- Sunday August 28th, 2022 | 7:30 AM -
- YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park, CO -
AINC Audio Trekkers
On August 28th, the AINC Audio Trekkers Team consisted of nearly 80 hikers! Hikers who are blind/visually impaired hiked with their sighted guides on a beautiful 3 mile round trip hike.
Thanks to generous donors and grants, AINC will was able to provide this experience for FREE to print impaired hikers.
AINC Audio Trekkers was one of many teams on the annual No Barriers USA fundraising hike, What's Your Everest. Erik Weihenmayer, the first blind person to summit Mount Everest, founded No Barriers USA and wanted to challenge others with disabilities to reach beyond their comfort zones in the outdoors. Erik continues to support and attend this hike to inspire others to reach their goals.
Meet the 2022 Audio Trekkers
Trevor Hahn
I love hiking and climbing.
Robert Lamm
To give back to those who need it just like I.
Penn Street
Hiking is what makes me whole.
Evan Starnes
I enjoy hiking and want to promote AINC.
Cynde Vaughn
Live life I create, Limited only by imagination.
Saray Alvarado
To be myself and be successful!
Ellie White
I am a recent graduate of the Colorado Center.
Anthony Mangino
To help support AINC and meet others who use it.
Dean Lewis
I did the hike last year and enjoyed the people.
Melissa Fishburn
Last year was my first hike! I loved it!
Omar Santana
Want to be part of the amazing team!
Tricia Dunne
I need to be back with my people!
Dawn Brady
Reflections from the 2021 Audio Trekkers:
“I lost my job last year during Covid. I wanted to work again, but kept getting nowhere. Standing on the summit motivated me not to give up and two weeks afterwards I received a job offer.”
-Scott, Audio Trekker 2021
“I am a Colorado native and have never hiked before. The hike inspired me to embrace a healthier lifestyle so that next year I will make it to the summit!”
- Melissa, Audio Trekker 2021
“I am a stroke survivor and have felt completely alone for a long time. I used to be active, but the stroke took so much from me. The hike changed me and how I look at what I still can do. I am now a volunteer at my stroke rehabilitation center supporting new stroke survivors on their way back.”
- Kijuana, Audio Trekker 2021
FAQ's
I’ve never hiked before. Can I do this?
Absolutely! We welcome all experience levels, however if you have any underlying conditions, check with your doctor before signing up. We believe in moving beyond your comfort zone to grow and reach goals. The professional mountain guides will be there along the way to support, encourage, and inspire you. If you have specific accessibility questions or concerns, please contact us so that we can ensure everyone reaches their Summit.
I’m an avid hiker. Will I be bored?
No way! You pick the challenge that’s right for you, and we’ll let you lead the charge. You’ll also be hiking alongside people that have climbed the world’s tallest peaks. The hike is about reaching your summit and gaining perspective on what it means to give your absolute best to the world.
If I want to spend the night nearby, is there recommended lodging?
We recommend browsing lodging options at these websites:
Where should I park?
At the YMCA of the Rockies parking lot – wherever you see parking available unless it is specifically marked as restricted.
How far is the hike?
The hike will be 3 miles roundtrip, 700 feel in altitude gain. The official trail is called Glacier Creek Trail, the top point is called Bible Point.
What should I bring?
- Backpack
- Good hiking boots/shoes
- Rain jacket and layers
- Water
- Hiking poles
- Sun hat
- Sun block
- Personal medications
- Camera or cell phone to take pictures
- We will be providing breakfast AND lunch, however, we recommend bringing favorite hiking snacks (sweet and salty)
What's the hike day schedule?
7:30 am: Breakfast will be held at the outdoor pavilion next to the Boone Family Mountain Center at the YMCA of the Rockies (2515 Tunnel Rd, Estes Park, CO 80517)
8:30 am: Pre meeting kickoff – Audio Trekkers to gather at Boone Family Mountain Center.
9:00 am: Hike begins at the Boone Family Mountain Center.
Noon – 2 pm: Post hike barbecue at the outdoor pavilion at the Boone Family Mountain Center. Don’t leave without sharing your story at The AINC Story Booth!
What's the summit?
The hike is only one event of a larger 3 day event. The No Barriers Summit is an annual gathering of people in our community of all abilities to challenge our ideas of what is possible and what we believe we are capable of. This is typically a 3-day event that includes entertainment, adaptive activities and sports, workshops, and inspirational speakers. This year it is August 25-28 at YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado! Learn more at https://nobarriersusa.org/2022summit-frequently-asked-questions/
Meet our sponsors
- Loveland Downtown Lions
- The Gill Lions
- The Gill Millennial Lions
