See how I’ve helped others just like you!
Fresh air, exercise, and a welcoming atmosphere without all the planning. Dozens of excursions and I loved them all! Thank you, Chris!
These trips have been an awesome way to explore new places in Iowa I wouldn’t go on my own! Off-trail hiking is wild but is a lot of fun and I always feel safe! And it’s always easy to strike up a conversation with new people!
I was hesitant at first to try new things but managed to overcome fears with the support of Chris and the team! And with my busy schedule, not having to do the planning was a bonus! My family and I have been enjoying trips with Iowa Explorers and all the friends we’ve made along the way for years now… we feel welcome on these events and always feel joy!
How many groups throw a random smattering of people together united by something so awesome as a love for the outdoors and a desire to explore as much of it as possible? As our society has grown ever more disconnected, both from other people and from the lands we all inhabit, it’s so great to be part of a group that celebrates both the glorious gifts of the natural world and the glorious gifts of each other. People sharing their time, talents, and resources while adventuring together is such a treat, and having it facilitated by a talented and caring guide like Chris is an incredible privilege.
Iowa Explorers has been the best thing to come into my life in a long time. I am eternally grateful for what it has helped me find in myself. As a social introvert I forced myself to join a creek hike a couple years ago, but now have several new lifelong friends! I’m exhilarated after having accomplished things I never would have done without the support of this group. Outdoor lovers are the greatest people, and discovering Iowa Explorers was a blessing! Thank you Chris!
“I was hesitant attending my first outing, but found warm and open people who love and respect nature! Chris is in his element, sharing his love of nature and is organized, inviting and extremely well planned… always. I’ve developed many wonderful relationships on numerous events and feel fortunate to
be involved with Iowa Explorers!”
“The people are so
friendly and welcoming, and Chris is a fantastic leader. I realized quickly that I could trust him as we ventured off trail and loved how encouraging he is!
“Chris is the BEST guide and I always have a great time on his trips!”
“Chris and the others are always welcoming and I enjoy not having to do the heavy lifting of planning trips! Chris has shown me trails (or found his own) to places I never would have found. Iowa Explorers has lived up to its name!
“Chris makes every event fun and interesting, and we’ve seen parts of Iowa we never would have found on our own! My husband and I have met new outdoor-loving people and are so happy to be part of this! We look forward to many more years of adventures with Chris!“
“I can’t say enough good things about Chris and the people I’ve met attending these trips! Chris has taken me to great places I’d never heard of. Even in places I’d already been, he surprised me by taking us to new sights and trails I hadn’t discovered!”
One of dozens of adventures Susanna has been part of with Iowa Explorers.
Growing up on a farm in Iowa, Susanna had always loved nature but didn’t have much experience and was afraid of heights.
Despite her fears, she found Iowa Explorers and discovered places she never imagined existed in Iowa and made a lot of friends, learning lots of skills along the way. But it wasn’t always easy. She had trepidation with heights and at times hesitated navigating difficult terrain.
But she persevered, quickly becoming an avid backpacker She was drawn to the mountains, and after several years with Iowa Explorers, began overcoming her fear, accompanying me & another friend to summit the 3rd highest peak in North America!
And she was just getting started!
After taking several mountaineering courses she eventually summited Denali, a challenging feat requiring several weeks at high altitude in temperatures down to 40 below zero!
I was so proud of her!
She attributes Iowa Explorers for helping her get started! Thank you, Susanna, you are an inspiration!
