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 Q: What equipment does Ginkgo Adventures supply?
A: As outfitters, we supply our clients with proper-fitting modern lightweight backpacks, sleeping bags, tents, and eating utensils. We use quality gear, and most novices are surprised how comfortable carrying a backpack can be. Many clients, especially those who regularly join us in the back country, opt to supply their own gear and receive a 10% discount (maximum of $50) off of their Ginkgo Adventure.
Q: What do I need to bring?
A: While we provide almost everything there are personal items needed. Please refer to the following list (Note: that for some trips we might provide a modified list):
Must haves:
- comfortable shoes to hike in that you have broken in (hiking boots, trail running shoes, or running shoes )
- winter jacket (depending on temperature)
- 2 one liter water bottles or one 2 liter water bladder
-1 fleece sweater
- rain gear (preferably lightweight waterproof and breathable jacket and pants)
- for length of the trip you should have dry change of clothes and socks for each day (wool and/or synthetic blend, non-cotton shirts that wicks away moisture)
- hat (for rain, cold and sun depending on weather)
- gloves (depending on temperature)
- hand towel or bandana
- sunscreen
- headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- toiletries (biodegradable soap for back country)
- swimsuit (depending on temperature and trip)
 Optional Items:
- trekking poles
- wet wipes
- bug repellent
- compass
- pocket knife
- pen and notebook
- harmonica
- binoculars
- camera
- a clean outfit to leave in the car for when you are finished
Q: What type food will be provided?
A: We supply hearty healthy meals: hot drinks in the morning and evening upon request. The needs of coffee addicts will be met. We are also happy to accommodate the needs of vegetarians and/or vegans and those with food allergies and/or dietary restrictions. Our guide will organize all the food prior to each trip and for backpacking trips each participant is given a food to carry in his/her backpack with a portion of the group’s food.
Q: What type of Physical Conditioning?
A: We require no prior experience. However, backpacking and the other adventure sports we offer are strenuous. We strongly recommend a long-term regular cardiovascular conditioning program, such as running, power walking, bicycling, or training machines. Weight/resistance training is very helpful, too. We recommend that you see your physician regarding your overall health and your ability to carry 30 to 40 pound pack over rugged terrain. Fit or not, backpacking and other adventure sports are not for everyone. Harsh weather sometimes occurs. Modern conveniences do not exist. Nonetheless, for those willing to “rough it” and get in tune with the natural rhythms of the wild, the rewards will linger for a lifetime.
Q: What is “Leave No Trace”?
A: These are guidelines for low impact use of the back country to preserve wilderness. We will go over these guidelines before entering the back country. The seven main ethics are:
 1. Plan ahead and prepare.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
3. Dispose of waste properly.
4. Leave what you find.
5. Minimize campfire impact.
6. Respect wildlife.
7. Be considerate of other visitors.
Q: What kinds of trips are offered?
A: We are currently scheduling backpacking and rock climbing trips. If you have a group that is interested in a multi-sport trip or canoe/kayak trip we would love to put a trip together to meet your needs. Please contact Ambre@GingkoAdventures.com or call Ambre at 314-496-1332.
Q: How do I know what each trip is like?
A: If the description we have listed on the website is not enough please don’t hesitate to call. We love to describe in detail what the trip is like. The same trip will vary in feel and experience depending on the season. Call Ambre at 314-496-1332 to learn more about our adventure trips.
Q: Who goes on Ginkgo Adventure trips?
A: People from all walks of life and ages. The common denominator is a love for the outdoors.
 Q: Do you take children on your trips?
A: Many of our trips can accommodate families. Due to the active nature of some of the adventures and other factors, we may give a minimum age recommendation of 8+. A personalized trip may be planned for those wanting to have a child under the age of 8 participate. All children must be accompanied by a legal guardian who assumes responsibility for the child’s supervision. For our backpacking trips the group must be aware that they might have to carry some of the child’s gar in their pack because the child can only carry a smaller backpack.
Q: What is your maximum group size?
A: Because we practice low impact camping and follow “Leave No Trace” guidelines, we keep our groups small- usually less than 9 participants for our backpacking trips. Our minimum is usually 4 for our backpacking trips, but varies by trip.
Q: What if I’m traveling alone?
A: Wonderful! This is a chance to make new friends and meet people. We also have people traveling with a friend, a spouse, or their entire family. If you don’t already have trip dates in mind we can match you with a group that has already scheduled a trip.
Q: Where do the trips start?
A: All backpacking trips start at the trailhead. There is parking available. If you are interested in carpooling we can let you know as the trip gets closer if there is anyone in your area who you can contact to carpool. If there are any last minute changes or delays our trip coordinator will contact you.
Q: How do I sign up for a trip?
A: E-mail: Ambre@GinkgoAdventures.com or call Ambre at 314-496-1332. We will need your name, address, and phone # along with a 50% non-refundable deposit.
Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
A: We accept cash, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and/or check made payable to: Ginkgo Adventures.
 Q: What type of weather will cancel our adventure?
A: Our trip coordinators will monitor the weather up until the day of the trip. It is a personal judgment whether they feel the weather will create unsafe conditions. If you have concerns please contact as and we would be happy to discuss the possibility of rescheduling your trip. We ask that our customers view their trip as an adventure. Missouri weather is very unpredictable a little rain, snow, and wind always adds to the adventure and will give you better stories to tell. Our gear is made to hold up in a variety of weather conditions.
Q: Who are your trip coordinators?
A: Our trip coordinators are all experienced backpackers and outdoor adventurers. All of our trip coordinators are certified in Wilderness First Aid by Alaska Mountain Rescue Company.
Q: Can I give a trip as a gift?
A: You can purchase a specific trip and give it as a gift, or you can purchase an Ginkgo Adventures Gift Certificate which can be applied to any of our trips. Ginkgo Adventures Gift Certificate can be used for any occasion-a wedding present, honeymoon trip, graduation gift, birthday or any other celebration. Adventure travel is a unique and exciting gift, and we look forward to sending you (or someone you know) on a wonderful trip. For more information on our Gift Certificates, please E-mail: Ambre@GingkoAdventures.com.
Q: Why “Ginkgo” Adventures?
A: Our company is named after the Ginkgo tree which is one of the oldest living fossils. While the Ginkgo is not native to Missouri it can be found everywhere. It is an extremely adaptable tree that can thrive in rural and urban environments, tolerating pollution and confined soil spaces as well.
An extreme example of the Ginkgo’s tenacity may be seen in Hiroshima, Japan, where four trees growing between 1-2 km from the 1945 atom bomb explosion were among the few living things in the area to survive the blast. While almost all other plants (and animals) in the area were destroyed, though charred, the Ginkgo’s survived and were soon healthy again. The trees are alive to this day.
The Ginkgo trees ability to adapt to extreme conditions and survive is amazing. We at Ginkgo Adventures want our customers to be able to emulate the Ginkgo tree and be able to thrive in both urban and back country environments.
Q: What forms will I be required to fill-out?
A: You will be required to sign a Liability Waiver as well as fill-out an Emergency Contact Form.
Q: Will we need to buy permits?
A: Ginkgo Adventures will acquire any special use permits, camping permits, etc. that are require for the are.
Q: How long has Ginkgo Adventures been in business?
A: Ginkgo Adventures was founded at the beginning of 2006 by Ambre Tiggs, owner and trip coordinator. We are proud to say that we are the first and only outdoor guide company in Missouri.
Q: How are your trips rated? What does "moderate" mean?
A: We have active trips for every skill level, novice to expert. These guidelines will help you select the level of adventure that's right for you.
(1) Relaxed: Adventure travel at its most relaxed pace.
Activity: 1-3 hours most days
Distances: walk less than 3 miles most days
Surfaces: flat terrain
Elevation change: little to none
Altitude: less than 3,000 ft
(2) Easy Active: Great for newcomers to active travel.
Activity: 2-5 hours most days
Distances: Hike up to 6 miles, cycle 10-30 miles most days
Surfaces: flat or rolling terrain with some possible steeps
Elevation change: up to 2,000 ft/day
Altitude: up to 6,000 ft
(3) Moderate: For outdoor novices and above.
Activity: 4-6 hours most days
Distances: Hike up to 10 miles most days, cycle 20-40 miles most days
Surfaces: rolling or mountainous terrain with some steep ascents/descents and uneven trails
Elevation change: up to 3,000 ft/day
Altitude: up to 10,000 ft
(3) (4) Moderate Plus:
Trips rated as Moderate Plus [3-4] are recommended for travelers seeking both moderate [3] and vigorous [4] activity levels. Please refer to daily trip itineraries for specifics.
(4) Vigorous: Recommended for fit travelers with basic skills
Activity: 5-8 hours most days
Distances: Hike up to 12 miles most days, cycle 30-50 miles most days
Surfaces: mountainous, exposed terrain with steep ascents/descents and uneven trails
Elevation change: up to 4,000 ft/day
Altitude: up to 14,000 ft.
Experience and a doctor's release may be required
(5) Strenuous: Designed for very fit travelers.
Activity: 10+ hours/day
Distances: Hike 12 or more miles most days, cycle 50 or more miles most days
Surfaces: remote, mountainous, exposed terrain with steep ascents/descents, uneven trails with loose features.
Elevation change: up to 4,000 ft/day
Altitude: may well exceed 14,000 ft
Experience and a doctor's release are required
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