Question 1

How do I book a tour?

Accepted Answer

All tour reservations are made through our online booking system. Click any "Book a Tour" button on the site and you'll be taken directly to the booking calendar. You can filter by tour type, date, and group size.

Question 2

How many people are on each tour?

Accepted Answer

We keep groups small — minimum 2, maximum 12 participants. This is intentional. Small groups mean more access, more conversation with your guide, and a better overall experience.

Question 3

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Full refunds are available up to 72 hours before your tour. Cancellations within 72 hours may be rescheduled but are not eligible for a refund. Weather-related cancellations initiated by us are always fully refunded or rescheduled.

Question 4

Can I book a private group tour?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer private bookings for groups of 4 or more. Contact us directly to discuss custom itineraries, dates, and pricing.

Question 5

Do you offer gift cards or gift bookings?

Accepted Answer

Not yet, but this is on our roadmap. Sign up on the Coming Soon page and we'll notify you when gift options are available.

Question 6

What should I wear and bring?

Accepted Answer

Comfortable hiking shoes or boots are strongly recommended. Bring water (at least 32oz), a light snack, sunscreen, and a layer for temperature changes. Colorado weather shifts fast—even on summer tours, a light jacket is wise. We'll send a full gear list after booking.

Question 7

How strenuous are the tours?

Accepted Answer

Most of our walking tours involve 2–5 miles of terrain ranging from easy to moderate. Wilderness trips and field research expeditions are more demanding and may involve significant elevation gain. Each tour listing includes a difficulty rating.

Question 8

What's the minimum age for tours?

Accepted Answer

Most tours are suitable for ages 10 and up when accompanied by an adult. Some wilderness and night tours are for ages 16+ only. Check individual tour listings for specifics.

Question 9

Are tours wheelchair or mobility-accessible?

Accepted Answer

Our current routes are not fully accessible for wheelchairs or mobility devices due to the terrain. We're actively working on developing accessible experiences. Contact us and we'll do our best to accommodate your situation.

Question 10

What makes Modern Explorer different from other Colorado tours?

Accepted Answer

Most tour companies present history at arm's length. We're active field researchers — the founder hiked the Sangre de Cristos for two months before settling in Crestone. Every route we run is terrain we know personally. We cover the documented paranormal record of this valley the same way a historian covers primary sources: with named events, dates, corroborating witnesses, and a deep respect for what is and isn't confirmed. We don't sensationalize. We don't manufacture experiences. We show you the valley as it actually is.

Question 11

How much of the tour is actually about the paranormal?

Accepted Answer

It varies by tour. All of our tours blend local history, geology, indigenous heritage, and documented unusual events — the "unexplained" is one thread woven through real history. We take the subject seriously and present only what is documented, without embellishment.

Question 12

What happens if nothing unusual is observed on a tour?

Accepted Answer

You still get a great walk, real local history, and stories you'll repeat for years. We never manufacture experiences or stage anomalies. The authenticity is the entire point — and the San Luis Valley tends to deliver something interesting regardless.

Question 13

Is photography allowed?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — we encourage it. If you capture something unusual, share it with us. We document everything. We may also photograph tours for our own use; if you'd prefer not to be photographed, tell your guide at the start.

Question 14

Do you share field research findings publicly?

Accepted Answer

Yes, through our Field Reports section on the website. We believe in open documentation. Nothing gets locked behind a paywall.

Question 15

What is your weather policy?

Accepted Answer

Tours run in most weather conditions — light rain, wind, cold. Crestone weather is part of the experience. If conditions become dangerous (lightning, severe storms, flash flood warnings), we will cancel and offer a full refund or free reschedule. The call is made by the guide on the day. Come prepared for variable conditions regardless of the forecast.

Question 16

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Full refunds are available up to 72 hours before your tour. Cancellations within 72 hours may be rescheduled but are not eligible for a refund. If we cancel for any reason, you receive a full refund or a reschedule at no charge.

Question 17

Where do tours start? Is parking available?

Accepted Answer

Tour meeting points vary by route. Exact location, parking instructions, and what3words coordinates are included in your booking confirmation. Arrive 10–15 minutes early — GPS can be inconsistent near Crestone.

Question 18

Is there cell service at tour locations?

Accepted Answer

Service is spotty or absent in some areas. On wilderness expeditions we carry satellite communication. If reliable emergency contact is a requirement for you, let us know before booking.

Question 19

Do you offer tours year-round?

Accepted Answer

Walking tours currently run April–October. Winter tours and specialty events are in development. Sign up on the Coming Soon page to be notified when new offerings launch.

Question 20

Are kids welcome?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Most tours are great for curious kids ages 10+. The content — history, mystery, landscape — tends to capture children well. Some night and wilderness tours are 16+; check individual listings. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.

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