding others when I volunteered at a sports charity . I can’t say I was a natural and I’d always thought you needed to be a really confident person to direct other people, but I think I chose to do it so I could get involved in something I truly cared about. I’m glad I did, ‘cause I’m pretty good at it now !

I have strong maths skills and when I heard about a student mentoring scheme I had to give it a go. I helped school students in my town who were struggling with the subject. It was fantastic to see how they gained confidence in something they weren’t enjoying. I identified with them because I felt the same about foreign languages. I’d always wanted to work abroad but without a language I knew it’d be difficult. On the back of volunteering I got a French tutor . I’m still not that sure of myself when I speak in French but I thought, if I can help other people, I can help myself, too.

Listening Part 4

You will hear part of an interview with a language expert called Rod Chambers, who is talking about languages which are at risk of disappearing. For questions 24-30 , choose the best answer A , B or C .

24   How did Rob become interested in saving endangered languages?

      A    He studied endangered languages during his time at university.

      B   He met a group of people whose language was endangered.

      C   He saw the effects of the issue on his own family.

25   When talking about why languages become extinct, Rod says that

      A    parents tend not to consider the language choices they make.

      B   people recognise the need to be able to communicate widely.

      C   some schools refuse to continue teaching minority languages.

26   What does Rob say about the ways in which languages can be saved?

      A    Some of the ideas are less helpful than others.

      B   Promoting a minority language is easier than people think.

      C   The methods won’t be successful without public support.

27   When talking about the importance of keeping languages alive, Rod says that

      A    languages can be compared to living creatures.

      B   there are more important global issues to deal with.

      C   the matter of culture loss isn’t taken seriously enough.

28   What does Rod say about working on his current project?

      A    He likes listening to people’s life stories.

      B   He prefers to focus on examples of natural speech.

      C   He doesn’t enjoy examining grammatical forms.

29   Rod says that data collected as part of language-saving projects can

      A    inform youngsters about their own family history.

      B   be used in teacher training courses.

      C   help a language come back into use.

30   What does Rod say listeners can do to help save languages?

      A    Encourage native speakers to use their language more.

      B   Attend foreign language classes in their local area.

      C   Approach experts to help on recording languages.

24 B   25 B   26 C   27 A   28 B   29 C   30 A

Interviewer :   Rod, you work in the field of saving endangered languages. What does that mean and how did you become involved in it?

Rod Chambers :   An endangered language is one at risk of disappearing – nobody’s learning it as a first language. I did a degree in communication – though decided against doing a course on the theme of endangered languages at that point. The issue had actually been staring me in the face my whole life – my grandparents speak a language with a limited population of speakers. Yet it was only when I visited an isolated community while I was travelling the world after university that I realised the importance of the matter . I could see that the younger people had moved away for work, so who would the language be passed on to?

Interviewer :   Why do languages stop being spoken?

Rod Chambers :   As technology’s spread, communication across the world has improved, and schools have focused on teaching international languages like English – rather than minority languages. It’s a pity but it’s understandable. People, such as those in the business world, are aware that they have to be able to speak to others in the global society , and parents may just stop using the minority language at home because they want their children to succeed in communicating in an international language.

Interviewer :   Is it possible to save a language?

Rod Chambers :   Yes – with a lot of determination from the whole community – including those who speak the majority language. Some simple measures can be taken. For example, putting up road signs or launching a local TV station in the minority language, or printing official literature in that language can help people recognise it as a part of their community. These options aren’t without their challenges – but there’s plenty that can be done, provided communities are willing .

Interviewer :   Is it really worth all that effort, though?

Rod Chambers :   Of course! It’s tempting to think there are greater concerns, such as saving our rainforests or protecting endangered animal species. In a way, though, these are quite similar to a minority language ! A lot of identity and culture is bound up in a language – so if you lose a language, you risk losing what may be thousands of years’ worth of tradition and knowledge along with it.

Interviewer :   And you’re currently recording a language that’s becoming extinct?

Rod Chambers :   Right – there’re only a handful of speakers left and I’ve been recording some of them speaking the language. I focus on capturing as much natural language as possible , so I might get the person to talk about their childhood, for example. Questions about grammar can be difficult for interviewees to answer and not particularly helpful for me. Later, I listen carefully to the recordings and analyse the structures and vocabulary.

Interviewer :   What happens with the data you’ve collected?

Rod Chambers :   The material can be used as an important teaching tool. This means that current and future generations of children can listen to and learn about their ancestors’ language. In some cases languages are revived – brought back to life in other words – and taught as a second language in schools, which is an attempt to maintain that connection with the past.

Interviewer :   What can listeners do if they’re interested in language-saving projects?

Rod Chambers :   Several things. If your relatives or people in your local community speak an endangered language, persuade them to talk to you in it, so you can learn it and pass it on to your own children . Being surrounded by it will be enough without the need to ask for lessons. Or you can make your own recordings of people speaking and upload them onto an online database – don’t worry about doing any analysis – the experts will do that. That’s it really.

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Llama trekking - Yellowstone National Park Forum

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I'm not sure I've ever heard of a one day let alone 1/2 day activity called a "trek." Could you share a link to what you're considering? Since riding llamas is not something anyone generally sees I don't understand the purpose of having llamas if they're not packing gear and food for an overnight stay. Googled but only found overnight references. Intrigued.

Which company are you thinking going with?

Yellowstone Llamas has a day hiking tour with llamas. The following is their description:

Llama Day Hike *Season: June 1 – October 30

Rate: $290* per person

Rate incudes picnic lunch and beverages.

*based on a minimum of 4 participants. Please ask us for smaller parties or parties over 8. Gratuities are not included.

https://yellowstonellamas.com/llama-treks/details-pricing

*****************

It sounds like it's a hike where you lead llamas that are hauling your lunch and chairs to sit on.

I would probably want to know what trail they go on, specifically what type of terrain the trail goes through. Will you be hiking on a trail that has a big "bang for the buck" feeling that you wouldn't get if you weren't leading a llama on the hike.

I think it would be neat to do a multi-day hiking trip with the llamas carrying everything, but I personally don't know if it would be worth it for me to do it for just a day hike, even with the educational component to it. Whether or not it is worth it for you is subjective and something only you can decide.

If you want to do just a guided day hike without having llamas carrying your lunch and chairs, you can look at Yellowstone Hiking Guides to see if they have a hiking tour that might be more of what you're looking for.

https://www.yellowstonehikingguides.com/hiking-tours

Post #23 has a "review" of the Lamar Valley Safari Hike and post #24 has a "review" of the Upper Geyser Basin Hike that Novatrix took through Yellowstone Hiking Guides during her trip last summer.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g60999-i481-k13597967-o20-July_3rd_to_16th_2021_YNP_GTNP_Trip_Report-Yellowstone_National_Park_Wyoming.html

I actually seriously considered a llama trek near Glacier, but for a multiday back country trip so I didn't have to carry all my gear. Like #2, I'm not sure a half day would be worth it, unless you are just really into llamas, or the hike goes somewhere amazing and hard to do on your own.

Check out hike734.com He has good descriptions, and usually videos, of the different trails so you can get an idea of what you'd like to see.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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